News Summary
The Phi Delta Theta fraternity at the University of Mississippi has created a scholarship fund to honor 20-year-old Wyatt James Thistle, who tragically passed away in a boating accident. This fund aims to support future students who embody his spirit and passion for life. Thistle was a beloved member of the fraternity and known for his positive influence, dedication to academics, and love for sports and adventure. Friends and family are invited to remember him at visitations and funeral services, which will also support community resources for students in need.
Oxford, Mississippi – In a heartfelt tribute to 20-year-old Wyatt James Thistle, the Phi Delta Theta fraternity at the University of Mississippi has established a scholarship fund following his tragic passing in a boating accident on March 11, 2025, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The fund aims to honor Thistle’s memory by supporting future students who embody his spirit and passion for life.
Thistle, a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in General Business at Ole Miss, was a beloved member of the Mississippi Alpha Chapter of Phi Delta Theta, where he served as rush chairman. Known for his infectious laughter and uplifting attitude, he brought joy and positivity to everyone around him. His dedication to his fraternity and academics highlighted his commitment to fostering community and personal growth.
Raised in Alamo Heights, Texas, after moving between Dallas, Seattle, and Chicago, Thistle left a lasting impact on his friends and family. Born on October 20, 2004, he graduated from Alamo Heights High School in 2023 before beginning his college journey at Ole Miss. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a fierce dedication to sports, notably playing football and basketball, earning recognition as a proud member of the Alamo Heights Mules.
Life and Adventures
Wyatt’s passion extended beyond athletics; he enjoyed ranch life, helping with family ranch work, and had a notable achievement of hunting an impressive 11-point buck. An avid traveler, he embraced adventure, taking trips to the Virgin Islands and enjoying annual excursions to New Jersey and Leakey, Texas. His final trip to Cabo served as a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for exploration.
Memorial Service and Condolences
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on March 22, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary in San Antonio, Texas. A funeral service will follow on March 23, 2025, at 3 p.m. at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in San Antonio, where those who knew Thistle will gather to celebrate his life and legacy.
Scholarship Fund and Donations
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Wyatt’s memory to Harley’s Wallet, the Live Like Lou Foundation, and the Alamo Heights School Foundation. The establishment of the scholarship fund is a meaningful way for the Phi Delta Theta fraternity to give back to the community while commemorating Thistle’s character and contributions.
Survived by Family
Wyatt is survived by his mother, Kate Strause (and Jimmy Malone), father David Thistle, and grandparents. He also leaves behind a vast network of friends who cherished his presence. Notably, he was preceded in death by his beloved grandfather and cousin, Harley Fetterman.
Support for Students
In light of this tragedy, the University of Mississippi has made campus resources available for students in need of support. The University Counseling Center and UMatter are offering services to help students cope with the emotional impact of Wyatt’s passing.
As friends, family, and the broader University of Mississippi community come together to honor Wyatt Thistle, the establishment of the scholarship fund by the Phi Delta Theta fraternity serves as a powerful reminder of his positive influence and enduring spirit.
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Additional Resources
- Oxford Eagle
- Wikipedia: University of Mississippi
- The Daily Mississippian
- Google Search: Wyatt James Thistle
- KSAT
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boating Accidents
- MSN Sports
- Google News: Wyatt James Thistle
- Sportskeeda
- Google Scholar: 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.
