OBITUARIES
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Ruby L.
(Jennings) Green Ruby L. (Jennings) Green, 76, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, formerly of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2009, in Ft. Smith. Ruby was born on October 10, 1932, in Hanna, Oklahoma, the daughter of Homer Meldon and Gladys Edna (Cox) Jennings. She graduated from Stidham High School in 1951. Ruby received her Bachelor’s Degree and later her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education with a Minor in English from North Eastern State University. On October 10, 1952, Ruby married Bobby Ray Green in Ft. Smith. Ruby taught for twenty-seven years in the Derby Public School system in Kansas. She returned to Eufaula in 1985. Ruby was a member of the North Fork Baptist Church. She enjoyed reading, studying history and listening to music. Survivors include: her son, Greg Green and wife Penny of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; her brothers, Leon Jennings and wife Mae of Stidham, Don Jennings and wife Shirley of Sugarland, Texas and Larry Jennings and wife Kathy of Hartshorne, Oklahoma; a sister-in-law, Naomi Jennings of Hartshorne; her grandchildren, Kyla Green and fiancé Tandy McKinney of Ft. Smith, Tiffany Shoemake of Tulsa and Darrell Shoemake of Clayton and five great grandchildren. Ruby is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Bobby, in 1997, and one brother, Haskell Jennings in 2000. Funeral services were held 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 15, 2009, at the Stidham First Baptist Church with Reverend Gene Cook officiating. Pallbearers were Darrell Shoemake, Tye Weever, Mike Jennings, Jaylon Jennings, Rick Jennings, David Willmon, Jerry Ward and Les Spencer. Burial followed at the Mellette Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. A fund in Ruby’s name has been established at Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula. |
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Katie Naomi (Jacobs) Brewer
Katie Naomi (Jacobs) Brewer, 94, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, June 20, 2009, at her home. Katie was born on October 26, 1914, in Hunt, Arkansas, the daughter of Dr. Luster Irvin Jacobs Sr. and Katie Emma (Green) Stafford. She graduated from Hanna High School in 1933. On October 4, 1933, Katie married Jewel A. Brewer in Edmond, Oklahoma. Katie worked as a secretary and teacher’s aide at Dixie Elementary. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, the Women’s Better Business Club/Business and Professional Women and the Eastern Star. She worked as a volunteer for the Clothes Closet and God’s Helping Hands. She was also a volunteer for RSVP. Katie enjoyed traveling. She was able to tour Europe, Asia and Hawaii. Survivors include: her son, William “Bill” Brewer and wife Lou of Hutchison, Kansas; her daughters, Kathryn Sue McEuen of El Reno and Delores Dean Kucish of Eufaula; eight grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren. Katie is preceded in death by her husband of fifty-two years, Jewel A. Brewer, a daughter, Betty Elaine Williams, her brothers, Dr. Luster Irvin Jacobs, Jr. and Edwin Porter Jacobs and a sister Avo Elizabeth Lundy. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at the First Baptist Church with Reverend J. Ingram officiating. Pallbearers were Grant Brewer, Jeremy Kucish, Brandon Brewer, Jerry McEuen, Mike Gibson and Tim Jacobs. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. Memorial contributions may be made to OMRF Cancer Division.
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Sammy Jay “Big Sam” Johnson,
Sammy Jay “Big Sam” Johnson, 68, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, April 28, 2009 near Checotah. Sammy was born on April 15, 1941 in Chickasha, Oklahoma, the son of J. B. and Mildred Lucille (Bennett) Johnson. Sammy graduated from Rush Springs High School. On September 12, 1959, Sammy married Linda June Lemon in Rush Springs. Sam and Linda moved to Eufaula in 1967, following his tour of duty on the USS Hornet, an aircraft carrier that took him to China, Japan, the South China Sea and many points in between during the Vietnam War. After returning to civilian life, Sam was hired by the Corps of Engineers and was assigned to duty as a Hydro Electric Power Plant Mechanic at the Eufaula Power House, commonly just called “the dam.” During his employment there, he continued to further his education at Eastern State College at Wilburton, earning a degree in electronics. He also completed a four-year International Correspondence course in math and engineering. He continued to work at the dam until his retirement in 1994. Immediately upon moving to Eufaula, Sam and his family, which at the time included a son, Sammy, and a daughter, Linda Sue, became active members in the Methodist Church. Very quickly, Sam and Linda became youth leaders for a large group of teenagers. Linda was the director and organizer of the Methodist Youth Fellowship activities and Sam was her constant support and backup in all endeavors. Not only Methodist youth, but also several individuals who were members of other denominations, attended the MYF meetings and outings. All were welcomed and the Johnson household became a haven and gathering place for any teenager who wished to drop in. Also, in 1974, another son, John Paul, was born into the family and immediately became a member of the Youth Fellowship, attending UMYF meetings as an infant in a basket. Big Sam, as the youth named him, had the respect of all, from the rowdiest boys to the parents of young girls, who knew that he would protect and care for their children. During the almost thirty years of Christian ministry and fellowship with the youth, the Johnsons nurtured and observed the young people as they grew into adulthood. During their tenure as youth directors, there was a great variety of outings and trips that required the church van to be kept in top traveling condition, so Sam Johnson performed the maintenance on the vehicle and served as driver as well. Because of his expertise in auto mechanics, it was not unusual to find a number of youth’s vehicles in front of the Johnsons’ house with the hoods raised. Sam not only worked on their cars but also showed them how to take care of their own vehicles. Big Sam’s caring and nurturing did not end with the youth. Twice he taught a car care class for the United Methodist Women and acted as chauffeur for many other meetings and outings. Sam was not only always available to provide needs at his church, but also responded to calls for help from anyone. Many people in the Eufaula community called on him for home repairs, roofing, help with their automobiles and for the service of his carpet cleaning business. Sam maintained an active membership in the First United Methodist Church of Eufaula, and the United Methodist Men. He was awarded the Marshall Foley Man of the Year Award in 2007. His Christian service expanded to serve on other boards and committees of the Methodist McAlester District, as well as the Conference Disaster Relief Team. He was also a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a regular donator of blood to the Red Cross. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, his step-mother, Beama Johnson, and a brother, Bennie Ray Johnson. Survivors include his wife Linda, of the home; his children, Sammy Lynn Johnson and wife Jody of Claremore, Linda Sue “Susie” Wagoner and husband Norman of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and John Paul Johnson of Henderson, Nevada; grandchildren Alyssa and Tera Wagoner, Cathy, Holly and Brady Johnson, and great-grandchildren Cayden Johnson and Allie McFarland; his brothers, Billie Jean Johnson of Burleson, Texas and Roger Lynn Johnson of Rush Springs; his sister Marynell Wood of Colorado and Phyllis Wilmon of Chickasha. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Building Fund, the Circle of Care Ministries or the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation. A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, 2009, at Eufaula First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Greg Tolle and Dr. John Breon officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black and Merritt Funeral Home and Crematory. |
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Cindy Lou McClain
Cindy Lou McClain, 47, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, May 23, 2009, at the York Manor Nursing Home in Muskogee. Cindy was born on July 10, 1961, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Charles Richard and Wilma Jean (Knight) Clendening. She graduated from Sycamore High School in Illinois in 1979. Cindy worked as a nurse’s aide for several years in Illinois and at the Eufaula Manor. She also worked as a life guard. Cindy enjoyed working crossword puzzles, watching television, working on arts and crafts, fishing, collecting stuffed animals and playing bingo. She was a member of the North Fork Baptist Church. Survivors include: her mother, Wilma Jean Clendening of Eufaula; her sons, Michael David McClain of Augusta, Georgia and William Richard Clendening of Las Vegas, Nevada; her daughter, Laura Ellen McClain of Americus, Georgia; her brothers, Kevin Lee Clendening and wife Maryann of Las Vegas, Nevada, Charles Robert Clendening of Eufaula and Tony Ray Clendening also of Eufaula; her sisters, Dawn Clendening and husband Bill Yearton of Eufaula and Sheri Lynn Ballard and husband Johnnie of Eufaula. Cindy is preceded in death by her father and a brother, Clarence Edward “Eddie” Clendening in 1995. A memorial service was held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 28, 2009, at the North Fork Baptist Church with Dr. Bruce Sanders and Byron Kennedy officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home |
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Paulette Ann Wilke
Paulette Ann Wilke, 50, of Stigler, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at her home. Paulette was born on April 16, 1959, in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Ierardi) Picarello. She graduated from Brentwood Ross High School in New York. She married Keith Wilke. Paulette worked as a cashier for Pat’s Liquor for the past four years. Survivors include: her husband, Keith, of the home; her sons, Adam Picarello of Centereach, New York, Jason Wilke of Florida and Neil Wilke of Wisconsin; her daughters, Nicole Drank of Florida and Carissa Kenerson of Arizona; her brothers, Joseph Picarello of Levittown, New York and Michael Picarello of Monkton, Maryland; her sister, Catherine Muller of Brentwood, New York; her grandchildren, Tristen Wilke of Wisconsin, Matthew and Zachery Wilke of Tennessee, Brody and Cale Drank of Florida and Gennana and Jashera Kenerson of Arizona. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Betty Wilke of Wisconsin. Paulette is preceded in death by her parents, and Robert Wilke. A celebration of life was held 3:30 p.m., Sunday, May 24, 2009 at the family’s home. Cremation arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Paula Jo Cummings
Paula Jo Cummings, 67, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, May 18, 2009, at the Southwest Medical Center in Oklahoma City. Paula was born on December 15, 1941, in Cushing, Oklahoma, the daughter of Clyde Frederick and Inez Lou (Cargill) Mathis. She graduated from Drumright High School in 1959. After graduation, Paula moved to Tulsa and attended Paul’s Beauty College. On February 6, 1960, Paula married Larry Cummings in Drumright. In 1962, Paula and Larry moved to Colorado Springs, CO. Larry’s career moved the family to several different places including, Oklahoma City from 1962-1973, North Richland Hills, TX from 1973-74 and back to Oklahoma City until 2002. She and Larry moved to Eufaula in 2002. Survivors include: her husband, Larry, of the home; her son, Scott Cummings and wife Andrea of Eufaula; her daughters, Kristy Fanshier and husband Tommy of Choctaw and Nikki Moore and husband Terry of Eufaula; her sister, Patty Evans and husband Cecil of Jones and ten grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and one infant brother, Jimmy. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation Cancer Division. Funeral services were held 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 22, 2009, at the North Fork Baptist Church in Eufaula with Dr. Bruce Sanders officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery with Travis Evans, Jeremy McElvaney, Corey Cummings, Zach Cummings, David Gentry and Terry Moore serving as pallbearers. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory of Eufaula. |
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Billy Burylon Neal
Billy Burylon Neal, 81, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, May 15, 2009, at his home. Bill was born on September 13, 1927, in Mulberry, Arkansas, the son of Isom S. and Lourina (Creekmore) Neal. He came with his family at an early age to McIntosh County from Arkansas. He attended Eufaula High School. In 1945, Bill joined the Army in Ft. Smith and served in World War II. On June 19, 1948, Bill married Katharina Muller in Kitzinger, Germany. He and his wife returned to Eufaula to live until he was enlisted into the Korean Conflict. Bill was honorably discharged in 1952. Bill and his wife lived in South Dakota and later Wichita while he was working for Boeing Aircraft. In 1953 they relocated to Eufaula where he began working as an auto mechanic for several garages and dealerships. Bill then established his own auto mechanic business. After he retired as a mechanic, Bill became a Bowes Auto Parts Sales Representative. He was a member of the Eufaula Church of Christ. Survivors include: his wife, Kathe Neal, of the home; his sons, Billy Ray Neal and wife Barbara of Eufaula and Glen Robert Neal and wife Kathy also of Eufaula; his daughter, Catherine Luke and husband Ronnie of Checotah; his brother, Ross Neal and wife Wanda of Eufaula; his sisters, Betty Curran of Checotah, Anna Hampton of Eufaula and Pauline Alexander and husband Glynn of Jay; eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Arlon Don Neal. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at the Eufaula Church of Christ with Charlie Bailey officiating. Pallbearers were Jeremy Neal, Jared Neal, Jonathan Neal, Chase Luke, Kermit Buck and Johnny Wood. Honorary pallbearers were Walter McDonald, Merle Speer and Dutch Henderson. Burial followed at the Green Lawn Cemetery of Checotah. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Owen Graham Nobles, “Nobby”
Owen Graham Nobles, “Nobby” was born June 8, 1917, on a farm ½ way between Canute and Foss Oklahoma. His family moved from Foss to 1 ½ miles north of Canute in 1920. Owen began school in 1923 in the new school at Canute. On 1928 the family moved into Canute then in 1932 to 29 miles West of Dalhart, Texas. This was in the very worst time of the drought and depression. After several years of moving, the family returned to Canute, and Owen graduated in 1937. At Canute Owen participated in basketball, lettering 3 years, as well as participating in Glee Club and parts in various play’s and operettas. After graduation Owen went to Denver, Colorado, working at the roofing trade. The next 4 years he went from one job to another, from Colorado to California, working the last 2 years for O’Neil Plumbing in San Diego, California. Drafted in 1941, Owen went into the U.S. Army Air Force. From Fort Sill, Oklahoma, he was transferred to Kessler Field in Biloxi, Mississippi, then to armament school in Denver, Colorado, Lowery Field. Owen was placed on overseas duty March 6, 1942, with the First Ferry Group. He sailed from Charleston, S. Carolina March 19th by way of Puerto Rico to Freetown Africa. After 4 hours leave in Cape Town, South Africa, he disembarked in Karochi, India on May 19, 1942 from the S.S. Brazil. He worked as a small arms service and repairman in Army Air Force ATC in the province of Assam, Sookerating, North East India Organization, Thirteenth Sqdn. Supplies were flown to China from this base by the route known as the Hump Route, over the southern end of the Himalayan Mountains. While based there Owen Nobles obtained the rank of Tech Sgt. After 2 ½ years of overseas service, Owen was stationed at Great Falls, Montana and finished service at Lowery Air Force Base at Denver, CO. He remained in Denver after being discharged and worked for Leland L. Lowry Roofing and Siding Co. After the tornado in Woodward, OK, he worked in Woodward for 1 ½ years before returning to Denver. In 1955, Owen opened a branch office for Lowry Roofing in Colorado Springs, CO. On Leland Lowry’s retirement in 1960 Owen owned and operated Lowry Roofing Co. in Colorado Springs. Due to health reasons Owen gave up the business in 1965 and became the Secretary and Treasurer for 11 Mile Home Sites in conjunction with the roofing business. 11 Mile Home Sites developed 172 acres in Park County, CO. 208 lots and tracts completed the Corporation in 1975. After closing the roofing business, Owen worked for other roofing companies until retiring in 1979. Owen was an avid hunter and fisherman, back packing into many Colorado lakes and streams. He went to Canada 4 times from 1962 to 1965. His last Canadian trip in 1965 was an Artic Charter on Prince Edward Island to an un-named lake in the Artic Ocean, within 300 miles of the magnetic North Pole. Owen fished throughout Colorado, Nebraska, Utah, New Mexico and Wyoming. He brought a Brittany Spaniel in 1965 and joined the Mile High Brittany Club of Colorado. He trained and campaigned Duel Champion Tenii’s Colorado Ladd in Colorado, Nebraska, Texas, New Mexico and Kansas, placing in 23 Field Trials, 19 of which were first place. Ladd received Honorable Mention at National Trial in Illinois, competing against 87 entries. Owen served in every official capacity in the Skyline Brittany Club 0 including 2 terms as president. As 2nd Vice President, Owen organized Field Trials and Judged several times, as 3rd Vice President; Owen organized 2 Trial Dog Shows, qualifying the Skyline Brittany club to hold dog shows, thus conforming to the standards of the Duel Bird Dog. Ladd was the third dog in the Colorado Club to earn his Duel Championship and the 67th Duel Champion in the National Club. Owen retired at 62 years. He moved back to Oklahoma to Eufaula in 1987. After fishing in Lake Eufaula for several years, Owen decided he couldn’t catch all the fish, sold his boat and spent his time gardening, doing odd jobs for those who were either handicapped or unable to maintain their homes. Owen is survived by 10 nieces and nephews, 11 great nieces and nephews and numerous great, great nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 23, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel in Eufaula. He will be buried at 2:30 p.m., Friday, May 29, next to his parents and a brother at the Canute Cemetery in Canute, Oklahoma. Services are under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory of Eufaula. |
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Eugene Howard Price
Eugene Howard Price, 82, of Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at the Eufaula Manor Nursing Home. Howard was born on October 18, 1926, in Hobart, Oklahoma, the son of Victor and Blanch (Taylor) Price. He graduated from Lone Wolf High School in 1944. On April 28, 1950, Howard was drafted into the United States Army in Sterling, Colorado. He served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant on August 15, 1952 at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. In 1974, Howard married Marie Rhoades in Sterling, Colorado. She preceded him in death on January 30, 2001. Howard worked as a farmer. He retired from farming in 1991. Survivors include: his brothers, Homer Price and wife Betty of Choctaw and Clifton Price and wife Margie of Eufaula. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Virginia Hawkins, Laura May Collmer, Mary Ann Potts and Berniece Hawkins and his brother, Luther Price. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 15, 2009, at the Missionary Baptist Church with Reverend Larry Jones and Robyn Looney officiating. Pallbearers were Stan McGhee, Rod Williams, Don Johnson, Fred Aquin, Louie Tannehill, Johnnie Mack Brown and Chris Burns. Burial followed at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Norma Beatrice Ellison
Norma Beatrice Ellison, 81, of Eufaula passed away Thursday, May 2, 2009, at the McAlester Regional Health Center. Norma was born on April 6, 1928, in Wright City, Oklahoma, the daughter of Lawrence Robert and Louise (Herrington) Chesnut, Sr. Norma worked as a waitress. Survivors include: her husband, Kenneth E. Ellison, of the home; her son, David Cochran; her brothers, Bill Chesnut and wife Estelle of Duncan and Lawrence Robert Chesnut Jr. and wife Sandra of Cache; her sisters, Nadine Burchum of Wichita Falls, Texas, Ruth Sourbriet and husband Nolan of Idaho and Lola Mae Minton and husband Howard of Taft, California. She is preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Benny, Tommy and Henry, one sister, Ardne and a granddaughter. Funeral services were held 3:00 p.m., Thursday, May 7, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Reverend Russell Griffith officiating. Pallbearers were Mike Baker, Jerry Watson, Glen Critz, Jeff Lambert, John Given and Kenny Velvick. Honorary pallbearers were Thomas Foresee, Charles Hammett and Tom Woods. Burial followed at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Ottus “Buck” Abraham Love Jr.
Ottus “Buck” Abraham Love Jr., 68, of Stigler, passed away Monday, April 27, 2009, at his home.
Buck was born on July 10, 1940, in Winchester, Indiana, the
son of Ottus Abraham and Catherine Irene (Hovis) Love. Buck
worked as an independent cross country truck driver. On
March 31, 1990, Buck married Marilyn Hall in Oklahoma City,
Oklahoma. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars
and the Brothers of the Third Wheel. Survivors include:
his wife, Marilyn Hall, of the home; his son, Dale Rickets
of Indiana; his daughter, Susie Ormsby of Indiana; his
step-son, Howard Skeel of Missouri; his brother, Sherman
Love of Indiana; his sisters, Shirley Mahathy, Marian Moore,
Lucy Pacheco, Rebecca Ladd and Rosie Ray all of Indiana and
Henryetta Patum of Kentucky. Buck is also survived by two
grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents. |
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Effie Richardson
Effie Richardson, 62, of Eufaula passed away Monday, April 27, 2009, at the Muskogee Regional Medical Center. Effie
was born on November 25, 1946, in San Antonio, Texas, the
daughter of George Shirley and Effie Maud (Lusk) Butler.
She graduated from high school in San Bernardino,
California. On February 14, 1995, Effie married Bill
Richardson in Las Vegas, Nevada. Effie worked as a drug and
alcohol counselor for the Salvation Army. Effie loved her
work and enjoyed giving makeovers for recovering addicts so
they could see their real selves. She was a Salvationist.
Effie loved her Yorkie dogs and her husband. Survivors
include: her husband, Bill, of the home; her daughters,
Susan G. Haynes and husband Loren of Eufaula and Nancy A.
Gianutus of Cincinnati, Ohio; her grandchildren, Maria Gomez
and husband Richard, Riley Gianutus, Katy Gianutus and
Kimberly Richie and husband Taylor and her great
grandchildren, Colton Richie and Mady Richie. Effie is
preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Gary. |
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Nellie Ruth
Curtis Nellie Ruth Curtis, 72, of Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2009, at the Checotah Manor Nursing Home. Nellie was born on October 6, 1936, in Checotah, Oklahoma, the daughter of Charles and Aulcia (Farmer) Hooten, Sr. She graduated from Eufaula High School. On March 2, 1957, Nellie married Don Curtis. He preceded her in death on August 17, 2007 after fifty years of marriage. Nellie worked for the Army Ammunition Plant and Wortham’s Insurance Company, but she spent over thirty years working for the Kelsoe’s at both Cedar and Checotah Manor. Nellie enjoyed working crossword puzzles, studying bible lessons and going to the Dollar Tree. Her greatest love was her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Survivors include: her sons, Ron Curtis and wife Cindy of Eufaula and Scott Curtis and wife Angela of Dallas; her daughter, Donna Hysell and husband Vernon of Eufaula; her brothers, Paul Hooten and wife Wilma of Eufaula and Bill Hooten and wife Sherry also of Eufaula, nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and her husband. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 2, 2009, at the Eufaula Church of Christ with Minister Charlie Bailey officiating. Pallbearers will be Beau Magreevy, Matt Magreevy, Josh Hysell, Colton Heath, Devan Edwards, and Josh Hooten. Honorary pallbearers will be Robert Grant, Bill Hibbert, Bob Joplin, James Moudy, Les Hall, Melvin Clover, Charles Hammett, Sr. and Jimmy Beller. Burial will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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T.C. Edwards T.C. Edwards, 88, of Warner, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2009. T.C. was born on July 31, 1920, in Coal Hill, near Clarksville, Arkansas, the son of Marion Earl and Julia Belle (Dobbs) Edwards. He came to Oklahoma in a covered wagon in 1929. He attended Stidham Elementary and graduated from Stidham High School in 1940. After high school, T.C. received his degrees from Northeastern State University and Oklahoma University. On February 28, 1942, T.C. married Anna Mae Arnold at Stidham. They were happily married for sixty-seven years. During WWII, T.C. worked 16 hours a day in the shipyards in Richmond, California. He returned to Lenna, Oklahoma, to farm after the war. In 1952, T.C. started his career as a teacher and coach and then became the principal for Stidham schools. He later became Stidham’s superintendent. He served as superintendent at Hanna from 1963-1970. After Hanna, T.C. became superintendent at Oktaha Public Schools in 1970. He retired from Oktaha on October 1, 1986. T.C. was a member of the Hanna First Baptist Church. T.C. enjoyed teaching more than any hobby. He loved his students and he worked to help them not only in the classroom but in life. He was always thrilled to hear of their successes. His other loves included teaching Sunday school classes and having fellowship with his friends. After retirement, T.C. became a “flea market” man. He loved working on tools and visiting. His greatest loves were his family, his former students and his Lord. Survivors include: his wife, Anna, of the home; his sons, Dannie Ray Edwards and wife Susan of Eufaula and DeWayne Jay Edwards and wife Shirley of Warner; his daughter, Deborah Kay Calavan and husband Mark of Warner; his brothers, Dean Edwards and wife Faye of Warner, Ausley Edwards and wife Betty of Bakersfield, California; his sister, Billie Burdine and husband John of Lenna; his sisters-in-law, Mary Edwards of Eufaula and Bessie McGuire of Vinita, Oklahoma; his brothers-in-law, Trent Young of Ceres, California and Walter Arnold of Houston, Texas; thirteen grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Cecil, Earlen and Halford and four sisters, Gladys, Trobie, June and Willa Mae. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Sunday, April 19, at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 20, 2009, at the North Fork Baptist Church with Reverend Gene Cook officiating & Reverend Dick Ford assisting. Pallbearers will be Gary Edwards, Chester Edwards, Mark Harjo, Steve Jackson, David Turner, Josh Lane, Pete Miller, Blake Gorman and Curtis Condrey. Honorary pallbearers will be Kenneth Legg, Orville Burdine, Bradley Campbell, Robert Naranjo, Horace Ray Branham, Buster Jacobs, Russell Reed, Jackie Blevins, Fred Bedford, Joe Roy Day, James (Blackie) Nixon, Johnny Collins, Jerry Hale, Paul Morris, George Mouser, Paul Burleson, Jerry Burleson, Johnny Shipman, Herb Branham and all of his “Flying J” Lunch Crew. Burial will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory of Eufaula. |
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Lucille Fauss Lucille Fauss, 92, of Eufaula, died in Christ Wednesday, April 8, 2009, at her home. Lucille was born on April 4, 1917, in Tecumseh, Nebraska, the daughter of Charles and Estelle Blauvelt. Growing up in Crete, Nebraska, Lucille was very active in her high school. She played the flute in high school and in the college orchestra. She was the leading lady in the high school plays. Lucille was selected by a talent scout to go into an acting career, but declined to follow her dream of a career in nursing. She graduated from Crete High School in 1935 and from Nursing School at the Lincoln General Hospital in 1938. She married Don Hallbeck and to this union had two children, Kenneth Allen Hallbeck and Donna Lou Hallbeck (Perrotta). She was a member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 4959 of Crete, Nebraska. On October 20, 1948, Lucille married Edward James Fauss, Jr. in Crete, Nebraska. Together they had two children, Edward James Fauss III and Brenda Jean Fauss Hardy. Ed and Lucille relocated with their family to Baltimore, Maryland and later moved to Midwest City, Oklahoma. Lucille worked as a Registered Nurse for many years in Medical Surgical Nursing. She retired from Tinker Air Force Base Hospital in Midwest City, Oklahoma. She and Ed retired to Lake Eufaula in the late 1970’s. She loved the beauty of the lake and enjoyed having her children and grandchildren visit many summers for swimming, fishing and relaxing. She was a skilled seamstress and loved to knit and do needle work, mostly crosstitch. Lucille loved all her animals and had dogs all of her life. She recently enjoyed her three cats. Lucille was a member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Eufaula. She loved the Lord and enjoyed studying his word and gathering with her many friends there. Lucille was also a member of the FLEAS (Friendly Lake Eufaula Area Supporters). Lucille was one of the kindest, sweetest people around. She always saw the good in everything and everyone she knew. We have fond memories of her even feeding the catfish at the lake by hand and petting their “soft skin”. Survivors include: her daughters, Donna Perrotta of Holyoke, Massachusetts and Brenda Hardy of Reno, Nevada, her grandchildren, Wendy Perrotta, Angela Perrotta Fearn, Julie Perrotta, Christopher Perrotta, Christine Hallbeck Murphy, Volarié Ann Hallbeck Nichols, John Hardy Jr., Amber Estelle Hardy Pezzi; her great-grandchildren, Shane Murphy, Dustin Murphy, Hannah Rose, Tess Perrotta, Kenny Jack Dixon, Elmer John Pezzi, Jake Austin Hardy and Emilee Jean Pezzi; her nieces Ann Schleiger Timmons, Jean Schleiger, Marge Schleiger Casey; her grand niece, Megan Campbell, her grand nephew, Trevor Casey and her friends, Melba Kelly, Mike Havens and Alverter Carlisle and all the Ladies at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Lucille is preceded in death by her husband, Edward James Fauss Jr., her sons, Kenneth Allen Hallbeck and Edward James Fauss III and her sister, Mary Schleiger. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 13, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home with Pastor William Van Dyke officiating. Burial will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Services are under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory of Eufaula, Oklahoma. |
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Lois Pollard
Lois Pollard, 94, longtime resident of Eufaula, Oklahoma
passed away on Sunday, She was born on October 29, 1914, in Lenna, Oklahoma, the daughter of Elmer and Lillian (Van Curen) Hughes. Lois worked as a homemaker. In January 1933, she married her first husband, Fay Oscar King, who passed away in 1966. Then, in 1972, she was remarried to Hoyt Haskell Pollard who passed away in 1994. Lois was a Christian by faith. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother. Survivors include: her son, Paul King of the home; her daughter; Helen Singleton and husband Bill of Eufaula; her two grandchildren, Kevin Singleton and wife Kathy of Eufaula and Karen Rodgers and husband Dennis of Harrah; one sister, Emma Cook of Portersville, California; four great grandchildren, Amber, Courtney, and Rachel Singleton and Ryan Rodgers; and one great-great-grandchild, Ashton Rodgers. Lois is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Bill Hughes and Ray Hice, four sisters, Rosie Hammett, Arlie Sunday, Juanita Lawson and Ruby Vance and her great granddaughter, Kaitlyn Dennise Singleton. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 09, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Reverend Chuck Tankersly officiating. Pallbearers were Kevin Singleton, Dennis Rodgers III, Jim Davis, Curtis Pollard, Chris Gawf and Jeff Pippenger. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Jessie Jay Norman
Jessie Jay Norman, 82, of Stigler, passed away April 3, 2009, at his home. Jessie was born on September 9, 1926 in Weldon, Arkansas, the son of John W. and Lula (Sappington) Norman. On October 31, 1945, he enlisted in U.S. Army. Jessie worked as an Electrician and Engineer for most of his life. He enjoyed fishing, fixing things, and most importantly spending time with his family and friends. Survivors include: his two sons: James Norman and wife Angie, of Branson, MO, and Mike Norman; his two daughters: Cynthia Smith and husband Mike; Sandy Russell and husband Danny, both of Stigler, Oklahoma; one brother: Andy Norman and wife Ruby, of Higdon, Arkansas; one sister: Lucille Ring, of Pensacola, Florida; six grandchildren: Clint and Chad Norman, both of Springfield, Missouri; Lacy Janeway, Ashley Cloud and husband Wesley, Travis Russell, all of Stigler, and Cody Janeway, of Temple, Arizona.; three great grandchildren: Nyha, Julen, and Kaden. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son: Charles Reginald Norman, three brothers: Joe, Fred, and Jack, two sisters: Florence and Louise. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory of Eufaula. |
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Jimmie Palmer
Jimmie Palmer, 81, life-long resident of Eufaula passed away Monday, April 6, 2009 at his home after a short illness. Jimmie was born on October 22, 1927, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of Thomas H. and Myrtle (Collins) Palmer. He was raised in Eufaula and attended Eufaula schools. On October 19, 1943, Jimmie married Leatrice Maxine Chapman in Wagoner, Oklahoma. Jimmie enlisted in the military service on February 13, 1946 and was honorably discharged on July 30, 1947. After his service time, he returned home and became partners in the service station business with his brother, T.H. Palmer, Jr. and was in business for over 50 years. Jimmie was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eufaula. He is survived by: his wife, Maxine Palmer of the home; two sons, Jimmie Palmer, Jr. of Irving, Texas and Noah Palmer of Mukwonago, Wisconsin; three sisters, Pauline Palmer, Ruby Swadley and Marguerite Schmitt all of Eufaula; seven grandchildren, Jess Palmer, Caleb Palmer both of Denver, Colorado, Alyssa Palmer of Madison, Wisconsin, Portia Palmer, Sadie Palmer, Roger Palmer of Durham, North Carolina and Leslie Palmer of Irving, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents and four brothers. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 10, 2009, at the First Baptist Church with Reverend J. Ingram officiating. Pallbearers were Tommy Palmer, Steve Swadley, Ronnie Palmer, Billy Guy Palmer and James Lee Palmer. Honorary pallbearers were Nick Pendley and Randy Bridges. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Gleola Alta Campbell
Gleola Alta Campbell, 80, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2009, at her home. Gleola was born on August 17, 1928, in Thomas, Oklahoma, the daughter of Oscar and Laura (Fergeson) Brooks. Gleola graduated from Coy City High School in 1948. She attended nursing school from 1948-1949. On January 20, 1950, Gleola married Olen Victor Campbell in Muskogee, Oklahoma. They were happily married for fifty-nine years. Gleola worked at the Eufaula High School in the office, as a teacher’s aide and as a study hall attendant. She was also an excellent seamstress making uniforms for the high school majorettes. She also crocheted afghans and made patchwork quilts too numerous to count. Gleola received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for all of her volunteer work that she did in the community. She was a master crappie fisherwoman. Gleola enjoyed cooking everything from deer meat enchiladas to coconut cream pies. She put her love and perfection in everything she made “homemade”. She was an active member of the Church of Christ. Survivors include: her husband, Olen, of the home; her sons, Stanley Dean Campbell of Tahlequah and Chris Campbell and wife Joyce of Oklahoma City; her brother, Gilford B. Brooks of Woodward and children; her sister, Marie Odom and her children of Longview, Texas; four grandchildren, Christopher Ryon Campbell, Jeffrey Glenn Campbell, Cassidi Lou Campbell and Kati Rebekah Cambell. Gleola is preceded in death by her parents, three sisters and four brothers. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at the Church of Christ with Minister Charlie Bailey officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Elena DeArnez Gates
Elena DeArnez Gates, 99, of Pacific Grove, California formerly of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, March 15, 2009, in California. Elena was born on March 3, 1910, in Los Angeles, California, the daughter of Alfonso and Alice (Banning) DeArnez. She attended schools in Los Angeles, California. On August 15, 1954, Elena married Raymond Gates. He preceded her in death on January 14, 1994. While living in Eufaula, Elena was an active member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church. She was also a twenty-year volunteer at the Eufaula Hospital. Elena was a lifetime member of the Eufaula Memorial Library, F.L.E.A.S. and the Garden Club. Elena had lived at the Cantebury Woods Retirement Complex in Pacific Grove, California for the past ten years. She enjoyed the fellowship there with other residents and the staff. Survivors include: her son, George Roe and wife Dorothee, her grandson, Curtis Roe and wife Camellia and their son Taylor, her granddaughter, Christy Roe and her son, Billy Pruitt, III. Elena is also survived by her loving in-laws, Zelda, Holly and Cindy Chandler, Dorothy Long, Lee Gates and Jim Long; her friends, Sharon Pflughoeft, the Laubers, the Sorensons, Larry Hanes, the Butenshoens, the Schmitts, Ray DiGirolamo and many other Eufaula residents. Elena is preceded in death by her parents, a brother and a close friend, Lou Plunkett. A Mass of Christian Burial was held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 21, 2009, at the St. Paul Catholic Church with Father Leo Ahanotu officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Ina Faye Pulse
Ina Faye Pulse, 85, of Kinta, passed away Sunday, March 15, 2009, at the McAlester Regional Health Center. Ina was born on April 6, 1923, in Clayton, Oklahoma, the daughter of Wesley and Mae (Weathers) Moore. On March 29, 1941, Ina married J.D. Miller in McAlester. He preceded her in death on June 8, 1953. Ina then married Warren Pulse on February 11, 1956, in Wilburton. Warren preceded her in death on May 24, 1975. Survivors include: her daughter, Gale Dixon and husband Jerry of Kinta; five brothers, Pete Moore, Sonny Moore, Kenneth Moore, Robert Moore and Gene Moore; two sisters, Edna Colley and Joy Petruzzi; eight grandchildren and twenty-one great grandchildren. Ina is preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Shelby Jean Ward, two sons, Herbert Miller and David Miller and one granddaughter, Kelly Ward. Ina is also preceded in death by three brothers, Mathew Moore, John Moore and Roy Moore and four sisters, Alta McDermit, Aline Wyrick, Lucille Cox and Elizabeth Comstock. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, 2009, at the Palestine Church with Delmon Eakle officiating. Pallbearers were her grandsons. Burial followed at the Palestine Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home of Quinton.
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Robert Dale Stansbury Sr.
Robert Dale Stansbury, Sr. of Eufaula passed away Saturday, March 14, 2009, at his home. Robert was born on December 22, 1933, in Agricola, Kansas, the son of Frank Joseph and Annie Pearl (Lue) Stansbury. On November 17, 1953, Robert enlisted in the United States Army in Kansas City, Missouri. During his service, Robert received several awards including the National Defense Service Medal the United Nations Service Medal and the Korean Service Medal. Robert was honorably discharged on October 28, 1955 in Ft. Lewis, Washington. Robert worked for HR Hill, Miller, Transcon, Schnieder, Time DC and The Oklahoma Journal as a truck driver. On January 13, 1992, Robert married Sandra J. Edwards. They were happily married for seventeen years. Survivors include: his wife, Sandra, of the home; his son, Robert Stansbury, Jr. of Kentucky; his daughters, Erin Elizabeth Davis of Texas, Ginger Ann Waley of Texas, Penny Rene Jackson of Texas, Terri Lea Bell of Texas, Tracee Lynn Marshall of Oklahoma and Wendy Jo Bowe of Texas, his step-children, Rhonda Dafrates of Arizona, Dion Estrada of Nebraska and Faye Sauder also of Nebraska. Robert is also survived by 27 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, one sister, Ruth (Niel) Carlson and numerous nieces and nephews. Robert is preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Donna Lee Stansbury, five brothers, Charles, Earl, Frank, George and Leslie and two sisters, Dorothy Marie, Elizabeth Susan. Memorial contributions may be made in Robert’s name to the Humane Society. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at the Lindsey Chapel Baptist Church with Reverend Tim Turner officiating. Pallbearers were Ricki Bell, Lee Wade, Carl Wade, Ramon Richardson, Damon Richardson, and William Jackson, Jr. JR Hurst served as honorary pallbearer. A military burial followed at the Triplett Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Lois Emma Shatswell Freeman
Lois Emma Shatswell Freeman, 81, of California, passed away March 4, 2009 in Oroville, California. Lois was born on May 8, 1927, in Deer, Arkansas, the daughter of George Washington and Minnie (Boen) Shatswell. She was a former resident of Eufaula. She is preceded in death by her husband, Walter “Tex” Freeman, her parents, 3 half brothers and one half sister. She is survived by three brothers, Bill Shatswell of Stigler, and Glenn and Clarence “CJ” Shatswell of Eufaula, Oklahoma, her daughters, Carol Custer of Folsom, California; Ann Cordova of Oroville, California and Sherri Forte of Rodeo, California; as well as 6 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, one great grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. Lois enjoyed bowling and worked for many years at Lucky Lanes of San Pablo. She also took pleasure in reading, enjoying nature, crocheting and above all, her family. Lois will be missed immensely by many. Funeral services were held 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 10, 2009, in Oroville, California. A local graveside was held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 13, 2009, in Greenwood Cemetery with Cliff Shatswell officiating. Local services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Harold Wayne Martin
Harold Wayne Martin, 75, of Stigler, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2009, at his home. Harold was born on February 17, 1934, in Abernathy, Texas, the son of John David and Lena Jane (Moore) Martin. He attended Soldier Springs Grade School and graduated from Lone Wolf High School in 1951. On June 14, 1955, Harold enlisted in the United States Army in Hobart, Oklahoma. He served in the Korean War and received the Good Conduct Medal. On June 14, 1957, Harold was honorably discharged in Wallington, New Jersey. Harold married Barbara Joe Brinsfield on April 30, 1955, in Vernon, Texas, together they raised six children. Harold worked in construction as a carpenter and welder. He was also a farmer. Survivors include: his wife, Barbara Martin, of the home; his son, Jeff Martin and wife Rhonda of Longtown; his daughters, Becky Clark and husband Mark of Norman, Jerri Martin of Springdale, Stacie Goddard and husband Tony of Mustang and Amy Martin of Stigler; his brothers, J.V. Martin and wife Joyce of Lockney, Texas and Henry Martin and wife Louise of Tuttle; his sister, Lucille Phillips of Lubbock, Texas; fifteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Harold is preceded in death by his parents, one son, David Lee Martin, five grandsons, Joshua Ertle, Dalton Moseley, Landon and Layne Goddard and Tommy Randolph and a granddaughter, Kaidence Randolph. Funeral services were held 3:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory in Eufaula with Reverend Milton R. Allen officiating. A memorial graveside with military honors was held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2009 at the Lone Wolf Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory, Eufaula, Oklahoma. |
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Lena Jean
Stout Clay
Lena Jean Stout Clay, 27, of St. Louis, Missouri, formerly
of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2009, Lena was born on April 19, 1981, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, the daughter of James C. Stout and Callie J. Freeman. She attended Eufaula Public School and later graduated from Okay High School in 1999. During high school Lena was a member of the Who’s Who of High School Students. She received her Associates Degree from Connor’s State College in 2002 and was a continuing student in business at Northeastern State University. Lena was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary Post 8798 in Eufaula and a member of the Cystic Fibrosis Support Group. She was the poster child for Cystic Fibrosis in 1990’s. Survivors include: her mother, Callie J. Freeman, her father, James C. Stout, her grandmother, Ruby J. Freeman, her uncles, Bruce Freeman and wife Paula, Durwood Stout and wife Linda, her aunt, Debbie Stout and a host of family and friends. She is also survived by a special friend, Jason Levandowski. Lena is preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Calvin Freeman, her great grandparents, Guy and Ruby Phillips, an uncle, Harb H. Baker, her paternal grandfather, Donald Stout, her paternal grandmother, Sallie J. Mooney and her great grandparents, Lena H. and Homer Stout. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 11, 2009, at the First Free Will Baptist Church with the Reverend Ronnie Drake officiating. Pallbearers were Denver Freeman, William Freeman, Ryan Freeman, Bill Freeman, Beau Townley and Lance Phillips. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Eunice Mary Holder
Eunice Mary Holder, 83, of McAlester, passed away Friday,
March 6, 2009, at the Quinton Manor Nursing Home. |
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Elizabeth Louise Bocquin DiGirolamo
Elizabeth Louise Bocquin DiGirolamo, 90, passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2009, while vacationing in Florida. Louise was born on May 26, 1918, in Reading, Kansas, the daughter of Peter Francis and Mary Barnett Bocquin. Louise was a homemaker for forty years, staying at home to raise her children. As her children got older, Louise began working as a clerk for Anthony’s department store. She worked for Anthony’s for twenty-seven years. Louise was an active member of the St. Paul’s Catholic Church, a member of FLEAS and the Garden Club. She enjoyed china painting in her free time. Survivors include: her husband, Raymond, of the home; her sons, Maurice Lee Ford of Muskogee, John P. Ford of Sapulpa, and Anthony Ford of Edmond; her daughters, Marianne Robins of Muskogee, Teresa Burge of Paragould, Arkansas and Christine Roberts of Muskogee; Judy Stelter of Sleepy Hollow, Delaware and Robert DiGirolamo of Ireland and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Louise is also survived by a sister and brother in law, Delores and Curtis Olson of Coppers Cover, Texas and a brother and sister in law, George and Ailene Bocquin of Lawrence, Kansas. She is preceded in death by her parents, four brothers and one sister. Rosary services were held 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial was held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 17, 2009, at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church with Father Leo Ahonotu officiating. Burial followed at the Greenhill Cemetery in Muskogee under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory, Eufaula, Oklahoma. |
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Floyd Noal Holder
Floyd Noal Holder, 62, of Eufaula passed away Friday, February 13, 2009, at the St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. Floyd was born on January 23, 1947, Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of Noble Noal and Eunice Mary (Cargill) Holder. He graduated from high school and later attended college. Floyd enlisted in the United States Army and later joined the Army National Guard. In 1979, Floyd married Kathryn E. Wortham in McAlester. He later married Paulette A. Perdue on June 15, 1988. Floyd was employed as a guard for the Oklahoma State Prison in McAlester for twenty-seven years. Survivors include: his wife, Paulette, of the home; his mother, Eunice of McAlester; his sons, Eldon Holder and wife Tiffani of McAlester and Craig Wortham of Hawaii; his daughters, Tammy Gibson and husband Wes of Buffalo Valley, Melesa Nelson and husband Blain of Kiowa, Tina King of Poteau and Jolene Johnson and husband Jordan of Boonville, Arkansas; one brother, Harold Holder of Eufaula; two sisters, Lillian Allen and husband Charles of McAlester and Joyce Funburg and husband James of Blocker. Floyd is survived by fifteen grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 18, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend G.C. Gray officiating. Burial followed at the Cupco Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Bobby Eaton Staggs
Bobby Eaton Staggs, 72, of Stigler, passed away Monday, January 26, 2009, at the St. John’s Medical Center of Tulsa. Bobby was born on November 27, 1936, in Skedee, Oklahoma, the son of Johnnie Rudolph and Ruby Deane (Wickoff) Staggs. He graduated from Bellflower High School in Bellflower, California. On March 2, 1956, Bobby enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Rantoul, Illinois and Alaska throughout his term of service. He was honorably discharged on March 1, 1960. While working at G.M., Bob met his future wife, Janice. From the time that they met, there was something special between them. They were friends, partners and he was her soul mate. On November 23, 1979, Bobby married Janice Saettel in Downey, California. Bob worked for General Motors for twenty-eight years in South Gate, California. When the plant closed in California, Bob transferred to the plant in Oklahoma. He worked there for four years until he retired in 1987. Bob started playing “Santa” ten years ago in Muskogee. He had an idea that he needed to “pay back” to the community by touching lives while playing “Santa”. Janice joined Bob in a team, Mr. & Mrs. Claus. They were hired by a company in New Jersey to travel the country meeting children at Christmastime. They traveled to Ohio, Florida and most recently, North Carolina. He especially loved to see handicapped children come to visit him. While they were on his lap, his big, blue eyes would tear up. He was very passionate and caring about the kids. Bob loved to fish with his wife and many friends at the Marina, especially Charles and Sue Moore and Bro. Ron Herrimon, who was his Sunday school teacher and friend. Bob turned his life around and gave his heart and soul to Jesus Christ. He belonged to Shiloh Assembly of God. Bob also loved to sit at his embroidery machine and sew things for his family and friends. He loved all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Survivors include: his wife, Janice, of the home; his children, Brenda Hill of Sparks, Nevada and Barbara J. Rauch of San Diego; his children, Christopher “Mick” McNeely of Lake Ellsinore, California and Pamela S. Saettel of Crooked Creek West Virginia, his grandchildren, Robin R. Hill, John J. Rauch, Glenn R. Rauch, Kimberly R. Saettel, Nickolena S. Fortuna, John M. Fortuna, Cody C. McNeely, Shaine B. McNeely, Molly L. McNeely and Kelly M. McNeely and his great grandchildren, Anthony R. Fortuna and Domonic R. White. Bob is also survived by his sister, LaRue and husband Jim of Pittsburg, Texas, his brothers, Bill Staggs and wife Sandy of Brandenburg, Kentucky and Jack Staggs and wife Gloria of Shingle Springs, California and a special friend Denny Caine of Willits, California. A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 21, 2009, at the Shiloh Assembly of God Church with Pastor Kenneth Burge officiating. Services are under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory.
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Rex
E. Smith Rex E. Smith, 94, of Eufaula, died Friday Jan. 30, 2009 at McAlester Regional Hospital. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Kelley Memorial Chapel, Eufaula, with Reverend J. Ingram officiating. Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Eufaula, under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. Rex was born July 29, 1914, in Eufaula to George P. and Gussie Mae Smith. He graduated from Eufaula High School. He went into the service during World War II and served approx. three years. He married Bessie Smith, April, 1946. He attended dental school in Weatherford, Oklahoma but later decided to become a jeweler. He and his wife Bessie owned and operated Smith Jewelry Store in Eufaula for many years. He was also a rural mail carrier. Rex was a person who had many friends and was always jolly and full of jokes everywhere he went. He enjoyed having lunch with all of his friends at the Senior Citizen Center in Eufaula every day. Survivors include a stepson and daughter-in-law Lester and Norida Pruitt of McAlester, two grandsons Michael Pruitt of McAlester and Rodney Pruitt of Chandler, Arizona, one great-grand-daughter Lori Pruitt of Phoenix, Arizona. And one brother Carl Smith of Wichita Falls, Texas, nephews and spouses Ed and Wanda Smith of Grand Prairie, Texas, Dan Smith of Houston, Texas, Shotsy Trevino of New Mexico, and one niece and spouse Gloria and Larry Dicken. He was preceded in death by his wife Bessie Smith in 1992, his parents George P. and Gussie Mae Smith, and sister Catherine Layman. |
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Kathlyn “Katie” Louise Rigdon
Kathlyn “Katie” Louise Rigdon, 84, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, January 23, 2009, at the Haskell County Hospital. Katie was born on December 27, 1924, in Ninnekah, Oklahoma, the daughter of Seward and Myrtle (Massie) Charlson. She attended Classen High School. On April 7, 1946, Katie married Roy Dean Stone in Oklahoma City. She later married Paul W. Rigdon on January 27, 1966, in Chickasha, Oklahoma. He preceded her in death on June 7, 1979. Survivors include her daughter, Deana K. Newman of Eufaula, her sister, Barbara Newman of Denver, Colorado, four nephews, Mike Wilkerson and wife Cindy of Las Vegas, Nevada, Dell Ray Newman and wife Jean of Denver, Colorado, Jimmy Newman of Denver and Tom Charlson, Jr. and wife Andrea also of Denver. Katie is also survived by her grandchildren, Brad Zoeller of Oklahoma City and Nicole Groves and husband Jason of Oklahoma City and her great grandchildren, Teegin and Kathlyn Groves. She is preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Tom Charlson Sr. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 27, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Dr. John Breon officiating. Burial followed at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Mr. David
Blaine Haley Mr. David Blaine Haley, age 48, a resident of Texarkana, Texas, died Friday, January 30, 2009 at a friend's home in Foreman, Arkansas. He was born to Roy and Lola Rae Buck Haley at Checotah, Oklahoma on October 15, 1960. He was a truck driver and a Baptist. He enjoyed hunting, horses, cooking, and spending time with family. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lola Rae Pratt, his dad, Roy Haley, his father, Robert Houston Pratt, two brothers, Ron Haley and Jonathan Pratt, a niece, Chelle Haley Poole, and two nephews, Jay and Bill Roy Haley. He is survived by a daughter, Dakota Blaine Haley of Mt. Pleasant, Texas, two brothers and a sister-in-law, Tracy Haley of Stidham, Okla., and Arlis and Patsy Pratt of Longtown, Okla.; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Deborah and Horace Poole of Texarkana, Texas; Janell and Lupe Trujillio of Queen Creek, Arizona, seventeen Nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 6, 2009 in the Chandler Funeral Home Chapel, De Queen, under the direction of Chandler Funeral Home, De Queen.
You may send an online sympathy message at
www.chandlerfuneral.com. |
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Vada Lorraine Voils
Vada Lorraine Voils, 88, of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009, at her home. Vada was born on April 2, 1920, in Checotah, Oklahoma, the daughter of William Henry and Ruby Louise (Pickering) Bass. She graduated from Wewoka High School. On August 5, 1940, Vada married Ray Voils in Eufaula. Together they raised four children. They were happily married for sixty-eight years. Vada was initiated in the Eufaula Eastern Star on April 8, 1980. She became the first Worthy Matron when the new Temple opened in 1983. During her membership, she served in all elected offices. Vada was a lifetime member of the Eufaula First United Methodist Church. She was active in the United Methodist Women for over 50 years, holding numerous offices, working at the church bazaars and helping in many other ways. She also served on many different committees in the church and was very supportive of the youth program. Vada and Ray worked hard taking food to the sick and homebound. She loved her family, her friends and her cats. Survivors include: her husband, Ray, of the home; her son, Ray Voils, of Sallisaw; her daughters, Iva and David George of Canadian and Judy and Floyd Smith of Eufaula; her brother, Vernon Bass and wife Kaylene of Eufaula and her sister, Ida Brixey of Eufaula. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Denny Smith, John George and his wife Audrea, Ingrid Fells and her husband Ray, Scotty Voils, Nicole George Cook and James Henry Voils and nine great grandchildren. Vada is preceded in death by her parents and one daughter and son-in-law, Joan Carol and Walt Longstreet. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eufaula First United Methodist Church Building Fund for the new youth room. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, January 22, 2009, at the First United Methodist Church with Dr. John Breon & Reverend Charles Saviers officiating. Pallbearers were Denny Smith, John George, Ray Fells, Jimmy Padgett, Noah Rains, Arlis Pratt and Dewey Grigsby. Honorary pallbearers were past and present members of the United Methodist Women. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Linda Kay Anderson
Linda Kay Anderson, 56, of Midwest City, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009, at the Midwest City Regional Medical Center. Linda was born on August 9, 1952, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the daughter of James Henry and Hazel Marie (Barnett) Leatherman. She graduated from Carl Albert High School in 1970. On June 9, 1972, Linda married Gary Anderson in Oklahoma City. Linda received her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1983. She taught kindergarten at the Country Estates Elementary School in the Mid/Del School system for over twenty-five years. Linda loved children and loved being with her family. Survivors include: her husband, Gary, of the home; her sons, Gary Don Anderson Jr. and Ronnie Wayne Anderson both of Midwest City; her daughter, Jamie Marie Anderson of Edmond; her sisters, Susan Gardner of Del City; Shryl Leatherman of Newalla, Gaynelle Anderson of Eufaula, Sheila Brackett and husband Bim of Stidham and Margaret Smith and husband Mike of Yukon. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Justin Don and Jacob Donald. Linda is preceded in death by her parents. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation Cancer Division. Funeral services were held 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 21, 2009, at the Lenna Baptist Church with Reverend Chuck Tankersly officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Edward Lee Campbell
Edward Lee Campbell, 78, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, January 12, 2009, at his home. Edward was born on January 16, 1930, in West Frankfort, Illinois, the son of Walter Lee and Eva (Pendell) Campbell. He attended Maritime Academy at Sheep Head Bay, New York. On February 17, 1947, Edward enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served in both the Korean and Viet Nam Wars. During his service Edward received several medals including: the Good Conduct Medal, the Pacific-Asiatic Medal, the Victory Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation medal, the Korean Service Medal with 2 Stars, the U.N. Ribbon and Medal, the Letter of Commendation with Combat “V”, the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal with 1 Star, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, the Army Unit Citation, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Vietnam Service Medal with 4 devices, the Good Conduct Medal with 6 Stars, the National Defense Service Medal with 1 Star, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal with device, the Meritorious Mast, the Meritorious Unit Citation, the RVN MUC Cross of Gallantry with Palm and Frame, a 4th & 5th Good Conduct Medal and the Marksman Badge Rifle. While a Marine, Edward served as a recruiter and a drill instructor. He also attended several schools during his service including the Leadership School, Administrative School, and the 1st Sgt. Course. He also attended the Troop Training Unit in Little Creek, VA and the Recruiters School in Parris, Island, S.C. Edward retired from the Marines as a Sgt. Major on November 25, 1971. After his service, Edward worked as a U.S. Marshall from 1971 to 1991. He won the Robert Forsyth Medal for Valor Award in 1985. Edward married Martha Carroll on April 11, 1948. Together they raised four children. He then married Anna Belle Shackelford on May 27, 1976 in Yuma, Arizona. He attended the First Free Will Baptist Church. Survivors include: his wife of thirty-two years, Ann, of the home; his sons, Edward Lee Campbell, Jr. and wife Sharon of Oceanside, California and Jack Lee Campbell and wife Patricia of Divide, Colorado; his daughters, Eva Arlene Smith of Santa Ana, California and Carol Searson and husband Gerald of Colorado Springs, Colorado; his stepson, David Shackelford and wife Brenda of Eufaula, Oklahoma, eleven grandchildren Gerald Jr., Shawn, Benjimin, Carolyn, Melissa, Tracy, Jack Jr., Baylee, Christopher, and Kyle , fifteen great grandchildren, Gunner, Christian, Elijah, Cierra, Colton, Brittany, Samantha, Kaitlyn, Brittany, Ian, Jonathan, Sean, Sam, Jack and Saige and one great great grandchild, Steven. He is also survived by his aunt, Rosena Hurt of West Frankfort, Illinois and his nephews, Ronnie Myatt and wife Betsy of West Frankfort, Illinois and Barry Myatt and wife Sherrie of Florida. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Edward Lee Campbell III, his parents, his brothers, Jack and Gene Campbell who were killed in action during WWII, his sister, Margaret Myatt and a nephew, Bobby Myatt. Memorial contributions may be made to Jesus Helping Hands of Checotah. Funeral services were be held 10:30, Friday, January 16, 2009, at the First Free Will Baptist Church with Reverend Ronnie Drake officiating. Pallbearers were Gerald Searson, Gerald Searson, Jr., Jack Campbell, Jack Campbell, Jr., Kyle Shackelford, |
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Kenneth Leslie Huls
Kenneth Leslie Huls, 89, of Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at his home. Kenneth was born on January 13, 1919, in Hanna, Oklahoma, the son of Leslie Gilbert and Georgia (Wright) Huls. He graduated from high school and later received his Associates Degree. Kenneth enlisted in the United States Army and fought in World War II. He worked as a manager for the Henryetta Airport. Survivors include his wife, Geraldine Huls, of the home and his daughter, C.A. Folds of Decatur, Georgia. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Leah Jean Stacy
Leah Jean Stacy, 80, of Rancho Palos Verde, California, formerly of Eufaula, passed away Friday, January 2, 2009. Leah was born on September 8, 1928, the daughter of Jasper and Jeanetta (McIntosh) Hardridge. She graduated from Wewoka High School and then attended the Oklahoma College for Women. Leah was a former Muscogee (Creek) National Council member and served three terms as an Okmulgee District Representative from 1984-1989. As an elected official she served with Principal Chief Claude Cox and Second Chiefs, Solomon McCombs and George Miller. She also served as the Chairperson of Tribal Affairs and with former Speaker of the House, Carney Roberts and Kenneth Childers. Leah was a member of the Okmulgee Genealogy Group in Okmulgee in the 70’s. She was also a fair weather golfer and week-end bowler. She was a Cub Scout mother and an avid OU fan. Leah enjoyed making her own jelly preserves and canning fresh vegetables every year. She made her home in several places including Eufaula, Wewoka, Muskogee, Talihina, and Idabel, Oklahoma, Arlington, Virginia, Alameda, California, and Lawrence, Kansas, but she was always an Oklahoman and a Creek. Survivors include, her sons Richard Douglas Stacy and Gerry Stacy. A wake service was held Friday, January 09, 2009, at the Tuskegee Indian Baptist Church. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 10, 2009, at the Tuskegee Indian Baptist Church with Reverend Allen Colbert and Paul Maxey officiating. Burial followed at the Tuskegee Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Carl Jack Brady
Carl Jack Brady, 81, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, January 5, 2009, at the Jack Montgomery V.A. Hospital in Muskogee. Jack was born on December 12, 1927, in Forest City, Arkansas, the son of Carl Jackson and Beryl Lucille Creech. He graduated from Eufaula High School in 1945. Jack enlisted in the United States Air Force on October 5, 1948. He was honorably discharged on December 30, 1949. In 1956, Jack married Lilly Wildcat in Tulsa. He worked as a carpenter for over forty years. Jack enjoyed playing dominoes, fishing and hunting. He also loved watching OU football. Survivors include: his sons, Jeff Brady of Muskogee and Mike Brady and wife Donna of Yukon; his daughters, Noella Monday and husband Noland of Tulsa, Lorene Blaich and husband Gary of Coffeeville, Kansas, Kathaleen Brady of Eufaula, Jamie and husband Sean Ools of Eufaula and Sarah Umbargar of Sandsprings; his brothers, James Brady of Eufaula, Richard Brady and wife Janet of Albuquerque, New Mexico and David Brady and wife Verona of Oklahoma City; his sister, Dorothy Raiford of Tulsa. He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Jack is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two sons, Billy Brady and Harka Brady and one sister, Suzie. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 10, 2009 at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Minister Jerry Craddock officiating. Pallbearers were Patrick Holybee, Paul Holybee, Carl Holybee, Greg Thomison, Raymond Brady and Tristan Nixon. A military burial followed at the Webber Cemetery under Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Lois Beatrice Andrews
Lois Beatrice Andrews, 78, of Canadian, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2009, at her home. Lois was born January 17, 1930, in Walters, Oklahoma, the daughter of Luther Calvin and Mary Lottie (Avens) Brown. She married Melvin Lee Andrews in May of 1972 in Oklahoma City. He preceded her in death in 1992. Lois worked as a seamstress for Hagar Slacks in Temple, Oklahoma for twenty years. She later worked as a cook for Crowder Senior Citizens for ten years. Survivors include: her sons, James King and wife Cherry of Oklahoma City, Dale Frank King and wife Karen of Choctaw and Gary King and wife Carol of Canadian; her daughter, Mary Miller and husband Dean of Mustang; her daughter-in-law, Pam King of Choctaw; her brothers, Glen Brown and wife Lucille of Duncan, Dale Brown and wife Jeanette of Duncan and Joe Brown of Randulet; her sisters, Ruth McKinzie and husband Don of Lexington, Texas, Doris Kollmorgan and husband Sonny of Lexington, Texas and Jean Schneider and husband Don also of Lexington. She is also survived by ten grandchildren and twenty-four great grandchildren. Funeral services were held 11:30 a.m., Friday, January 9, 2009, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Burt Effinger officiating. Pallbearers were Todd King, Larry Miller, Andrews Moseley, Josh Moseley, Jesse King, Kevin King and Dalton Ashlock. Burial followed at the Memorial Park Cemetery in McAlester under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Roxie Isabel Southerland
Roxie Isabel Southerland, 87, of Fort Gibson, passed away
Friday, January 2, 2009, Roxie was born on October 14, 1921, in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, the daughter of Henry Austin and Verbie (Cootz) Todd. She married Henry Elmer Southerland on September 14, 1921, in Chickasha, Oklahoma. Roxie worked in food service for both the V.A. and St. Anthony’s Hospital. She was of the Baptist Faith. She is survived by her sister, Wilma Boling, of Fort Gibson. Roxie is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers. Graveside services were 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 8, 2009, at the Citizen Cemetery in Fort Gibson with Pastor John Ward officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory of Eufaula. |
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Jean Renault Lafitte
Jean Renault Lafitte died on Thursday, January 1, 2009, at his home near Eufaula. Jean was born in Beaumont, Texas, on July 14, 1956. A longtime resident of Houston, Texas, Jean graduated from Lamar High School in 1974, and attended the University of Texas and Rice University. A successful career in post-production film editing in Dallas, Texas and Hollywood, California, combined with his love of computers and technology, let to the opportunity for Jean to design and manage the information technology system for Narconon Arrowhead, where he was employed at the time of his death. As a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor, Jean found great personal satisfaction and fulfillment in his 8 years of service with Narconon. Jean was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Ike and Ruth Berwick Lafitte of Beaumont; his maternal grandparents J.R. and Nelcine McGee of Houston; and his uncles Louis Jean Lafitte of Temple and J.R. McGee, Jr. of Houston. Jean is survived by his parents, C. Wayne and Nelcine Lafitte of Houston; his sister, Dr. H. Renee Lafitte Bell, her husband Mark and their children, Martin, Leila, Lisa and Miriam all of Davis, California; his brother Marc R. Lafitte, his wife Stacey, and their Lyndsey, Alyson and Taylor all of Houston. A memorial service was held in celebration of Jean’s life at Narconon Arrowhead. The family requests that donations be made in Jean’s memory to Narconon Arrowhead, HC 67, Box 5, Canadian, Oklahoma, 74425. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home & Crematory. |
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Charles Hester Quinton
Charles Hester Quinton, 71, of Quinton, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2009, at the St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. Charles was born on February 21, 1937, in Quinton, Oklahoma, the son of Hester and Etta Belle (Gray) Quinton. He graduated from Quinton High School in 1954. On July 12, 1963, Charles married Evelyn Franklin in Chandler, Oklahoma. Charles was very active in the community. He served on the city council and also as mayor. He was president of the Quinton Alumni Association and also president of the Athletic Boosters. When his children were young, Charles served as a scout master and a little league baseball coach. Charles was very active in the First Baptist Church as well, where he currently served as a deacon and was the past minister of music. Charles retired from Boeing in 1999. He worked in aeronautics for forty-four years and helped to build the first doors for the space shuttle. Survivors include: his son, Chuck Quinton and wife Cindy of Haskell; his daughters, Lou Ann Knell and husband Rick of Quinton and Pam Denny and husband John Paul also of Quinton; his brothers, A.J. Quinton and wife Wyllene of Wichita, Kansas and Terril Quinton and wife Peggy of Sapulpa; his eight grandchildren, Tiffany Quinton, Alicia Skaggs, Rusty Eakle, Peyton Knell, Amanda Eakle, Samantha Denny, Cole Denny and Bobbi Denny and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by a special friend, Jo Pack of Quinton. Charles is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Evelyn Quinton on July 5, 1998 and a daughter, Monica Lea Quinton in 1997. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 5, 2009, at the Quinton First Baptist Church with the Reverend Eddie Dye officiating and Jack Presnell assisting. Pallbearers were Mark Russell, Steve Pack, Dalton Spicer, Bob Greer, Tom Shelton, Rusty Eakle, Bobby Rea and Ronnie Needham. Honorary pallbearers were the First Baptist Church Deacons and the M5 Hunting Club. Burial followed at the Quinton Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home of Quinton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Quinton First Baptist Church Building Fund. |
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Johnnie Ireane Gentry
Johnnie Ireane Gentry, 81, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2008, at the Solara Hospital of Muskogee. Ireane was born on September 13, 1927, in Wanette, Oklahoma, the daughter of John Henery and Obby Lee Clark. On December 14, 1945, Ireane married Julius A. Harrison in Visalia, California. He preceded her in death on December 24, 1949. Ireane then married Clarence E. Gentry in Reno, Nevada. Ireane was a homemaker who loved to do needle crafts and beadwork. She also enjoyed a good ruckus and causing trouble. Her biggest accomplishment was raising her three children. Survivors include: her sons, David E. Gentry and wife Judy of Checotah; Daniel E. Gentry of Taft; her daughter, Lois J. Clowers and husband Homer of Eufaula; her grandchildren, Harvey A. Clowers, Stephanie I. Majewski, Connie Pillow, Daniel Gentry and Joshua Gentry; five great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and five brothers. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 30, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Reverend Larry Messer officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Franklin D. Booth Franklin D. Booth, 74, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2008, at the Muskogee Regional Medical Center. Frank was born on January 29, 1934, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, the son of Delbert and Ola Selma (Goforth) Booth. He attended Capital Hill High School. Frank worked as a plant manager for Chromolly in Midwest City for fifteen years. On May 8, 1980, Frank married Shan Phelps in Ada, Oklahoma. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and attending family gatherings. Frank was a member of the Faith Community Church. Survivors include: his wife, Shan, of the home; his son, Mike Booth and wife Karen of McCloud; his daughters, Teri Leathers and husband Jon of McCloud, Janet North and husband Mark of Seminole and Cheryl Booth of Seminole; his step sons, Steve Bonsall and wife Cheryl of Oklahoma City, Brad Bonsall and wife Krystal of Midwest City and Rusty Cobb and wife Kathy of McCloud; his step daughter, Debbie Wood and husband Butch of Tuttle; his brothers, Kenneth Booth and wife JoAnn and Ronnie Booth and wife Pat both of Eufaula; his sister, Wanda Kellison and husband Chuck of Eufaula; thirty grandchildren and twenty-eight great grandchildren. Frank is preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, LaDonna Taylor in 2007, one sister, Loretta Cartledge, one brother, Wendell Booth and one great grandchild, Taylor Campbell in 1999. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 19, 2008, at the Faith Community Church of Whitefield with Reverends Bill and Mary Fitzer officiating. Burial will follow at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Rita Ruebena Riddle
Rita Ruebena Riddle, 97, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, December 15, 2008, at the Wellington Hills Nursing Home. Rita was born on October 13, 1911, in Double Springs, Alabama, the daughter of J.L. and Martha Francis (Wilburn) Corbin. She graduated from Eufaula High School in 1929. On June 29, 1933, Rita married H.M. Riddle in Eufaula. Rita was an active member of both the Eufaula United Methodist Church and the McFarland Methodist Church in Norman participating in Sunday school, bible school and the choir. She was the first to sing How Great Thou Art as a solo. Rita and H.M. were sponsors of the Eufaula Methodist Youth Fellowship for many years. She was president of the United Methodist Women in both Eufaula and Norman. She did a lot of presentations for UMW as well. Rita was also a fifty year member of Chapter T and Chapter DZ of PEO. Chapter DZ honored Rita with a brick with her name on it at the Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri. Rita was a member of the Book Club, the Garden Club and was the first lady to be inducted into the San Francisco Men’s Club. Survivors include: her daughters, Rosemary Simpson and husband R.L. of Eufaula, Elizabeth Dodd and husband James R. of Cincinnati, Ohio and Ronna Troup of Norman, Oklahoma; six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, H.M. on November 21, 1999, two sisters, Nita and Vyta and two infant brothers. A private family burial will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2008, at the Greenwood Cemetery. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, at the First United Methodist Church with Dr. John Breon officiating. Services are under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eufaula First United Methodist Church Children’s Program or the McFarland Methodist Church Children’s Program in Norman. |
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Delbert Devoe Starkey
Delbert Devoe Starkey, 88, of Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2008, at his home. Delbert was born on September 12, 1920, in Bass, Arkansas, the son of John Baxter and Addline (Hill) Starkey. He attended Stidham School. On July 27, 1939, Delbert married Lorene Louise Pittman in Fame, Oklahoma. They were happily married for 69 years. Delbert was a life long farmer and rancher growing watermelon and cantaloupe and raising cattle. In his free time, Delbert enjoyed fishing. Survivors include: his wife, Lorene, of the home and his daughter, Mary Jo Montgomery and husband Marshall of Stidham. He is preceded in death by his parents, his daughter, Jeanna Faye Starkey in 1964, his brothers, Lee Starkey and Josh Starkey and his sisters, Lillie Curl, Delois Redding, Nancy Anthony and Jewel Mederia. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 13, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Reverend Gene Cook officiating. Pallbearers were G.H. French, James Pittman, Arthur Pittman, Chester Lee Pittman, Jr., John Starkey and Steve Warren. Burial followed at the Lenna Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Wilbur Chebon Gouge
Wilbur Gouge was born and raised in Hanna, Oklahoma and the son of the late Albert and Sally (Spaniard) Gouge. He graduated from Capital Hill high school in 1969 and went on to Haskell Indian Junior College. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and received an Honorable Discharge in 1974. He was a member of the Deere Clan, a member of the Weogufkee (Muddy Waters) Ceremonial Ground and attended Arbeka Ceremonial Ground. Wilbur Chebon Gouge went home to be with the Lord on December 5, 2008 with his loved ones surrounding him. He is welcomed into Glory by his parents Albert and Sally Gouge, two brothers, Ernest and Wilford Gouge and one sister Melissa Gouge and one son Stephen Albert Gouge. He is survived by his wife Cheryl (Whitebuffalo) Gouge of Eufaula, his son Rayburn, three brothers; William Gouge of Eufaula, Felix Gouge of Oklahoma City, and Cecil Gouge of Tulsa, along with seven sisters: Elizabeth Townsend of Okmulgee, Evelyn Wood of Oklahoma City, Sara Wilson of Tulsa, Helen Gouge of Wetumka, Nancy Deere of Okmulgee, Peggy Gouge of Glenpool and Kristine Gouge of Humble, Texas. Wilbur is also survived by loves of his life, his grand children; Anthony and Gabe, his grand baby Eliyah, numerous nieces and nephews and three adopted daughters; Mahleah Cindy of Lawrence Kansas, Tashina and Michelle of Tahlequah. Wilbur Gouge served on the Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s National Council for five sessions serving in the offices of Speaker and Second Speaker along with chairing the Human Development Committee. He was most currently employed by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation as the Grant Compliance Officer in the NAHASDA Program. Wilbur was well known throughout the tribe as someone who got the job done, by his strong and steadfast voice and by his knuckle crunching hand shake. He was the one that people depended upon for an honest and truthful opinion and always willing to share his knowledge from traditional lessons to legislative policy. When asked to assist, his answer was always, “I’ll be there”. While on the National Council, he brought a sense of tradition to the Council floor by reminding the representatives of the foundation our ancestors laid before them. As Speaker of the House, he would greet everyone in the Muscogee language and interpret for the elders what actions were being taken. While on the National Council he became a founding member of the MCN Challenge Bowl Committee. He became the traditional advisor for the games and made sure that the competition didn’t over ride the true spirit of the games – the spirit of learning. His love for the games showed in his commitment to teach the volunteers and students that if you know where you come from and will know where you are going. In 2007, the Challenge Bowl committee official named the sportsmanship award to the “Wilbur Chebon Gouge Honors Teams Award” to honor him for his contribution to the betterment of this Nation. For generations to come, children will know his name, benefit from his knowledge and credit him for teaching them what it truly means to be a good Creek citizen. In 2008, the Muscogee Nation honored him as a Living Legend to acknowledge his years of work and dedication to the Muscogee people. Chebon has been one of the leading forces behind making Creek Nation more accessible to our youth, parents, community members and employees. On every committee that he participated in, he kept them grounded by making the Creek culture the focal point of the program or events Chebon gave his all in his work for even more for his volunteer time. He would come to meetings during his lunch hour, before and after work hours, and many times on weekends. He served as the traditional consultant for the Tobacco Prevention Program, the Traditional advisor for the MCN Scholarship Pageant and a founding member and Chair of the Muscogee Language Program Committee. From the writings of Wilbur Gouge; “As a role model for the next group behind you, how many will you inspire? How many will follow in your footstep? Let’s hope and pray there will be many.” Wilbur’s words are still ringing true – “I’ll be there”, but now he’s waiting for us. Funeral services were held 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 10, 2008, at the North Fork Baptist Church. A military burial followed at the Gouge Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Luella Ann Jones
Luella Ann Jones, 83, of Tulsa, passed away Sunday, November 30, 2008. She was born on July 20, 1925, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, the daughter of Oscar Frank and JoeAnna (Cloud) Miller. Luella graduated from Eufaula High School, where she performed in the High School Marching Band for three years. She was a life long supporter of all Eufaula sporting events, especially football. On June 14, 1944, Luella married Coy Jackson Casey in McAlester, Oklahoma. He preceded her in death on June 3, 1964. Luella married Harley Jones on April 15, 1966, at the Eufaula Church of Christ. Harley preceded her in death on July 29, 1994. Luella always ensured that every one of her friends and family had plenty of Crappie filets; however, to accomplish this she had to sacrifice 8 to 10 hours a day up to 5 days a week to fishing. She loved to be with her family. She loved her garden and flowers. She was a devoted Christian, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Survivors include: her sons, Roger Casey of Ft. Worth, Texas, Coy Casey of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Roy Casey also of Tulsa; her sister, Lucille Renfroe of Sandsprings and her grandchildren, Rocky Casey, Jr., Roger Joe Casey, Jennifer (Pebbles) Harris, Russell Casey, Colin Casey, Brett Casey and Jessey Casey. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Watie Miller, Troy Miller, Franklin Miller, Fred Straton, her sister, Mabe and Ruby and her sons, Robert Lon Casey, Joe Russell Casey and Rocky Jackson Casey, Sr. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 4, 2008, at the Church of Christ with Charlie Bailey officiating. Pallbearers were Rocky Casey, Jr., John Casey, Joe Casey, Jr., Brett Casey, Collin Casey and Grif Miller. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tipton Children’s Home. |
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Freddie Dwayne Mouser
Freddie Dwayne Mouser, 46, of Muskogee, passed away November 27, 2008, at the Hillcrest Hospital of Tulsa. Freddie was born on January 29, 1962, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Fred L. and Jakelynn M. (McDonald) Mouser. Freddie married Kathy Sue Reinhardt on June 17, 1995. Survivors include: his mother, Jakelynn Mouser; his wife, Kathy, of the home; his sons, Tyler Dwayne Mouser and Tanner Dwayne Mouser both of the home and Jonathan Dwayne Mouser of Muskogee; his daughter, Ashley Dawn Mouser of Braggs; his brothers, Rickey Lee Mouser of Atoka, Johnny Lynn Mouser of Muskogee, James Owen Martin of Muskogee and Tony Hall also of Muskogee. He is preceded in death by his father. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were James Owen Martin (Bodine), Randy Fulton, Tony Hall, Clayton Jones, Ron Little, Clifford Haney and Jeremy Anders. Burial followed at the Hanna Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home of Eufaula. |
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Thelma Arlene Watkins
Thelma Arlene Watkins, 75, of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, November 20, 2008, at the Solara Hospital of Muskogee. Thelma was born on January 1, 1933, in Quinton, Oklahoma, the daughter of Elmer Cleo and Pearl Olive (Morgan) Harris. She attended school at Eufaula. Thelma worked at the Tastee Freeze for twelve years. She also worked as a home provider and at the sewing factory. She also sewed wedding dresses and cheerleader uniforms for individuals. Thelma loved to quilt. Her biggest love was spending time with her family and working in her garden and making beautiful flower beds in her yard. She was very proud of her flowers. She also loved to bird watch. She was a member of the Church of Christ. Survivors include: her sons, Jimmy Ray Watkins and wife Darla of Hartshorne, Kevin Cleo Watkins of Red Oak, Tony Joe Watkins and wife Shirley of Eufaula and Ernest Edward Watkins and wife Carla also of Eufaula; her daughter, Kathy Lynn Daily of Eufaula; her brothers, Charles Edward Harris, Bobby Dan Harris and wife Linda, Ronnie Joe Harris all of Eufaula and Darrell Steve Harris and wife Joanie of Muskogee; her sisters, Mary Virginia Smith and husband Jerry of McAlester, Linda Kay Mansur and husband Lynn of Tulsa and Judith Ann Harris of Muskogee. Thelma is also survived by twelve grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, one infant daughter, Cathy Lorraine, two brothers, Cleo and Leo Harris and one infant brother. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 24, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Reverend Dusty McKeefer officiating. Pallbearers were Waylon Watkins, Justin Watkins, Jason Watkins, Joshua Watkins, Levi Rogers and Seth Rogers. Honorary pallbearers were Kevin Watkins, Tony Watkins and Ernest Watkins. Burial followed at the Palestine Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Wallace Deo
Wallace Deo, 57, of Tulsa, passed away Friday, October 24, 2008, at the St. Johns Medical Center in Tulsa. Wallace was born on March 23, 1951, in Claremore, Oklahoma, the son of Billie William and Nettie JoAnn (Solomon) Deo. He graduated from high school and worked as a laborer. Survivors include: his brother, Bill Deo, Jr. of Okmulgee; his sisters, Lena Tiger of Sapulpa and Josephine Deo Francis and husband Robert of Eufaula; a host of nieces and nephews and his special and loving friends in Tulsa. Wallace is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Lawrence Rodney Josie. A wake service was held 7:00 p.m., Monday, October 27, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at the Weogufkee Indian Baptist Church with the Reverend Richmond Carr officiating. Pallbearers were John Ontiveros, Carlos Ontiveros, Jules Ontiveros, Daryl Uptegraft, Rick Betsillie, Timothy Grigg, Wesley Francis and Curtis Josie. Burial followed at the Solomon Family Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Gladys Irene Whitt
Gladys Irene Whitt, 97, of Canadian, passed away Saturday, October 18, 2008, at the Eufaula Manor Nursing Home. Gladys was born on May 16, 1911, in Henryetta, Oklahoma, the daughter of James Leon and Ada Bell (Neal) McTavish. She graduated from Central High School in Tulsa. On January 10, 1930, Gladys married Nolan Whitt in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Gladys worked as a bookkeeper for McDonald Douglas and American Airlines for over twenty years. She spent most of her life in Tulsa. Survivors include: her son, Robert Whitt and wife Sonia of Canadian; her daughter, Pat Reddick of Canadian and her brothers, Bub McTavish of Idaho and Jack McTavish of Texas. She is also survived by five grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren and seventeen great great grandchildren. Gladys is preceded in death by her parents, her husband and one infant son. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 23, 2008, at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Timothy Gilbert Bellerive
Timothy Gilbert Bellerive, 55, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2008, at the Community Hospital Lakeview. Timothy was born on January 4, 1953, in Denver, Colorado, the son of Gilbert Francis Xavier and Dorthy May (Snyder) Bellerive. He attended Westwood Elementary and Kepner Junior High graduating from Mile Hi Private School in 1971. Timothy worked as a welder. He married Julia Ann Burnham on November 23, 1997 in Muskogee, Oklahoma. He was a member of the Assembly of God Church. Survivors include: his wife, Julia, of the home; his mother, Dorthy of Denver, Colorado; and his sisters Teena Kay Hopwood and Trudy Lynn Strickland. His father precedes him in death. Graveside memorial services were held on Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at the Ft. Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Clodis Allen “Buddy” Howell
Clodis Allen “Buddy” Howell, 70, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, October 13, 2008, at the Wellington Hills Nursing Home. Buddy was born on August 17, 1938, in Shamrock, Oklahoma, the son of James and Nellie (Pierce) Howell. Buddy was raised in Shamrock and received his early education there. On June 20, 1973, Buddy married Pearl Eivens. Buddy went to work in the oil fields at the age of 17. He worked as petroleum driller. His occupation in the oil industry took him and his family to many locations. In November of 1995, Buddy retired and moved to Eufaula from Wilburton. He enjoyed fishing on the lake. Survivors include: his wife, Pearl, of the home; his sons, Rocky Howell of California, Mark Howell of California, Michael Lopez of Eufaula, Richard Lopez of Eufaula and Cal Marlin of Florida; his daughter, Melinda Howell of Ft. Stockton, Texas; his brothers, Jimmy Howell of Canadian, Texas and Jackie Howell of Liberal, Kansas; his sisters, Minnie Piercy of Liberal, Kansas, Linda Driskill of Elkton, Kentucky, Edith Kidd of Erick, Oklahoma and Robbie Billingsley of Enid, Oklahoma. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and his daughters, Penny Hinojosa and Debbie Adams, brothers Billy Howell and Jr. Parham and his sisters, Wanda Young, Goldie Umphriss, and Betty King. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Dr. John Breon officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Sharon Faye Keeran
Sharon Faye Keeran, 53, of Stidham, passed away Thursday, October 2, 2008, at her home. Sharon was born on April 11, 1955, in Stidham, Oklahoma, the daughter of Norman C. and Gladys Nadine (Moore) Nixon. She attended school in Stidham. Sharon worked as a waitress for Green Country Kitchen in Checotah and Western Sizzlin Steak House in Claremore. She also worked as a cashier for 7 Eleven and a truck stop in Checotah. Sharon married Keith Keeran. He preceded her in death on February 16, 2001. Survivors include: her mother, her sons, Marshall Speir and wife Kacy of Muskogee, Steve Speir and wife Crystal of Muskogee and Gary Morris of the home; her grandchildren, Levi, Elizabeth and Cody; her brothers, Bill Nixon of Stidham, Blackie Nixon of Stidham, Marshall Nixon of Checotah, Steve Nixon and wife Sharon of Texas, and Tracy Nixon of the home; her sisters, Norma Reed and husband Russell of Eufaula, Diana Nixon of Stidham and Sonya Davis and husband Jim of Eufaula. Her father precedes her in death. A memorial service was held 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 6, 2008, at the Little Coweta Baptist Church with the Reverend Dustin Tidwell officiating. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Abbygal Ann Henriksen
Abbygal Ann Henriksen, infant daughter of Carol Ann Henriksen and Lee Ray Osban passed away September 30, 2008. She was born on August 5, 2008, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Abby is survived by her parents; her maternal grandparents, Herb and Doris Henriksen of Eufaula; her paternal grandparents, Joyce Patrick and husband Billy of Henryetta and Nolan Osban of Henryetta; her sister and brother, Courtney and Baylee Cox of the home and her brothers, Ricky, Ryan and Christopher Osban of Henryetta. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2008, at the North Fork Baptist Church with Dr. Bruce Sanders officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the North Fork Baptist Church. |
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William Henry “Bill” Lambert
William Henry “Bill” Lambert, 87, of Broken Arrow, passed away Sunday, September 21, 2008, at his home. Bill was born on November 17, 1920, in Hanford, California, the son of John Caldwell and Johnnie Boyd (Peek) Lambert. He graduated from high school in Rondo Beach, California in 1938. He then attended college in Carbondale, Illinois. Bill enlisted in the United States Army on November 12, 1941, in Los Angeles, California. While in the service, Bill received a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Ribbon, the American theater Ribbon, the EAME Theater Ribbon and the Good Conduct Ribbon. He was honorably discharged on November 7, 1945, at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. On January 18, 1944, Bill married Dorothy Evelyn Eckmann in Galveston, Texas. They were happily married for sixty-four years. Bill worked as a railroad switchman for Alton and Southern Railroad in East St. Louis for thirty years. Bill loved horse races and watching the Dallas Cowboys. He also enjoyed gardening. Survivors include: his wife, Dorothy, of the home; his sons, Craig Lambert of New Orleans and William E. (Bill) Lambert of Athens, Texas; his daughters, Lynda Laser of Garland, Texas and Kathy Casey of Broken Arrow and his grandchildren, Craig Lambert, Jr., Melissa, Joe Klaser and Danielle Norgaard. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Tom, Jess and John, a sister, Dolly and a grandson Collin who passed away in 1993. Rosary services were held 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 24, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial was held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2008, at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church of Eufaula with Father Joe Townsend officiating. A military burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, 401 N. Main, Eufaula, OK. |
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Paul L.
Allison Paul L. Allison, devoted husband, father, and loving grandfather passed away on Tuesday September 23, 2008. Mr. Allison was born on July 16, 1920 in Delphos, Kansas to Ralph and Ruby Allison, who preceded him in death. He attended Kansas State College for two years. In December 1941, he met H. Bernice Hurlbutt of Enid and they were married. He went into the Air Force in 1942. After he was discharged, Mr. Allison worked for the Corporation of Engineers until 1950 when he went back to college at Oklahoma State University. He graduated in 1952 with a degree in Civil Engineering. He worked with Oklahoma City Board of Education until 1956. Mr. Allison then later formed his own company with partners. In 1964, he formed Paul Allison, Inc. in Oklahoma City. He constructed various types of commercial and industrial buildings until 1991, when he retired to his lake house on Lake Eufaula. Mr. Allison then started selling Real Estate in the area. After a couple of years, he built fifteen condos at Bridgeport Dunes, where he lived. After this, he became involved with building the new Methodist Church and doing a lot of fishing. He was a registered Professional Engineer, belonged to the National and Oklahoma Society of Professional Engineers, and The Past and Present of Oklahoma. Mr. Allison was also a member of AGC of America, and a great supporter of OSU, where he, his daughter, and granddaughters went to college. Mr. Allison is survived by his wife, H. Bernice Allison of the home, one daughter and son in-law Allen and Marilyn Knol of Edmond, three granddaughters and their families Mike and Allison Aday of Eufaula, Jeff and Debbie Cook of Yukon, and Craig and Chamayne Burt of Tulsa, and eight great grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister Vendla Tacha of Norton, Kansas and nieces and nephews and a host of friends, whose lives he touched with loyalty and care. Services were held on Friday September 26, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Burial followed at Rose Hill Cemetery in Oklahoma City at 3:00 p.m. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black, & Merritt Funeral Home, of Eufaula, OK. |
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Pat Nixon McCray
Pat Nixon McCray, 64, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, September 12, 2008, at the St. John Medical Center in Tulsa Pat was born on November 11, 1943, in Wahiawa, Hawaii, the daughter of Joseph and Mabel (Gomez) Raydon. She graduated from Leila Hua High School in 1962 in Wahiawa, Hawaii. On June 1, 1963, Pat married James Nixon at the Schofield Barracks Army Base in Hawaii. She lived in Wahiawa for twenty years before moving to Oklahoma where she remained for the rest of her life. Pat was an avid surfer and hula dancer in her youth. She enjoyed any and all water sports. She also loved watching football especially the Green Bay Packers and the OU Sooners. Pat worked at Sharpes Department Store. She was a member of the Little Coweta Baptist Church. Survivors include: her son, Jon Paul Nixon of Eufaula; her daughter, Dana Michelle Pittman and husband Chester Lee of Eufaula; her grandson, Logan Paul Nixon; her granddaughters, Britny Michelle Pittman and Amber Mortensen; her grandson, Blake Garrett Pittman; her granddaughter, Ashley Dawn Noe and her great grand kids, Gabriel and Jillian Mortensen. Pat is preceded in death by her parents and her son, Brit James Nixon. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Phil Lawrence and Reverend Dustin Tidwell officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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George
Miles Long George Miles Long, 77, of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, September 11, 2008, at the Deaconess Hospital of Oklahoma City. George was born in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of Robert Lee and Verdie (Salters) Long. He attended Dixie Elementary and graduated from high school in Mendota, California. George then received his Bachelor’s Degree from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. On January 8, 1951, George married Mary Jo Montgomery in Van Buren, Arkansas. They were happily married for fifty-seven years. George enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on July 4, 1953. George taught school for nine years. He then took a job at Mary Kay Cosmetics where he worked in the lab. He retired after twenty years of employment in 1997. George was a member of the North Fork Baptist Church. Survivors include: his wife, Mary Jo, of the home; his son, Miles Long and wife Janice of Olathe, Kansas; his brothers, Russell Long of Eufaula and Charles Long of Dallas; his sister, Hazel Montgomery of Lawton and two grandchildren, Melissa and Jared Long. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Verdie Long, a brother, Robert Long Jr. and a sister, Ruth Ester Long. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, September 15, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Dr. Bruce Sanders officiating. Pallbearers were Jared Long, Bryan Montgomery, Steve Montgomery, John Michael Montgomery, David Montgomery, Greg Westmoreland, Darrin Montgomery and Mark Gideon. A military burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Floretta Joyce (Cox) Williams
Floretta Joyce (Cox) Williams, 77, of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, September 11, 2008, at the St. Francis Hospital of Tulsa. Floretta was born on February 1, 1931, at 42 Mellette. She raised four children and loved her grandchildren. Floretta was a cook and nurse’s aide at the Friendly Manor and Eufaula Manor Nursing Home. In her free time, Floretta enjoyed crocheting. She was a member of the Stidham Baptist Church. Survivors include: her sons, Gene Cook and wife Janice of Eufaula and Wayne Cook and wife Lea Ann of Stidham; her daughter, Shelley A. Chase and husband Gary of Morris; her sister, Flossie Brady of Casa Grande, Arizona; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Floretta is preceded in death by her parents, her son, Lance Neal Garrison, and numerous brothers and sisters. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2008, at the Stidham First Baptist Church with the Reverend Ronnie Drake and Reverend Gary Hawkins officiating. Pallbearers were Johnny McBrown, Joe Cox, Larry Armstrong, Brian Cook, Joshua Chase, Caleb Cook, Dane Yandell, C.J. Turner, James Hickman and Shawn Brady. Honorary pallbearers were J.D. Williams, W.R. “Tootle” Carey, Leon Jennings, Pod Jones and Perry Cody. Burial followed at the Mellette Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Stidham Baptist Church Building Fund. |
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Lawrence Rodney Josie
Lawrence
Rodney Josie, 63, of Cleveland, Oklahoma, passed away
Saturday, September 6, 2008,
Lawrence was born on
October 4, 1944, in Hanna, Oklahoma, the son of Bill and
Nettie (Solomon) Deo. He attended school at Irving and
Tulsa Central. Lawrence worked at the Walnut Creek State
Park for over fourteen years. He also worked for Jim
Blankenship Body Shop for over ten years and owned and
operated J& S Body Shop for several years. On June 13,
2005, Lawrence married Donna Sue Rogers in Miami, Oklahoma.
Survivors include: his wife, of the home; his sons, Curtis
L. Josie of Coweta, Rodney L. Josie of Mounds and Shaun L.
Josie and wife Candice of Tulsa; his brother, Wallace Deo of
Tulsa; his sisters, Lena Tiger of Sapulpa and Josephine
Francis and husband Robert of Eufaula and four
grandchildren, Christopher, Alexis, Sabrina and Keilan. He
is preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter,
Jo Anna. Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday,
September 10, 2008, at the Weogufkee Indian Baptist Church
with Reverend Tim Lowe and Reverend J. R. Wisdom
officiating. Pallbearers were Hully Tiger, Robert Francis,
Wesley Francis, Raymond Francis, Robert Solomon and Jessie
Riddle. Robert Scott served as an honorary pallbearer.
Burial followed at the Solomon Cemetery under the direction
of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the |
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Dortha L. Bland
Dortha L. Bland, 89, of Quinton, passed away Wednesday, September 10, 2008, at the Quinton Manor Nursing Home.
Dortha was born on
October 18, 1918, in Quinton, the daughter of Samuel and Mae
Work. She attended school at Russellville. Dortha married
Richard Monks in 1938. He preceded her in death shortly
after their marriage in 1938. Dortha later married Chester
A. Bland in Russellville. He preceded her in death on
December 26, 1994, after fifty-four years of marriage.
Dortha owned and operated the Main Street Café for 9 years.
She also worked at the Quinton Manor for twelve years, the
Dairy Bar and Blacks Funeral Home for several years. Dortha
was a member of the First Baptist Church. Survivors
include: her daughter, Louise Westbrook and husband Bobby of
Tulsa; a daughter in law, Ann Monks of Quinton; four
grandkids, Michelle Holt and husband Ike of Tulsa, Paula
Haynes and husband Johnny of Owasso, Gayla Smith and husband
Mike of McAlester and Mindy Bumpers and husband Keith of
Stigler; two great grandkids, Ty Smith and Kira Holt and two
great great grandkids, Kase and Kambryn. Dortha is also
survived by two brothers, Jimmy Work of Quinton and Gene
Work of Tulsa and numerous nieces and nephews. She is
preceded in death by her parents, one son, Leon Monks, and
two sisters Margie Cagle and Edith Smith. Funeral services
will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 13, 2008, at the
Quinton First Baptist Church with the Reverend Eddie Dye
officiating. Burial will follow at the Quinton City
Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the |
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Brett Lee Wilson
Brett Lee Wilson, 30, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, August 23, 2008, at the Community Hospital Lakeview. Brett was born on May 8, 1977, in Greenville, South Carolina, the son of Jimmy Lee Wilson and Donna Gayle (Center) Daubert. He graduated from Gatlinburg-Pittman High School. He was attending school at Bacone where he had a 4.0 grade point average and was on the President’s Honor Roll. Survivors include: his father, Jim Wilson of Eufaula; his mother and step-father, Donna and Rick Daubert of Eufaula; his sister, Meshell Holiman and brother-in-law Ronnie Phipps of Gatlinburg, Tennessee and his brother, Derick Wilson of Eufaula. Graveside services were held Wednesday, August 27, 2008, at the Mellette Cemetery with Mike Scifres officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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John Andrew Morton He was born on May 3, 1950, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Kenneth and Nadene Morton. After high school, John enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served our country proudly in Vietnam. He then returned home to work the carpentry trade with his father for many years until his father retired. John went on to become a long distance truck driver. At the time of his departing, he was employed as a driver for Metro Transit of Oklahoma City. John is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include: two daughters, Melody and Sarah, one son, Bryan, sister and brother-in-law, Sharon and Darrell Wagner, many nieces and nephews and many more friends. John was loved by all and will be dearly missed each and every day. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, August 28, 2008, at the Greenwood Cemetery with Dr. John Breon officiating. Military honors were performed by the U.S. Marine Funeral Honors Team and the Eufaula VFW Post 8798. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Mary Ruth Lauhon Wendel
Mary Ruth Lauhon Wendel, 86, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, August 15, 2008, at her home. Mary was born on July 21, 1922, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, the daughter of Fred Silas and Ruth (Bird) Lauhon. Mary graduated from Eufaula High School at then received her Associates Degree from Williams Wood College in 1942. In 1944, Mary received her Bachelors Degree from Southern Methodist University where she was Pan Hellenic President. In 1951, Mary married Dr. W.E. Wendel in Eufaula. He preceded her in death in October 1988. Mary read her bible daily and was a very active member of the Eufaula First Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school and played the organ for thirty years. Mary was a lifetime board member of the Eufaula Memorial Library. She donated her childhood home site to the library. Mary was also a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and the Chi Omega Sorority. Survivors include: her sons, Michael R. Wendel and wife Linda of Omaha, Nebraska and Fred P. Wendel and wife Nancy of Eufaula, Oklahoma; her daughter, Ruth Anne Doelp and husband Paul of Reading, Pennsylvania; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Monday, August 18, 2008, at the First Baptist Church with the Reverend J. Ingram and the Reverend Larry Adams officiating. Pallbearers were Dale Riley, Marshall Pruitt, Roger Barton, Ed George, Bud McCombs and Dr. Tom Shroyer. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eufaula Memorial Library Trust. |
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William Elwood Stewart “Bill”
William Elwood Stewart “Bill”, 81, of Eufaula passed away Sunday, July 20, 2008, at the Muskogee Veteran’s Hospital. He was born in Delaware, the son of William Elwood Stewart “Woody” and Mary Ann (Malone) Stewart. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1944 and served during World War II. While serving in the Navy, Bill received the Electrician’s Mate Chief Numeros. He was honorably discharged in 1964. Bill was a member of the Eufaula VFW Post 8798, and the Henryetta American Legion. Bill lived in Henryetta and moved to Eufaula in 1982. On February 14, 1991, Bill married Arvilla Cagle in Eufaula. Survivors include: his wife, Arvilla, of the home; his sons, Larry Cagle and wife Pam, Bobby Cagle and wife Carolyn and Galen Cagle and wife Denon; his daughters, Lisa Wolfe and husband Mike and Sandra Hammons and husband Jim; ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren. A memorial service was held at the Eufaula VFW Post 8798 on Wednesday, July 23, 2008. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Franziska Tyrell
Franziska Tyrell, 73, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away July 4, 2008, at her summer home in Eufaula. Franziska was born on August 9, 1934, in Munich, Germany. She worked as a cable winder for Western Electric. Survivors include her son, Edward Hanna and friend Kathy Mars of Eufaula, her daughter Gerda Harris of Oklahoma City, six grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. |
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Ernest Lee Calvin Beeler
Ernest Lee Calvin Beeler, 60, of Stigler, passed away Thursday, July 17, 2008, at the St. Johns Hospital of Tulsa. Ernest was born on October 9, 1947, in Redhill, Oklahoma, the son of John Wesley and Murtes Kathrine (Pinnion) Beeler. Ernest attended school in Sperry. On December 15, 1966, Ernest married Janet McKinney in Claremore. They were married for twenty-seven years. Ernest worked as a wrecker driver for Story Wrecker Service in Tulsa for twenty-six years. Survivors include: his sons, Michael Lee Calvin Beeler and Ricky Lynne Beeler; his daughter, Vanetta Sue Beeler Porter; his brothers, Homer Beeler, Pete “TJ” Beeler, John Deere Beeler and Otis Beeler, his sister, Corine Kinser; ten grandchildren, Michael Lee Calvin Beeler, Jr., Amber Rochelle Baker, Brooke McKayla Jordan, Brittany Shaye Beeler, Darah Lynn Beeler, Tyler Chase Beeler, Garrett Reed Beeler, Wyatt Mathew Beeler, Dalani Jo Beeler and Haley Dawn Porter and one great grandchild, Kynslee Madison Cuminsky. Ernest is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Ernest Beeler, Ernie Beeler, “Bert” Beeler and Omer Beeler and his sister, Beatrice Beeler. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 22, 2008, at the Unity Baptist Church with the Reverend Gary Maxwell and the Reverend Jeff Wren officiating. Pallbearers were Rick Beeler, Jeremy Porter, Junior Bruner, Junior Beeler, Walter Beeler and Wesley Beeler. Honorary pallbearers were Luther Woodbright, Homer Beeler, Garret Beeler, Wyatt Beeler and Tyler Beeler. Burial followed at the Garland Cemetery in Stigler under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home of Eufaula. For memorial contributions to the Beeler Family please contact Reverend Gary Maxwell at 918-966-3884. |
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Harry Clinton Hood
Harry Clinton Hood, 92, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, July 21, 2008, at the Eufaula Manor Nursing Home. Harry was born on April 12, 1916, in Colton, Oklahoma, the son of Lon and Bertha (Miller) Hood. He graduated from Schulter High School in 1934. Harry enlisted in the United States Navy on February 12, 1944. He was honorably discharged on December 22, 1945. Harry completed agricultural courses using the GI Bill after World War II. In 1938, Harry married Myrl Brackett in Eufaula, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death on November 27, 1986. He then married Marie McQuay in 1987. She also preceded him in death. Harry was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eufaula. He was also a member of the Eufaula VFW Post 8798. Survivors include: his daughters, Emma Smith and husband Lloyd of Cave Junction, Oregon, Donna Powers and husband David of N. Richland Hills, Texas and Shirley Wilkinson of Orange City, Florida; his sisters, Virginia Reed and husband Jack of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Bernice Stratton of San Diego, California; twelve grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. Harry is preceded in death by his mother and father; his step-mother, Elsie, his daughter, Lora Watkins, his son, Clint Hood, his brother, Buck and his sister, Elva. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 25, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Ronnie Drake officiating and military honors provided by the Eufaula VFW Post 8798. Pallbearers were John Davis, Adam Davis, Thomas Davis, Ryan Hood, Brent Hood and Wayne Calvert. Burial followed at the Mellette Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mellette Cemetery Fund. |
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Katherine Wright Stanley
Katherine Wright Stanley entered into eternal rest with Jesus on the 12th day of July 2008, at her home.
She is mourned by her
daughters, Barbara Adams and husband noel of Alvarado, Texas
and Susan L. Miskovsky and husband Mike of Stigler,
Oklahoma. Five grandchildren, Jason Adams and wife Ashley
of Roanoke, Texas, Erinn Adams of Dallas, Texas, Joe
Miskovsky of Oklahoma City, and three great-grandchildren,
Lauren Mellor of Eufaula, Oklahoma, Ian Adams of Chandler,
Arizona and Tyler Clay of Roanoke, Texas will cherish her
memory.
Katherine was born on November 9, 1919, in Danville,
Illinois, the daughter of Thomas and Mary Alice (Smith)
Judson. Katherine graduated from Humes High School in
1940. She lived most of her life in Memphis, Tennessee
until 1995 when she moved to Eufaula, Oklahoma to be with
her family. She was laid to rest at the Bower Cemetery,
Eufaula, Oklahoma, at 10:00 a.m. on July 14, 2008. Services
were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral
Home. |
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Jean Huddleston Nabors
Jean Huddleston Nabors, 99, of Eufaula, passed away, Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at the Eufaula Manor Nursing Home. Jean was born on April 9, 1909, in Ada, Oklahoma, the daughter of Haskel Jordan and Ethal (Pendelton) Huddleston. Jean graduated from Ada High School in 1924. After graduation, Jean attended East Central State College in Ada where she received her Lifetime Teaching Certificate in 1929. She taught in the Ada Public School System. Jean then received her BA Degree from East Central State College in 1950. On May 29, 1932, Jean married D.J. Nabors in Ada, Oklahoma. Jean and D.J. lived in Ada until retirement in 1969. After retirement, Jean lived in Sulphur Springs, McAllen and Kerrville, TX. She moved back to Oklahoma to live in the Madill Baptist Retirement Village and finally resided in Eufaula. Jean was a member of the North Fork Baptist Church. Jean loved to play the organ and was the church organist for thirty plus years. Survivors include: her son Jon Nabors and wife Doris of Eufaula; her daughters, Jan and husband Leslie Hill of Lexington, Kentucky and Judy and husband Charles Holland of Fort Worth, Texas; her sisters, Jo Davis and husband John and Ann Hall and husband Mike of Kerrville, Texas; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Jean is preceded in death by her parents, her husband D.J. on December 31, 1997, one brother, Charles and a sister, Melba. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 12, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home with the Dr. Bruce Sanders officiating. Pallbearers were her grandsons, David Hill, Smitty Nabors, Carter Holland, Weston Holland, Nathaniel Beams and friend Byron Kennedy. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Steven Mark Lashley
Steven Mark Lashley, 47, of Checotah, Oklahoma, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2008, at the St. Johns Hospital of Tulsa. Steve was born on March 9, 1961, in Bakersfield, California, the son of Jim R. and Betty L. (Duke) Lashley. He graduated from Bakersfield High School and then attended Bakersfield College. He received his bachelor’s degree in journalism from Fresno State University where he was also the editor of the Fresno State College Newspaper. In 1998, Steve moved to Oklahoma. He was a member of the New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. Survivors include: his parents of the home; his brother, Todd Lashley of Checotah; his uncles, Jerry Duke and wife Dorian of Bakersfield, CA and Harold Lashley and wife Coleen also of Bakersfield; his aunt, Jennie Franks of Pismo Beach, CA and his great aunt, Lorene Richison of Skiatook, OK. Steve is preceded in death by an infant brother, Jimmy Ray Lashley. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 11, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Paul Butler officiating. Burial followed at the Greenlawn Cemetery in Checotah under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula, Oklahoma. |
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Sammie Dy Ann Flowers
Sammie Dy Ann Flowers, 46, of Eufaula, passed away at the
Creek Nation Community Hospital Sammie D was born on September 9, 1961, at Lawton, OK. The daughter of Billy Gene & Sammie C (Sam) Flowers, she graduated from US Grant High School in Oklahoma City in 1979. She has made her home in the Eufaula area for several years. She attended a welding school in McAlester and has worked as a labor in this area for many years including 7 years in maintenance at Terra Starr. Sammie D has loved OU football and hardly ever missed watching a game. She was very big hearted and spent most of her life loving and helping others. She was preceded in death by her Father and a brother, Kent Douglas Flowers. Survivors include: Her Mother, Sammie C, of the home; Her Step-Mother, Lenora Flowers of Eufaula; A Brother, Billy Gene Flowers Jr., of Eufaula; Four Step-Brothers, Jeff, Kevin Matt and Patrick Lynch; many nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral Services will be conducted from the Kelley Memorial Chapel in Eufaula on Monday, June 23, 2008, at 10:30 am, with Mike Scifres officiating. Burial will be in the Bower Cemetery southeast of Eufaula under the direction of the Hunn-Black & Merritt Funeral Home in Eufaula. |
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Chester Lee
Barton Chester was born on April 27, 1933, at Arkansas City, Kansas. The son of Walter and Hazel Barton, he grew up in the Arkansas City area and graduated from the Arkansas City High School. He was married to Dolores Harloff on November 11, 1952. To this union four children were born. He was later married to Ada Frances (Fields) Shirley on February 15, 1991, at Miami, OK. They have been residence of the Canadian community for the past 10 years, living in the Arrowhead Estates. Chester was the kitchen manager at NARCONON for the past 9 years. The Bartons have been very involved in helping others for many years. He has played Santa Clause for the past 25 years and has taken his donations to help others. Along with helping others he has won many cooking awards and contest. He has been involved in many different organizations such as: Arrowhead Estates Volunteer Fire Department, a lay minister with the United Methodist Church, an active member of the Canadian United Methodist Church, a member of the VFW, a member of the American Legion and a member of the Moose Lodge. Survivors include: His wife of the home; Five Sons; Jeff & Julie Barton of Antioch, IL, Mike & Connie Barton of Manchester, NH, Doug Barton of Park City, IL, Robert & Melissa Shirley of Arkansas City, KS, and Jerry Staab of Hayes, KS; Three Daughters, Patty & Patrick McKernan of Steamwood, IL, Shiela & Frank Hughes of Arkansas City, KS, Debra Shirley of Arkansas City, KS; One Brother Mike Barton of Braman, OK, 13 Grandchildren, One Great Grandson, Other relatives and many friends. |
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Betty Jane Nichols
Betty Jane Nichols, 73, of Eufaula, passed away at her home on Monday, June 16, 2008. Betty was born on May 24, 1935, at Bartlesville, OK. The daughter of Steven and Floy (Hildbrand) Hendricks, she grew up in the Bartlesville area, was married to Charles Jerry Nichols on March 21, 1952, at Dewey, OK. She worked as a bookkeeper for the family owned and operated Phillips 66 Station in Tulsa from 1958 til 1972. Then from 1979 til 1987 she was employed by Phillips Petroleum Company as a computer operator. She and Charles moved to the Eufaula area in July 1988. Survivors include: Her husband, Charles Jerry of the home; Two Sons; Tony Dale & wife Debbie J Nichols and Tim Gale & wife Dee Ann Nichols both of Bartlesville, OK; One Brother; Robert Truitt Hendricks of Nowata, OK; Three Grand Children; Kyle Wayne Nichols and Danielle Nichols both of Bartlesville, OK, and Gary Wade Nichols of Norman, OK, other relatives and many friends. Memorial Services will be conducted from the Kelley Memorial Chapel in Eufaula on Thursday, June 19, 2008, at 1:30 pm, with Rev. , officiating. Services under the direction of Hunn, Black, & Merritt Funeral Home in Eufaula. |
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Maggie Irene Bell
Maggie Irene Bell, 94, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, June 9, 2008, at the Muskogee Regional Medical Center. Maggie was born on August 14, 1913, in Fame, Oklahoma, the daughter of John Thomas and Martha (Stewart) Counts. Maggie attended school at Fame. She was married to George Bell. Maggie was a member of the Church of Christ. Survivors include: her step daughter, Cynthia Diggs; her step grandchildren, David Diggs and Jonna Diggs; her nieces and nephews, Juanita Adams of San Diego, California, Geneva Stark of Eufaula, Marvena Ginn of Eufaula, Leo and Jewelldean Helms of Bakersfield, California, Doug and Pat Helms of Bixby, Oklahoma, Melvin and Ella June Helms of Eufaula, Joyce Patrick of Arizona, Thomas Count of California, Jack Counts of California and Mae Touchtone also of California and a host of other nieces and nephews. Maggie is preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Earl, Robert Lee and Floyd and her sisters, Mabell, Bessie, Lula, Molene and Marie Counts. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 12, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Minister Everett Dunn officiating. Pallbearers were Doug Helms, Stacey Helms, Dewayne Helms, Rodney Lee Helms, Rusty Helms, Matt Helms and Dylan Helms. Honorary pallbearers were Ryan Helms, Melvin Helms and Kent Helms. Burial followed at the Fame Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fame Cemetery Fund. |
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Gilbert A. “Gil” Albee
Gilbert A. “Gil” Albee, 87, of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, May 22, 2008, at the McAlester Regional Health Center. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Deacon Edwin James officiating and the McAlester Scottish Rite Masons performing the Rose Croix. Pallbearers were members of the Eufaula Masonic Lodge #1 and honorary pallbearers were members of the Bedouin Shrine. A military burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Gil was born on July 10, 1920, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Robert E. and Zoe Lavern (Bangs) Albee. He graduated from high school and later attended Oklahoma A & M and Oklahoma City University where he received his bachelors degree in business/accounting. On September 16, 1940, Gil enlisted in the United States Army. While in the service Gil received several honors including, the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with a Bronze Star, the WWII Victory Medal, the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII, the Expert Badge w/Machine Gun Bar, and the Marksman Badge w/Rifle Bar. Gil was honorably discharged on October 15, 1945. On January 11, 1947, Gil married Willa Geneva Bridwell in Shawnee, Oklahoma. They were happily married for sixty-one years. Gil was the Executive Vice President of the Oklahoma Vendors Inc., in Oklahoma City. He retired after twenty-five years of service. He was a member of the Amity OKC Masonic Lodge and an active member of the Eufaula Masonic Lodge. He was also an active member of the Bedouin Shrine Center in Muskogee and the McAlester Scottish Rite. Gil was a past member of the Eufaula VFW Post 8798 and the Konawa VFW Post 11194. He was also a former member of the Lake Eufaula Association and the Eufaula City Council. Survivors include is daughter, Carol K. Carter of Eufaula; his sister, Bobbie Jean Kaletta, three grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and numerous great great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Willa on April 15, 2008, his sisters, Beatrice Kelley, Margaret Brown, Faye Albee, and WaDena Evans, his brother, Donald Albee, his granddaughter, Janis Gordon and a son-in-law, Dr. A. B. Carter. Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Transportation Fund at the Bedouin Shrine Center, P.O. Box 1667, Muskogee, OK 74401. |
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Hazel Marie Leatherman
Hazel Marie Leatherman, 88, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2008, in Del City. Hazel was born on January 5, 1920, in Clarksville, Arkansas, the daughter of Lige and Pearl (McGuire) Barnett. She attended school at Fort Gibson. On June 27, 1942, Hazel married James H. Leatherman in Muskogee, Oklahoma. They were happily married for thirty-eight years. Hazel was a home decorator who enjoyed working with flowers and sewing. The most important thing in Hazel’s life was her family. She loved spending time with her daughters and grandchildren. Hazel was a member of the Onapa Baptist Church. Survivors include: her six daughters, Susan Gardner of Del City, Shryl Leatherman of Newalla, Gaynell Anderson of Eufaula, Linda Anderson and husband Gary of Midwest City, Sheila Brackett and husband Bim of Stidham, and Margaret Smith and husband Mike of Yukon; her ten grandchildren, Chad, Mandi, Adrian, Gary Don, Ronnie, Jamie, Shannon Tankersly and husband Chuck, Montana, Brandon Winton and wife Jennifer, and Tia and her six great grandchildren, Justin, Jacob, Mikey, Colton, Hannah and Carly. Hazel was preceded in death by her husband, James on February 11, 1981 and her parents. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 17, 2008, at the Lenna Baptist Church with the Reverend Chuck Tankersly officiating. Pallbearers were Chad Gardner, Gary Don Anderson, Brandon Winton, Adrian Anderson, Ronnie Anderson, Montana Brackett, Justin Anderson and Colton Tankersly. Honorary pallbearers were Gary Anderson, Bim Brackett and Mike Smith. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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George Lee “Son” Jackson George Lee “Son” Jackson, 82, of Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at the Wellington Hills Nursing Home. George was born on May 30, 1925, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of John William and Ella Viola (Denny) Jackson. On August 25, 1944, George enlisted in the United States Army in Oklahoma City. While serving he received the Asiatic Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the Army of Occupation Ribbon (Japan), the Victory Ribbon and 3 Overseas Service Bars. He was honorably discharged on November 3, 1946 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. On June 6, 1949, George re-enlisted in the Army. He was honorably discharged on November 1952. In 1950, George married Violet Fairchild in Eufaula. She preceded him in death on December 30, 1997 after forty-seven years of marriage. Survivors include: his daughter, Shirley Ann Weaver of Oklahoma City; his brother, Leroy Jackson of Wichita, Kansas and his sisters, Willie Evans of Kansas City, Missouri, Wanda Jones of Bakersfield, California and Dorothy Sizemore of Checotah, Oklahoma. George is also survived by five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 5, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Huston Fairchild officiating. Pallbearers were Jimmy Fairchild, Roger Fairchild, Dewayne Weaver, Jessie Weaver, Jason Segal and John Segal. Honorary pallbearer was David Charles Weaver. Burial followed at the Triplett Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Tommy Drake Lanham Randolph
Tommy Drake Lanham Randolph 8 month old son of Samantha Lanham and Kenneth Randolph II, passed away Monday, April 28, 2008, at The Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City.
Tommy was born on August 24, 2007. Survivors include: his parents, Samantha and Kenneth; his brother, Trenton James Randolph of the home and his sister, Angel Nicole Ryden of the home; his paternal grandparents, Rhonda and Jeff Martin of Eufaula and Kenneth D. Randolph of California; his paternal great grandparents, Ruby Snyder and the late Charles Snyder of California and Harold and Barbara Martin of Eufaula; his maternal grandparents, Terry J. and Terry D. Shafer of Eufaula and the late Sammy Lanham; his maternal great grandparents Mildred Needham and the late Tommy Joe of Quinton and Lula Mae Lanham and the late William of Woodward. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2008 at the Brooken Cemetery with the Reverend Rodney Karch officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Hattie Lee Stephens
Hattie Lee Stephens, 89, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2008, at the Eufaula Manor Nursing Home.
Hattie was born on
September 6, 1918, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, the daughter of
Harry Lee and Pearl May (Collins) Richardson. On July 29,
1938, Hattie married Jimmie Stephens in Chickasha,
Oklahoma. He preceded her in death on September 5, 2005.
Hattie was a homemaker. Survivors include her daughter and
son in law, Patsy and Paul Riggs of Checotah; her
granddaughter, Sharon L. Russel and husband Finus of
Drummonds, Tennessee; her grandson, Buddy Moore of Edmond,
Oklahoma; her granddaughter, Paula J. Holcomb and husband
Wayne of Castle Rock, Colorado; granddaughter, Pamela J.
Riggs of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; grandson, Lane Riggs and
wife Tashya of San Antonio, Texas, granddaughter, Mary
McMillan and husband Kenny and her great grandchildren, Nik
Bornemeier, Summer Moore, Megan Bates, Shannon Cresson, Sam
Riggs, Will Riggs, Steven Steal, Weldon and Chris McMillan
and Sherry Odom, and five great-great grandchildren. Hattie
is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Hank and
Utha, a sister Edna, and two great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, May 3,
2008, at the Lake Eufaula Christian Church with Minister Jim
Remer officiating. Burial followed at the Minco Cemetery
under the direction of |
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Arlene Allison Former Austin resident Arlene Allison passed away at her home in Eufaula, OK, on Saturday, April 26. She was 86 years old. Arlene moved to Austin in 1974, and worked until 1987 for the Texas Comptroller’s Office and the State Property Tax Board. Following her retirement, she was extraordinarily active on behalf of Austin’s senior community. She served in leadership roles for Family Eldercare, the Senior Respite Board, Widowed Person’s Club, National Association of Retired Federal Workers, and RSVP. In 1987 she was recognized by the Texas Legislature and Governor W.P. Clements as a Yellow Rose of Texas. Arlene served as Vice-President of AARP Chapter 2700, served on the AARP Capitol City Task Force, and was for several years the Travis County representative of the Close-Up Foundation of America. In 1995, Arlene was elected by Capital Area District One seniors to serve as a delegate fro the Texas Silver-Haired Legislature. Arlene remained active in the senior community of Austin until moving to Eufaula, OK in 2007. Prior to moving to Austin, Arlene was a long time resident of Killeen, TX, where she worked at the Killeen Daily Herald and was active for many years in the Friendship Neighborhood of the Girl Scouts. Arlene is survived by her five children Meg Garrison, Arlene Allen, Pennie Embry, Mike Allison and Susan White, 11 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Al, and granddaughters Johanna Allison and Adriana Insogna. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Adriane Insogna Memorial Scholarship, If Given A Chance Foundation (chance at napanet.net or ifgivenachance.org.) Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 30, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend David Watkins officiating. Burial followed at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Orva Ferne Murray
Orva Ferne Murray, 96, of Eufaula formerly of Bethany passed away Thursday, April 24, 2008, at her home. Orva was born on January 10, 1912, in Witt Springs, Arkansas, the daughter of William Carroll and Laura Elizabeth (Israel) Williams. On April 18, 1928, Orva married Walter Lee Murray in Magic Springs, Arkansas. He preceded her in death in April of 1972 after forty-four years of marriage. Orva owned and operated Murray’s Grocery on 36th and Peniel in Bethany for twenty-five years. She retired and moved to Eufaula in 1994. Survivors include: her daughters, Geraldine Cranford and husband Roy of Eufaula and Clariece Evans and husband Tom also of Eufaula. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and numerous great great grandchildren. Orva is preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Helen Harrelson, her grandsons, Clay and Ricky and a granddaughter, Linda. Graveside services were held 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 28, 2008, at the Bethany Cemetery with the Reverend Alvin Garrison officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Luell Beebe Rhodes
Luell Beebe Rhodes, 78, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2008, at the St. Francis Hospital of Tulsa. Luell was born on November 24, 1929, in Lenna, Oklahoma, the daughter of Parker and Zula (McCraken) Beebe. On November 11, 1971, Luell married Clyde Rhodes in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Luell lived in the Eufaula community on and off all of her life. She worked as a clerk/cashier for Ben Franklin in both Eufaula and New Mexico. Luell was on the Lenna Cemetery Board for nine years. She enjoyed sewing in the evenings, reading, doing needlework and collecting salt and pepper shakers. Luell was a member of the Stidham Baptist Church. Survivors include: her son, Gary Branum of Arizona; three grandchildren, Chris Rippy of Stidham, Nick Branum of Arizona, A.J. Branum also of Arizona and four great grandchildren. Luell is also survived by an uncle, Gerald McDaniel of Arkansas. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Clyde in 1981, her sons, Archie Branum in 1966 and Jimmy Branum in 1994, one brother and one sister. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Friday, April 18, 2008, at the Stidham First Baptist Church with the Reverend Gene Cook officiating. Burial will follow at the Lenna Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Stidham Baptist Church and the Lenna Cemetery Fund. |
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Willa Geneva Albee
Willa Geneva Albee, 94, of Eufaula passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2008, at the McAlester Regional Medical Center. Willa was born on October 9, 1913, in Oklahoma County, the daughter of William L. Sr. and Mable (Salathiel) Bridwell. She graduated from Capitol Hill High School. Willa received her degree from Dodge City Community Art Center in Dodge City, Kansas. On January 11, 1947, Willa Married Gilbert Albee in Shawnee, Oklahoma. They were happily married for sixty-one years. Willa was a painter and an art teacher. She was a member of the Eufaula Art Guild and helped promote the Lake Eufaula Art Show for two years. She owned The Willa Tree Art Shop for twelve years. Willa also wrote articles for the Indian Journal for over thirty years. She was a past member of the Eufaula City Council. Willa was a member of the All Saints Episcopal Church of McAlester. Survivors include: her husband, Gil, of the home; her daughter, Carol Kay Carter of Eufaula; her brother, William L. Bridwell of Hemet, California; her sister, Mary Jo Albee of Oklahoma City; three grandchildren, Annette Carter of Costa Rica, Evelyn Gulley of Eufaula and Anthony “Tony” Carter Jr. of Michigan; many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Lee LePlea and Juanita Tiefel, one brother, Charles Bridwell and a granddaughter, Janis Gordon. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 19, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel. Pallbearers were Billy Ray Williamson, Sam Lynn, Harvey Johnson, Clint Warnock, Brandon Gulley and Matthew Gulley. Honorary pallbearers were the members of the Bedouin Shrine. Burial will follow at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home.
In lieu of
flowers memorial contributions may be made to the |
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Shallie Robert “Bob” Metz
Shallie Robert “Bob” Metz 65, of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, April 6, 2008, at his home. Bob was born on December 4, 1942, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the son of Shallie Albert Cutrer and Helen Lillian Heinrich. His adoptive parents were Roddie O. and Glennie L.D. (Cutrer) Metz. He enlisted in the United States Army in June of 1962. He was honorably discharged on November 12, 1976. Bob worked for the army for fifteen years as a radar operator. On May 19, 1971, Bob married Genieve Rose Gates in Las Cruces, New Mexico. They were happily married for thirty-six years. Bob worked for the Butler County Kansas Highway Department. Survivors include: his wife, Genieve, of the home; his son, Kelly Robert Metz of Eufaula; his step-son, Billy Jack Harney of Grand Junction, Colorado; his step-daughter, Tena Louise Harney of Grand Junction, Colorado; his twin brother, “Billy” Abbott William Metz of Denham Springs, Louisiana, and brothers Frank Metz of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Chris Metz of Rock Port, Texas and M.A. Cutrer of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; his mother-in-law, Wanda Gates; a sister and brother in law, Sandy and Burl Arbogast of Eufaula and a brother and sister in law Dennis and Elaine Gates, two step-grandchildren, Daniel Gene Rogers and Jesse Lee Green and a host of nieces and nephews. A memorial service was held 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 11, 2008, at the Texanna Fire Department with the Reverend Tim Turner officiating. Graveside services were held with military honors on May 16, 2008, at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Virgie May Parsons
Virgie May Parsons, 85, of Checotah, passed away Saturday, April 05, 2008, at the Solara Hospital of Muskogee. Virgie was born on July 1, 1922, in Waldron, Arkansas, the daughter of Zara and Virginia (McGee) Calvert. She married Lonnie Lee Parsons on June 1, 1940, in Casa Grande, Arizona. He preceded her in death on September 11, 1991, after fifty-one years of marriage. Virgie was a member of the Faith Temple Church. Survivors include: her daughters, Dorothy Rose of Eufaula, Reba Hines of Checotah, Joann Shutt and husband Richard of Colorado Springs, Colorado and Mary Sigmon of Blooming Rose, West Virginia; her brothers, Jessie Calvert of Arizona, Lloyd Calvert and wife Emily of New Mexico and Oscar Calvert of Arizona; her sisters, Letha Mason of Arizona and Mary McCaine of Arkansas. Virgie is also survived by thirteen grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren and thirty great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Richard, Robert, Floyd and Azro and her sisters, Margie, Effie and Olive. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 7, 2008, at the Lenna Cemetery with the Reverend Richard Ford officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Clonnie Alonzo Layman
Clonnie Alonzo Layman, 65, of Eufaula passed away Thursday, April 3, 2008, in Lexington, Kentucky. Clonnie was born on October 26, 1942, in Hanna, Oklahoma, the son of Alonzo and Lorene (Brandon) Layman. He was brought up on a dairy farm where he learned to work and play hard. Clonnie enjoyed life. When he was young, he enjoyed family picnics at Hillabee and riding horses to town on Saturday night. He played fast-pitch softball for fifteen years. He was a contract welder for over twenty-five years. On October 26, 1971, Clonnie married Frieda Marie Martin in Canadian, Oklahoma. Survivors include: his mother, Lorene Layman of Eufaula; his daughters, Darla Childress of Texas, Becky Spurlock of Houston, Texas, Tina Axton of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Seresa Kesslering of Bryan, Texas, Shanna Rippy of Oklahoma City and Caina Grider of Eufaula; his sons, Tim Westover of New York and Sean Guthrey of Tulsa; his friend and wife, Frieda Layman of Tulsa; his brothers, Lonnie Layman and wife MaryAnn of Chickasha, John Layman and wife Glenda of Eufaula, Ronnie Layman of Eufaula; Donnie Layman and wife Dora of Eufaula, Gary Layman and wife Cheri of New Mexico; his sisters, Bonnie Sue Gorby of Eufaula, Connie Albright Layman of Florida, Martha Vanzant of Tulsa, Penny Greco and husband Marty of Stigler and Caroline Harrell and husband Grady of Chickasha, Oklahoma; nineteen grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and a host of friends. Clonnie is preceded in death by his father, Alonzo Layman and two half-brothers, LeRoy Layman and Curtis Layman. Graveside services were held 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 7, 2008, at the Mellette Cemetery with the Reverend Gene Cook officiating. Pallbearers were Russell Layman, Wayne Henson, Richard Grider, Dale Phillips, Bobby Jones and Ronnie Layman, Jr. Honorary pallbearer was Jerry Dowling. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mellette Cemetery Fund. |
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Naomi Deere Thompson
Naomi Deere Thompson, 82, of Muskogee formerly of Eufaula, passed away Monday, March 31, 2008, at the Solara Hospital of Muskogee. Naomi was born on October 25, 1925, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the daughter of Tom and Lena (Bear) Deere. She graduated from the Eufaula Boarding School and then attended Bacone College. Naomi worked as a hairdresser for over 40 years in Muskogee at Lamont’s and Avante Hair Salon. In October, 1968, Naomi married Charles Thompson, Jr. in Muskogee. They were happily married for thirty-nine years. Naomi was a member of the First Indian Baptist Church where she played the organ and piano and also taught Sunday school. Survivors include her husband, Charles of the home, her aunt, Minnie Charles of Eufaula and a host of nieces and nephews. Naomi is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Wiley and Noah Deere, her sister, Kitty Deere, half sisters, Eunice Deere, Marguerite Deere and Marion Jones and a half brother, John Joe Deere. Funeral services were held 12:30 p.m., Friday, April 4, 2008, at the Eufaula First Baptist Church with the Reverend Bill Barnett officiating. Pallbearers were Tommy Jones, Jerry Primm, Chuck Comstock, Ben Hogner, Ted Buckfink and Clinton Ballou. Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon Holdridg, Cusey One Bear, Kyle Jones, Chad Henry, Bill Bailey, Johnny Lay, John Deere and George Deere. Burial followed at the Muskogee Memorial Park Cemetery with the Reverend Dan Wind officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black and Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Benny Robert Dale Fry
Benny Robert Dale Fry, 34, of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, March 27, 2008, in Coalgate. Benny was born on September 19, 1973, in McAlester, Oklahoma, the son of Dorothy Mae “Blondie” (Blair) Fry. He graduated from Eufaula High School in 1991. On May 1, 1993, Benny married Eve Cadonia Biggs at the Stidham Baptist Church. Benny attended the McAlester Vo- Tech where he received his EMT License in 1993. After receiving his license, Benny worked for the Eufaula Hospital Lakeview as an EMT for a couple of years. He then worked as an ironworker for Florendine’s, where he worked for six years. Benny was a welder by trade. He began working for AOK Energy Services in August of 2007 as a heavy equipment operator. Benny enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting and coaching his sons’ baseball teams. He was a member of the Little Coweta Baptist Church. Survivors include: his wife, Eve and his sons, Dylan and Ethan all of the home; his dad and mom, Bill and Alice Fry, of Eufaula; his brothers, Jeremy Fry of Eufaula and Benny Dewayne Fry of Checotah; his nephews and nieces, Dylan Fry of Checotah, Jodan Marshall of Eufaula, Chelsea Marshall of Eufaula; Hunter Biggs of Medford and Kamryn Biggs of Medford, Camillia Biggs of Tahlequah and Kamree Fry of Eufaula. Benny is preceded in death by his mother, Blondie, one sister, Kimberly in 1976 and his grandparents, Walter and Velma Blair and Carl and Grace Fry. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 31, 2008, at the Stidham Baptist Church with the Reverend Gene Cook officiating. Pallbearers were Brian Layman, Jeremy Fry, David Marshall, Wade Mathis, Benny Dwayne Fry, Jeremy Biggs, David Ford and Rodney Ford. Honorary pallbearers were Troy Downum, Little Ronnie Layman, Tony Haley, James Biggs and Jim Biggs. Burial followed at the Dustin Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Benny Fry Memorial at the Bank of Eufaula. |
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Sylvia Duke
Sylvia Duke, 81, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, March 21, 2008, at the McAlester Regional Medical Center. Sylvia was born on August 9, 1926, in Forty-Two, Oklahoma, the daughter of Charlie and Cordia Marie (Cox) Armstrong. She attended school at Forty-Two and Hanna. Sylvia worked as a nurse’s aide for the Friendly Manor Nursing Home for twenty years. She also worked as a cook and a baby sitter. On April 28, 1951, Sylvia married Charlie Duke. They were happily married thirty-six years. Sylvia was a member of the Church of God. Survivors include: her sons, Lamar Armstrong and wife Denise of Eufaula, Gary Duke and wife Linda of Tulsa and Keith Duke and wife Janice of Eufaula; her daughter, Shirley Hopkins of Eufaula; her brother, Larry Don Armstrong and wife Karen of Eufaula and her sister, Juanita McClellan of McAlester. Sylvia is survived by ten grandchildren, Trevor Armstrong of Eufaula, Natalie Armstrong of Eufaula, Farrah Lowe of Owasso, Shawn Duke and wife Lindsey of Glenpool, Jason Duke of Eufaula, Heather Combs and husband Jason of Eufaula, Cheyenne Hopkins of Washington D.C., Stasha Hopkins and husband Jeremy of Eufaula; Shasti James and husband Preston of Eufaula and John Wayne Duke also of Eufaula. She is also survived by eleven great grandchildren Trevor Armstrong II, Avery Armstrong, Mileigh Armstrong, Jaylen Lowe, Zoie Duke, Payton Combs, Jaci Combs, Cayden Moore, Journi James, Justis James and Jentry James. A very special friend, Pearlie Van Allen Hoover of Eufaula, also survives her. Sylvia is preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Oma Walters, a grandson, Calvin Lowe and a son-in-law, Robert Hopkins. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Monday, March 24, 2008, at the First Free Will Baptist Church with the Reverend Ronnie Drake and the Reverend Jamie Kirkpatrick officiating. Pallbearers were John Wayne Duke, Jason Duke, Shawn Duke, Jason Combs, Jeremy Moore, Preston James and Trevor Armstrong. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Nadine Agnes Peterson
Nadine Agnes Peterson, 92,
of Muskogee formerly of Eufaula passed away Friday, March
21, 2008, Nadine was born November 5, 1915, in DeRedder, Louisiana. Nadine came to Oklahoma with her family when she was about two years of age. She spent most of her life in and around Eufaula. Her parents, William C. and Florence Tickner Peterson ran a dairy for M.E. Tunnel for about six years. Then they moved to a farm south of Eufaula and raised cattle and hogs. Nadine helped on the farm and planted many rows of corn and head feed with a one-horse planter. They farmed for about 30 years until Mr. Peterson’s death. Nadine and her mom then moved into town in 1964 before President Kennedy was killed. They lived together for over thirty years. After her mother passed away in June 1971, Nadine lived by herself and had much help from some wonderful neighbors, which she really appreciated. Nadine fractured her hip and since lived in the Muskogee Nursing Center. Nadine enjoyed living in the nursing center and was treated like family there. She was a member of the First Christian Church. She is survived by her nieces, Florence Thomas of Carthage, Missouri, Rose Mary Lombard of Avilla, Missouri, Jane Tellez of Mesa, Arizona, Glenda Drake of Wagoner, Oklahoma, Judy Young of Reed Springs, Missouri and Edna Sue Lawrence of Braggs, Oklahoma. Her parents, brothers, Earl, Roy, Lloyd and Glenn, her sister, Fern and her nephews, Earl Peterson, Jr., Eden Peterson and John Peterson preceded her in death. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 24, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Jerry Gessell officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Marilyn Jean Tracey
Marilyn Jean Tracey, born November 1, 1953, died March 10, 2008. Marilyn was retired from civil service at Tinker Air Force Base. She is survived by a daughter, Melissa Damron of McAlester, OK, a son, Travis Tracey of McAlester, OK, a granddaughter Marissa, a grandson Justice both of McAlester, OK, her mother, Doris Tracey of Arrowhead Estates, two brothers, Michael Tracey of Wichita Falls, TX and Stephen Tracey of Newalla, OK, special Aunts, Betty Hopkins of Arrowhead Estates, Zora Wheeler of McAlester, OK and Faye Dahl of Oklahoma City. She is preceded in death by her father, Arthur C. Tracey. Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 15, 2008 at the Masonic Cemetery in Canadian, Oklahoma. Arrangements were made with Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Albert Harris
Albert Harris, 83, of Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2008, at the Muskogee Regional Medical Center.
Albert was born on
March 3, 1925, in Russellville, Arkansas, the son of Henry
Wilson and Hattie May (Payne) Harris. He worked as a welder
in pipeline fabrication. He was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include: his brother, Faye Harris of Woodward,
Oklahoma; his son, Ray Harris of Broken Bow, Oklahoma and a
step-daughter, Willie Mae Parsons of Eufaula. Graveside
services were held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 13, 2008, at
the Mellette Cemetery with Byron Kennedy officiating.
Services were under the direction of |
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Bertha Dove Ratterree
Bertha Dove Ratterree, 93, of Quinton, passed away, Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at the Haskell County Hospital. Bertha was born on November 6, 1914, in Poteau, Oklahoma, the daughter of Julius Allen and Martha May (Wisenman) Waddle. Bertha won medals in sewing and spelling. In later years she did much sewing for her children and for others too. She married Leaman A. Ratterree in September of 1945. They were happily married for over fifty years. Leaman preceded Bertha in death on May 6, 2000. Bertha was a great cook and shared it with many of her friends. She made beautiful quilts and gave most of them away. Bertha loved fish fries and camping. At one time she took her old treadle sewing machine along on a camping trip, set it up outside, and finished a quilt top. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Survivors include: her daughters, Norma Jean Smith of Yucaipa, California, Lois Madge Nelson of Enterprise and Rose Bowen of Quinton; her son, Jimmy Allen Ratterree of Fort Gibson; fourteen grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Ocie Ward and a brother, Bill Waddle. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 13, 2008, at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home of Quinton. |
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Debra Kay Turner
Debra Kay Turner, 45, of Quinton passed away Saturday, March 1, 2008, at her home. Debra was born on August 1, 1962, in Long Beach, California, the daughter of Clarence Leon and Carolyn Charlene (Adcock) Calhoun. She lived in several different cities including San Diego, California, Chula Vista, California, Albuquerque, New Mexico and Quinton, Oklahoma. On August 23, 1991, Debra married Ronald Mark Turner in Mountain Home, Arkansas. They were happily married for sixteen years. Debra was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her family. She worked as a dog breeder. Debra was an avid OU fan. Survivors include: her parents, Clarence and Charlene Calhoun; her husband, Mark Turner of the home; her sons, Keith Ervin and wife Crystal of Beaver Mountain, Kyle Calhoun of Kinta and David Turner of the home; her daughter, Kaycee Nicole Diann Turner of the home; her brother Leon Calhoun and wife Nanette of Broken Arrow; her sisters, Carolyn Diann Quinton and husband Willis of Quinton and Nancy Colleen Reeves and husband Gary of Collinsville. Debra is also survived by her three grandchildren, Logan, Keirstie, and Kiera. She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Ted and Minnie Adcock and Tab and Evelyn Calhoun and her uncles and aunts. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 4, 2008 at the Jesus Name Church with the Reverend Gary Maxwell and Reverend Donnie Taylor officiating. Pallbearers were Daniel Quinton, Brian Reeves, David Putman, Leamon Adcock, Fred Adcock and Robert Adcock. Burial followed at the Palestine Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation Cancer Division. |
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Billie “Jean” Edmonston
Billie “Jean” Edmonston,
78, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at her
daughter’s home in Jean was born on February 19, 1930, in Oilton, Oklahoma, the daughter of Villy Parker and Jennie Allen (Mayes) Ausbrooks. On August 27, 1948, Jean married Larry Edgar Edmonston in Seminole, Oklahoma. Together they raised a daughter, Lara Jean. Jean worked as a clerk typist for the State of Oklahoma. Jean was an award winning china painter. Her artwork could be found everywhere in her house and even in her church. She was an active member of the Eufaula Church of Christ. Survivors include: her daughter, Lara Jean Taft and husband Robert of Little Elm, Texas; her grandchildren, Jennifer May Hooper and husband Quincey of Early, Texas and Robert E. (Beau) Taft, Jr. and wife Chelsea of Celina, Texas; her sister, Pauline Webb of Moore; her brothers, Bill Ausbrooks of Ardmore and Jack Ausbrooks of Yale. She is also survived by her great grandchildren, Brennen, Colban, Noah and Vanessa and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Larry on July 7, 2007, four sisters and one brother. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 9, 2008, at the Church of Christ with Minister Charlie Bailey officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula, OK. |
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Susan C. Newton
Susan C. Newton, 57, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2008, at the St. Francis Hospital of Tulsa. Susan was born on October 19, 1950, in Talihina, Oklahoma, the daughter of Byrd Edward and Mary Ann (McFarland) Farrow. She graduated from Eufaula High School in 1968. On January 24, 1970, Susan married Larry Newton at the Eufaula Church of Christ. They were happily married for thirty-eight years. In 1988, Susan began working as a teacher’s aide for the Eufaula Public Schools. She loved helping the students and the teachers. Susan liked to fish, travel and go camping. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren and family. Survivors include: her father, Byrd Farrow of Eufaula; her husband Larry of the home; her sons, Larry Newton, Jr. and wife Tonya of Collinsville, Oklahoma, Jason Newton and wife Keasha of Muskogee and Chris Hammett of Eufaula; her daughters, Rebecca and husband John Williams of Eufaula and Mari and husband Rodney Kingfisher also of Eufaula; her brothers, Byrd Farrow and wife Kay of Eufaula and Frank Farrow and wife Sandra of Eufaula; her sister, Betty Howell and husband Doug of Eufaula and her six grandchildren, Katelynn, Daxton, Sabra, Sarah Beth, John III, and Ethan. Susan is preceded in death by her mother and a grandson Tyson. Memorial services will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 8, 2008, at the Eufaula High School Auditorium with Minister Charlie Bailey officiating. Services are under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eufaula Middle School Special Education Fund. |
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Bill Davis
Bill Davis, 88, formerly of Krebs and Canadian, passed away Friday, February 22, 2008, in Edmond, Oklahoma. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 25, 2008, at the Lenna Cemetery with Reverend John Breon. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Bill was born on January 24, 1920, in Jasper County, Arkansas, the son of Frank and Paralee (Dotson) Davis. He attended school in Stidham, Oklahoma. Survivors include: his wife, Doris Davis of the home; his sons, Steven Davis and wife Michelle of Double Oak, Texas and Michael Farrice of Edmond, Oklahoma; his daughter, Brenda Davis of Edmond, Oklahoma and his grandchildren, Kylie, McKenna and Camryn. He is preceded in death by his parents, four sister and two brothers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Oklahoma County, 4334 NW Expressway 106, Oklahoma City, OK 73116. |
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Joshua Eugene “Josh” Ertle
Joshua Eugene “Josh” Ertle, 17, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, February 18, 2008. Josh was born on July 16, 1990, in Carmichael, California, the son of Patrick Wayne and Rhonda Orleane (Snyder) Bartholomew. He attended Canadian & Eufaula High Schools and enlisted in the United States Army. He attended basic training and was soon to leave for Iraq. Survivors include: his mother and step father, Rhonda and Jeff Martin of Eufaula; his father, Patrick Bartholomew of Riverside, California; his brothers, Jason Martin of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Dale Randolph of Eufaula, Steven Ertle of Fort Bragg, North Carolina and Patrick Bartholomew of California; his sisters, Jessica Rose and husband Jimmy of Eufaula, Crystal Henderson and husband Stephen of Eufaula an Bobbie Randolph of California and his maternal grandmother, Ruby Snyder of California. Josh is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Zoey, Jacob, Noah, Hunter, Tommy, Angel, Kaidynce, Jaden, Mackenzie, Trenton, Natasha, and Austin. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 23, 2008, at the North Fork Baptist Church with the Reverend Matthew Raines. A military burial followed at the Triplett Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. A memorial fund has been established in Josh’s name at the Bank of Oklahoma. |
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Phyllis Ann Rogers
Phyllis Ann Rogers, 58, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, passed away Saturday, February 16, 2008, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Phyllis was born on November 13, 1949, the daughter of Tillmon Peter and Josephine (Hicks) Beeler. She attended school in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Phyllis later moved to Fort Smith, Arkansas. She worked for the Fogles Clothing Manufacturing. Phyllis was of the Assembly of God Faith. Survivors include: her sons, Johnny Rogers and wife Tammy of Proctor, Oklahoma, and Stephen Rogers and wife Anacieta of Tulsa, Oklahoma; her brother David Beeler and wife Rosmarie of Magazine, Arkansas and her grandchildren, Laura, Melinda, Aimee, Stephanie, Adam, Kasandra, James and Matthew. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 20, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula, OK. with Steve Quick officiating. Pallbearers will be Kenneth Beeler, Ricky Bridges, Dain Downs, Glenn Parrish, Tracy Wootton and Ronnie Whitley. Honorary pallbearers will be her grandchildren. Burial will follow at the Massey Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Massey Cemetery Fund. |
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Lynn Allen “L.A.” Jr., & Dolores Van Horn
Lynn Allen “L.A.”, Jr., 81, and Dolores Van Horn, 79, of Longtown passed away Sunday, February 17, 2008 near Quinton. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 22, 2008, at the First United Methodist Church with the Reverend John Breon and the Reverend Wayne Parker officiating. Pallbearers were Dan Huddle, Jim Sponsler, David Wood, Gene Brooks, Paul Allison, Bob King, Lewis Schwartz, Don Edgar, Sam Johnson, Hershel Rinker, Tom Kiester and Hal Kirkpatrick. Honorary pallbearers were Dick Gibbons and Charles Dozer. Burial followed at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. L.A. was born on August 2, 1926, in DeQueen, Arkansas, the son of Lynn Allen, Sr. and Mary Rebecca (Wright) Van Horn. He enlisted in the United States Army on December 13, 1945, in Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. He received the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal while serving in the army. L.A. was honorably discharged on November 25, 1946. Dolores was born on March 26, 1928, in Ada, Oklahoma, the daughter of William Henry and Doris (Ghigo) Standridge. She graduated from Ada High School and later attended college. On December 10, 1954, L.A. Van Horn married Dolores Ghigo in Ada, Oklahoma. They were happily married for fifty-three years. L.A. and Dolores were active members of the First United Methodist Church. L.A. was part of the United Methodist Men, and was always willing to help fix up the church when needed. Dolores was active with the United Methodist Women, always eager to help with the annual church bazaar. Survivors include: their children, Lynn H. Van Horn and wife Susan of Oklahoma City, Tom S. Van Horn and wife Betty of Mustang, Charles E. Parker III and wife Jan of Richardson, Texas, Linda C. Wallis and husband Dale of Anderson, Missouri and Pam Blevins and husband Ron of Moore; L.A.’s brother, Curtis Van Horn and wife Nancy of Oklahoma City; L.A.’s sisters, Gin Macias of Canadian, Texas, Ray Walraven of Pascagoula, Mississippi, twin sister Faye Tackett of Ono Island, Alabama and Pat Roberts; Dolores’ sister Margaret Thomason and husband Jim of Abilene, Texas; nine grandchildren Dori Camp, Abigail Wolitzer, Jonathan Blevins, Karen Van Horn, Zak Miller, Isaac Parker, Elijah Parker, David Van Horn and Chris Van Horn; four great grandchildren, Madison Camp, Caroline Wolitzer, Spencer Camp and Sidney Camp. |
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V.H. Pitchford
V.H. Pitchford passed away Monday, February 18, 2008, at his home. V.H. was born on July 31, 1921, in Hartford, Arkansas, to Eris and Della “Nichols” Pitchford. He married Levern Battles August 29, 1943 in Red Oak, Oklahoma. V.H. and Levern Pitchford had 3 children, 2 sons Ronald Pitchford, Lloyd Pitchford and one daughter Linda Pitchford. Several years later in 1974, on August 15th V.H. married Shirley Ann Schafer, in Blackwell, Oklahoma. They had 1 daughter, Mary Ann. V.H. worked as a welder and retired in 1981 after 40+ years. They moved to Talihina, Oklahoma in 1989 where they made their home until 1994, when they moved to Quinton, Oklahoma. V.H. enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, and being with family and friends. He and his wife Shirley were members of a CB club for many years. During his 86 years, he gained 30 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. "He also had several nieces and nephews." Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 21, 2008, at the Quinton First Baptist Church with the Reverend Eddie Dye officiating. Burial followed at the Rock Creek Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home of Quinton. Pallbearers were Kevin Kilcrease, James Pitchford, Carl Pitchford, Paul Pitchford, Dewayne Pitchford and Robert Steers. Honorary pallbearers were Alan Ellison, James Alan Ellison, Cassey Pitchford, Delbert Williams, Bruce Chapman, Ron Erhlich, James Erhlich, Chris Erhlich and Daniel Erhlich. A memorial fund has been established in V.H.’s name at Hunn & Black Funeral Home. |
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Andrew Fryson Davis
Andrew Fryson Davis, 91, of Eufaula, passed away Monday, February 11, 2008, at the Eufaula Manor Nursing Home.
A memorial service was
held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 16, 2008, at the Kelley
Memorial Chapel with Brian McCullough officiating. Services
were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral
Home. Andrew was born on June 1, 1916, in Oktaha, Oklahoma,
the son of Andrew Fryson and Mattie (Atteberry) Davis. He
worked as a Senior Horticulturist for the University of
California, Riverside. On June 30, 1940, Andrew married
Laphena Mae Jenkins in Clinton, Missouri. She preceded him
in death October 2005. Survivors include: his daughters,
Margaret Clark and husband Roger of Seattle, Washington and
Peggy Trottier and husband Harry of Eufaula, Oklahoma; his
grandchildren, Nancy McCullough and husband Brian of Fort
Cobb, Ronald Clark and wife Holly of Seattle, Washington and
Sandra Clark of Seattle, Washington; his great
grandchildren, Clay and Carson McCullough and Taylor, C.J.
and Cassidy Clark. He is preceded in death by his parents,
seven brothers and sisters and three great grandchildren,
Memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation of Oklahoma. |
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Max L. Nelson Max L. Nelson, 71, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, February 2, 2008, at the St. John’s Hospital in Tulsa. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 6, 2008, at the First Baptist Church with the Masonic Lodge #1, Reverend Charles Saviers, Reverend Dusty McKeefer, Reverend John Breon, Reverend J. Ingram and Cliff Shatswell officiating. A military burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Jerry Jackson, David Willmon, Tony Joe Watkins, Jamie Ebert, Jessie Hammett, T. Karl Rivers, Doc Davis and Allen Sporlock. Honorary pallbearers were James A. Pittman, Jr., Nathan Haley, E.H. George, Glenn Pittman, Glenn Edwards, Frank Shurden, Bill Sparks, Hubert Gawf, Troy Jones, Thomas Foresee, Bill Trammel, Ronnie Sheperd, J.B. Jordan, Charles (Clayton) McNeely, Mike Saltsman, Harold Holder, Sonny Funburg, F.O. Barnett, Buddy Brewer, Johnny Sellers, Curtis Pollard, All of Max’s Beloved Friends and Customers at Nelson Feed and the Eufaula Fire Department. Max was born on September 3, 1936, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of Verner Bryan and Carrie Estel (Snow) Nelson. He graduated from Eufaula High School in 1954. Max was drafted in the United States Army in 1959 and served 18 months during the Berlin Crisis in Germany. Max was honorably discharged on August 5, 1962. Max began steer wrestling after graduating from high school and continued approximately 18 years. He was a member of the Rodeo Cowboy Association. During his rodeo years, Max traveled all over the United States with his sport. He was also active at promoting rodeo in the Eufaula area, and had his own rodeo arena south of town. On September 2, 1962, Max purchased Nelson Feed & Seed in Eufaula. He owned and operated the business for the last 45 years. On October 20, 1962, Max married Joyce Mae Bobo in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. They were happily married for forty-five years. Max was a Master Mason, a 32 Degree Mason, and a member of the Bedouin Shrine. Survivors include: his wife, Joyce, of the home; his sons, T. Max Nelson and Todd Nelson of Eufaula; his daughter, Tammy Watkins and husband Gail of McAlester; his sisters, Cherry Greene and husband Fletcher “Pee Wee”, Jeri Jones and husband Charles of Eufaula and Mary Muller of Okmulgee; two beloved grandsons, Rocky T. Nelson and Dexter Nelson and many special nieces and nephews. Max was preceded in death by his parents, niece Tracy Muller and his brother, David Nelson. |
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Ronnie Joe Johnson
Ronnie Joe Johnson, 60, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, February 1, 2008, at the Muskogee VA Center. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 5, 2008 at the Bower Cemetery with Mike Scifres officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Ronnie was born on January 20, 1948, in Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of Weldon Worn and Joyce Beatrice (Small) Johnson. He attended school at Manteca. On April 6, 1966, Ronnie enlisted in the United States Army. Ronnie moved to California where he owned and operated a R.V. repair shop. Survivors include: his daughter, Sherry Moore of California; his brothers, Gene Johnson and wife Norene of Eufaula and William Lee Hogan and wife Mary of California; his sister, Vicki Anderson of California and his three grandchildren. Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents. |
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Felmer Merle Hughes Fissel
Felmer Merle Hughes Fissel,
96, of Muskogee, passed away Tuesday, January 29, 2008, She was born on November 25, 1911, in Texanna, Oklahoma, the daughter of Frank and Kathleen Kenelle (Blanine) Henley. Felmer attended school at Fame. In 1929, Felmer married Hubert Hughes. He preceded her in death in October of 1953. Felmer later married John Fissel in 1958 in San Francisco, California. He preceded her in death in June of 1986. Felmer worked on the farm and lovingly raised her four daughters. She was of the Baptist faith. Survivors include: her daughters, Bonnie Fay O’Neal, Lillie May Chapman, Julie Ann Sexton and Betty Leota Murphy and husband Arliss all of Muskogee; nine grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren and six great great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her infant son, Jackie and son Billy Ray, her brothers, Dale, George, Bill, Troy and twin brother, Elmer and her sisters, Ethel and Audrey. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 1, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Gene Cook officiating. Pallbearers were Arliss Murphy, Terry Eller, Cody Eller, Bobby Goodwin, Rusty Wise and Ronnie Fairchild. Burial followed at the Lenna Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula. |
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Samuel “Willie” Miller
Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 2, 2008, at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula, OK. Willie will be laid to rest next to his wife. Willie was born on April 21, 1921, in Childress, Texas, to Samuel William Miller and Elsie Lee (Sanders) Miller. He married Betty Jean Coviello Nelson on May 23, 1977 in Durant, Oklahoma. He was very proud of his many years as a custodian at Austin College in Sherman, TX where he retired. He loved all animals and always kept beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. Willie had three sisters and eleven brothers. Family survivors left to cherish his memories include: daughter, Rita Biggs Holt and husband Royce Holt of Okay; grandchildren, Eve and Benny Fry of Eufaula, Jeremy and Micah Biggs of Medford, Evelyn and David Marshall of Eufaula and James Biggs of Tahlequah; great grandchildren include Dylan, Ethan, JoDan, Chelsea, Hunter, Kamryn and Camillia. His parents and his loving wife Betty Jean precede Willie in death. |
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Bricey S. Christopher
Bricey S.
Christopher, 85, of Tulsa, passed away Wednesday, January
23, 2008, at the St. Edwards Mercy Hospital Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 26, 2008, at the Dog Creek Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Bricey was born on November 8, 1922, in, Walls Oklahoma, the son of R. G. and Isabel (Campbell) Christopher. He married Mildred Kathryn Solomon in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Bricey enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1941. He served as a Master Sergeant during World War II. Bricey was honorably discharged in 1945. Survivors include: his son, Tracy Allan Christopher; his brother, Kendall Christopher; his sisters, Jane Evelynn Kelton and Enda Fonzell Newsom. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Bricey is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Loreen Christopher and Ida Bland, and his wife, Mildred Christopher. |
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William E. “Bill” Brady
William E. “Bill” Brady, 48, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, passed away Wednesday, January 23, 2008, at his home. A wake service was held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, January 25, 2008, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 26, 2008, at the Lighthouse Christian Center. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home of Eufaula. Bill was born on August 30, 1959, the son of Carl Jack and Lily Wildcat Brady. He graduated from Eufaula High School in 1977. After graduation, Bill received his Bachelors Degree in Accounting and Economics from Northeastern State University. Bill worked in accounting for Arrowhead Resort and Friendly Manor Nursing Home. He then worked for the Gaming Commission from 1991-1997. Bill was finance manager for the Creek Nation where he had worked for seventeen years. Survivors include: his father, Carl Jack Brady of Eufaula; his girlfriend, Alicia Stroble of Okmulgee; his daughter, Sydney Stroble of Okmulgee; his brothers, Mike Brady and wife Donna of Yukon and Jeff Brady of Muskogee; his sisters, Lorene Blaich and husband Gary of Coffeeville, Kansas, Kathleen Brady of Eufaula, Jamie Nixon of Eufaula and Sarah Umbarger of Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Bill is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. His mother, Lily Wildcat Brady in 1991, precedes him in death. |
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Mary Katherine ”Kathy” Whitley
Mary Katherine ”Kathy” Whitley, 62, of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2008, at her home. A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 24, 2008 at the First Free Will Baptist Church with the Reverend Ronnie Drake officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Kathy was born on March 21, 1946, in Ada, Oklahoma, the daughter of Laverne Baker. Kathy enjoyed working with children in day cares and babysitting. She married Odis B. Whitley in 1990. Kathy was a member of the First Free Will Baptist Church. Survivors include: her husband Odis Whitley, of the home; her mother, Laverne Baker of Sunray, Texas; her son, Bill Clark of Davis, OK and her daughter, Darla Cooper of McAlester; stepsons, Les Whitley and wife Janet of Oklahoma, Joe Whitley of New Mexico, Eddie Whitley and wife Paula of Georgia and Wes Whitley and wife Glenna of Texas; stepdaughter, Mary Smith and husband Edwin of Texas. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. |
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Amanda Leigh Lawson
Amanda Leigh Lawson, 31, of Quinton, passed away Saturday, January 12, 2008, in Okmulgee. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Thursday, January 17, 2008, at the Greater Refuge Church with the Reverend Justin Monks and Reverend George Mantooth officiating. Pallbearers were Carl Oxford, Joe Mantooth, Bob Bushman, Miles Ward, Terry Oliver and Caleb Oxford. Honorary pallbearers were Paul Storie and Terry Strain. Burial followed at the Palestine Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home of Quinton. Amanda was born on January 28, 1976, in Stigler, Oklahoma, the daughter of Gary Len and Carol Lynn (Beck) Monks. She graduated from Quinton High School in 1994. Amanda worked as a relief driver for Double M Trucking. She was taking management classes at the Kiamichi Technology Center. Amanda had also worked at O’Reilly’s Auto Parts in Hugo and Stigler. She attended the Greater Refuge Church. Survivors include: her father, Gary Monks of Quinton; her mother, Carol Ward of Oklahoma City; her son Dusty Wade Lawson of Quinton; her paternal grandmother, Lora Monks and the late Francis of Quinton; her maternal grandmother Winnie Beck and the late T.J. of McAlester; her brother, Gary Justin Monks, wife Elizabeth and her nephew Gary Jathan of Quinton, her brother, Matthew Len Monks and wife Alesha of Quinton and her brother, Nelson Miles Ward of Oklahoma City. |
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Billy Gene Grider
Billy Gene Grider, 79, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, December 14, 2007, at the St. Francis Hospital of Tulsa. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 19, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Mike Scifres officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Bob Grider, Chuck Grider, Jerry Vaughn, Richard Orvald, Jack Jones and Jeff January. Billy was born on November 14, 1928, in Mellette, Oklahoma, the son of Dall and Etta (Baker) Grider. He attended school at both Mellette and Artussee. Billy worked as a truck driver for over twenty-five years. He also worked in heavy construction. Billy loved to hunt, fish and spend time with his dogs. Survivors include: his sons, Steven Grider and wife Sandy of Bethany and Gary Grider and wife Mary Lou of Clear View, Florida; four grandchildren, Kyle, Joshua, Debra and Heath; his great grandchildren, Michael Scott and Jacy Criss. He is also survived by two sisters, Betty Sue Hamlin of Coalinga, California and Muriel January and husband Joe of Eufaula. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son Billy Michael Grider, four brothers and three sisters. |
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Ronald “Ron” Gene Holloway
Ronald “Ron” Gene Holloway, 50, of Eufaula/Checotah, passed away Saturday, December 22, 2007 in Tulsa. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 26, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Daniel U’Ren officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Darrin Roberts, Michael Hahn, Audie Urquhart, Lloyd Wayne Bivins, Lynn Holloway, Robert Simmons, Gary Moores, Jr., James Duty, Zach Holloway and Jacob Holloway. Ron was born on March 4, 1957, in Enid, Oklahoma, the son of Hershal Leroy and Mary Jo (Urquhart) Holloway. He graduated from Pawnee High School in 1975. He was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity at Oklahoma State University where he graduated with a Hotel and Restaurant Administration Degree in 1980. Ron worked in the hotel and restaurant industry. He was a member of the Pawnee First United Methodist Church. Survivors include: his sons, Zach Holloway of Stillwater and Jacob Holloway of Grand Lake; his daughters, Katie Holloway and Holly Drewry both of Tulsa; his mother, Mary Jo Holloway of Eufaula; his twin brother Rick Holloway of Isleton, California; his sister and a brother-in-law, Lisa and Robert Simmons of Dallas, Texas and his granddaughter, Faith Hahn. He is preceded in death by his father, H. Leroy in 1998. |
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Betty Louise Pendley
Betty Louise Pendley, 78, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, December 21, 2007, at the Wellington Hills Nursing Home. Funeral services were held Monday, December 24, 2007, at the Church of Christ with Minister Charlie Bailey officiating. Burial was held at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Randy Peterson, Doug Howell, Joe Ingle, Larry Newton, Kyle Buck and Don Stites. Honorary pallbearers were Harold Crabtree, Walter Kizzee, Clarence Pierce Sr., Perry Anderson, Jim Palmer, Jim Montgomery, Garland Curtis, Owen Nobles, Max Hadley, Joe Mitchell, Curtis Nixon and the Men of the Eufaula Church of Christ. Louise was born on August 13, 1929, in Eufaula, the daughter of O.F. and Mattie (Johnson) Campbell. On October 9, 1947, Louise married Warnie Warren Pendley in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was baptized in Hanna in 1951. Louise worked several places during her life including Sellers Drug Store, Fountainhead and Sharpes. She also worked as a teacher’s aide at the school. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Survivors include: her sons, Nick Pendley of Eufaula and Tim and Kathy Pendley also of Eufaula; her grandchildren, Shasti James of Eufaula, Amy Pendley of Broken Arrow and Chris Pendley; her great grandchildren, Journi, Justis and Jentry James; her brothers, Jack and wife Beatrice Campbell and Olen and wife Gleola Campbell both of Eufaula; her sisters, Pat McDonald and husband DeWayne of Eufaula and Estelene Bean and husband Clifford of Eufaula. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her sister, Flora McCallie and her brother, Odell Campbell. |
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Willard James Manning
Willard James Manning, 81, of Stigler passed away Tuesday, December 18, 2007 in Muskogee. A memorial service was held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 20, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Mike Scifres officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Willard was born on October 25, 1926, in Quinton, Oklahoma, the son of John and Minion (Averette) Manning. He graduated from Quinton High School. At the age of 20, Willard entered the United States Army. While in the service, Willard received the American Theater Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged on March 25, 1946. On August 28, 1948, Willard married Mary Lou Russell. Willard worked for Roadway Express for over twenty-five years. He started as a dock hand and returned as an operation manager. Willard enjoyed bowling, dancing, fishing, traveling and feeding the deer. Survivors include: his sons, Ronald W. Manning and wife Terri of Longtown and Russell W. Manning and wife Stacy of Warner; one sister-in-law, Kathy Manning of Broken Bow; eleven grandchildren; twenty-three great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou; his parents; three brothers, Leon, Leo and Donald Ray, one sister, Essie Brashear and two infant sons. |
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Kathy Gail Bennight
Kathy Gail Bennight, 43, of Quinton passed away Saturday, December 08, 2007, at the Haskell County Hospital. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 11, 2007, at the Oak Leaf Room of Hunn & Black Funeral Home with the Reverend Bill Fitzer officiating. Burial followed at the Mountain Home Cemetery under the direction of Hunn & Black Funeral Home of Quinton. Pallbearers were Paul Quinton, Gary Lay, Ronnie Needham, Curtis Wilson and Gary Don Dillinger. Honorary pallbearers were Dale Dalton, Chuck Hoag, Buddy Scott, David Wilson, Miguel Cervantes and Curtis Florence. Kathy was born on February 10, 1964, in McAlester, Oklahoma, the daughter of Dale and Virginia (Anderson) Cole. She graduated from Wilburton High School. After high school, Kathy lived with her parents and worked for Franklin Electric. She then sewed for Komar Corporation in McAlester. On October 19, 1988, Kathy married Gary Bennight in McAlester. They moved to Quinton where Kathy worked in the Tag Office for seventeen years. She became the Tag Agent in August of 2006. Survivors include: her husband, Gary of the home; her father, Dale Cole; her mother-in-law, Eva Bennight; her brothers, Carl Cole of Hartshorne, Stacy and Brenda Cole of Buffalo Valley and Bill Wilson of Wilburton; her sisters, Karla and husband Clem Peppers of Alderson, Retha Wilson of Wilburton, Ramona and Steve Suter of Hartshorne and Donna Woolsey of Wilburton; numerous nieces and nephews, Janell Florence of Wilburton, Amanda Cervantes and Dana Suter of Hartshorne, Kayla Wilson of Wilburton, Melissa Gordon and Diana House of Hartshorne, Danny Scott of Hartshorne, Susie Cole of Wilburton, Stormy Cole of McAlester, Checotah Cole and Cody Cole both of Scipio, BJ Roland of Pittsburg, Cindy Thornburg of Wilburton, David Wilson of Hartshorne, Krissie Knight of Red Oak, Jennifer McPherson of Yanush, Justin Cole of McAlester. Kathy is also survived by the family dogs, Nissan and Datson. She is preceded in death by her mother, Virginia Cole, her brothers, Bradley Cole and Clint Arnold; her niece Mandy Jo Cole and her father-in-law, Raymond Bennight. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mountain Home Cemetery. |
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Sharon Lea Wheeler
Sharon Lea Wheeler, 61, of Horn Lake, Mississippi, passed away Sunday, November 18, 2007, at her home. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 21, 2007, at the Spiro Cemetery with Minister Charlie Bailey officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home of Eufaula. Sharon was born on August 17, 1946, in Ft. Smith, Arkansas, the daughter of Elzie and Inez (Breedlove) Osborn. She attended elementary school in Nicoma Park and graduated from Choctaw High School. Sharon worked as a computer programmer for Ford District for fourteen years. Her talents were numerous. She sewed upholstery, worked at the Arrowhead Lodge as an assistant manager and was an accountant at Twin Hills Country Club. She was also a tax clerk for Pittsburg County and recently worked as a black jack dealer in Tunica, Mississippi. On April 17, 1980, Sharon married Kenny Wheeler in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Between them they had three children, Misti Cravens, Scott Wheeler and Candace Wheeler. Eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren also survive Sharon. Sharon is preceded in death by her parents. |
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Marilyn Jeannette Dalton
Marilyn Jeannette Dalton, 76, of Eufaula, passed away Friday, November 16, 2007, in Eufaula. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 20, 2007, at the Oak Ridge Baptist Church with the Reverend John Basden officiating. Burial followed at the Quinton City Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Derek Dalton, Ryan Jones, Kendall Bernard, Lonnie Current, Ed Chapler and Quinton Bland. Honorary pallbearers were the Men of Oak Ridge Baptist Church and Marilyn’s honorary family Judy and Dean Choate. Marilyn was born on May 11, 1931, in Marimac, Oklahoma, the daughter of Forrest and Idalee (Boring) Hoskins. In 1949, Marilyn graduated as valedictorian from Quay High School in Quay, Oklahoma. On September 10, 1950, Marilyn married Dale V. Dalton in Yale, Oklahoma. She later attended Eastern Oklahoma State University. Marilyn was a member of the Eastern Star filling all offices in the organization in the 1960’s and 70’s. Marilyn worked in the insurance business. She was a member of the Tulsa Women’s Insurance Association. She sold insurance in Quinton, Tulsa and Eufaula for over thirty-two years. Marilyn was a member of the Oak Ridge Baptist Church where she also served as church secretary for fourteen years. On May 20, 1995, Marilyn married Joe Whisler at the Oak Ridge Baptist Church. He preceded her in death on October 3, 2005. Survivors include: her son, Larry D. Dalton and wife Pamela of Durant, Oklahoma; her daughter, Sherri J. Jones and husband Tony of Bixby, Oklahoma; her grandchildren, Derek and Sedina of Clara, Oklahoma, Melissa and husband Kendall Barnard of Grapevine, Texas, Laura Jones of Stillwater and Ryan Jones of Bixby; three great grandchildren, Kyia, Devin and Landon; her brothers, Gerald Hoskins and wife Donna of Summerfield, Florida and Gary Hoskins and wife DeDee of Atascadero, California and her sister, Eileen Gordan of Dallas, Texas. She is preceded in death by a son, Terry W. Dalton, her parents and her husband Joe Whisler. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oak Ridge Baptist Church Children’s Camp Ministries. |
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Donald R. Hooten, Sr.
Donald R. Hooten, Sr., 73, of Checotah, OK, passed away Thursday, October 25, 2007, at his home. A memorial service was held 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 29, 2007, at the Checotah Church of Christ with Minister Everett Dunn officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home of Eufaula. Donald was born on May 15, 1934, in Eufaula, OK, the son of Charles M. and Aulcia (Farmer) Hooten. He graduated from Eufaula High School in 1952. Donald enlisted in the United States Army in 1954. He was honorably discharged in 1958. On October 4, 1961, Donald married Mary E. Hamlin. He then married Margaret Mass in 1990. She preceded him in death in 1995. On January 9, 1997, Donald married Joan Parris in Ozark, Arkansas. Donald worked as a bridge builder for over forty years. He was employed with Barber Bridge Builders, Muskogee Bridge and Forsgren Construction. Donald was a member of the Checotah Church of Christ. Survivors include: his wife, Joan, of the home; his sons, Donald Hooten, Jr. and wife Kim of Mulberry, Arkansas and Kenneth D. Hooten and wife Angela of Mt. Berg, Arkansas; his grandchildren, Jessica, Zackary and Shay; his brothers, Bill Hooten and wife Sherry of Eufaula and Paul Hooten and wife Wilma of Porum and his sister, Nell Curtis of Eufaula. He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Charles M. Hooten Jr. Memorial contributions may be made to the Checotah Church of Christ or the Hilltop Church of Christ. |
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Johnny Lee Powell
Johnny Lee Powell, 65, of
Eufaula, passed away Wednesday, October 17, 2007, at the |
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Kerry L. Newby
Kerry L. Newby, 45, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, passed away Tuesday, October 9, 2007. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 13, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Reverend Marvin Chamberlin officiating. Graveside services were held at 3:00 p.m., at the Gracemont Cemetery, Gracemont, Oklahoma with DeArthur Yondell officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Kerry was born on December 1, 1961 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the son of Orval and Bonnie (Brown) Newby. He graduated from Southeast High School in Oklahoma City in 1980. He then attended Eastern State College in Wilburton where he was on the Dean’s Honor Roll both years. Kerry married Brenda Sue Bayliff in Oklahoma City. Kerry was in the Navy and stationed in San Diego, California. He completed HVAC training at Concho Career Institute in 1990. He received his gunsmith diploma in 1997. In 2006, Kerry received the Freymiller’s Excellence Award for outstanding professionalism. In 2007, he received the Office of the Governor Silver Certificate for Career Readiness. He then received achievement awards for parts 1 and 2 of the Veterans Workforce Investment Program. Kerry was a cross-country truck driver for twenty years. He was also a security officer for the Creek Casino. Kerry had been a member of the Jefferson Heights Baptist Church since 1976. Survivors include his parents, Orval and Bonnie Newby and his son, Brandon Paul Newby. He is preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Sue in 1986. |
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Larry Paul Gardner
Larry Paul Gardner, 52, of Checotah, passed away Friday, October 5, 2007, in Muskogee, Ok. Larry was born July 22, 1955 in Long Beach, CA, the son of Melva Meacham Wilson. Larry served in Vietnam in the Naval Service. After being honorably discharged he became a HVAC technician working in Silicon Valley, California for 30 years. He married his love Mary Metzger on September 9, 2006 at the Lake Eufaula State Park. Larry loved coming to Oklahoma and getting his 30 acres “Critter Haven” and working with the land. He built a beautiful home for himself and his wife to enjoy. He also loved riding his motorcycles and was said to have never met a stranger. Survivors include his wife Mary, parents Orvil and Melva Wilson of Checotah, step son Anthony Hart of Springfield, Mo., a brother Kent Wilson of Greenville, Tx., sisters Karen Gardner of Mead, Ok., Sharon Jackson of Colleyville, Tx., and Ganelle Myers of Ada, Ok., his beloved dog Speckles, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his sisters Diane Vandermeer and Shawn Wilson, and Paw Paw & Grandma Meacham. Graveside services with military honors were held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, October 11, 2007, at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery. Visitation was held Wednesday, October 10, 2007 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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Clarence F. “Chink” Douglas
Clarence F. “Chink” Douglas, 96, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, passed away Sunday, October 7, 2007. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 12, 2007, at the Eufaula First Baptist Church with Reverend Raymond Beaver and Tom Pickering officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Jon Tiger, Ronnie Layman, Doug Reynolds, Danny Edwards, Cody Reynolds, and Tom Haines. Honorary pallbearers were Bill Shackelford, Red Peterson, Glen Pittman, Bob Miller, Kenneth Adams, RL Simpson III, Mac Kelly, Danny Edwards, Bob McCombs, Bud McCombs, Joe Johnson, Robert Parks, Bryce McKinney, George Holuby, Jim Nixon, Nubin Graham, Rod Schnider, Johnny Sellers, Dean Smith, A.D. Ellis, Ben Tiger, Yahola Tiger, Jr, George Tiger, Jack Rushing, Bill Burnham, Fred Wendel, Freddy Nixon, Perry Anderson and Mike Flud. Clarence was born October 8, 1910, west of Eufaula, Oklahoma, the son of James and Melissa (Coasar) Douglas. As a child he attended both public schools and Indian schools. He began his 41-year law enforcement career as Eufaula’s Chief of Police in 1936. He served in that position eight years then volunteered for service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He participated in the Normandy Invasion and served in both the European and Pacific theaters. Chink was honorably discharged in 1945 as Chief Petty Officer. On February 22, 1947, Chink married Irene Golding in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. She preceded him in death after forty-seven years of marriage. Chink was Sheriff of McIntosh County for 29 years never having lost an election. He was a very quiet man and took his work as a law officer very seriously. In 1975 he ran for the position of City Marshall of Eufaula and was elected. He was re-elected in 1979 but resigned to fill the unexpired term of the current sheriff who had resigned. On January 22, 1980, Governor George Nigh issued a proclamation proclaiming that day Clarence F. Douglas Day in Oklahoma. Chink served several years as Justice of the Creek Nation Supreme Court. Chink was proud to be awarded the “1990 Distinguished Citizen Award” by the McIntosh County Historical Society. Survivors include: his daughter, Diane Thompson, of Checotah, Oklahoma; brother, John Douglas of McAlester, Oklahoma; sister, Theda Rushing of Albuquerque, New Mexico; six grandchildren, Doug Reynolds, Kim Reynolds, Tom Haines, Lisa Haines, Toby Haines and Richard Haines; five great grandchildren, Amber, Cody, Michael and Hunter Reynolds and Morgan Keith; nephews, John Douglas of Shawnee, Oklahoma, Jack Rushing of Pennsylvania and niece Betty Rushing of Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Norma Jean Haines, his wife, Irene Douglas, sister, Jerlena King, brother, James “Buster” Douglas, grandson, Michael “Kick” D. Reynolds and great granddaughter, Micah Reynolds. |
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J.C. Dabbs
J.C. Dabbs, 83, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, September 29, 2007, at his home. Graveside services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 3, 2007, at the Greenwood Cemetery with Reverend Lionel Dabbs officiating. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. J.C. was born on March 18, 1924, in McIntosh County, the son of Roy and Rosie (Dunegan) Dabbs. He attended Artesse Schools. He married Bonnie Ray Early. She preceded him in death on January 9, 1995. J.C. worked in Eufaula in the grocery business in the early 50’s. In the late 50’s, J.C. moved to Southern California and worked in the farming industry. He moved back to Eufaula in the early 70’s and worked for the City of Eufaula in the Water Department until retirement. He lived the remainder of his life in Eufaula. Survivors include: his son, Allen J. Dabbs and wife Christy of Harrah; his daughters, Reba Frazier, Jazell Dabbs and Pamela Dabbs; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; a brother, Lloyd Dabbs of Arkansas and a sister, Lassie Smith of Eufaula. J.C. is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Floyd, Mylon, William and Ted and a sister, Olagay. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lionel Dabbs Foreign Mission of Malaysia and Singapore. |
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James H. Story
James H. Story, 82, of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, September 30, 2007, at the Hillcrest Medical Center of Tulsa. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 4, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Gordon Richwine officiating. Burial followed at the Lenna Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Phil Morphew, Donald Parker, Bryan Parker, Jeff Palmer, Adam Netherton and Matt Palmer. Honorary pallbearers were Donnie Story, Gary Story, Larry Story, Brandon Story and Clark Story. James was born on November 23, 1924, in Quinton, Oklahoma, the son of James H. Sr. and Julie Virginia (Moore) Story. He worked as a plumber for sixteen years and was a foreman of Rogers Galvanizing Plant for twelve years. James married Ina M. Patterson in Eufaula, Oklahoma. She preceded him in death in 1979. On February 20, 1981, James married Sherron L. Carder in Bakersfield, California. They moved back to the Eufaula community in 1983. James was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed working with cedar wood, making cedar chests, benches and swings. James loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved the Lord and was a devout Christian. Survivors include: his wife, of twenty-six years, Sherron; his three daughters, Beverly Palmer and husband Wayne of Bakersfield, California; Wanda Netherton and husband Terry also of Bakersfield, California and Jan Morgan and husband Mike of Sanger, California; his three step-children, David Beyes and wife Lisa of Missouri, Jennifer Waller of Indiana and Marissa Beyes of Missouri; his sister, Edna Faye Morgan of Clovis, California; and his brother, Charles Story and wife Betty of Okmulgee, Oklahoma. Six grandchildren, ten step grandchildren and ten great grandchildren also survive James. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Stanley Wade Story in 1965 and three brothers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lenna Cemetery Fund. |
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Herbert Bert Woodford, Jr.
Herbert Bert Woodford, Jr., 85, of Eufaula, passed away, Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at his home. Graveside services with Masonic Rites were held Monday, October 8, 2007, at the Lincoln Park Cemetery in Lincoln, Nebraska. Local arrangements were under Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Nebraska arrangements were under the direction of Lincoln Memorial Park Funeral Home. Herbert was born on January 21, 1922, in South Sioux City, Nebraska, the son of Herbert Bert and Lucy (Peters) Woodford. He graduated from South Sioux City High School in 1939. On November 27, 1941, Herbert married Rosalie M. Asher in South Sioux City, Nebraska. She preceded him in death on May 13, 1973, after 31 years of marriage. In 1942, Herbert enlisted in the United States Army. After his active duty discharge in 1945, Herbert was required to participate in a reserve program. He registered shortly after his active duty ended and received his second discharge in 1948. Herbert was a member of several organizations including: the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, the Royal Arch Masons Capstone Lodge #64, the Master Masons of East Lincoln Lodge #210 and the Shriners of Lincoln, Nebraska. Survivors include his son, Robert E. Woodford of Colorado Springs, Colorado and two grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, H.B. and Lucy Woodford, his wife, Rosalie, and his brother, Dwayne Woodford. |
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Hershel Harmon “Bill” Osborn
Hershel Harmon “Bill” Osborn, 82, of Porum, passed away Sunday, September 30, 2007, at the Talihina Veteran’s Center. Burial was at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Hershel “Bill” was born on March 9, 1925, in Coodybluf, Oklahoma, the son of Mack and Ida (Patrick) Osborn. He inducted in the United States Naval Service on July 9, 1943 in Seminole, Oklahoma. While in the Navy, Bill worked as a gunners mate receiving nine battle scars. He was honorably discharged in 1945 in Norman, Oklahoma. Bill worked as a truck driver for Cheatham Trucking Company in Seminole. Bill was a member of the V.F.W. Post 8798 and the American Legion. Survivors include a son, Doyle W. Osborn, a daughter, Arlene Snellgrove, five grandchildren and special friends, Bob & Carol Simmons and Pauline Corcorn. He is preceded in death by his parents, one sister and two brothers. |
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Chloe Ellen Andrews
Chloe Ellen Andrews, 73, of Eufaula, passed away Sunday, September 16, 2007, at the Community Hospital Lakeview. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 19, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Tim Allen and Jerry Salters officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Don Sutherland, Alvin Yoesel, Mitch Liles, J.C. Wertz, Gene Hensley and Lonnie Haggard. Honorary pallbearers were Jack Dickey and Louie Gibson. Chloe was born on June 3, 1934, in Sayre, Oklahoma the daughter of Leon and Lucille (Devault) Hindman. She graduated from high school. On June 11, 1955, Chloe married Kenneth Wayne Andrews in Linwood, California. Together they raised one son, Kenny. Chloe and Kenneth were happily married for fifty-two years. Chloe worked as a realtor. She was a member of the Texanna Assembly of God Church. Survivors include: her husband, Kenneth, of the home, her son and daughter-in-law, Kenny and Amy Andrews of Oklahoma City and her grandchildren, William Sterling and Kate Elisabeth. Chloe is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Pat and Bill. Memorial contributions may be made to the Texanna Assembly of God Church Building Fund. |
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Carla Jean Grider
Carla Jean Grider, 59, of Eufaula, passed away Thursday, September 13, 2007, at her home. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Monday, September 17, 2007, at the First Free Will Baptist Church with the Reverend Ronnie Drake officiating. Burial followed at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Jaremy French, Jason French, Brad French, Wade Grider, David Grider, and Brian Grider. Honorary pallbearers were Mitch Weeks, Chad French, Wesley Weeks, Michael Andrews, and Chris Andrews. Carla was born on July 3, 1948, in Wetumka, Oklahoma, the daughter of Floyd Clayton and Gay Nell (Anglin) Daniel. She graduated from Eufaula High School. On April 15, 1967, Carla married Richard Clell Grider. Carla retired from Social Security where she had worked as a caseworker for twenty-nine years. She loved to cook and take care of her grandkids. Carla was a member of the North Fork Baptist Church. Survivors include: her husband, Richard, of the home; her sons, David Wayne Grider of Eufaula, Daniel Steven Grider of San Jose, California and Timothy Dane Grider and wife Caina of Eufaula; her grandchildren, Ryan, Ashlee, and Jayden Grider of Eufaula, and Treyton and Taber Grider of Eufaula; and her sister, Barbara Etchison and husband Jeep of Fort Smith, Arkansas and sister-in-law Norine Weeks and husband Earnest of McAlester. She is preceded in death by her parents. |
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Pauline Marie “Polly” Bunney
Pauline Marie “Polly” Bunney, long time resident of Eufaula, died September 9, 2007 at the age of 82. Funeral services were 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with Clara Bee Bozarth officiating. Burial followed at the Bower Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Polly was born on October 10, 1924, in Canadian, Texas, the daughter of Eugene E. and Edna Artist (Tuttle) Garver. On April 14, 1987, Polly married Earl J. “Pete” Bunney in Oklahoma City. Polly joined the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 8798 on July 17, 1987 on the eligibility of her husband. Polly became a Life Member in 1994. She volunteered many hours helping to prepare food for Post and Auxiliary functions. Polly served Auxiliary 8798 as Sr. Vice President and Jr. Vice President. Polly touched so many lives with her years of service to the Ladies Auxiliary and the Cooties – both of which gave her a great deal of happiness. Polly’s family and friends will remember her for her kindness, her generosity, her sense of humor, laughter and her ray of sunshine with her zest and love for life. She will always be known as the yellow rose of Texas. Polly is survived by her loving and devoted husband Earl J. “Pete” Bunney, her daughters, Darlene and husband Will of New Mexico, Patty and husband Bruce of Arizona, and Casey of Edmond; her sons, Buddy of Washington and Bob and wife Julia of Edmond; and her son-in-law, Jim of Oklahoma City. Polly was blessed with 13 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and friends too numerous to mention. She is also survived by her sister, Mary of California and brothers Floyd of Arizona, Charles of Texas and Neal and wife Viola of Missouri. Polly was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers Joe, Bill and Jackie. Polly was loved by so many and will be missed greatly by all. |
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Ralph Thomas “Tommy” Rogers,
Ralph Thomas “Tommy” Rogers, 59, of Eufaula, passed away Saturday, September 8, 2007, at the Oklahoma City VA Hospital.
Funeral services were held
10:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 12, 2007, at the Kelley
Memorial Chapel. A military burial followed at the Fort
Gibson Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt
Funeral Home. Tommy was born on July 11, 1948, in Jackson,
Mississippi, the son of Robert Miller and Frances (Moore)
Rogers. He graduated from high school. On November 15,
1971, Tommy married Debra Ann Reynal in Dallas, Texas. On
April 11, 1981, Tommy enlisted in the United States Air
Force. While in the service, Tommy received several medals
including: The Merit Service Medal, the Air Force
Outstanding Unit; the Combat Readiness Medal with One Dev.,
the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service with Two Dev.
The National Defense Service Medal with One Dev., the
Vietnam Service Medal, the Longevity Service Award with One
Dev. Tommy retired from the Air Force after twenty-nine
years of service. Survivors include: his wife, Debra, of
the home; his son, Steven Thomas Rogers and wife Janelle of
Eufaula; his daughters, Stephanie Elaine Mills of Edmond,
Oklahoma and Christina Renee Rogers of Asheville, North
Carolina; his six grandchildren, Aubrey, Kelli, Natalie,
Kayla, Steven Jr. and Kelsey; his brother, Robert Miller
Rogers, Jr. of St. Pete, Florida and his sister, Rosemary
Chaudior and husband Charlie of Houston, Texas. Tommy is
preceded in death by his parents and a son-in-law, Billy
Hagen. |
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Odell Campbell
Odell Campbell, 85, of Hanna, Oklahoma passed away Saturday, September 8, 2007, at the VA Hospital in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 10, 2007, at the First Free Will Baptist Church with the Minister Doyle Loveland and the Reverend Ronnie Drake officiating. Pallbearers were Ron Berry, Alan Mayhar, George Mouser, Keith Bogle, Darrell Blackman and John Collins. Honorary Pallbearers were Warren G. Bogle, Donald Hopkins, Marvin James, Kyle Buck, Danny Edwards, James Dawson, Dick Arnhart and Jim Davis. Burial followed with military honors at the Hanna Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. Odell was born on July 4, 1922, in McIntosh County, the son of O. F. and Mattie (Johnson) Campbell. He graduated from Hanna High School in 1941. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served in World War II as Sergeant. Nineteen months of this time were served in he European Theater, having fought in the “Battle of the Bulge”. He received a Good Conduct Medal, Service Ribbon, a Service and a Silver Star. He received an Honorable Discharge. Odell was united in marriage to LaVern Rhodes on April 29, 1954 at Okmulgee, Oklahoma. They were happily married for 53 years and 5 months. He worked 12 ½ years as foreman for the late John Collins, County Commissioner of District 3 in McIntosh County. Later, Odell served as County Commissioner for District #3 of McIntosh County for thirty-two years. He was a member of the Hanna Assembly of God Church. He was a rancher and an avid outdoorsman. Odell enjoyed helping all people-especially in third district of McIntosh County. Survivors include: his wife, LaVern Campbell, of the home; two sons, Bradley Campbell and wife Carol of Eufaula, Oklahoma; Jr. Campbell and wife Patricia of Shawnee, Oklahoma; a daughter, Lacresia Sparks and husband Jim of Morris, Oklahoma; 4 grand daughters, 2 grand sons, and 4 great grand children; two brothers, Jack Campbell and wife Beatrice of Eufaula and Olen Campbell and wife Gleola also of Eufaula; three sisters, Louise Pendley of Eufaula, Estalene Bean and husband Clifford of Eufaula and Patricia McDonald and husband Dewayne of Eufaula. He was preceded in death by his parents. Odell will always be remembered as a good father and a beloved and caring husband. |
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Irby Pattillo
Irby Pattillo, better known as Nanny, passed this life on June 27, 2007 to join her beloved husband of 59 years who has been patiently waiting for her and her son Alton Wade Pattillo.
She leaves behind her
daughter and son-in-law Judy and Earnest Johnston; three
grandchildren, Connie, Riley, Julie Pipan and Sheri Leavell;
six great grandchildren, Larry Riley, Becky Bothin, John
Pipan, Christopher Pipan, Nathan Leavell and Chelsea Leavell,
plus a host of loved ones and her special care giver Kate
Quinn who made Irby’s last years as peaceful as possible.
Nanny was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
She will be missed always. In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast
Cancer Foundation, 5005 LBJ Fwy, Ste 250, Dallas, TX 75244
or online at
www.komen.org. Funeral services were held 11:00 a.m.,
Friday, June 29, 2007, at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with
the Reverend Tim Turner officiating. Burial followed at the
Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black and
Merritt Funeral Home.
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Robert Stephen Pickard IV
Robert
Stephen Pickard IV, infant son of Robert Stephen III and
Darcee Marie (Hilford) Pickard, He was born on May 28, 2007 at the McAlester Regional Hospital. Survivors include: his parents, Robert and Darcee Pickard; his maternal grandparents, Douglas Sundes of Eufaula and Belinda Danyeur of Eufaula; his maternal great grandparents, Shirlee Henson of California, Lara Gushard of California; Joseph Dowmingousze of El Central, California and Eva Frazier of McAlester; his paternal grandmother, Janet Sue Pickard of Oklahoma City; his paternal great grandparents, Virgil Gibson of Portland, Oregon and Devota Roach of Tulsa; and his brothers and sisters, Donte¢ Elliott Hilford of the home, Miguel Antonio Joseph Hilford of the home, Tyler Lane Haws of McAlester, Bobbie Margo Alexsis Hilford of the home and Jessica Lain Fallis of McAlester. He is also survived by many uncles, aunts and cousins. He is preceded in death by his maternal great grandfather, Robert Hilford, Sr., his paternal grandfather Robert Pickard, Jr., his paternal great grandmother, Vivian Gibson, his paternal great grandfather, J.D. Roach and a cousin, Ricky Lee Gibson. Funeral services were held 3:00 p.m., Saturday, June 23, 2007 at the Kelley Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Bobby Price officiating. Burial followed at the Greenwood Cemetery under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home. |
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John Luke
Henry age 9 years Funeral arrangements and services are under the love and care of Gregg Funeral Home 918-689-5322 Gregg Funeral Home
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Margaret (Maggie) L. Hood
Margaret (Maggie) L. Hood, 88, of Quinton, passed away Monday, May 21, 2007, at the Quinton Manor Nursing Home. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 25, 2007 at the Oak Leaf Room of Hunn & Black Funeral Home with the Reverend Charles Thomas officiating. Burial followed at the Quinton City Cemetery. Margaret was born on January 10, 1919, in Boonville, Arkansas, the daughter of C.C. and Willie (Wright) Thomas. She attended the Boscom Public Schools. In 1938, Margaret married Bill Trower in Quinton. She later married Richard Oscar Hood in 1966. Margaret was a member of the First Church of God. She was a homemaker who enjoyed spending time with her children and crocheting. Survivors include: her daughters, Marsha Adcock and husband Robert of Quinton and Rhonda Simon and husband Leon of Kinta; her brothers, James H. Thomas of Oklahoma City and W.R.W. Thomas and wife Carolyn also of Oklahoma City. She is also survived by seven grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Bill and Richard, her brothers, Carl, Alvin and Charlie and her sister, Juanita Quinton. |
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Freeman Lee (Loga) Mitchell
Freeman Lee (Loga) Mitchell, 57, of Okay, Oklahoma, passed away Saturday, May 19, 2007, at his home. Freeman was born on May 13, 1950, in Phoenix, Arizona, the son of George and Mary (Barnett) Mitchell. He attended Avondale Elementary School in Avondale, Arizona and Mile Ave. Elementary in Huntington Park, California. Freeman then attended Gage Jr. High in Huntington Park, California and Jackson High School in Los Angeles, California. After high school, Freeman attended Bacone College in Muskogee, Oklahoma. On March 15, 1971 Freeman married Esther Hope in Los Angeles, California. Freeman was an artist. He enjoyed spending time with all of his children and grandchildren. Survivors include: his wife, Esther, of the home; his sons, Michael Hope and wife Elaine of Muskogee, Richmond Mitchell and wife Lenore of Okay and Jackie Mitchell and wife Janie of Muskogee; his sisters, Ella Ruth (Calanie) Bailey of Sun Lakes, Arizona and Magdalene (Maggie) Nelson of Muskogee; his Aunt Stella Lena of Seminole, Oklahoma; his uncles, Billy Y. Barnett of Shawnee and Jackson Barnett of Okmulgee and his ten grandchildren. Freeman is preceded in death by a grandson, Aaron Dakota Lee Mitchell, his grandmother, Rhoda Barnett, his mother, Mary Barnett and a sister, Jeanna Barnett. A wake service was held 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 22, 2007 at the Kelley Memorial Chapel of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula. Funeral services were held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 23, 2007, at the Eufaula First Baptist Church with the Reverend Bill Barnett officiating. Pallbearers were Mike Daniel, Phil Scherzinger, Allen Curtis, Micco Wamego, Ca`te Nelson and Bradley Barnett. Honorary pallbearers were his cousins, Leon Lena, Louie Lena, “Dinka” Lena, Benny Lena, Chebon Lena, Lincoln Barnett, Brandon Barnett, Jack Barnett, |