Thelma Pauline Biles, a beloved matriarch, dedicated community leader, and respected professional, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Owasso, Oklahoma. She was 94 years old. A woman of profound faith, remarkable vitality, and unwavering dedication to her family, Thelma’s life was a testament to the enduring values of hard work, community service, and unconditional love.
Through her extensive professional endeavors in administrative coordination and her deep-rooted civic engagements, she left an indelible mark on the Tulsa metropolitan area. Her passing marks the end of a vibrant chapter, but her legacy of resilience and warmth continues to inspire all who knew her.
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Early Life & Education
Thelma Pauline Donaldson was born on December 27, 1931, in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, to Ray and Wilma Pauline Donaldson. Growing up in the heart of Oklahoma during the transformative years of the Great Depression and World War II, Thelma developed a formidable work ethic and a deep appreciation for community solidarity.
Her early education in Creek County laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to personal and professional excellence. Recognizing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing mid-century economy, she pursued practical training in business administration and organizational management. This foundational education equipped her with the precise logistical skills and strategic mindset that would later define her long and successful career in the administrative sector.
Career Zenith & Contributions
In an era when the professional landscape was rapidly evolving, Thelma carved out a distinguished career as an administrative professional in Tulsa’s booming commercial and manufacturing sectors. Known for her meticulous attention to detail and exceptional organizational methodologies, she served as a vital operational linchpin for her teams.
Her expertise lay in streamlining complex administrative workflows, coordinating cross-departmental communications, and managing logistical operations with quiet efficiency. Beyond her technical skills, Thelma was deeply respected for her role as a mentor. She guided countless junior staff members, instilling in them the importance of integrity, punctuality, and collaborative problem-solving. Her professional journey reflected a broader historical narrative of women entering the mid-century workforce and fundamentally shaping the operational success of American enterprise through dedicated, behind-the-scenes leadership.
Leadership & Affiliations
Thelma’s authoritativeness and leadership extended far beyond the workplace, manifesting powerfully in her civic and personal affiliations. She was a devoted, long-standing member of the Carbondale Assembly of God. Within her congregation, she was known as a pillar of spiritual strength, contributing to church initiatives and offering compassionate support to families in times of need.
Perhaps one of the most remarkable testaments to her vitality and community spirit was her passion for athletics. Thelma was an avid league bowler and a proud, long-time member of the “Space Age Travelers” bowling team. In a stunning display of physical endurance and enthusiasm, she continued to bowl competitively until the age of 92. Her presence in the league was not merely about the sport; she was a unifying figure who fostered camaraderie, sportsmanship, and intergenerational connection. Her leadership on the lanes mirrored her approach to life—consistent, joyful, and always supportive of her teammates.
Legacy & Impact
Thelma’s most profound legacy is the family she nurtured and the steadfast love she provided. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Wilma Donaldson; her beloved husband, Andrew Jackson Biles, Jr.; and her cherished son, David Wayne Biles.
Her memory will be carried forward by a large and loving family. She is survived by her sons, Paul Biles and his wife, Rhonda, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Jack “Randy” Biles and his girlfriend, Jane Boone, of Mounds, Oklahoma. She also leaves behind three grandchildren Christopher Biles and his wife Kristie of Broken Arrow, Jaimie Bowman of Owasso, and Cassie Bean and her husband Justin of Broken Arrow as well as four great-grandchildren: Cody, Andrew, Jaxon, and Fallon.
A viewing will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Moore’s Eastlawn Chapel in Tulsa, with a special visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service to honor and celebrate her remarkable life is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Moore’s Eastlawn Chapel, followed by interment at Rose Hill Cemetery in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Thelma Pauline Biles lived a life defined by quiet strength, professional integrity, and boundless devotion. Her legacy will remain a guiding light for her family, her congregation, and the many friends who were fortunate enough to walk alongside her.