Billye Jo Jones "Nagi Whiteowl"

Billye Jo "B. J." Nagi Whiteowl, 67, of Independence, Kansas, and former Parsons resident, passed away at her home, Sunday, November 22, 2020.

Billye Jo Thomas was born on June 25, 1953, to Jack and Wanda Jean (Bryson) Thomas in Odessa, Texas. As a young girl, she moved with her family to Savannah, Georgia, where she grew up and attended schools.

As a young woman, B.J. worked at a Panama City Beach, Florida, reptile sanctuary. A well-rounded and accomplished person, B.J. earned a Ph.D. in Theology and was an ordained minister. Professionally, she was a speech therapist in the public school system.

A member of the Cherokee Nation, Nagi was a Clan Mother and served on the Elder's Council. She knew no strangers and would take care of anyone. She also enjoyed traveling, including trips to Europe. She loved animals of all kinds and had numerous exotic pets.

Survivors include:

One daughter – Cyprus Jones of Parsons, Kansas

Two grandchildren – Sylas Hickles and SeQuoyah Rayn Reece

Two sisters – Charlotte Rommel of Morehead, Kansas

Molly Maxwell of Bradenton, Florida

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Marietta Kay Tankersly.

Following cremation, there will be a memorial service held at a later date that will be announced by the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home.

A Go Fund Me Account named the Nagi Whiteowl Funeral Expenses has been set up by the family to help defray funeral expenses.