News Summary
Wyatt James Thistle, a 20-year-old University of Mississippi student, tragically lost his life during a boating accident in Cabo San Lucas. Thistle, who was a sophomore majoring in General Business, was known for his uplifting spirit and love for travel. His friends and family remember him for his infectious laughter and adventurous nature. A funeral service is planned to honor his memory, while donations have been requested for organizations reflecting his values. The loss of this promising young life has deeply impacted his community and friends.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – Wyatt James Thistle, a 20-year-old student at the University of Mississippi, tragically lost his life during a boating excursion in Cabo San Lucas on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Thistle was enjoying a trip with friends when the accident occurred, marking a sudden and somber end to a vibrant life filled with promise.
Thistle was a sophomore, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in General Business at Ole Miss. His educational journey began earlier in his life when he was born on October 20, 2004, in Dallas, Texas. After living in various cities including Seattle and Chicago, Thistle’s family finally settled in Alamo Heights, Texas, where he attended school from the second grade onward. He graduated from Alamo Heights High School in 2023 before embarking on his collegiate adventure in Mississippi.
As an ardent supporter of Ole Miss, Thistle was frequently seen donning school apparel, proudly displaying his school spirit. He was an active member of the Mississippi Alpha Chapter of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, where he served as the rush chairman. In this role, he left a significant impact, highly regarded for his determination, uplifting spirit, and the positive influence he had on those around him. His friends fondly remembered him for his humor and infectious laugh, which was often imitated by peers.
Thistle’s love for travel was evident in his adventures across Europe and the U.S. Virgin Islands, showcasing his spirit of exploration that his family described as an enduring part of who he was. His tragic death has been recognized by family members as a reflection of his adventurous nature, which he shared with those closest to him.
To honor Thistle’s memory, a funeral service is scheduled for Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church in San Antonio, Texas. A visitation for friends and family will take place the day before, on Saturday, March 22, from 5-7 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary. Thistle is survived by his mother, Kate Struase (and her partner, Jimmy Malone), his father, David Thistle, as well as an extended family that includes grandparents, uncles, cousins, and great aunts. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, two great-grandparents, and a cousin.
In memory of Wyatt James Thistle, the family has requested that donations be made to Harley’s Wallet, the Live Like Lou Foundation, and the Alamo Heights School Foundation—organizations that reflect his values and support the causes he cared about deeply. The family has expressed their appreciation for the outpouring of support during this difficult time and has encouraged those grieving to utilize resources such as the University Counseling Center and UMatter.
Tributes have begun to fill social media platforms, with former teammates and friends sharing their condolences and honoring Thistle’s legacy. Among those who have paid their respects are Michael Terry III, a former football teammate, and Landry Kiffin, the daughter of Ole Miss football coach Lane Kiffin, both of whom conveyed heartfelt messages reminiscing about their time with him.
This tragic incident not only signifies the loss of a promising young life but also brings a community together in remembrance of a beloved friend and student whose spirit touched many. Wyatt James Thistle will be remembered for his enthusiasm for life, his love for travel, and the impressive mark he left on those who knew him.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Mississippi Recognizes Spring Honor Roll Students
University of Mississippi Announces Honor Roll Students
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity Establishes Scholarship Fund in Memory of Wyatt Thistle
MPower Program at Ole Miss to Revamp Amid Enrollment Decline
Additional Resources
- The Daily Mississippian
- KSAT News
- San Antonio Express-News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wyatt James Thistle
- Google News: Wyatt James Thistle
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
