Shawnee resident Thomas Ray Hulbutta, 64, passed away Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in Shawnee.

Thomas was born January 19, 1962, in Lawton, to Semaria Hulbutta. He graduated from Wewoka High School with the Class of 1982.

On November 4, 2016, Thomas married Hayga Yargee in Pottawatomie County, beginning a new chapter in their lives together.

Thomas had a deep love for his church and a strong faith that remained an important part of his life. He was baptized in 1977 and became an ordained minister in 2010. His faith was a guiding part of who he was, and he cherished his time serving the Lord. He also enjoyed attending events at the tribal ceremonial grounds and, above all, spending time with his grandchildren, whom he loved teasing and keeping busy.

Thomas will be remembered for his faith, his love for his family, and the memories he created with those closest to him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his mother; his grandparents, Johnson and Sarah Hulbutta; six uncles; and two aunts.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Hayga Hulbutta, of the home; his son and daughter-in-law, Wesley and Tishina Yargee, of Seminole; his daughters, RaeLyn Chalepah and Seena Chalepah, both of Shawnee; eight grandchildren, Lenny, Layla, Ozzy, Lizzie, Katcv, Eva, Culv, and Winona; one aunt, Nelsie Yarge; one uncle, Jimpsey Hulbutta; and numerous other family members and friends.

Casket bearers will be Zack McGirt, Josiah Kernell, Carl Woods, and Corbin Almon.

A wake service will be held Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole, with Chebon Kernell and Carl Woods officiating. Burial will follow at Johnson Cemetery in Shawnee.

Services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole.