Barbara "Thelma" Oates Tomlinson, also known as Maw Maw T. passed away at home on Friday July 22, 2022. She was born in Mecklenburg County, daughter of the late Tom and Ida Oates. She was preceded in death by her husband Nat Tomlinson, 2 brothers T.W. Oates, Johnny Oates, 2 sisters Maggie O. Miller and Mary O. Moore. She graduated from West Mecklenburg High School. She was a lifelong member of Homestead United Methodist Church until it closed in 2013. She attended Paw Creek Presbyterian Church. She retired after 34 years as a computer programmer at UNCC. She was a selfless woman who loved her church and loved spending time with her family and friends. She was Mother to some and Maw Maw to all.

She is survived by her children Elaine Holt of Denver, Beverly Kluttz (Michael) of Mount Pleasant, and Nathan Tomlinson Jr. (Tracy) of Charlotte, 3 sisters Dorsie White, Virginia Oates (Harold)  and Jean McSwain, 7 grandchildren Tiffany (Terrell) Karrie (Gavin), Katie, Little Nathan, Tabby, Justin and Colt. 3 great grandchildren Reid, Taylen and Reece and numerous extended family.

A service to celebrate her life will be held 3:30 Thursday July 28, 2022 at Paw Creek Presbyterian Church. Thelma will lie in state from 2:00-3:15 prior to the service in the church parlor. A visitation will be held after the service in the Christian Fellowship Center. A graveside service will be held 10:00 am Friday, July 29, 2022 at Forest Lawn Cemetery.