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

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published Oct. 1, 2005

George Truman Jepsen., Lt. Col., Ret. 

Former Prague resident George Truman Jepsen, Jr., Lt. Col., Ret., of Granbury, Texas, went to Heaven on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2005, at the age of 83.
Mr. Jepsen was born to George and Mary Lillian (Ambrister) Jepsen on Nov. 18, 1921.

On November 28, 1942, he married Lloydell Joyce Oplinger. Together they had three children; Joyce, Jane, and George, III. Lloydell Jepsen passed away on January 28, 1978. God blessed Mr. Jepsen with a second marriage to Karen Durmon on June 21, 1980. Through this marriage his family grew to include four step-children; Kenneth Osborn, Rick Durmon, Kathy Goldman, and Rona Shoopack. As the years passed, Mr. Jepsen was blessed with loving grandchildren; Jason Martin, Jennifer Baird, and Rhiannon Jepsen; three great-grandchildren, Taylor Martin, Conner Martin, and Samantha Baird; five step-grandchildren, Sean Cox, Tyler Osborn, Lindsay Osborn, Brittany Pace, and Katie Shoopack.

Mr. Jepsen had many close friends and enjoyed time with his coffee buddies at What-a-Burger.

At a young age Mr. Jepsen wanted to fly. He fulfilled his teenage dream by attending Oklahoma Military Academy in 1939. He then joined the Army Air Corps in 1942 as a ferrying pilot, delivering planes all over the world during World War II, and was discharged in 1945.

He worked in the family milling business until 1951 when he was recalled into military service in the US Air Force. In the following years, he served in Germany, Spain, and England. Mr. Jepsen retired in 1970 as Lt. Col.

His parents, and one grandson, Kyle Martin, also preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Karen Jepsen of the home in Granbury, TX.; daughters, Joyce Marsh of Shawnee, and Jane Martin and her husband, Alan, of Prague; son, George Jepsen, III, and his wife Diane, of Shawnee; stepchildren Kenneth Osborn, Rick Durmon, Kathy Goldman, and Rona Shoopack; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and five step grandchildren.

Military graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, at the Prague Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

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

Paul Thomas Ramsey

Seminole resident Paul Thomas Ramsey, 81, died Friday Sept. 30 in Seminole.
Services will be 10 a.m. Monday at Living Water Pentecostal Holiness Church in Wetumka with the Rev. Renee Ross officiating. Burial will follow at Holdenville Cemetery in Holdenville.

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

Phala Lou Crownover 

El Reno resident Phala Lou Crownover, 77, died Wednesday, Sept. 28, in Oklahoma City.
She was born July 5, 1928, in Okemah to Louie R. and Bessie (Turner) Phelan.

She grew up in Shawnee and graduated high school in 1946. She attended Oklahoma Baptist University.

She married Kenneth Crownover on January 31, 1948.

She began playing the organ in the church in 1944, in Shawnee. In 1957 she became the organist at the Wesley United Methodist Church where she played until her retirement in 2004 (46 1/2 years).

She was a member and past president of the Damrosch Music Club, the Community Theatre where she served on the Board for several years, El Reno Community Chorus, past president of Jaycee Jaynes, member of the El Reno Country Club and Women's Gold Assoc. She was a very talented lady and for several years, she played and sang on the radio in Shawnee. She loved to play golf, and was a very avid sports fan ("Go OU"). She appeared in a long list of plays, and also taught piano and organ for over 20 years.

She is preceded in death by her parents; older sister, Grace, and younger sister, Theda.

Survivors include her husband Kenneth Crownover of the home; son, Randy Crownover and wife, Penny, of Edmond; daughter, Christina Provancha and husband, Arlen, of Perry, Mo.; her very dear, close family friend, Bonnie McBee and husband, Willie, of El Reno; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; numerous other nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Service will be 11 a.m. Monday at Wesley United Methodist Church with Dr. Guy Ames III and Dr. Richard D. Cato officiating. Burial will follow at the El Reno Cemetery under the direction of Wilson Funeral Home in El Reno.

The family has suggested memorials be made to: Wesley United Methodist Church, Choir Fund, 101 S Barker, El Reno, OK 73036. or to: Russell-Murray Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

published Oct. 2, 2005

Vaughn Erwin Megehee

Vaughn Erwin Megehee, 54, of Shawnee passed away Friday, Sept. 30, at his home.
Funeral will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Shawnee. Burial will be 2 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Edmond. Walker Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

Shannon Dale Carpenter

Shannon Dale Carpenter was born March 2, 1985, in Lake Charles, La., and departed this life Friday, Sept. 30, in Prague at the age of 20.

Shannon Dale Carpenter
Shannon, the son of Rodger Dale and Carolyn Lee (Stapp) Carpenter, was a resident of Prague. He attended Prague High School and was a member of Calvary Way Church. Shannon was an avid LSU fan.

Survivors include his parents, Rodger and Carolyn Carpenter of Prague; sisters and brother-in-law, Ashley and Trey Roberts of Seminole, Miranda Carpenter of Seminole and Courtney Carpenter of Prague; grandparents, Ollie and Rosa Carpenter of Lake Charles, La., and Virginia Stapp of Prague; great-grandmother, Edna Mills of Prague, several nieces and nephews and other relatives and many friends.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the First Baptist Church in Prague with the Rev. Starland Davis officiating. Burial will follow at the Prague Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

Carl Allen Rackley

Carl Allen Rackley, 61, went to be with is Lord Thursday, Sept. 29.

Carl Allen Rackley
He was born to Leo J. and Lelvia (Nuckols) Rackley in Shawnee on Nov. 16, 1943. He graduated from Shawnee High School in 1961 and served six years in the 95th Army Reserve. On June 26, 1965, he was married to Sherry Lynn Thurman at Downtown Pentecostal Holiness Church by the Rev. C.C. Atchley.

He retired from Wolverine Tube after 27 years, where he was a production supervisor. Prior to Wolverine, he worked as a carpenter with his dad and his brother-in-law, Bill Johnson. He was a member and attended Downtown Pentecostal Holiness Church. He was a die-hard Sooner fan and a season ticket holder for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo J. and Lelvia Rackley; parents-in-law, Melvin and Beulah Thurman; sister, Anna Rose; brother, Jesse Rackley, and grandson, Collin Ryan Haley.

Surviving are his wife, Sherry, of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Diana Lynn and Greg Young of Shawnee, Renei and Carl Allen of Ada; grandchildren, Maegan, Erika and Zachary; sister and brother-in-law, Edith and Bill Johnson of Shawnee; brothers-in-law and their wives, Ronnie and Vicki Thurman of Wanette, Donnie and Karen Thurman of Shawnee and Bill and Cathy Rose of Shawnee; sister-in-law, Dixie Rackley of Shawnee, and numerous other relatives and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at the Downtown Pentecostal Holiness Church with the Rev. Ron Baldridge officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial park. Walker Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

published Oct. 4, 2005

William Speed

William "Bill" Speed departed this life Tuesday, Sept. 27, from complications due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident Nov. 12, 2003.
He was born May 28, 1975, to David and Christy Petree Speed.

Survivors include his parents; brother and sister-in-law, David Wayne and Donna Speed of Joplin Mo.; grandparents, Don and Corky Petree of Shawnee; grandmother, Lahoma Curnette of Joplin.

Services were held Saturday at the Mason-Woodard Mortuary Chapel.

Comora L. Stanley

Shawnee resident Comora L. Stanley, 85, died Saturday, Oct. 1, at a local nursing home.
Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Liberty Baptist Church with Larry Goins and Phil Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

Heyward W. Scott Jr.

Chandler resident Heyward W. Scott Jr., 56, died Saturday, Oct. 1, in Chandler.
Private family memorial services will be held under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.

Jerry E. Wilson

Chandler resident Jerry E. Wilson, 55, died Friday, Sept. 30, in Shawnee.
Graveside service will be 1 p.m. Friday at Oak Park Cemetery, Chandler, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.

Virginia S. Hofmeister

Harrah resident Virginia S. Hofmeister, 82, died Thursday, Sept. 29, at a Midwest City hospital.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Dale Cemetery under the direction of Barnes & Johnson Funeral Home of Midwest City.

published Oct. 6, 2005

Bill Roberts

Tecumseh resident Bill Roberts, 73, died Sunday, Oct. 2, in Tecumseh.
He was born April 15, 1932, in Adell to Pryde Merritt and Rollo Mae (Burlison) Roberts.

Roberts began first grade in Tecumseh and was a 1950 graduate of Tecumseh High School. While in high school he participated in football, track, boxing and FFA. He later attended Poteau Junior College for one year and transferred to East Central State College in 1951 on a football scholarship. After his tour of duty, he resumed his education at East Central in January 1955 where he again played football for the East Central Tigers. He graduated in January 1957.

Roberts served in Korea with the U.S. Army from November 1952 until September 1954 where he received a Purple Heart. Following his military service, he entered the Army National Guard. He received his lieutenant commission in 1962 and retired in 1992 as a captain in the Oklahoma National Guard 45th Infantry Division.

He married Jody Whitsee in October 1952.

Bill taught and coached at Tecumseh High School for more than four years. In 1961 he began teaching at South Rock Creek one year after the new building was completed. At the beginning of the 1964-1965 school year he became principal and held that position until his retirement on Dec. 31, 1987. He preached for the Church of Christ for 28 years, served as pulpit minister in Tribbey for seven years and in Earlsboro from 1966 until 1994.

Respected for his work ethics, he was a past president and active member in the Tecumseh High School Alumni Association, American Legion, Oklahoma Educators Association and Pottawatomie County Retired Teachers Association. He also was a founding member of the Tecumseh Roundup Club and actively involved as a surrogate parent, mentor and citizen advisory board member at Central Oklahoma Juvenile Center. He also was an Eagle Scout.

Roberts was a Golden Gloves boxer, having boxed at Madison Square Gardens. He was an avid horseman, enjoying rodeos and trail rides. Roberts also enjoyed taking his grandchildren horseback riding and following their sports activities.

Preceding him in death are his parents; grandson, Cade Lozano; two sisters, Theresa Shirey and Alma Logsdon.

Survivors include his wife, Jody Roberts of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Tamara and Buddy Lawson of Shawnee, Lisa and Tom Wise of Lititz, Pa.; son and daughter-in-law, Merritt and Denise Roberts of Guthrie; sister and brother-in-law, Juanita and Jim Mongold of Shawnee; brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Joyce Roberts of Poteau; 10 grandchildren, Heather and Chad Bowlan, Shani and Ted Kruljac, Preston and Julie French, Tara and Carlos Lozano, Bethany Welden, Chelsey Welden, Sierra Welden, Ridge Roberts, Rachel Roberts, Reed Roberts; eight great-grandchildren and numerous other relatives and friends

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Highland Church of Christ with Brett McKnight and Bob Anderson officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.

Memorials may be sent to the Tecumseh Alumni Association or the Alzheimer's Association.

Lola Mae Skelton

Longtime Shawnee resident Lola Mae Skelton, 84, died Monday, Oct. 3, at Unity Health Center.
She was born March 2, 1921, in El Reno to Dan Bartlett and Lola Ann (Jobe). The family moved to Shawnee in 1935, where she lived the remainder of her life.

She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1939 and was married to Wayne Sutton until 1955. She worked at Tinker Air Force Base for 18 years before retiring in 1966.

On Oct. 28, 1967, she married the love of her life, Ed Skelton. Lola and Ed spent 17 years traveling in their fifth wheel and spending winters in "the Valley" of South Texas. Through their travels they made many close friends who shared their love of camping.

A few of Lola's many passions were embroidering and spending time with her grandchildren and her dog, Muffin. She enjoyed sharing her handiwork with friends and family. The pecan trees in her yard became a source of many pies that she became well-known for with her family and close friends. Lola loved helping people and appreciated being helped by others, and will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

Lola was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ed in 1989; and two sisters, Maxine Brune and Josephine Schroeder.

Two devoted children survive her, Dan Sutton of San Antonio, Texas, and Perthena Ann Latchaw of Shawnee. Other survivors include five grandchildren and spouses, Lisa Kay (Sutton) and LTC. Gregory A. White of Lithia, Fla., Wayne "Scotty" and Kimberly T. Sutton of San Mateo, Calif., Michelle Renee (Sutton) and John Stowell of Zurich, Switzerland, Romona Dee and Matthew Schober of Wichita, Kan., Maj. Jason Cory and Raelyn Latchaw of Okinawa, Japan; six great-grandchildren, Lindsey Maddison White, Grayson Patrick White, Landon Conner White, Nathan Charles Latchaw, Gabriel Scott Latchaw and Kayla Wren Sutton; five nieces and long time family friend, Mike Jeffers.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at the Resthaven Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Arthur Scrutchins officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions can be made in her name to the Arthritis Foundation, Oklahoma Chapter's, 3232 West Britton Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73120. Call toll free (888)501-2059 http://www.arthritis.org.

Exie Lee Blake

Seminole resident Exie Lee (Ledbetter) Blake, 84, died Sunday, Oct. 2, at Manor Care Nursing Home in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with Rev. Tommy Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

Erma Jo Shannon

Erma Jo Shannon, 80, of Seminole died Monday, Oct. 3, in Seminole Estates Nursing Home.
Services will be 10:30 a.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Harold Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery, Seminole County, under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole.

Joe Trousdel Keech

Harrah resident Joe Trousdel Keech, 97, died Monday, Oct. 3, in Harrah.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at the Lighthouse Family Church, Harrah, with the Rev. David Dick and the Rev. Delbert Reed officiating. Burial will be 1 p.m. at Oak Park Cemetery, Chandler, under the directin of Smith~Parks Funeral Service in Harrah.

Gladys L. Blue

Shawnee resident Gladys L. Blue, 87, died Tuesday, Oct. 4, at a local nursing home.
She was born July 17, 1918, to Eva and Henry Prater in Asher.

Blue was a homemaker and worked in housekeeping at Shawnee Regional.

She was a longtime member of Trinity Baptist Church and a member of the Mary Lydia Sunday School Class.

Blue was married to George Blue one month short of 50 years.

She loved spending time doing crafts with her children and grandchildren. She also loved shopping at the Dollar Tree with her great-granddaughter, Abbye.

Blue is preceded in death by her husband; five brothers and three sisters.

Survivors include three daughters and two sons-in-law, Pat and Bob Moore of Tecumseh, Phyllis and Tom Flora of Shawnee, Debra Fielding of Shawnee; one brother, Charles Prater of Prague; seven grandchildren, Steve and Desiree Moore of Shawnee, Rhonda and Bob Porro of Sahaurita, Ariz., Tammy and Johnny Krausse of Sapulpa, Cody Flora and Matthew Fielding of Shawnee, Wendy Flora of Virginia, Holly Flora Meck of New York; eight great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, John Calvin Blue of Cathederal, Calif.; sister-in-law, Norma J. Blue of Del City; numerous nieces, nephews and friends who loved her dearly.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at the chapel of Walker Funeral Service with the Rev. John Burns officiating. The casket will remain open until service time and will not be opened after the survice. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice of Shawnee.

published Oct. 7, 2005

Joseph Erwin Walker

Bethel Acres resident Joseph Erwin Walker, 83, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, at his home.
He was born Jan. 16, 1922, in Shawnee to Joseph E. and Flora (Bender) Walker.

He graduated from Shawnee High School.

He was married to Lucille (Barne) Walker for 46 years. She died Jan. 19, 1990.

He served in the Army Air Corps.

He was a member of the Bethel United Methodist Church, American Legion Post 16, Shawnee Historical Society and a volunteer at the Sante Fe Depot Museum. He also served on the Bethel School Board.

Survivors include his son, Joe Walker and fiancee, Marilyn Frank; granddaughter, Kimberly Jo Walker; and Marilyn's children, Tia and Justin.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Resthaven Memorial Park with the Rev. Chris Talley officiating.

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

Eva Lee Durham

Konawa resident Eva Lee Durham, 76, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, at Seminole Estates Nursing Home.
Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Pickard-Swearingen Funeral Chapel in Konawa with the Rev. Wade Scott officiating. Burial will follow at Vamoosa Cemetery.

Pickard-Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa, is directing arrangements.

Winford Hatmaker

Longtime Prague resident Winford Hatmaker, 78, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, in Prague.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with Bro. Tim Emmons officiating. Burial will follow at the Prague Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Home in Prague.

published Oct. 9, 2005

Edith Jane Adams

Paden resident Edith Adams, 68, died Thursday, Oct. 6, in Oklahoma City.
She was born Oct. 26, 1936, in Booneville, Miss., to James Claudie and Hazel Beatrice (Cole) Martin.

On Oct. 15, 1955, she married Billy Joe Adams in Paden. He preceded her in death June 20, 1999.

She retired in 1997 from the U.S. Civil Service. Edith and Billy Joe moved to Alaska in 1965 where they enjoyed the wonders of nature and outdoor adventures. Following their retirements, they moved back to Paden to enjoy fellowship with family and friends.

Edith enjoyed traveling all the United States, attending church at Faith Bible Church, reading and studying the Bible. But nothing made Edith happier than being with her family and sharing her love for God with others.

Preceding her in death are her parents; one brother, Hershel Martin; and two sisters, Doris Watkins and Millie Hendrix.

Survivors include her son and daughters-in-law, Ron and Judy Adams and Casey Ray Adams, all of Anchorage, Alaska; daughter, Janice Gamble of Anchorage; seven grandchildren, Carl Gamble of Anchorage, Amanda Beaver of Dover, Del., Brittany, Tanner, Brooke and Kara Adams, all of Anchorage, Angela and Chris Gamble of Vancouver, Wash.; four great-grandchildren, Cody and Coa Gamble of Anchorage, Tyler and Felicia Gamble of Vancouver. Wash.; brother-in-law, Charles and Ruby Adams of Paden; sisters-in-law, Darlene Adams of Paden and Pauline Martin of Bowlegs.

Service will be 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 10, at Faith Bible Church in Prague with the Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery, Paden, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

Candice Jeanne Wells

Candice Jeanne Wells, 51, died Monday, Oct. 3, at her home.
She was born June 22, 1954, in Hollywood, Calif., to Patrick and Marsha Cunning.

She graduated from Beverly Hills High School.

In 1975 she married Dayland Leon Wells in Fresno, Calif.

She worked as a certified medical aide at New Horizon Nursing Home in Konawa. She was a member of the Salvation Army for Christ and had a deep desire to give to the homeless. She was known for speaking her mind and taking responsibility for her own actions. Those who met her will deeply miss her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a sister, Shannon Welch; and a brother, Christopher Cunning.

Survivors include three children, Genea Lynn Jones of Shawnee, Wendy Jeanne Wells of Shawnee, and Chandra Jeanne Welch of Tracy, Calif.; two stepdaughters; Dayna Lynn Wells of Fresno, Calif., and Esther Marie Wells of Fresno, Calif.; three grandchildren; one brother, Dannion Cunning of Lake Havasu City, Ariz.; and one brother-in-law, Wayland D. Wells of New York, N.Y.

Graveside service was held 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at the Hanna Cemetery in Hanna, OK.

Arrangements were under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home in Shawnee.

Pearl Edith Coursey

Pearl Edith Coursey passed from this life to her home in heaven on Oct. 6, 2005, just eight days shy of her 95th birthday.
She was born in Hot Springs, Ark., on Oct. 15, 1910, to Albert and Susie Mullins. At the age of 5, her family and four other families made a five-month trip in covered wagon to Wewoka.

She and Elmer "Casey" Coursey were married Sept. 17, 1928. Casey passed away Feb. 27, 1997.

Pearl worked for the Big Yank Co. in Wewoka for 32 years. Soon after retirement, she and Casey moved to Shawnee, where she resided until entering the McLoud Nursing Center in March 2002. She thoroughly enjoyed the company of the other residents, many of the staff and especially the people from Good Shepherd Hospice.

Pearl spent much of her time reading her Bible and crocheting dresses for more than 200 dolls, which she gave to residents, staff and to many children.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, two sisters, and two brothers.

Four sons and their wives survive her: Dan and Sarah Coursey of McLoud, Emmitt and Ruth Coursey of Oklahoma City, Eddie and Peggy Coursey of Altus and Glenn and Claudette Coursey of Shawnee.

Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, at the Oakwood Cemetery, Wewoka with Bill Tomlin, chaplin for Good Shepherd officiating. Memorials may be made to the Good Shepherd Hospice at 4411 Highland Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73108-1865.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home, Wewoka.

Alonzo Jenkins

Depew resident Alonzo Jenkins, 92, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, in Stroud.
Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday with the Rev. Jimmy Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Bailey Cemetery East of Depew.

Arrangements under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Services in Stroud.

Dia Bella Cassettari

Dia Bella Cassettari, infant daughter of Michael and Amber Cassettari, died Friday, Oct. 7, in Oklahoma City.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Brown Cemetery. Cooper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Lettie Marie Hicks

Longtime Seminole resident Lettie Marie Hicks, 87, died Friday, Oct. 7, at Seminole Estates Nursing Home.
Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Swearingen Funeral Home with Chris Stinnett and Kirk Cowell officiating. Burial will be 3 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, P.O. Box 323, Shawnee OK 74802-0343.

Conley Copeland

Services for former Shawnee resident Conley "Short" Copeland, 74, of Checotah will be 2 p.m. Monday at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel with Delbert Akin officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery in Shawnee.
Military honors will be provided by the U.S. Army Honor Guard.

Helen May (Bergeron) Godfrey

Tecumseh resident Helen May (Bergeron) Godfrey died Friday, Oct. 7, in Ada at the age of 91.
Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church, Tecumseh, with the Rev. Don Bergeron and the Rev. Dr. Tim Walker officiating. Burial will be at Neal Cemetery.

Cooper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Gary Wayne Coker

Seminole resident Gary Wayne Coker, 59, died Saturday, Oct. 8.
Services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. T.J. Fixico officiating. Burial will follow at the Harjo Family Cemetery in Seminole County.

published Oct. 11, 2005

Bonnie Belle King

Bonnie Belle King, 90, died Friday, Oct. 7, in the home of her son and daughter-in-law, where she's lived for nearly ten years.
She was born Aug. 30, 1915, in Nowata to Shube Worth Robbins and Zola Irene Haifley Robbins.

On Dec. 23, 1939, she married Dariel Wilson King.

She earned her teacher certification at East Central University in Ada.

They resided in Comanche until 1972 and then lived in Marlow where she enjoyed gardening, needlework and birdwatching.

She was best-known for her involvement with the First Baptist Church of Duncan. She served as a missionary teacher in American Samoa as part of the Baptist Mission Corps and enjoyed traveling by RV to see daughters in Texas and Florida. She also enjoyed trips to Mexico, Jerusalem and the Holy Lands.

Besides spending time with her family, she loved watching sports and being involved at church where she was known as a prayer warrior and teacher. In 1995, she took residence with her son and daughter-in-law, Dee and Dodee King in Ponca City and has lived with them in Stillwater since 1997.

She enjoyed her time at Life Adult Day Center participating in crafts, exercise, reading and social activities. After some assistance from Home Call, Judith Karman Hospice served Bonnie as well.

She died peacefully in her room surrounded by loved ones and photos representing her full Christian life.

She is preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Helen Woods.

She is survived by her daughters, Zoanne Hogg of Fort Worth, Texas, Sandi Huffines of Fort Myers, Fla.; and son D.W. "Dee" King of Stillwater. Sandi is married to Calvin Huffines, and Dee is married to Dodee King. She had seven grandchildren including Zoanne's children, Tommy Hogg and Robyn Wright. Robyn is married to Gary Wright and has three children, Jessica and Shane Smith and Gary Wright Jr. Sandi and Calvin's oldest son Robbin Huffines is married to Jessica and they are expecting their first child in November. Their youngest son Mark Huffines is married to Sarah. Dee and Dodee have three children, Jamy Fisher, John King and Laurie Taylor. Jamy and husband Todd live in Shawnee, with two children, Zachary and Carly. Todd will preside over the graveside service before he and Jamy host a family gathering in their home. John King is married to Mikala and has one daughter, Raigan. Laurie is married to Robb Taylor and they have two daughters, Brennyn and Sydney.

Graveside service was 2 pm Monday at Shawnee's Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Strode Funeral Home in Stillwater.

Honorary Pallbearers were; Tommy Hogg, Robbin Huffines, Mark Huffines, John King, Robb Taylor, Todd Fisher and Randy Williams.

In remembrance, friends and family are encouraged to make contributions to Life Adult Day Center, 411 West Mathews, Stillwater, OK., 74075, 405-377-0978.

Helen May Godfrey

Tecumseh resident Helen May (Bergeron) Godfrey, 91, died Friday, Oct. 7, in Ada.
She was born May 21, 1914, in Shawnee, to William Oliver and Maudie C. (Evans) Bergeron.

On July 8, 1939, she married Victor E. Godfrey . He preceded her in death on July 7, 1987.

She spent her childhood in Shawnee, Wanette, and Maud. She later lived in Arizonia, South Dakota, and Nebraska before returning to Oklahoma in 1989.

She was a homemaker, as well as a nurses' aid in Shawnee and Aberdeen, S.D. Along with her husband, they were house parents for the Visually Handicapped in Aberdeen following her husband's retirement in 1960.

She was a Citizen Potawatomi Tribal member and an active member of the First Baptist Church in Tecumseh.

She enjoyed swimming, flower gardening, bird watching, sewing, quilting, crocheting, knitting and Scrabble. She received joy in the successes of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; a son, William Godfrey; two stepdaughters, Dorothy Gene Godfrey and Lois Rence; her parents; and nine siblings.

Survivors include four sons and three daughters-in-law, Victor and Ruth Godfrey of Watertown, S.D., George and Pat Godfrey of Springfield, Ill., Tom and Terri Godfrey of Aberdeen, S.D., and Charles Godfrey, of Dearborn Heights, Mich.; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Edith and Richard Birge of Poteau and Alice Greenwalt of Shawnee; two brothers and one sister-in-law, John Bergeron of Earlsboro and Don and Helen Bergeron of Oklahoma City; 18 grandchildren, 19 Great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at First Baptist Church of Tecumseh with the Rev. Don Bergeron and Dr. Tim Walker officiating. Burial will follow at Neal Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh

Herbert George Baade

McLoud resident Herbert George Baade, 90, died Friday, Oct. 7, at Solara Hospital in Shawnee.
He was born Oct. 1 , 1915, in McLoud to Conrad and Margaret (Tischer) Baade.

He proudly received his Eagle Scout Badge at age 16. After graduation, he joined his father in the farming and ranching business until 1940, when he joined the Army Air Corp.

He served five years. He was stationed in China and India as well as Las Vegas, where he was a flight instructor.

In June of 1943 he married Mildred Tilbury.

After being discharged in 1946, Mr. and Mrs. Baade moved to State Center near Jones. They farmed there until 1951.

In the fall of 1950, they bought the Newton Farm just off Fishmarket Road in McLoud and have made their home there for 55 years.

Herbert received numerous awards for farming and service to the community, including The Bankers Award for Conservation in 1959 and Farmer of the Year for Pottawatomie County for 1960. He also was honored as a 60-year Mason.

He was a member of the McLoud AARP, the American Legion and a longtime member of the McLoud United Methodist Church since age 14.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two infant sons and two sisters, Ruth and Margaret.

Survivors include his wife, Mildred Baade of the home; one daughter and son-in-law, Linda and David Smith of McLoud; one brother and sister-in-law, Alfred and Rosalee Baade of McLoud; two grandchildren and spouses, Chandi and Brian Epperly of Yukon and Jeff and Heather Smith of The Village; one great-grandson, Brynnen Epperly; many other relatives and friends.

Service will be 2 pm today at McLoud United Methodist Church with the Rev. Ruth Tipps officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery, McLoud, under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service in Harrah.

William Raymond Willis

Luther resident William Raymond "Ray" Willis, 67, passed away Saturday, Oct. 8, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 29, 1938, to Loyd and Flossie (Tooley) Willis.

Preceding him in death are his parents; brother, Bobby; sister, Donna; father and mother-in-law, John and Anna Davis.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Bea Willis; two sons and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Jamie Willis of Norman and Michael Willis of Edmond; brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Una Willis of Shawnee; five sisters and brothers-in-law, Mary and Jim Stockton of Shawnee, Nancy and Jerry Moore of Earlsboro, Saundra and Leon Carter of Tecumseh, Elizabeth Oliver of Tecumseh, and Debra and James Dean of Tecumeh; two sisters-in-law, Carol Orlik and Linda Dias, both of Massachusetts; granddaughters, Krystine and Sami Meadows; numerous other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 1 p.m. today at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Brown Funeral Home of Luther.

Edd Pernicka

Lifelong Prague resident Edd Pernicka, 85, died Sunday, Oct. 9, at his home.
He was born May 28, 1920, in Prague to Tom and Frances (Sekera) Pernicka.

On April 18, 1942, he married Margie Beryl Riddle in Anadarko. She preceded him in death Dec. 12, 2003.

He served his country in the South Pacific in World War II in the U.S. Army.

He was a farmer, a member fo the Church of Christ, ZCBJ and the American Legion.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Emil Pernicka; and one sister, Bessie Pernicka.

Survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Margie and Tommie Pechacek and Barbara and Chester Loafman, all of Prague; sister-in-law, Pearl Pernicka; five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; a number of nieces and nephews.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with Dale Janda and Palmer Smith officiating. Burial will follow at the Czech National Cemetery in Prague under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

Andrew E. Bradford

Mayetta, Kan., resident Andrew E. Bradford, 66, died Sunday, Oct. 9, at a Topeka Kan., hospital.
A wake will be held Wednesday evening at the church hall with a rosary at 7 p.m. He will lie in state until 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church west of Mayetta. Burial will be at Shipshee Cemetery under the direction of Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.
 

published Oct. 12, 2005

Emylee M. Fitzgerald

Oklahoma City resident Emylee M. Fitzgerald, 81, died Monday, Oct. 10, in Oklahoma City.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at Oak Park Cemetery, Chandler, with the Rev. Sungsu Hwang officiating. Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.

Jack (J.D.) Moore

Eureka Springs, Ark., resident Jack (J.D.) Moore died Sunday, Oct. 2, in Eureka Springs.
Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Lewis Cox officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

Rebecca Lynn Brauer

Kendrick resident Rebecca Lynn (Watson) Brauer, 34, died Sunday, Oct. 9, in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Kendrick Cemetery with the Rev. Darrell Robinson officiating. Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Stroud.

Kenneth A. Butler

Shawnee resident Kenneth A. Butler, 78, died Tuesday, Oct. 11, at Unity Health Center in Shawnee.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Elk City Cemetery in Elk City.

Arrangements are under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home in Shawnee.

William W. Walker

Shawnee resident William W. "Winky" Walker, 48, passed away Saturday, Oct. 8, in Oklahoma City.
He was born Dec. 3, 1956, in San Francisco, Calif., to Billy Jay and Dorothy Ann (Burton) Walker.

Walker served in the U.S. Air Force from 1976 - 1978. He worked as an agent for Shelter Insurance Company for several years and then became a carpenter.

He is preceded in death by his father.

Survivors include his mother, Dorothy (Burton) Walker of Maud; one son, Will Walker III, of Shawnee; one daughter, Brandy Walker of New Port Richey, Fla.; two sisters, Doreena Hooker and Suzi Garner, both of Maud; girlfriend, Star Hollingshead of Shawnee; and seven grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Marty Guinn, Lonnie Brooks, Lawrence Brooks, Jasson Meadows, Willie and Waylon Hooker. Honorary bearers will be Seth Ryan, Bill Hooker and Geoff Garner.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Trinity Baptist Church in Maud with the Rev. Wayne Taylor officiating. Burial will follow at Cummings Cemetery in Maud under the direction of Knight~Swearingen Funeral Home, Maud.

Dia Bella Cassettari

Dia Bella Cassettari, infant daughter of Michael and Amber Cassettari, died Friday, Oct. 7, in Oklahoma City.
She was born Sept. 4, 2005, in Oklahoma City.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Lawrence A. Cassettari and her great-grandfather, Virgil Murphy.

Survivors include her parents, Michael and Amber Cassettari of Shawnee; sister, Gabriella Angelina Cassettari; grandparents, Bob and Linda Lynn of Shawnee, Diane Cassettari and Jessie Thurmond of Newcastle, Jimmy Wimpy of Tuttle; great-grandmother, Moreene Murphy of Shawnee; uncles and aunt, Curtis Lynn of Shawnee, and Paul and Nina, Cassettari of Oklahoma City; and great-aunt, Linda Hubbard of Perkins.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Brown Cemetery with Linda Brinkworth, St. Luke's United Methodisty Church.

Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh is directing arrangements.

Frankie Zora Bozeman

Frankie Zora Bozeman, 97, went to be with the Lord Sunday, Oct. 9.
She was born Sept. 16, 1908, in Jasper, Ark., to J.C. Pruitt and Eva (Truelove). Frankie was a lifelong Shawnee resident that enjoyed life, family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Clyde M. Bozeman; one brother and one sister.

Survivors include one brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Ruth Lee of Shawnee; several nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Services will be 1 p.m. today at Resthaven Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Chuck Utsler officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home of Shawnee.

Michael Stephen Haney

Glenpool resident Michael Stephen Caske Haney, 57, died Saturday, Oct. 8, at a Tulsa hospital.
He was born Sept. 19, 1948, in Oklahoma City to Norman Perry Haney and Evelyn (Brave) Haney.

He attended school at Strother and graduated from McLoud High School.

He served as a medic specialist in Vietnam in the U.S. Army.

He served on the Grand Governing Council of American Indian Movement, was chairman of the National Indian Repatriation, executive director of Native American Grave Repatriation Protection Association, American Indian Arbitration Institute and the Gaming Commission of the Seminole Nation, chairperson of United Indian Nations of Oklahoma Reburial Committee,and executive director of National Coalition Against Racism in Sports and Media.

He was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Norman Perry Haney Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Cheri Haney of the home; his beloved only daughter, Ahkehdoy Brave Haney of Shawnee; two sons Little Crow Brave Haney of Colorado and Hinhanskahoksila Haney of the home; one cherished grandson, Alexandrake Ishokpi Shawn Haney; mother Evelyn (Brave) Haney of McLoud; two sisters, Muriel Alice Wakolee and Janet Stephani Byington; and numerous other exceptionally close relatives.

A wake will be 7 p.m. tonight at Seminole Hitchitee United Indian Methodist Church. Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at the Seminole Hitchitee United Methodist Church with the Rev. Timothy Byington officiating. Burial will be at Hitchitee Cemetery.

He leaves us for a new spiritual journey and thanks the Creator that he was born Native American.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.
 

published Oct. 13, 2005

Kenneth A. Butler

Shawnee resident Kenneth A. Butler, 78, died Tuesday, Oct. 11, at Unity Health Center in Shawnee.
He was born Dec. 14, 1926, in Roberts County, Texas, to Alva and Mildred (Barker) Butler.

He was reared in western Oklahoma during the "Dust Bowl" and "The Depression". He graduated from Reydon High School in 1944. He worked in the wheat harvest and attended college at Weatherford.

He served during World War II in the U. S. Navy.

After his discharge from the Navy, he returned to western Oklahoma and worked various jobs in Sayre and Elk City.

In 1950, he married Estaleen Ballard.

As a member of the Naval Reserve, he was called back into service during the Korean War.

After being released from the Navy in 1952, he moved to Oklahoma City and worked at Tinker Air Force Base where he worked for 28 years before retiring. After retiring he began an antiques restoration shop. In 1987, his wife, Estaleen, passed away and he moved on from the antiques business.

He then married Maurine Cullins.

He pursued an interest in "old west outlaws and lawmen', resulting in a book he wrote and titled "Oklahoma Renegades".

He was a life member of the National Association for Outlaw and Lawman History, a charter member of the Association for the Preservation of Lawman and Outlaw History of Oklahoma, and life member of the VFW and AMVETS.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a wife, Estaleen; and a brother, Gerald Butler.

Survivors include his wife, Maurine Butler of the home; one daughter, Doris Butler of Oklahoma City; one aunt, Ruth Hughes of Reydon; and several nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Elk City Cemetery. He may be viewed at Resthaven Funeral Home in Shawnee until 5 p.m. today

Arrangements are under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home in Shawnee.

Jack (J.D.) Moore

Eureka Springs resident Jack (J.D.) Moore, 83, died Sunday, Oct. 2. in Eureka Springs, Ark.
He was born April 2, 1922, in Stratford to Orba O. and Edith Elizabeth (Duggan) Moore.

Feb. 17, 1960, he married Phyllis LaJoy Deaton near Ada. She preceded him in death on Feb. 14, 2000.

He served in the Army during World War II and later was a truck driver and farmer.

He was of the Baptist faith and a member of the American Legion Post 0191 in Stratford.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; his first wife, Wilma Maxine (Fry) Moore; and son, Kenneth Ray Moore.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Kay Moore of Norman; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and James McNair of Alpena, Ark; three grandsons, Jackie Cole, and Jeff and Jordan McNair; three granddaughters, Karen Adams, Heather Cox, and Amy Davila; and three great-grandsons, Jack and Dillon Adams, and Spencer Albright.

Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Lewis Cox officiating. Burial to follow at Resthaven Memorial Park in Shawnee.

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

Leah (Tiger) Wood

Leah (Tiger) Wood, 82, died Monday, Oct. 10.
Service will be 3 p.m. today at Advantage-Branstetter Funeral Chapel in Oklahoma City. Glorieta Baptist Church, 7300 S Western will be hosting a dinner at 1 p.m. for family and friends.

Advantage-Branstetter Funeral Service of Oklahoma City is directing arrangements.

Peggy Ann Ford

Prague resident Peggy Ann Ford, 66, died Tuesday, Oct. 11, at her home in Prague.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at the Prague Cemetery with the Rev. Kevin Wehrli officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service of Prague.

Clarence O. Guest

Clarence O. Guest, 78, died Wednesday, Oct. 12, at a local hospital.
Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Resthaven Funeral Chapel.

Other information is pending with Resthaven Funeral Home in Shawnee.

published Oct. 14, 2005

Eugene D. Cook

Eugene D. Cook, 84, of Grayson, Ga., died Monday, Oct. 3.
A native of Asher, he was the son of the late Willie H. and Willie Mae Kelley Cook.

He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was a B-17 combat pilot. Serving in the European Theater his plane was shot down over Germany and was held as a wounded prisoner of war for over 18 months. He retired from the Air Force after 22 years of service with the rank of Lt. Col. After his retirement he was employed with the Veterans Administration in Washington DC and Gainesville Fla. He was a member of the Campus View Church of Christ in Athens.

Survivors include his wife, Mozelle Cook of Grayson, Ga.; a son, Eugene D. Cook Jr. of Paducah, Ky.; two daughters, Shirley J. Bartlett of Grayson and Kathleen M. Cook of Nashville, Tenn.; a brother, William H. Cook of Padre Island, Corpus Christi, Texas; three sisters, Lois Sasser of Huntington, W. Va., Thelma Lee of Ellaville, Ga., and Zelma Crothers of Shawnee; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Service was 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, at Campus View Church of Christ with Steve Watson officiating. Burial was at Arlington National Cemetery. The family received friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5 at Bernstein Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to North Georgia Christian Family Services-Falling Creek Ranch, P.O. Box 6506, Elberton, Ga. 30635, or Atlanta Area Chapter of the Alzheimer Association, 1925 Century Blvd, Ste 10, Atlanta, Ga. 30345.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bernstein Funeral Home, www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com

Donald L. Kieffer

Tecumseh resident Donald L. Kieffer, 59, of Tecumseh died Wednesday, Oct. 12, in Tecumseh.
He was born March 24, 1946, in Shawnee to Louie J. and Beatrice Lillian (Holt) Kieffer.

He served with the U.S. Army during Vietnam.

He was born in Shawnee and lived in Tecumseh and Skagg City most of his life. He was a graduate of Tecumseh High School.

He worked at Tinker Air Force Base until his retirement.

He was a member of the Sharon Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Jerry Kieffer; and one sister, Sue Nichol.

Survivors include three sons and duaghters-in-law, Paul and Jennifer Kieffer of Avant, Jeff and Carrie Kieffer of Shawnee, and Jay and Miranda Kieffer of Ada; six grandchildren; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenneth and Joi Kieffer of Norman, and Clifford and Judy Kieffer of Tecumseh; a brother-in-law, Dudley Nickel; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Clint Dawkins officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh.

Bruce Hisaw

Tecumseh resident Bruce Hisaw, 70, died Wednesday, Oct. 12, in Shawnee.
Service is 10 a.m. Friday at Floral Haven Cemetery in Broken Arrow with the Rev. Johnnie Faught officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh.

Frances A. Casteel

Tecumseh resident Frances A. Casteel, 71, died Wednesday, Oct. 12.
She was born June 13, 1934 in Tecumseh to Burl and Linnie Dunbar.

She attended Tecumseh schools and lived in the Shawnee-Tecumseh area all of her life.

On Oct. 15, 1956 she married Elwyn Casteel in Riverside, Calif.

She was an employee of Sirloin Stockade of Shawnee for 16 years before owning her own business, The Finishing Touch.

She was a member of Liberty Baptist Church and also was an avid bowler for many years.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, L.A., and Glenn Dunbar.

Survivors include her husband of 49 years, Elwyn Casteel of the home; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Don and Josephine Casteel of Tecumseh, and John Casteel and his fiancee Karen Melton of Shawnee; two daughters and sons-in-law, Cathy and Rick Hall of McLoud and Crystal and Ronnie Stevenson of Shawnee; three sisters and two brothers-in-law Ruby and Jack Waltrop of Meeker, Ann Thompson of Tecumseh, and Eddie and Mike Penisten of Shawnee; 13 grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and numerous other relatives and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Liberty Baptist Church with Bill Matthews, Phil Thompson, and Larry Goins officiciating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home in Shawnee.

The family would like to send a special thanks to Paula Avery of the Alzheimer's Association and to all the caregivers of Angelic Family Hospice in their time of need. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in her honor to Azheimer's Association, 1 N. Hudson Ste. 800, Okla. City, OK 73102 or Angelic Family Hospice, 431 N. Beard, Shawnee, OK 74801.

published Oct. 15, 2005

Kelsey Briggs

A funeral service for the Briggs family and friends of Kelsey Briggs, 2 1/2, will be 10 a.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Home, Prague.
Kelsey was born Dec. 28, 2002, to Lance Briggs and Raye Dawn Porter.

She died Oct. 11, 2005, at Prague Hospital.

She loved swinging and gymnastics and riding her John Deere tractor. She also loved to bite.

Kelsey is survived by her father, SPC Lance Briggs of Fort Benning, Ga.; paternal grandparents, Royce and Kathie Briggs of Meeker; stepgrandpareents, Jay and Teri Sigman of Shawnee; aunts and uncles, Shirica Howard of Meeker, Jeanna and Randy Fowler of Meeker, Robynn and Gary Stell of Meeker and Shawn and Kristy Middleton of Shawnee; great-grandparents, Carl and Edna Briggs of Shawnee, Joy Batt and Joy Rose, both of Shawnee, Leon and Nita Rice of Meeker, Jim and Cleone Sigman of Tecumseh and the late Raymond L. Batt; and numerous other family members and friends.

Kelsey Shelton Smith

Kelsey Shelton Smith departed this life on Oct. 11, 2005, at the tender age of two years, nine months and two weeks, at her home in Meeker.
Kelsey was born Dec. 28, 2002, in Oklahoma City to Raye Dawn (Smith) Porter and Lance Robinson (Briggs).

Kelsey loved to dance and do the cha-cha with her mommy. She loved playing with her brother and sister and loved riding roller coasters with mommy. She would do anything as long as her mommy did it with her. She was always waiting on Grandma Gayla because they would do everything together that people could possibly think of. Kelsey always looked forward to her cousins, Merissa and Sierra, coming to stay the weekend with her. Kelsey's favorite movies were "Shrek," "Stuart Little 2" and "Monsters Inc." Most of all, she loved to lie down and sleep with her mommy, whether it be just a little nap or all night long.

She was preceded in death by her papa, Ray Shelton Smith; grandfather, Erdis Elvis Fowler; great-grandmother, Alta Smith; great-grandfather, Arthur Dee Smith and great-great-grandmother, Belvis Lucretia Winter.

Survivors include her mommy, Raye Dawn (Smith) Porter; stepfather, Mike Porter; sister, Whitney Porter; brother, Michael (Bubby) Porter, all of the home; father, Raymond Lance Robinson (Briggs); grandmother, Gayla Smith of Meeker; great-grandmother, Mildred Fowler of Meeker; grandmother, Kathie Briggs of Meeker; great-grandmother, Bernice Rose of Shawnee and many, many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at the Assembly of God Church in Meeker with the Rev. Charles Pearcy officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Meeker.

Viewing and visitation will be 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague.

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

Don William Henderson

Don William Henderson, 73, of Mexico Beach, Fla., died Wednesday, Oct. 12, in Panama City, Fla.
Services will be 10:30 A.M. today at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. John May officiating.

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

Donald Hugh Shelby

Donald Hugh Shelby, 87, died Thursday, Oct. 13, at the Harrah Nursing Center.
Services will be 2 P.M. Tuesday, at the First United Methodist Church in Choctaw. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Choctaw.

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

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