Dorothy "Lathelle" Dale

Dorothy “Lathelle” Thompson Dale was born in Lindsay, Oklahoma to Cyrus and Nona Sims-Thompson on January 25, 1923.  She passed away with her children by her side on Sunday, October 19, 2025, in Duncan, Oklahoma at the age of 102 years, 8 months, and 24 days.

Lathelle graduated from Joy High School where she was a proud athlete playing both softball and basketball, earning admiration not just for her skill, but for her fearless spirit—especially as a catcher in the days when wearing a mask for protection was not standard. Her tenacity on the field mirrored the way she approached life: bold, resilient, and full of heart.

After a long and dedicated career with Safeway, she retired in 1988 and embraced a new chapter filled with creativity and connection. She found joy in needlework and sewing, crafting pieces that became cherished family heirlooms. Her love of the outdoors never waned; she spent countless hours tending to cattle and soaking in the beauty of nature. Family vacations were a highlight—moments filled with laughter, stories, and memories that will live on for generations.

Lathelle was preceded in death by her husband of over 60 years, Raymond Dale; her parents, Cyrus and Nona Thompson; 6 brothers: Gorman, Gordon, Grady, Gerald, Gilbert, and Gayle Thompson; and sister, Jennie Johnson.

Survivors include her children: Stephen Dale of Duncan, and Elizabeth “Beth” Luttrull of Orange Park, FL; grandchildren: Suzanna Carroll (Jeff), Jason Luttrull (Megan); great-grandchildren: Jonathan Sizemore, Jared Sizemore, Alaynah Luttrull, Carlie Luttrull; great-great-grandson, Flynn Sizemore; and a brother, Glennis Thompson.

The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, October 22, at Whitt Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00 P.M.  Funeral services are planned for 10:00 A.M., Thursday, October 23, at the Whitt Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Keith Russell officiating.  Interment will follow at 3:00 P.M. in the Oaklawn Cemetery in Wynnewood, OK. A livestream of the service will be available online at www.whittfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to Immanuel Baptist Church at 207 N 2nd St, Duncan, OK, 73533.

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