Helen Elaine Thomas

Helen Elaine Thomas, 67-year-old Grand Lake resident, passed away on January 2, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri. She was born on March 13, 1957, in Dallas, Texas to Frank and Lois (Steiner) Sims.

Helen attended school in Tulsa, graduating from Mason High School. She attended the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a degree in Finance. Helen worked for several small oil companies including Skyer Drilling, LB Jackson Oil, and Cayman Resources.

In retirement, Helen enjoyed gardening and was President of the Lakeside Garden Club twice. She was a founding member of the South Grand Lakers Charity helping children around the area. In addition, she was a volunteer for the South Grand Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Helen enjoyed being with her friends, especially her “sister” and comrade in crime as they embarked on various outings and trips. She also enjoyed time spent on Grand Lake boating and skiing, as well as snow skiing trips with the family.

Helen is survived by her husband, John, of the home, and her beloved cat, Spidey.

She was preceded in death by her son, Mark Thomas; parents, Frank, and Lois Sims; and brother, Frank Sims.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in Helen’s memory to a pet rescue of choice. Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemoriesvinita.com or on the funeral home Facebook page.

Arrangements are in the care of Luginbuel Funeral Home. “Family owned. Locally operated.”