Thorne Tandy Wilmeth of Ralls passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the age of 89 in Lubbock. He was born November 27, 1936, on the family farm in Tokio, Texas, to Carel Kendrick and Vera Veleon (Walker) Wilmeth. The youngest of ten children, Thorne grew up surrounded by family and learned early in life the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. At a young age, his family moved to Ralls, where he attended school and established the roots that would keep him connected to the community throughout his life.

Thorne proudly served his country in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1965. Following his military service, he returned home to Ralls, where he devoted his life to farming. Agriculture was more than an occupation for Thorne; it was a way of life. He understood the rewards and challenges of working the land and took great pride in the farming heritage that had been passed down through generations.

On February 24, 1963, Thorne married Martha Sechrist in Ralls. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and their agricultural roots. As his sons grew, Thorne was actively involved in their 4-H activities and FFA throughout their high school years. He enjoyed supporting their interests, encouraging their accomplishments, and sharing his knowledge and appreciation of agriculture with the next generation. His commitment to farming and his community extended beyond his own fields. He served on various boards, including the Cone Co-Op Gin, Crosby County Fuel, and organizations in Crosby County, generously giving his time and experience to support the agricultural community.

Thorne was a faithful member of Ralls Methodist Church, where his faith remained an important foundation throughout his life. He believed in the importance of serving others, honoring commitments, and remaining true to the values that guided him.

In 2017, Thorne and Martha were honored as Cotton Boll King and Queen, a special recognition that reflected their longstanding ties to the farming community and the life they had built together.

Thorne is survived by his beloved wife of more than 63 years, Martha Wilmeth of Ralls; his sons, Randall Wilmeth and wife Lesley, and Matt Wilmeth and wife Lee Ann, all of Lubbock; three grandchildren, Connor, Hannah, and Kirsten; and five great-grandchildren, Jaxxon, Peter, Timothy, Wrenly, and Samuel.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his nine siblings.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Combest Family Memorial Chapel in Lubbock. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Ralls Cemetery Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Ralls Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Hospice of the South Plains for their love and care to Thorne.