Thomas Francis Nealis

A Celebration of Life Service for Thomas F. Nealis, age 87, of Owasso, OK, will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, November 4, 2024, in the Ladusau-Evans Chapel. Speakers will include Mark Nealis and Pam Zelaya. Burial will take place at North IOOF Marshall Cemetery in Marshall, OK. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.

Thomas was born on June 14, 1937, in Orlando, OK, to Bruce and Carrie Nealis. He passed away peacefully on October 29, 2024, in Owasso, OK. Thomas married Elda Jean on October 12, 1962, at Potter Community Church. The couple moved to Enid, where he dedicated 34 years to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, serving as an Acting Resident Engineer. He was an active member of Trinity Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday School, before joining Emanuel Baptist Church in Enid. In 2015, they relocated to Owasso and became members of First Baptist Church. Thomas entered the U. S. Air Force on May 19, 1960, joining the Reserves November 2, 1960 and being honorably discharged on May 16, 1966.

Thomas had a passion for camping and traveling, always eager to explore new places. His garden brought him great joy, and his workshop was his sanctuary, where he delighted in woodworking and tackling DIY projects. A man with a true servant’s heart, he was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

He cherished time spent with his seven grandchildren, attending their ballgames, and visiting his daughter Pam and her family in California. Celebrating his birthday alongside his son Mark, who shared the same birth date, was a highlight of his year.

Thomas is survived by his beloved wife Elda Jean; daughter Pam Zelaya and husband Al; son Mark Nealis and wife Heather; and daughter Gayle Nealis. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Lucas and Nathan Zelaya; Peyton, Caleb, Emma, Morgan, and Elizabeth Nealis; brother Jerry Nealis; and nephews Michael, Brian, and Robert Nealis.

 Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation—Alzheimer Division or The Mission Center at First Baptist Church Owasso.

Condolences may be made online, and the service may be viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.