Sheila Panther

Sheila Sue Hilderbrand-Panther, age 57, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, went home to be with the Lord on October 6, 2025, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She was born on February 19, 1968, in Tahlequah to Grover and Eldeena Hilderbrand, who welcomed her into a loving family that would help shape the caring, creative, and strong woman she became.

Sheila's life was filled with love, family, and adventure. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Michael Panther; and, most recently, her devoted companion of more than ten years, Randy Newman. Though she experienced great loss, Sheila carried herself with grace and strength, finding joy in the simple things and in the people she loved most.

Sheila had many talents and hobbies that brought her happiness and peace. She was gifted with her hands, creating beautiful beadwork and needlepoint that reflected her eye for detail and creativity. She also loved the outdoors, often spending time fishing, camping, and enjoying the beauty of nature. But above all, her greatest joy was time spent with her family. Being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was her most cherished role. Her grandkids held a special place in her heart, and nothing made her smile more than being surrounded by their laughter and love.

She is survived by her daughters: Amber Hunter of Kansas, Oklahoma; Jessica Hunter of Oaks, Oklahoma; and Candice Hunter of Stilwell, Oklahoma. Sheila also leaves behind six grandchildren-Asa Trent, Kierstan McAlvain, Rainy Bales, William Unger, Shaelynn Unger, and Jason Unger-and one great-grandson, Weston. She is also survived by her two brothers, Dennis Hilderbrand of Grove, Oklahoma, and Noah Hilderbrand of Kenwood, Oklahoma.

To know Sheila was to know kindness, creativity, and devotion. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her love of family traditions, and her ability to find joy in life's everyday moments. Though her presence will be deeply missed, her love will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

A visitation will be held Monday, October 13, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Hart Funeral Home in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., also at Hart Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to attend both services to honor Sheila's memory.

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul." - Psalm 23:1-3

And as a final tribute, these words remind us of Sheila's enduring love:

Those we love don't go away,

They walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near,

So loved, so missed, so very dear.