copied with permission from
The Shawnee News-Star
215 N. Bell
Shawnee, OK 74801

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published Dec. 01, 2006

Helen Brown

Shawnee resident Helen Brown, 75, died Tuesday, Nov. 28, in Shawnee.
She was born Dec. 17, 1930, in Brooksville, Okla., to Jasper and Nevator (Cook) Gatewood.

Helen was raised in Brooksville. She attended both Brooksville and Dunbar schools.

She raised her family in Brooksville and later in Shawnee. She had resided in Shawnee for many years.

Helen was a homemaker, also working as a housesitter and nanny.

She attended St. John Baptist Church in Brooksville.

Helen loved shopping, clothing and especially loved her children and grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her two husbands, Leon Brown and Themla Sanders; parents; stepfather, Robert Johnson; and one sister, Rosie Gatewood.

Survivors include eight daughters and sons-in-law, Helen Winrow of Oklahoma City, Mary Brown of Shawnee, Janice and Donald Carr of Earlsboro, Rhonda Austin of Aurora, Colo., Barbara and James Jefferson, Robbie and Roseshawn Brannon, all of Shawnee, Tameko and Anthony Wilder of Houston, Texas, and Tammara and John Curry of Dallas, Texas; three sons and three daughters-in-law, Leon Jr. and LaDeice Brown of Shawnee, Mark Anthony Sanders of Hinton, Martin and Shawnice Sanders of Shawnee and Glenda Brown of Midwest City; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Vivian Lawson of Shawnee, Arvella and J.P. Snyder of Bethel and Cora Fowler of Oklahoma City; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Charles and Edna Gatewood of Chickasha and Nora Gatewood of Oklahoma City; 27 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Wesley United Methodist Church, Shawnee, with the Rev. Lee Oliver officiating. Burial will follow at Earlsboro Cemetery.

To share memories, or to sign a guest book on-line, go to www.cooperfuneral.com


Betty Jo Talbot

Shawnee resident Betty Jo Talbot, 83, died Wednesday, Nov. 29, in Shawnee.
She was born July 3, 1923, in Scipio, Okla., to Elbert and Viola (Coop) Weddle.

Although raised in Indianola she lived throughout the United States, living in Texas for many years until moving to Oklahoma three years ago.

She attended Indianola schools.

In 1943 she married her high school sweetheart, T.J. Talbot. He preceded her in death in February 2000.

Betty worked in banking services. She enjoyed church, doing crafts and decorating.

Also preceding her in death were her parents, four sisters and two brothers.

Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Daryl and Theresa Talbot of Shawnee and Jerrell and Jennifer Talbot of Round Rock, Texas; one sister, Mattie Hickman of McAlester; four grandsons and spouses, Kenny and Tamara Talbot of Shawnee, Kevin and Sheila Talbot of Tecumseh, Brian Talbot of Boonesville, Mo., and Stuart Talbot of Round Rock; and six great-grandchildren.

Service will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Cooper Funeral Chapel.

To share memories, or to sign a guest book on-line, go to www.cooperfuneral.com.


Anna Mae Reinhart

Harrah resident Anna Mae Reinhart, 89, died Tuesday, Nov. 28, in Harrah.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Teresa's Catholic Church, Harrah, with Father Alan Loth officiating. Burial will follow at St. Teresa's Catholic Cemetery, Harrah, under the direction of Smith-Parks Funeral Service.


Frances Belle Whitford

Seminole resident Frances Belle Whitford, 83, died Wednesday, Nov. 29, at her home.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church in Seminole.

A celebration of her life will be 11 a.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church with Pastor Tommy Clark officiating.


Phenon Ivory Griffin

Meeker resident Phenon Ivory Griffin, 81, died Wednesday, Nov. 29.
Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Meeker.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Morning Star Baptist Church in Meeker with the Rev. Roy Brown officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


Jeremiah Nichol

Shawnee resident Jeremiah "J.T." Nichol, 68, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 29, at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City after a battle with cancer.
He was born Jan. 12, 1938, in Bad Axe, Mich., to Thomas S. Nichol and Ruth Hunter Nichol.

Jerry graduated from Bad Axe High School and attended Alma College where he was a member of the Kiltie Band.

On June 27, 1964, he married Lynda Gainor in Harbor Beach, Mich.

Jerry served in the U.S. Army in Germany during the Berlin crisis. He also spent several months at the Naval School of Music as a bassoonist.

Following his service in the military he worked for Wolverine Tube in Detroit, Mich. He and his family moved to Shawnee in 1974 when Wolverine Tube was relocated. Later he became a partner in the manufacturing consulting firm, E.C. Walters and Associates. He retired in 1996.

Jerry was a former member of the zoning board of adjustment for the city of Shawnee. He also was a Sunday school teacher at United Presbyterian Church for many years.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Thomas and Ruth Nichol, and baby sister, Elizabeth.

Left to cherish him in our hearts as a husband, father and grandfather are his loving wife of 42 years, Lynda Nichol of the home; three children and four grandchildren, Robert and Janna Nichol, of Oklahoma City, Amy and Greg McQuerry and their children, Katelyn and Nathan, all of Shawnee, and Beth Ann and David Clary and their children, Emma and Lauren, all of Tulsa; sister, Margaret Hansen of Bay City, Mich.; three brothers, Robert Nichol of Filion, Mich., Sayre Nichol of Saginaw, Mich., and John Nichol of Mt. Pleasant, Mich.; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

We will always remember his sense of humor, wisdom and love he shared with all of us.

A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at United Presbyterian Church in Shawnee.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Foundation of Oklahoma, 2932 N.W. 122nd St. Suite D, Oklahoma City, OK 73120-1955, Shawnee Early Childhood Center, "Where Little Things Count" Fund No. 419, Jerry Nichol memorial fund.

Services are under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.

published Dec. 02, 2006

Peggy Jo Tate

Longtime Seminole county resident Peggy Jo Tate, 61, died Thursday, Nov. 30, at Ada Retirement Center.
Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Monday at Vamoosa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.


John Edward Fiegel

Shawnee resident John Edward Fiegel, 85, died Tuesday, Nov. 28, at a local hospital.
Service has been changed to 2 p.m. Saturday at Immanuel Baptist Church. Burial will be 2 p.m. Monday at Bickford Cemetery, north of Shattuck, Okla., under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.


Orla Vern Thornton Sr.

Harrah resident Orla Vern "Tubby" Thornton Sr., 66, died Wednesday, Nov. 29, in Midwest City.
Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Asa Smith Memorial Chapel, Harrah, with the Rev. Tommy Mosher officiating. Burial will follow at Sunnylane Cemetery in Del City under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service, Harrah.

published Dec. 03, 2006

James Henry Eischeid

Longtime Sacred Heart and Konawa area resident James "Jim" Henry Eischeid, 78, died Friday, Dec. 1, at Valley View Regional Hospital in Ada.

He was born Sept. 24, 1928, in Ada to Henry and Anita (Zoeller) Eischeid.

Jim was raised in Konawa area and graduated from Konawa High School. He received a bachelors degree from East Central University in Ada.

He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the end of World War II and received an honorable discharge. He later enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was a fighter Pilot during the Korean War receiving numerous medals. Jim earned the rank of lieutenant colonel and retired from the armed forces on July 31,1974, having served his country for 30 years.

Jim was married Nov. 3, 1984, at Sacred Heart to Marie Nicklas.

After retirement he enjoyed working his cows on his ranch outside of Konawa. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Andrea Douglas; and one sister, JoAnn Newton.

Survivors include his wife, Marie (Nicklas) Eischeid of the home; three sons, Greg Eischeid and wife, Debbie, of Edmond, Doug Eischeid and wife, Michele, of Weatherford, Texas, and James Roger Eischeid of Oklahoma City; two step-daughters, Janice Blakely and husband, Justin, of Springtown, Texas, and Maggie Pace of Houston, Texas; one brother, Bill Eischeid of Edmond; grandchildren, Daniel, Matt, Dillon, David, Marty and Melanie; step-grandchildren, Kristi, Sonya and husband, Danny, and Justine; and one stepgreat-grandson, Ethan.

Rosary will be 6 p.m. Wednesday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Konawa.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Matthew Brown, OSB, officiating. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery with full military honors.


Tracy Lynn (Nixon) Johnson

Shawnee resident Tracy Lynn (Nixon) Johnson, 44, died Thursday, Nov. 30, at Unity Hospital.

She was born March 1, 1962, in Shawnee to Garth Donald and Loretta Faye (Brewer) Nixon.

She was married Sept. 3, 2001, in Eureka Springs, Ark., to Jeff Johnson.

She was a member of Rock Creek Baptist Church. She loved going to the lake, decorating, and most of all she loved taking care of everyone.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Loretta Nixon; grandparents, Floyd Brewer and Ralph and Ora Lee Nixon.

Survivors include her husband, Jeff Johnson of the home; children, Britton Stewart of Edmond, Scotlyn Stewart of Shawnee, and Dalton Stewart of the home; three sisters, Dayle Nixon, Gayle and Marvin Riley, Marcia and Johnny Cowan; one brother, David Nixon; grandmother, Maxine Brewer; numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday. Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Larry Sparks officiating. Burial will be Resthaven Memorial Park

Memorials may be made to First United Bank on Independence.


Eva Mae (Kingery) Canada

Shawnee resident Eva Mae (Kingery) Canada, 59, died Friday, Dec. 1, at her residence.

She was born May 9, 1947, in Shawnee to James Vernon and Billie June (Steward) Kingery.

She had lived in the Shawnee area all her life graduating from Dale High School.

Eva was married June 18, 1965, in McLoud to Billy N. Canada.

She was a homemaker and a member of Hazel Dell Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Survivors include her husband, Billy of the home; two daughters, Bonnie Canada of Shawnee and Melissa Creek of Tecumseh; son, Billy Allan Canada of Shawnee; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; mother, Billie Juneand step-father Bobby Griggs of Shawnee; brother and sister-in-law, Bobby and Cindy Kingery of Shawnee; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Peggy and Walter Wilhelm of Shawnee; two nieces; step-brother, Wayne Griggs of Shawnee; step-sister, Phyllis Brister of Houston, Texas; and other family members.

Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with Bill Matthews and Phil Thompson officiating. Burial will be at Dale Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Billy Joe Chesser

Former Seminole resident Billy J. "Bill" Chesser passed away Thursday, Nov. 30, at Vallejo, Calif., Care Center after a long illness.
He was born Nov. 2, 1924, to Hugh and Dona Chesser.

Mr. Chesser was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He had served on the USS Thatcher-DD514 "Little Beaver" Squadron as Signalman 2nd Class.

His hobbies included fishing, gardening, bowling, camping and crossword puzzles.

Mr. Chesser was preceded in death by his sister, Wanda Boehrer.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Betty G. of Vallejo; daughter, Sandra and Carl Thomas of Napa, Calif., his sister Rita and Lloyd Campbell of Shawnee; grandchildren, Tiffany and Jeff Larsen and Ryan Hobbs, all of Napa, Calif.; brother-in-law, James and Julianna Griffin of Benicia, Calif.; sister-in-law, Mary and Richard Boyer of Crockett, Calif., four great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Skyview Garden Chapel, Vallejo. Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Skyview Garden Chapel, Vallejo.

Donations may be made to Parkinson's Foundation, 1170 Morse Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94089, or Hanna Boys Club, P.O. Box 100, Sonoma, CA 95476.

published Dec. 05, 2006

Brother Ambrose Steven Sontag, O.S.B.

Brother Ambrose Steven Sontag, O.S.B., a monk of St. Gregory's Abbey, Shawnee, Okla., died Sunday, Dec. 3, from renal failure and other complications of diabetes. He had recently celebrated his 67th birthday.
Brother Ambrose was born on November 16, 1939, in Tulsa to Charles and Edna Small Sontag and given the name Steven. He completed grade school at St. Francis School and high school at Marquette, in Tulsa, and then entered St. Gregory's Abbey. He made his first monastic profession as a Benedictine monk of St. Gregory's Abbey on December 8, 1960, and simple perpetual vows on December 8, 1961. When the opportunity was provided to brothers, he made Solemn Vows.

After a number of years in the monastery, Brother Ambrose resumed his education, first at St. Gregory's College, receiving an Associate of Arts in 1973. He attended The University of Oklahoma and was awarded a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 1975.

Over the years, Brother Ambrose served the community in a variety of ways. He helped in the Abbey's cattle operation. He served St. Gregory's College and University over the years by assisting in the library, serving as manager of the print shop and then the book store, as residence hall advisor, as accounts receivable clerk and then business manager, as director of computer operations, and as manager of the campus telephone system, before ill health forced his retirement. He was honored with the Legacy Award for years of faithful service at the University's Spring Commencement ceremonies in 2004.

Brother Ambrose is survived by the monastic community of St. Gregory's Abbey; sister, Maryann Sontag of Tulsa; brother, Tom Sontag of Florida; and niece, Megan Sontag of Tulsa. He is predeceased by his parents.

Vigils of the Office of the Dead for Brother Ambrose will be celebrated at 4:30 p.m. today in the St. Gregory's Abbey Church, Shawnee. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 6, at 3 p.m. in the Abbey Church with Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, O.S.B., as the principal celebrant; burial will follow in the St. Gregory's Abbey Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Gregory's Abbey or St. Gregory's University, 1900 W. MacArthur Drive, Shawnee, Oklahoma 74804.


Ella Harrison

Lifelong Shawnee resident Ella (Dunsmore) Harrison died from complications of cancer on Friday, Dec. 1, at the age of 74.
She was born Oct. 29, 1932, in Shawnee to Frank Benton and Ollie (Paul) Dunsmore. She graduated from Shawnee High School and on April 16, 1952, she married Charles Norman Harrison.

Ella was a loving sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all. She dearly loved children and had great compassion for the disabled and the elderly. Kindness and generosity were her virtures. She loved God and her neighbors.

Ella retired at age 62 after 19 years of service with the Head Start program of Shawnee.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her in-laws, George and Avis Harrison; brothers, Frank Jr., Paul and Jack Dunsmore; sisters, Thelma Dunsmore and Katherine Greblo; brother-in-law, Al Greblo; and three nieces, Leslie Meek, Lisa Meek and Jackie Trumbley.

Survivors include her twin sister, Elma Hargus; daughters, Cheryl Hutcheson and her husband, David, Cathy Kinkade and her husband, Jack, Julie Campbell, and Robin Slawson; grandchildren, Michele Mitchell, Charlie Hutcheson, Justin Campbell, Cliff Campbell, Chelsie Kinkade, Harrison Kinkade, and Jalaina Smith; great-grandchildren, Shawn, Jordan, Deryk, Drake and Nicholas; nieces, Laura, Vicky, Pam, Kim, Susie and Doris Ann and their familes; nephews, Steve, Clay and Paul and their families; in-laws, Twila Dunsmore, Raymond and Betty Harrison, Katherine and Jim Meek and Mary Dunsmore; her former husband, Charles Harrison, and her many friends.

A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Emmanual Episcopal Church, Shawnee.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and The American Cancer Society as appropriate for memorials.


J. R. Raley

Our dad, J.R. "Isom or Junior" Raley, went to meet our heavenly father on Friday, Dec. 1, 2006.
He was born to Isom and Florence Raley and raised around the Muskogee/Fort Gibson area. He married Wanda June VanSlyke on Dec. 27, 1958, and raised his family in Okmulgee.

He enjoyed racing and working on engines during his earlier years. He later moved to Shawnee where he owned and operated J.R. Raley's Machine Shop and Auto Parts. His passion became building high performance racing engines and enjoying quality time at Lake Eufaula. He was a member of the United Pentecostal Church of Shawnee.

He was preceded in death by his father, Isom D. Raley; his mother, Florence Cowles Raley; and his sisters, Betty Farrow, Fern Baker, Joyce Brown and Earlene Randall.

He is survived by his son, Dennis Lee Raley of Shawnee; daughters and sons-in-law, Diane Raley and William Adkins of Harrah, Ginger Raley and Steve Edmondson of Ripley and Krystal and Andrew Bohannon of Okmulgee; grandchildren, Robin, Jesse, Cory, Deanna, Daniel, Jessica, Erick, Andrew, Kylee and Kelcee; great-grandchildren, Stephanie, Tyler, Mackenzie and Ryan; brothers and sisters-in-law, Eddie and Joyce Raley, W.H. and Lori Raley; his sisters, Delphia Mullen, Virginia Jackson and her husband, Georgie, Jackie Cooper and her husband, William, and Mary Judd; brothers-in-law, Eugene Randall and James Farrow; nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Service will be 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at Walker Funeral Home, 201 E. 45th Street, Shawnee, with Pastor Vance Bowman officiating. Burial service will be held noon Saturday at the Fort Gibson Cemetery, Fort Gibson, Okla.

Pallbearers include Eric Stephens, Fred Miller, Kenny Miller, Mark Miller, Craig Spice, Mike Spice and Tharron Tucker.

Walker Funeral Service of Shawnee is directing arrangements.


Lena Lucille (Hennigh) Stephens

On Sunday, Nov. 19, 2006, Lena Lucille (Hennigh) Stephens died peacefully in her home in Leisure Word of Virginia, Lansdowne, Va.
Lucille was born on March 18, 1926, in Beaver County, Okla.

She retired from the Forest Service, USDA.

The wife of Stephen Peter Stephens; mother of Irene L. Sullivan of Berryville, Va., Thomas B. Hennigh of Shawnee, Cynthia B. Arndt of Sterling, Va; grandmother of two; great-grandmother of one; and sister of Eugene Hennigh of Englewood, Kan., and Hilda Cornelius of West Memphis, Ark.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Marvin Hennigh of Tecumseh.

A private service is scheduled under the direction of Enders & Shirley Funeral Home, Berryville, Va.


Sondra Lee Austin

Meeker resident Sondra Lee Austin, 64, died Friday, Dec. 1, in an Oklahoma City hospital.
Sondra was born June 9, 1942, in Richmond, Calif., to Buster and Virginia McElvaney and raised by Dwight and Juanita Hill of Meeker.

She graduated from Meeker High School and in 1960 married Frank Austin.

Sondra was a homemaker and loved to play with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her father and her husband.

Survivors include four children, Sherry Todd of Shawnee, Willy Austin of Norman, Lesa West of Broken Arrow and Nickee Skaggs of Shawnee; 10 grandchildren, Amber Austin, Caleb Todd, Calvin Todd, Elisha West, Cameron Todd, Evan Austin, Bailey Skaggs, Moses West, Timothy West and Carson Todd; mother, Juanita Hill of Meeker; stepmother, Lois McElvaney; brothers, Bobby McElvaney Jr. of Newalla and Rick Hill of Oklahoma City; sisters, Darlene Taylor of Midwest City and Sue Phillips of Meeker; special friend, Hershal Bealsor of Sparks, and many other family and friends.

A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. today at Family of Faith Church with Dr. Sam Matthews officiating.

Walker Funeral Service of Shawnee is directing arrangements.


Lucy Rolan

Shawnee resident Lucy Rolan died Friday, Dec. 1, at the age of 81.
Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Parks Brothers Funeral Home Chapel in Chandler.


Bobby Joe Ross

Paden resident Bobby Joe Ross died Sunday, Dec. 3, in Prague at the age of 76.
Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with the Rev. Larry Chesser officiating. A private family burial will follow at a later date at the Little Cemetery in Seminole County.

Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


Zack Rye Fennel Jr.

Shawnee resident Zack Rye Fennel Jr. departed this life on Saturday, Dec. 2, in Oklahoma City at the age of 74.
Zack was born March 23, 1932, in Prague to Zack Rye and Mamie Alice (Riggs) Fennel.

He graduated from Prague High School with the class of 1950. He served his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict.

He was married to the former Loretta Mae Cope for 21 years.

Zack was a truck driver and a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and the VFW. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and his family. He also enjoyed attending the Ballon Festival in Albuquerque, N.M., every year.

His parents; one son, James Brent Fennel; and his former wife, Loretta, preceded Zack in death.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Zackary Scott and Sherry Fennel of Bethany; daughters and sons-in-law, Ramona and John Davis of Oklahoma City, Jareta and Lonnie Morrow of Weatherford and Janette Fennel of Moore; sisters and brothers-in-law, Doris Smith of Prague, Mary and Bill Bigham of Edmond and Bobbie and Don Gaston of Chilton, Texas; seven grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and special friend, Sue Thomas of Shawnee.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with the Rev. Jeff Burress officiating. Burial will follow at the Prague Cemetery.

A guest book is available to share your memories on-lione. Please visit www.ParksBrothers.net.


Agnes Young

Former Stroud resident Agnes Young, currently of Bethany, died Saturday, Dec. 2, at the age of 95.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Park Brothers Funeral Home Chapel in Chandler. Burial will be at the New Hope Dale Mennonite Cemetery in Meno, Okla, at 3 p.m.

Services is under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.


Zula Babb

Longtime Seminole resident Zula Babb, 84, died Saturday, Dec. 2, in El Reno.
Service will be 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Danny Kennedy officiating. Burial will follow at Konawa City Cemetery in Konawa, Okla.

Services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, 100 W. Strothers, Seminole.


Rodney Roy Wilson

Harrah resident Rodney Roy Wilson, 53, died Thursday, Nov. 30.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Asa Smith Memorial Chapel, Harrah with the Rev. Gary Eubanks officiating. Burial will follow at Kolb Cemetery, Midwest City. Service is under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service in Harrah.


Cecil Lankford

Stroud resident Cecil Lankford died Saturday, Dec. 2, in Stroud at the age of 78.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Stroud with the Rev. Jon Mitchell officiating. Burial will follow at Stroud Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Stroud.

published Dec. 06, 2006

Jackie Ray Smith

Seminole resident Jackie Ray Smith, 59, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, in Seminole.
A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Friday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. C.L. Thomas officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.


Mae Lois Brown

Chandler resident Mae Lois Brown died Sunday, Dec. 3, at the age of 97.
Service will be 11 a.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Chandler.


J.O. Wilson

Longtime Oklahoma City resident J.O. Wilson, 81, died Thursday, Nov. 30, at Oklahoma Heart Hospital in Oklahoma City.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at Vista Cemetery west of Konawa under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.


Clyde M. Shaffner

Davenport resident Clyde M. Shaffner died Monday, Dec. 4, at the age of 88.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at First Baptist Church in Davenport. Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.


Donald L. Manion

Shawnee resident Donald L. Manion, 44, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, at his home.
Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Sharon Baptist Church.

Walker Funeral Service will have further announcements.

published Dec. 07, 2006

Donald L. Manion

Shawnee resident Donald L. Manion, 44, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 5, at his home.
He was born Feb. 3, 1962, in Dayton, Ohio, to Edward and Patricia (Hacker) Manion.

Donald graduated from Del City High School in 1981.

On Nov. 29, 1986, in Shawnee to Michelle Hamburger.

Donald was a firefighter for the Shawnee Fire Department for over nine years. He also was a self-employed roofer and construction worker.

He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon.

Donald loved being outdoors.

Surviving him are his wife, Michelle; three children, Clint, Sierra and Jacob, all of the home; parents, Edward and Patricia Manion of Harrah; two brothers, Chris Manion of Shawnee and Terry Manion of Oklahoma; two sisters, Michelle and Nate Davis of Tuttle and Janet and Don Stevens of Galveston, Texas; a number of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Sharon Baptist Church with the Rev. Roger McMahan officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.


Arvel Lee Snow Jr.

Longtime Konawa resident Arvel Lee Snow Jr. died Tuesday, Dec. 5, at his residence at the age of 57.
Service will be 11 a.m. Friday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Konawa. Burial will follow at Vamoosa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.


Ginger L. Edney

Lifelong Seminole resident Ginger L. Edney, 60, died Monday, Dec. 4, in Seminole.
Service will be 3 p.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with Don Thomason officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.


Virginia Lowe

Shawnee resident Virginia Lowe, 73, died Wednesday, Dec. 6, at her residence.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. today at Oak Park Cemetery in Chandler. Service is under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.


Tommy Lee Lakin

Shawnee resident Tommy Lee Lakin, 59, died Sunday, Dec. 3, at his home.
He was born Aug. 2, 1947, in Shawnee to Thomas Henry and Essie Laura "Jerry" (New) Lakin.

Tommy graduated from Shawnee High School. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam.

He was a bookkeeper for Stephen Oil and a machinist for Wolverine Tube.

Tommy had a lifelong love for baseball and softball and was an artist and painter.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Survivors include his brother, Larry Don Lakin and Claudie Hargrove; sister, Jerry Ann Knox and Darrell Barnes; nephews, Lynn and Lisa Knox and Gary Don Lakin; nieces, Barbara and Monty Garner and Monica Lakin; great nephew, Andrew Garner; great nieces, Jennifer Garner, Nichole Knox and Baylee Knox; special friends, Shorty Kinnamon, Ruth Franklin and Tony and Lila Barnes.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.


George A. Brown

Lifelong Geary resident George A. Brown, 93, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, at Kingfisher Regional Hospital.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at First United Methodist Church in Geary with the Rev.. Michelle McCarty and the Rev. Karen Slater officiating. Burial will follow at Geary Cemetery under the direction of Turner Funeral Home, Geary.


Bonita Faye Schaffer Nelson

Harrah resident Bonita "Bonnie" Faye Schaffer Nelson, 70, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, in Harrah.
A memorial service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Asa Smith Memorial Chapel in Harrah under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Good Shephard Hospice, 4411 Highline Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73108-1865.


J. R. Raley

Our dad, J.R. "Isom or Junior" Raley, went to meet our heavenly father on Friday, Dec. 1, 2006.
He was born to Isom and Florence Raley and raised around the Muskogee/Fort Gibson area. He married Wanda June VanSlyke on Dec. 27, 1958, and raised his family in Okmulgee.

He enjoyed racing and working on engines during his earlier years. He later moved to Shawnee where he owned and operated J.R. Raley's Machine Shop and Auto Parts. His passion became building high performance racing engines and enjoying quality time at Lake Eufaula. He was a member of the United Pentecostal Church of Shawnee.

He was preceded in death by his father, Isom D. Raley; his mother, Florence Cowles Raley; and his sisters, Betty Farrow, Fern Baker, Joyce Brown and Earlene Randall.

He is survived by his son, Dennis Lee Raley of Shawnee; daughters and sons-in-law, Diane Raley and William Adkins of Harrah, Ginger Raley and Steve Edmondson of Ripley and Krystal and Andrew Bohannon of Okmulgee; grandchildren, Robin, Jesse, Cory, Deanna, Daniel, Jessica, Erick, Andrew, Kylee and Kelcee; great-grandchildren, Stephanie, Tyler, Mackenzie and Ryan; brothers and sisters-in-law, Eddie and Joyce Raley, W.H. and Lori Raley; his sisters, Delphia Mullen, Virginia Jackson and her husband, Georgie, Jackie Cooper and her husband, William, and Mary Judd; brothers-in-law, Eugene Randall and James Farrow; nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Service will be 3 p.m. today at Walker Funeral Home, 201 E. 45th Street, Shawnee, with Pastor Vance Bowman officiating. Burial will be noon Saturday at the Citizen's Cemetery, Fort Gibson, Okla.

Pallbearers include Eric Stephens, Fred Miller, Kenny Miller, Mark Miller, Craig Spicer, Mike Spicer and Tharron Tucker.

Walker Funeral Service of Shawnee is directing arrangements.


Dorothy Mae Sweet

Chandler resident Dorothy Mae Sweet died Tuesday, Dec. 5 at the age of 81.
Prayer service will be 7 p.m. today at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Chandler.

Mass will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service.

published Dec. 08, 2006

Geraldine Payne

Former Shawnee resident Geraldine (Northcutt) Payne, 83, died Wednesday, Dec. 6, in San Antonio.
She was born June 28, 1923, in Wayne, Okla., to James Olen and Dee Nell (Owens) Northcutt.

She graduated from Wayne High School.

Geraldine worked for Roundhouse and Sylvania, retiring from Westinghouse/York in Norman.

On Jan. 13, 1943, she married Kelsia Payne. They moved to Shawnee in 1947. He preceded her in death in 1985. They enjoyed 42 years together.

Geraldine was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church.

Also preceding her in death were her parents and sister, Owedia Marie Payne

Survivors include daughter, Paula Milligan; granddaughter, Brandi Milligan, both of San Antonio; sisters and brothers-in-law, Wanda Jo and Lamar Snyder and Jack and Louise Fouche, all of Oklahoma City; several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. The family will be present from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Service will be 1 p.m. Monday at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial will follow follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Leland H. Walker

Longtime Aurora, Kan., resident Leland H. Walker passed away Wednesday, Dec. 6, at Golden Rule Home in Shawnee. He was 84 years and 2 days.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Ralph and Grace Walker; brother, Wendell; and sister, Ruth Nobert.

He is survived by one aunt, Doris Walker; and many nieces, nephews and friends in both the Shawnee and Aurora areas.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Phelps Funeral Home in Miltonvale, Kan., under the direction of Phelps Funeral Home.


Tommy Lee Lakin

Shawnee resident Tommy Lee Lakin, 59, died Sunday, Dec. 3, at his home.
He was born Aug. 2, 1947, in Shawnee to Thomas Henry and Essie Laura "Jerry" (New) Lakin.

Tommy graduated from Shawnee High School. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam.

He was a bookkeeper for Stephen Oil and a machinist for Wolverine Tube.

Tommy had a lifelong love for baseball and softball and was an artist and painter.

Preceding him in death were his parents.

Survivors include his brother, Larry Don Lakin and Claudie Hargrove; sister, Jerry Ann Knox and Darrell Barnes; nephews, Lynn and Lisa Knox and Gary Don Lakin; nieces, Barbara and Monty Garner and Monica Lakin; great nephew, Andrew Garner; great nieces, Jennifer Garner, Nichole Knox and Baylee Knox; special friends, Shorty Kinnamon, Ruth Franklin and Tony and Lila Barnes.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.

Memorials may be made to VFW, Post 1317, Shawnee.


Jim Powers

Stonewall resident James Robert "Jim" Powers, 65, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, at an Oklahoma City Hospital.
He was born Jan. 20, 1941 to James Albert and Doris Rudine Flournoy Powers in Shawnee.

He attended school at Roosevelt and Goodhope and graduated from Varnum High School. He received a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from East Central University, and a minor in Economics.

Jim married Linda Roberts on May 27, 1962, in Ada.

Mr. Powers was the Chief Operations Officer at Valley View Regional Hospital, retiring in 2004, after 42 years of service. He was a member of Kiwanis Club of Ada and a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Powers, of the home; daughter, Vicki Wasburn and husband Keith of Shawnee; son, James Robert Powers Jr.; brother, Rex Powers and wife Earlean of Wewoka; sister, Gayla Heckman of Stratford; two granddaughters, Amanda Kiest and Jamie Kiest; and numerous other relatives.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at St. Luke's Episcopal Church with Father John Norvell officiating. Service are under the direction of Criswell Funeral Home, Ada.

Memorials may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation for Diabetes or Kidney research, 825 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104-9930.


Mary Margaret Winkler

McLoud resident Mary Margaret (Mitchell) Winkler, 83, left this life Wednesday, Dec. 6, in Midwest City.
She was born July 22, 1923, in Lincoln County to Thomas Wesley and Nancy Elizabeth (Gregg) Mitchell.

Mary Margaret grew up in the McLoud area and graduated from McLoud High School.

On Oct. 13, 1941, she married Paul Thomas Winkler in Chandler. After his death she married John Ivan Winkler on May 16, 1999.

Mary Margaret was a member of First United Methodist Church of McLoud, the County Extension Club and Friends of the Library.

Mary Margaret was a homemaker, a volunteer at the school and a seamstress in and around McLoud.

She enjoyed quilting and gardening.

Preceding her in death were her parents, both husbands and two brothers, Hudon and Rex.

Survivors include two sons, David Paul Winkler of Lansing, Mich., and Don Harold Winkler of McLoud; two daughters and one son-in-law, Judith Ann Silva of Shawnee and Mary Elizabeth and Martin Thomas of Emporia, Kan.; two brothers, Bill Mitchell of Tecumseh and Thomas Mitchell of Prescott, Ariz.; nine grandchildren, Robert Paul Winkler, David Winkler, William Winkler, Stacy Winkler, Holly Gandy, Julie Jessen, Gregg Alan Winkler, Corbett Watts and Lloyd Mitchell Watts; numerous great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church, McLoud, with the Rev. Ruth Tipps officiating. Burial will follow at Forrest Cemetery, Meeker.

A guest book is available to share your memories on-line. Please visit www.smithparks.com

J. R. Raley

Our dad, J.R. "Isom or Junior" Raley, went to meet our heavenly father on Friday, Dec. 1, 2006.
He was born to Isom and Florence Raley and raised around the Muskogee/Fort Gibson area. He married Wanda June VanSlyke on Dec. 27, 1958, and raised his family in Okmulgee.

He enjoyed racing and working on engines during his earlier years. He later moved to Shawnee where he owned and operated J.R. Raley's Machine Shop and Auto Parts. His passion became building high performance racing engines and enjoying quality time at Lake Eufaula. He was a member of the United Pentecostal Church of Shawnee.

He was preceded in death by his father, Isom D. Raley; his mother, Florence Cowles Raley; and his sisters, Betty Farrow, Fern Baker, Joyce Brown and Earlene Randall.

He is survived by his son, Dennis Lee Raley of Shawnee; his daughter, Diane Raley and her husband William Adkins of Harrah, his daughter, Ginger Raley and her husband Steve Edmondson of Ripley and his daughter, Krystal and her husband Andrew Bohannon of Okmulgee; grandchildren, Robin, Jesse, Cory, Deanna, Daniel, Jessica, Erick, Andrew, Kylee and Kelcee; great-grandchildren, Stephanie, Tyler, Mackenzie and Ryan; brothers and sisters-in-law, Eddie and Joyce Raley, W.H. and Lori Raley; his sisters, Delphia Mullen, Virginia Jackson and her husband, Georgie, Jackie Cooper and her husband, William, and Mary Judd; brothers-in-law, Eugene Randall and James Farrow; nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

Service will be 3 p.m. today at Walker Funeral Home, 201 E. 45th Street, Shawnee, with Pastor Vance Bowman officiating. Burial will be noon Saturday at the Citizen's Cemetery, Fort Gibson, Okla.

Pallbearers include Eric Stephens, Fred Miller, Kenny Miller, Mark Miller, Craig Spicer, Mike Spicer and Tharron Tucker.

Walker Funeral Service of Shawnee is directing arrangements.

published Dec. 09, 2006

Bette Roselius

Macomb resident Bette Roselius, 79, died Friday, Dec. 8, in Shawnee.
Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Johnny Stephens of First Church of the Nazarene officiating. Burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.


Hazel Garrett

Newalla resident Hazel Garrett died Thursday, Dec. 7, at the age of 93.
Viewing will be 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at Smith~Parks Funeral Service, 2039 N. Tim Holt Dr., Harrah. The family will receive guests from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church of Newalla, 20800 SE 59th. Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 8701 NW Expressway, Oklahoma City.

Arrangements are under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service.


Ollie Cantrell Parks

Tecumseh resident Ollie Cantrell Parks, 88, died Thursday, Dec. 7, in Tecumseh.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at First Assembly God with the Rev. Chad Brodrick and the Rev. Robert Rider officiating. Burial will be at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.


Luther Stewart

Chandler resident Luther Stewart died Thursday, Dec. 7, at the age of 78.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Chandler Southern Baptist Church under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.


Henrietta Mae Hogan

Shawnee resident Henrietta Mae Hogan, 83, died Thursday, Dec. 7, in Edmond of natural causes.
She was born May 13, 1923, in Shawnee to Charley Owens and Etter Carpenter (Owens).

Henrietta attended Macomb schools.

On July 13, 1940, she married James Hogan in Shawnee.

Henrietta worked at the family-owned meat processing company, Hogan's Meat Co.

She enjoyed going to all her children and grandchildren's extracurricular activities. She also enjoyed music and loved to walk.

Preceding her in death were her parents and spouse.

Survivors include her son, Jim Hogan and Delta Silas; daughters, Lawana Butler and husband, John, and Joann Burk and husband, Lloyd; grandchildren, Kim Self and husband, Chad, Tedda Kerr and husband, Randy, Kristen Hogan and Bruce Carter, Shellie Coughran and husband, John, Kurt Butler, Tammy Ward and husband, Joe, Darrin Tucker and Kaci Burk; great-grandchildren, Kade Self, Ren Carter, Tara Simmons and husband, Rusty, Baylor Buter, Juston Ward, Steven Ward and Kayla Ward.

Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Resthaven Funeral Home. Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Resthaven Funeral Chapel with Marty Brock officiating.

Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park, Shawnee.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association


Johnson Bear

Longtime Seminole resident Johnson Bear, 59, died Thursday, Dec. 7, in Seminole.
Wake service was held Friday at the family home.

Graveside service will be held 10 a.m. today at the Bear Family Cemetery with John Fixico officiating.

Swearingen funeral home is directing arrangements

published Dec. 10, 2006

Ollie Cantrell Parks

Tecumseh resident Ollie Cantrell Parks, 88, died Thursday, Dec. 7, in Tecumseh.
She was born June 9, 1918, in Salado, Texas, to Wilson and Bessie (Isbell) Berry.

She grew up in the Cordell, Okla., area, but had lived in Tecumseh since 1946.

On Nov. 29, 1936, she married Charles Earl Cantrell. He preceded her in death on Dec. 2, 1965. She then married Roy Parks on April 19, 1969, and on July 7, 1988, he preceded her in death as well.

Ollie worked at Sylvania from 1952 until the plant closed.

She enjoyed crotcheting and was a member of First Assembly of God.

Also preceding her in death were her son, Belvin Cantrell; her parents; sister, Estelle Thomas; three brothers, Author Berry, Thomas "Cotton" Berry and Lewis Berry.


Bette Roselius

Macomb resident Bette Roselius, 79, died Friday, Dec. 8, in Shawnee.
She was born July 17, 1927, in Asher to Roy and Elsie (Lynn) Cooper.

Although raised in Asher she spent many years in Tecumseh. She also lived in California for a short time and had lived the past 55 years in Macomb.

Bette graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1945.

On June 18, 1947, she married Jack Roselius in Norman.

Bette was a homemaker and a sales clerk for Montgomery Wards, Newton Wall's, WR Jones and Ray's Shoe Store. She also raised four boys.

She attended the Methodist Church.

Bette enjoyed reading, keeping up with current events, gardening and hanging out with family and friends. She also enjoyed being the treasurer for the city of Macomb.

Preceding her in death were her parents.

Survivors include her husband, Jack Roselius, of the home; four sons and their spouses, Larry and Marilyn Roselius of Moore, Charles Roselius of Norman, Connie and Susie Roselius of Moore and Bobby and Sue Roselius of Choctaw; stepmother, Elma Shepherd of Locust Grove; brother and sister-in-law, Bernard and Lana Cooper of Broken Arrow; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Johnny Stephens of First Church of the Nazarene officiating. Burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery.

To share memories, or to sign the guest book on-line, go to www.cooperfuneral.com.


Henrietta Mae Hogan

Shawnee resident Henrietta Mae Hogan, 83, died Thursday, Dec. 7, in Edmond of natural causes.
She was born May 13, 1923, in Shawnee to Charley Owens and Etter Carpenter (Owens).

Henrietta attended Macomb schools.

On July 13, 1940, she married James Hogan in Shawnee.

Henrietta worked at the family-owned meat processing company, Hogan's Meat Co.

She enjoyed going to all her children and grandchildren's extracurricular activities. She also enjoyed music and loved to walk.

Preceding her in death were her parents and spouse.

Survivors include her son, Jim Hogan and Delta Silas; daughters, Lawana Butler and husband, John, and Joann Burk and husband, Lloyd; grandchildren, Kim Self and husband, Chad, Tedda Kerr and husband, Randy, Kristen Hogan and Bruce Carter, Shellie Coughran and husband, John, Kurt Butler, Tammy Ward and husband, Joe, Darrin Tucker and Kaci Burk; great-grandchildren, Kade Self, Ren Carter, Tara Simmons and husband, Rusty, Baylor Buter, Juston Ward, Steven Ward and Kayla Ward.

Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Resthaven Funeral Chapel with Marty Brock officiating.

Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park, Shawnee.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association.

published Dec. 12, 2006

Bessie Lee Hawkins

Shawnee resident Bessie Lee Hawkins, 85, died Friday, Dec. 8, in Shawnee.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday in Antlers.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Westside Baptist Church with the Rev. Pete Green officiating. Burial will follow at Antlers City Cemetery under the direction of Mt. Olive Funeral Home, Antlers.

Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice of Shawnee, OK.


A. P. Moore

A. P. "John/Johnnie" Moore departed this life Sunday, Dec. 10, at Mercy Heart Center, Oklahoma City.
John was the fourth child of James T. and Mary Belle (Allen) Moore born on Feb. 8, 1925, in Yeager, Okla.

He graduated from Chouteau High School in 1942 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy to serve during World War II. John was assigned to the Destroyer U.S.S. Ralph Talbot for the duration of World War II and received ten major battle commendation awards for service in the South Pacific from Guadalcanal to Iwo Jima.

John married Elizabeth Moore on March 8, 1946, in Rockwall, Texas. They moved to Oklahoma in 1947 and established their home of 59 years two miles east of Sparks. They had one daughter, L. Christine. On March 9, 1996, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with family and a host of friends in Chandler.

After John, his wife and baby daughter moved to Sparks, he attended Oklahoma State University to study Animal Husbandry. He bred a herd of registered Milking Shorthorns with a dream becoming reality when his prized bull, "Blue Hill Butterboy," won the Kansas City America Royal Exposition. To support raising registered animals. John began working at Sylvania Electric Plant in Shawnee in 1952. Sylvania closed their Shawnee operation in 1962 and moved to Burlington, Iowa. John was offered continued employment but elected to stay on the farm and raise his cattle. When cattle prices peaked, John sold his herd and went to work for the Deparment of Defense at Tinker Air Force Base until his retirement in 1984.

John and his family's great pastime was spending time at Lake Tenkiller during the summer months. They would go to their favorite camp site at Snake Creek and spend time scuba diving, water skiing, and fishing. Other hobbies included raising Polled Hereford cattle after his retirement and later some exotic breeds. Another hobby was beekeeping. At one time his apiary consisted of three hundred hives. He received many honey orders via U.S. mail addressed simply to "The Honey Company," Sparks, OK. Clients requested honey cappings, black honey and beebread. John closed his honey business when the import market expanded.

John was a member of the Sparks and Chandler Masonic Lodges, serving as Worshipful Master in 1967 and 1972. He is a Thirty-Second Degree Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, Guthrie Consistory, and the Lincoln County Scottish Rite bodies. He served as Worthy Patron in the Sparks Chapter Order of Eastern Star in 1972, 1973, 1977 and 1978. He served the Oklahoma Grand Chapter as Grand Escort in 1978 and as grand Representative to Alabama in 1984 and 1985. He served many times as Grand Chapter Committee member and was awarded a Life Membership in the Order of Eastern Star in 1976. He served as President of the Woodmen of the World Lodge No. 68 in 1985 and 1986. He is a member and past Commander of Chandler American Legion Post 64.

John and Elizabeth enjoyed many trips throughout the United States but home was always "Two Miles East" of Sparks. In 1985 they received a patent to their homestead from the State of Oklahoma. His joy and delight after Elizabeth's death were his grandchildren, Lisa and John and his wife, Stacey. John always had a twinkle in his eyes when the great-grandchildren Joshua, Ethan and Carter were in eye-sight. He did not miss a chance to live a life enjoying his family. Family gatherings always meant taking home meals so he didn't have to cook. He was a good cook, too. He also enjoyed fishing with his neighbors and friends, Dick and Glen. He would even cancel a dinner date with his daughter and son-in-law for a fish fry or meal with the neighbors. Sometimes he would eat both meals.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Moore; parents, James T. and Belle Moore; two brothers, Athel and J.T. Moore; one sister and brother-in-law, Velma and LeRoy Brewer,; two brothers-in-law, George William (Bill) Huff and Roger Huff; and sister-in-law, Peggy Huff Thoma.

John is survived by his daughter and husband, Chris and Ray Hodson of Chandler; granddaughter and great-grandson, Lisa Hodson and Joshua Lewis of Edmond; and grandson, wife, and great-grandsons, John, Stacey, Ethan and Carter Hodson of Edmond; brother-in-law and wife, Ronald "Sonny" and Phyllis Huffnear of Sparks; sisters-in-law and husbands, Wanda and Charles Webster of El Reno, Mary and Eddie Porter of Mangum, Okla., and Anita Ward of Chandler; brothers-in-law, Bruce and Doris Huff of Prague and Lawrence and Denise Huff of Cushing. He is also survived by 29 nieces, nephews and many other relatives.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Chandler. Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery in Chandler.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials in the the name of A.P. Moore be sent to the Oklahoma Heart Hospital, Attn: Charla Rhodes, 4050 W. Memorial Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73120


Samuel Edward Wallace

Shawnee resident Samuel Edward Wallace, 85, died Thursday, Dec. 7, in Shawnee.
Visitation will begin 10 a.m. today.

Service will be 12:30 p.m. Thursday at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Arrow.


Gladys Regena Jackson  

Former Shawnee resident Gladys "Gena" Jackson, 52, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, in Sacramento, Calif.
She was born Jan. 15, 1954, in Shawnee to Alvin and Mary Jackson.

She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1972.

In 1981 she married Edward Allen of Oakland, Calif. They had two children.

Preceding her in death were her parents; brother, James Curtis; and sister, Brenda Banks.

Survivors include one son, Mychal Allen of Oakland; one daughter, Kaelen Allen of Long Beach, Calif.; four sisters and one brother-in-law, Vivian White, Verta and Roy Massey, Vera Myers, all of Oklahoma City, and Hattie Jackson of Columbus, Ohio; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Melvin and Vernetta Jackson, Maurice Jackson, all of Oklahoma City, and Ervin and Melinda Jackson of Sheffield, Ala.; stepmother, Thelma Jackson of Shawnee; seven step-sibings; and many other relatives and friends.

Gena touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed by her beloved children, family and friends.

Service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at Walker Funeral Service in Shawnee with burial to follow at Fairview Cemetery. Cardell Banks will officiate with assistance from Melvin Jackson.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

published Dec. 14, 2006

Arthur Carl McGowen

Prague resident Arthur Carl McGowen, 77, departed this life on Wednesday, Dec. 13, in Prague.

He was born April 10, 1929, in Wasco, Calif., to Arthur Mack and Mae Grace (Edwards) McGowen.

On Oct. 16, 1949, he married Anna Kate Hubbard in Van Buren, Ark.

Carl served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He worked for 39 years at Local #94 as an insulator, was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Meeker, and a member of the Masonic Lodge.

His parents and one sister, Beulah Ocell Stapp, preceded Carl in death.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Anna McGowen of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Arthur and Cindy McGowen of Edmond; daughter and son-in-law, Ethel and Mark Grubbs of Wellston; brothers and sisters-in-law, Alvin and Sue McGowen of Oklahoma City, Marvin and Wilma McGowen of Oklahoma City, and Freddie and Delores McGowen of Choctaw; brother-in-law, Andy Hubbard and his wife Margaret of Kinta; sisters and brothers-in-law, Maydell and Clifford Barbee of Choctaw and Freda and Clark Utley of Checotah; grandchildren, Tonya and David Neely of Chandler, Jim Fish of Edmond, Clint McGowen of Edmond, Jossie Grubbs of Wellston, and Lexi McGowen of Edmond; great-grandchildren, Brianna, Emmy and Grace Neely of Chandler.

The McGowen family will receive friends 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Home in Prague.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at the Assembly of God Church in Meeker with the Rev. Charles Pearcy officiating. Burial will follow at Sans Bois Cemetery in Kinta, Okla.

A guest book is available to share your memories on-line. Please visit www.ParksBrothers.net.


Hubert T. Brown Jr.

Hubert T. Brown Jr., of Macomb, passed away at his home Monday, Dec. 11, 2006, after a courageous battle with Non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Hubert was born July 23, 1951, in Shawnee. He graduated from Shawnee High School in 1969.

He is survived by Betty, his wife of 35 years; daughters, Emma Brown of Tulsa, and Melody Hill; son-in-law Richmond Hill; granddaughter, Kayla, all of Asher; parents, Hubert and Betty Brown; his sister, Janice Brown, all of Macomb; uncles and aunt, Don and Mary Brown and Jim Shipp, all of Shawnee; and his beloved dachshund, "Flo."

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Chloe and O.D. Brown and Matt and Marie Shipp.

Hubert retired from Eaton Corporation in August 2006, after 28 years of employment. He was a heat treat operator for 23 years and, prior to retirement, a facility technician.

Hubert's hobbies included being outdoors, woodworking, fishing, hunting and playing golf with his daughter, Emma, and son-in-law, Rick.

He loved Jesus and Sunday school. His favorite evening ritual was to relax in his La-Z-Boy recliner with "Flo" by his side sharing a root beer float.

"Courage is not defined by those who fought and did not fall, but by those who fought, fell and rose again."

Time and time again, Hubert exhibited unflinching courage against a devastating disease and, although his body finally gave out, his mind and spirit never did. He will be missed by family and friends who admired his optimism, kindness, unconquerable will and gentle spirit.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Cooper Funeral Chapel in Tecumseh with the Rev. Darrell Witten officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Mission Cemetery.

The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Hubert T. Brown Jr. be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn., 38105.


Pauline "Nanny" Cox Howell

Shawnee resident Pauline "Nanny" Cox Howell, 83, died Monday, Dec. 11, at a local hospital.
She was born March 7, 1923, in Shawnee to John Lafayette Loftis and Alice Susan (Pendergraft) Loftis.

She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1941.

On Nov. 4, 1941, she married Ted William Cox, who preceded her in death. She then married Bill Howell in June 1969. He also preceded her in death.

Pauline worked at a retail grocery store. Her only hobby was being with, and caring for, her family. She obtained her greatest enjoyment from her tireless dedication to those she loved. Daycare was not necessary for her grandchildren because she provided the best care possible.

Pauline also loved to travel and did so often.

Also preceding her in death were her parents; four brothers, Buster Loftis, Raymond Loftis, Cecil Pete Loftis and Dewey Loftis; two sisters, Nellie Loftis and Esther See; one grandson, Ted William Cox Jr.; and stepdaughter and son-in-law, Jane and Leon Templeton.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Johnnie and Don Gibson; son, Ted Cox, all of Shawnee; stepsons and daughter-in-law, Elvis and Jana Howell of Stillwater and Colin Howell of Tishomingo; nine grandchildren, Jimmy and Kristi Gibson, Greg and Kay Gibson, Ricki Cox, Tedra and Donny Armitage, Jonna Cox, all of Shawnee, John and Shawn Howell, Lori O'Malley, all of Stillwater, Marsha and Chuck Martin of Maysville and Matt Howell of Tishomingo; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with Bill Matthews and Phil Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.


Lorene Jane Ellis

Former Shawnee resident Lorene Jane Ellis, 92, died Tuesday, Dec. 12, at a Stroud nursing home.

A traditional tribal wake service will be held Friday evening at the Carol Patterson home on N. Bryan St.

Burial will be 9 a.m. Saturday at Wakole Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Roman Harjo

Byng, Okla., resident Roman Harjo, 82, died Monday, Dec. 11, at a local nursing home.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Criswell Funeral Home Chapel in Ada. Burial will follow at Vamoosa Cemetery under the direction of Criswell Funeral Home, Ada.

published Dec. 15, 2006

Ronald William Smith

Meeker resident Ronald William "Ronnie" Smith, 72, departed this life on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at his home in Meeker. Ronnie was born on June 25,1934, in Meeker to Noble W. and Nellie Lee (Harris) Smith.
He was a graduate of Meeker High School.On Dec. 20, 1955, he married Vera Kinnear in Meeker. Ronnie worked as a house mover for many years. He was a member of the Fellowship Church of God in Nicoma Park.

His parents, one brother, one sister and one grandson preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife,Vera Smith, of the home; sons and daughter-in-law, Carl Smith of Meeker and Travis and Candace Smith of Meeker; daughters and sons-in-law, Connie and Dickie Walton of Okmulgee, Jackie and Kevin Knox of Meeker, Cindy and Mike Caldwell of Meeker; sister, Maranell Adams of Meeker; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; other relativies and many friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Morning Star Baptist Church in Meeker with Minister Les Pope and Minister Lawrence Gregory officiating.

Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker. A guest book is available to share your memories on-line.

Please visit www.ParksBrothers.net.


Beverly Sue McDaniel

Seminole county resident Beverly Sue McDaniel, 67, departed this life Wednesday, Dec. 13, in Seminole. She was born Dec. 26, 1938, in Shawnee to James Hershel and Hazel Alena (Johnson) McDaniel.
Beverly was the valedictorian of the Prairie Valley 1957 graduating class. She worked for the IRS for three years and retired after 23 years at Tinker Air Force Base, where she worked in the accounting department.

Beverly also was a tutor for JOM at Strother School for 14 years. She was a member of Highway Baptist Church where she was a pianist for many years. She also was a member of the Order of Eastern Star.

Beverly was preceded in death by an infant sister. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Denise Vass, daughters and son-in-law, L. Denise and Ted North and Jenen Factor, all of Seminole; parents, Hershel and Hazel McDaniel of Seminole; former mother-in-law, Lela Vass of Shawnee; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with Rusty Dawson officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery in Seminole county.

A guest book is available to share your memories on-line.


Reda Dea Boen

Longtime Shawnee and Seminole area resident Reda Dea Boen passed away Tuesday, Dec. 12, at the age of 46. She was born July 10, 1960, in Beaver, Okla., to Warren and Rose Marie (Villenes) Boen.
Reda was the office manager at Seminole Veterinary Hospital in Seminole for five years.

She enjoyed riding horses, roping, running barrels and spending time with her family and friends. Reda will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Preceding her in death were her brother, Jeff McDonald, and one aunt, Loretta Weir.

Survivors include her significant other of four years, Chad Williams, of the home; son, Chance Griffin of Mayport, Fla.; daughter, Kodee Williams of the home; mother and stepfather, Rose and Gary Gorsuch of Mission, Texas; father and stepmother, Warren and Carolyn Boen of Denison,Texas; two brothers, Nick Boen of Denison and Steve Boen of Texas; three sisters, Crystal Rea of Lincoln, Neb., Gina Little of Pottsboro, Texas, and Felicia Rendon of Denison. She is also survived by a host of other loving family and friends.

A celebration of life service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at OK Corral Arena, 20450 S.E. 29th in Newalla. From I-40, take Exit 117, go north on Harrah/Newalla Road three miles to stop light, take a left at stoplight, go two miles and turn left on Granddaughter Road.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family online at www.swearingenfuneralhome.com.


Ruby Mogridge

Shawnee resident Ruby Mogridge, 92, died Wednesday, Dec. 13, at a local nursing home. Ruby's home in Shawnee had recently burned and she was temporarily placed at Golden Rule Nursing Home, where she lived a few weeks before passing away. She was born Aug. 16, 1914, in Ravia, Okla., to Monroe and Lou Ella Wyatt. On Jan. 23,, 1933, she married J.B. Mogridge in Bristow. They had three daughters and one son.
They resided in Okfuskee county for approximately 23 years before moving to Shawnee. They lived in Shawnee for twelve years until returning to Okfuskee county, where her beloved husband died in 1977 after 44 years of marriage.

Soon after his death she returned to Shawnee where she remained. Ruby was active with First Baptist Church and thoroughly enjoyed her friendships and activities. She was housebound her last few years and unable to attend her services, but spoke of her church and friends often.

Ruby was an independent woman who was caring and had a quiet spirit. She loved to be outdoors with the flowers, trees and birds. Her husband would say, "she was a heck of a good woman." She will forever be remembered for her devotion to her family and her sweet, spunky demeanor.

Her dedication to her children was an inspiration to those who knew her. She was a wonderfully giving and caring mother and grandmother. She will be greatly missed. Ruby was preceded in death by her husband, two brothers and two sisters.

Survivors include her daughters, Barbara and husband, Carl Fox, of Littleton, Colo., Susan and husband, Hugh Edmon, of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Linda and husband, Larry Gilley, of Shawnee; one son, James Mogridge and wife, Cindy, of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Carla Fox, Cindy Tishmack, Mike Fox, Chris Edmon, Christy Martin, Becky Lawson and Erin Cory; great-grandchildren, Jeremy Chuven, Justin Chuven, Jennifer Ryan, Ted Franco, Felecia Franco, Cade Martin and Campbell Martin; and great-great-grandchild, Caleb Chuven. Service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Sam Hendry officiating. Graveside service and burial will follow at 3 p.m. at Highland Cemetery in Okemah.

Service is under the direction of Walker Funeral Service,