Thelma Louise Sparks Setzler, of De Leon, entered her eternal home on June 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and the promises of her Savior. She was 88 years old.
She was born on September 27, 1937, in Enid, Oklahoma, to James Perry Sparks and Margaret Christine Henekee Sparks. Thelma was raised with values of faith, hard work, and service that would become the foundation of her life beginning in Monahans where she continued to carry those beliefs through her precious years in De Leon starting in 1961.
On August 26, 1955, she married the love of her life, Donald Kathel Setzler. For 70 plus years they built a life centered on faith, family, and farming. They worked side by side caring for the land, raising cattle, and creating a legacy centered on faith and the importance of family that became their generational blessing. Together they enjoyed traveling the nation camping and building relationships along the way where she gathered friends who became family.
Thelma was the heart of the home and was known as Grannie to all who knew her. She managed the household with strength, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to Donald and her family. She possessed a servant’s heart and dedicated her life to caring for others. Whether family, friends, neighbors, or strangers, Grannie was always ready to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, a warm meal hungry or not, and always a prayer. To know her was to love her.
A faithful Christian and devoted member of St. Joe Baptist Church, Thelma’s life reflected her deep love for the Lord. Her faith was not merely something she professed; it was something she lived daily. She demonstrated Christ’s love through countless acts of kindness, compassion, generosity, and service. Her gentle spirit and steadfast faith left an imprint on everyone blessed enough to know her.
Above all else, Thelma cherished her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and treasured great-grandmother who was also blessed to be able to enter in the great-great grandparent circle. Her greatest joy came from gathering loved ones together, celebrating milestones, sharing stories, and creating a home where everyone felt welcomed and loved.
Those left to cherish her memory include her beloved husband, Donald Setzler; daughter, Brenda Huff and husband Gerald; son, Rick Setzler and wife Kathy; grandchildren Heather and husband Rusty, Heath and wife Lori, Emerald and husband Daniel, Krystal and husband Matt, great-grandchildren; Colt and wife Bekah, Triston and wife Andrea, Cassie Jo, Kora, Trace, and Cade; great-great-grandchildren Coen, Teagan, Kouver, and Dalton; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and friendship.
She is preceded in death by her parents, James Perry Sparks and Margaret Christine Sparks; brothers, James Sparks and Charles “Bobby” Sparks; and sister, Mary Anna Sparks Lapp. Thelma’s legacy is found not only in the family she leaves behind, but in the countless lives she touched through her faith, kindness, and selfless service. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and ran into the savior’s arms where she is now healed and rejoicing in the presence of her Lord.
“To know Grannie was to experience unconditional love, unwavering faith, and the comforting assurance that there was always room at her table and a place in her heart.”
Funeral services celebrating Thelma’s life were held at St. Joe Baptist Church, De Leon, Texas on Saturday, June 27, 2026, with Brother Matt Morton and Montia Setzler officiating. Graveside committal followed in Oliver Springs Cemetery. The family extends their gratitude and appreciation to Nowlin Anders Funeral Home, Price’s Flower Shop, and each of you who joined in honoring Grannie’s life and legacy. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Wings Over Texas: Hospice at www.wotxhospice.com or St. Joe Baptist Church P.O. Box 201 DeLeon, Texas 76444, in memory of Thelma.