Sherman, Texas -- Tommie Sue Spalding, a beacon of love and education, passed away on April 18, 2024, surrounded by the warmth of her family’s love. Born on February 19, 1932, to Tom and Jessie Hackleman Spalding, Tommie Sue was the youngest sibling in a family that helped shape the early days of Sadler, Texas.

A graduate of Whitesboro High School, Tommie Sue’s thirst for knowledge led her to North Texas State University, now known as the University of North Texas, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Her academic journey continued at Austin College, culminating in a master’s degree and a teaching certificate in 1953.

Tommie Sue’s tenure in education began in Prosper, Texas, teaching business classes to high school students.   However, her heart found its true calling in nurturing young minds, leading her to Sherman, where she taught at Crutchfield Elementary and later at Washington Elementary School. She retired in 1994 after teaching for 38 years in the Sherman Independent School District. Her dedication to teaching shaped countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on her students and colleagues.

Beyond the classroom, Tommie Sue was a devoted caregiver, selflessly tending to her parents, her sister Marie, and her dear friend and companion Stan Wessinger. Her life was a testament to putting others first, a virtue that endeared her to all who knew her.

Having never married and having no children, Tommie Sue was a devoted and much-loved aunt to her nieces and nephews.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, with her joining the First Baptist Church upon her arrival in Sherman in 1955. Her commitment to her church family forged lifelong friendships.

Tommie Sue was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers D.B. and Jack Spalding, her sisters Marie Spalding, Betty Wood, Nina Payne, Ann Curry, her niece Julia Cummins and nephews Prescott Spalding and Gil Curry. She is survived by nephews Don Wood, and Richard, David, and Robert Spalding. Her nieces Valerie Freels and Bobbie Parrott also survive her.

Tommie Sue lived her life with love, unwavering faith, and a commitment to caring for others. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide all who knew her.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 20,2024, at Waldo Funeral Home.

A celebration of Tommie Sue’s life will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Waldo Funeral Home, 619 N. Travis St. Sherman, Texas. Dr. Mike Lawson of First Baptist Church of Sherman will officiate. 

Pallbearers will be great-nephews Trey Freels, John Bitros, Andrew Freels, and Daniel Wood.

Following the service, Tommie Sue will be buried alongside her family at Sadler Cemetery, Sadler, Texas.

If desired, memorials can be made to the Sherman Education Foundation at 2701 N. Loy Lake Road, Sherman, Texas 75090 to benefit Washington Elementary School or Children’s Ministries at First Baptist Church, 400 S. Travis St. Sherman, Texas 75090.

Online condolences may be made at www.waldofuneralhome.com .