Millie was born at St John Hospital, Tulsa, Oklahoma, on December 11, 1930, the second child of Mildred Elizabeth (Heinze) Byrnes and William Eugene Byrnes. She responded to her invitation from Jesus, to come home to the Father and the Holy Spirit, at 4:15pm, on Saturday November 10th, 2012. Millie grew up in Tulsa, along with her beloved brother Gene. She attended St Francis Xavier grade school and Marquette High School, both in Tulsa, graduating in1948. Her “great freedom break” was going off to Ursuline College of Paola, Paola, Kansas. She often spoke of fond memories of Ursuline, referring to that time as coming into her own. After graduating college in 1950, Millie began a career she loved as an Executive Secretary at Sinclair Oil and Gas Company, always stylish and impeccably dressed. Ultimately, raising a family won out over her love of being a career woman. As a young adult she actively participated in CA (Catholic Activities young adult group) and enjoyed Tennis, Ice Skating (at the old Coliseum), Bowling, Dancing, singing in the Choir and was Editor of Catholic Activities News Letter. In 1953, a young handsome Yankee from Rhode Island showed up in Tulsa. Millie was intrigued by this “foreigner” who spoke with an accent. After a time of acquaintance and courting (complimented by the chagrin of her father) Willie popped the question. She married Willie Thoman on April 27, 1957 at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Tulsa. Millie became “Mom” leaving the secretarial world behind. They had five children. She possessed a deep faith and was a wonderful wife and homemaker. Resourceful and creative she took special pride in decorating the home for any holiday or occasion. A volunteer for Hillcrest Hospital for over 25 years she made a difference in the lives of others. Her grandchildren Arielle, Alex and Angela were one of the greatest joys of her life. In recent years she enjoyed participating in water aerobics at St. John Health Club and the Thursday Morning Bible Study at St. Pius X Catholic Church. Millie was preceded in death by her parents Mildred and William Byrnes. She is survived by her husband, Wilfred, of the home, a brother Eugene Byrnes, five children, Mary Anne Thoman, Timothy and Ronda Thoman, David and Christine Thoman, Gregory Thoman of Loveland Colorado and Rebecca Thoman. Three grandchildren, Arielle, Alex and Angela (all of Norman, OK) and a host of other relatives. Millie was a strong person who raised a family, in spite of some serious family illnesses. One of her favorite prayers was the Memorare (it served her well). RE- MEMBER, 0 most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, 0 Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to you do I come; before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. 0 Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen. The Rosary for Millie will be prayed at Moore’s Eastlawn, 1908 S. Memorial, Tulsa, OK, Tuesday, November 13th at 7:00 PM. The Mass of Resurrection will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 14th at St. Pius X Roman Catholic Church, 1727 S. 75th E. Ave., Tulsa, OK. Interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery, 9100 S. Harvard. In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial gifts be directed to Crossroads, Inc. 1888 E. 15th St., Tulsa, OK 74104 www.crossroadsok.org Under the direction of Moore’s Eastlawn 918-622-1155 This obituary was published in the Tulsa World on 11/13/2012.
