TAHLEQUAH [mdash] Thelma Sue Newby, 82, was welcomed into the loving arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 26, 2025, in Tahlequah. Thelma Sue was born to, Thomas Pettit and Mattie Gladys (Kirk) Pettit, on February 1, 1944, in Tahlequah. Sue was a proud Cherokee and an active member of the Cherokee Nation. She grew up with brothers, Edward Pettit, Mitchell Wade, and Louis Wade, near Pettit, OK. Thelma Sue graduated from Tahlequah High School and Northeastern State University with a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Education degree. She was a member of Chi Alpha Society and faithfully attended worship services with the Assemblies of God. Thelma Sue married George Newby, and they cultivated a lovely ranch and life together in Pryor, Oklahoma. Thelma Sue loved tending her beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. She enjoyed raising chickens, guineas, and helping George with the calves and cattle. She always doted on her precious dogs. Thelma Sue, loyal to family and friends, will be sorely missed by her many cousins, nieces, and nephews: the Pettits, Kirks, Mitchells, Wades, and Newbys. A Celebration of Life graveside service is planned for October 18, 2025, at 11 am at Tahlequah City Cemetery."