Thomas Lee Shilling, 87, of Yukon, Oklahoma, went to be with Jesus on January 26, 2025. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 12th, 1937, Thomas lived a life marked by service, faith, and a love for family, aviation, and adventure.
A proud graduate of Central High School in 1956, Thomas went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Central Oklahoma. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1962, where his passion for aviation began to flourish. Following his military service, he worked for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), dedicating his career to ensuring the safety and efficiency of our nation’s skies.
On January 1, 1981, Thomas married the love of his life, Junette Shilling. Their marriage was a testament to love, partnership, and faith, and they shared many wonderful years together. Thomas was a member of Council Road Baptist Church, where his love for Jesus Christ, world missions, and community were integral parts of his life.
Known for his joyful spirit, Thomas had a variety of passions: from flying airplanes to indulging in his favorite coke floats, he lived life with a sense of wonder. His love for Jesus, family, politics, and his country were always close to his heart.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Eunice Shilling; his brother, Roger Shilling; and his first wife, Lequita. He is survived by his beloved wife, Junette; his children, Anthony, Juli, Jacob, Jason, and Katie; step grandchildren, Neal, Charley, and Ronnie; his grandchildren, Danielle, Mikael, Taylor, Ariel, Avery, Sophia, Zoey, and Xavier; his great-grandchildren, Clara, Isabella, and Vivianna; as well as step great-grandchildren, Dace & River.
A viewing will be held on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home (13313 N Kelley Ave, OKC, OK 73131). A service celebrating Thomas’s life will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Memorial Park Funeral Home Chapel, with burial to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery with military honors.
