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

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published Aug. 15, 2006

Harvey L. Gibson

Tonkawa resident Harvey L. Gibson died Sunday, Aug. 13, in Tonkawa at the age of 68.
Harvey was born Dec. 2, 1937, in Norman to Willie Lewis and Sally (Bob) Gibson. He was raised in Little Axe and had lived in Tonkawa for the past 25 years.

He attended Pawnee Indian School. He was a member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe and was active in the Native American Church. He enjoyed going to the Ceremonial Grounds.

Harvey served in the U.S. Army.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Marvin Gibson and Richard Gibson; and two sisters, Offie Gibson and Cleona Mann.

Survivors include four sons, Roy Gene Gibson of Harrah, Gary Gibson of Little Axe, David M. Gibson and Wilfred L. Gibson, both of Ponca City; three daughters, Sharon Shawnee of Shawnee, Katie Yates of Norman and Leila K. Hicks of Welty; 14 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two brothers, Isaac Gibson of Little Axe and Delbert Gibson of Sapulpa.

Wake service will be held tonight at the Absentee Shawnee Community Center with Wiley Little Creek officiating. Burial will be 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Absentee Shawnee Burial Ground.


Cathryn L. Childers

Shawnee resident Cathryn L. "Kate" Childers, 65, died Friday, Aug. 11, in Midwest City.
She was born March 29, 1941, in Bokoshe, Okla. to Bert Little and Mildred (Whitecotten) Little.

She and her husband, Leo Elzie Childers, owned Leo's Tire Service in Oklahoma City.

Cathryn enjoyed fishing, animals and spending time with her nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents and husband.

Survivors include three brothers, three sisters and numerous nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Bethel Cemetery with Pastor Larry Ice officiating.

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


Louis H. Harwell

Lifelong Tecumseh resident Louis H. Harwell, 69, passed away Sunday, Aug. 13, in Oklahoma City.
He was born March 15, 1937, in Tecumseh to John Hamilton and Pauline (Kline) Harwell.

In 1955 he graduated from Tecumseh High School. He began working for R.S. Goodman installing electrical highlines and later worked for Southwestern Bell (later as AT&T) in Clinton, Wewoka and Shawnee. He retired in 1989 after 30 years of service.

Louis was a member of the Tecumseh Masonic Lodge and the Tecumseh Alumni Association.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and spent most of his time working cattle and cutting hay with his son.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two sisters, Virginia Sanders and Louise Harwell; and one brother, John H. Harwell Jr.

Survivors include two sons and one daughter-in-law, Jeff and Shelly Harwell of Earlsboro, Louis "Butch" Harwell of Shawnee; one daughter, Lauri Brockman of Choctaw; grandchildren, Jodi and Jessica Harwell of Earlsboro, Allison Harwell of Shawnee, Morgan Brockman of Choctaw; two brothers and sisters-in-law, John and Faye Harwell, Bill and Carol Harwell, all of Tecumseh; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Patsy and Robert Axtman of Missouri, Peggy Harwell of Shawnee, Jane Harwell of Tulsa; brother-in-law, C.E. Sanders of Missouri; friend, Gerry Smith of Shawnee; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family will receive friends at Cooper Funeral Home today from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Jeff Hogen, pastor of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Tecumseh, officiating.

Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery.


Tonji Jo Pryor

Longtime Stroud resident Tonji Jo Pryor died Saturday, Aug. 12, in Shawnee. She was 63.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Joe Jones officiating.

Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Shawnee under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


Carolyn Hancock WhiteCloud

El Reno resident Carolyn Hancock WhiteCloud, 56, died Saturday, Aug. 12, at Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at the Wesley United Methodist Church in El Reno.

Burial will follow at El Reno Cemetery under the direction of Huber-Benson Funeral Home, El Reno.


Marjorie Dill Bradbury Galpin

Seminole resident Marjorie Dill Bradbury Galpin, 81, died Friday, Aug. 11, in Seminole.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with Louis Armour and Shane Iverson officiating.

Burial will follow at Little Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.

published Aug. 16, 2006

Bill J. Fleming

Shawnee resident Bill J. Fleming passed away Monday, Aug. 14, at his home. He was 74.
He was born Nov. 30, 1931, in Chickasha to W.O. and Viola (Large) Fleming.

Bill graduated from Shawnee High School in January 1951. He was a member of the football and track team. Bill was a lifelong Cowboys, Cubs and Shawnee Wolves fan.

On April 8, 1951, he married the love of his life, Mary Jo Truesdell. They spent 55 loving years together. Their union produced two children, Chris and Debbie.

In January 1951, he joined the U.S. Navy and very proudly served as a SeaBee. He was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Argentina, Newfoundland and Port Leyoti, French Morocco.

After serving he worked 12 years for Welex, then as a sales representative for numerous national pet supply companies. During his retirement he worked with Lupton Paint Company.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Fleming, of the home; children and spouses, Chris and Jan Fleming, Debbie and Ron Taffe; brother-in-law and spouse, Buddy and Fay Truesdell; sister-in-law, Nita Fleming; three grandsons, Richard and Stephanie Fleming of Durant, Michael and Christina Fleming of Shawnee, Kevin Taffe and fiance Sarah Ziolkowski of Norman.

Service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Resthaven Funeral Home with Dwyane Dennis officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens


Christopher Dee Starkey

Christopher Dee Starkey, 46, died Monday, Aug. 14, in Norman.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. today at Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home, Wewoka.


Jerry Dean Miller

Stroud resident Jerry Dean Miller, 63, died Monday, Aug. 14, in Stroud.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and Thursday, and 8 a.m. until service time.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel with Jerry Murfin officiating.

Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery in Depew under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Stroud.


Nell J. Dorsey

Stroud resident Nell J. Dorsey, 86, died Tuesday, Aug. 15, at Stroud Health Care.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and Thursday.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Burl MacKey officiating.

Burial will follow at Stroud Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Stroud.


Margie L. Buoy

Shawnee resident Margie L. Buoy, 74, died Tuesday, Aug. 15, at an Edmond hospital.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Liberty Baptist Church with Bill Matthews and Phil Thompson officiating.

Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Meeker under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Marylea Fisher

Edmond resident Marylea Fisher, 76, died Saturday, Aug. 12, in Oklahoma City.
Services were 2 p.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church in Marlow. The Rev. Max Pyron and Dr. Joe Ligon officiated.

Burial followed at Marlow Cemetery under the direction of Callaway-Smith-Cobb Funeral Home, Marlow.

published Aug. 17, 2006

Margie L. Buoy

Margie L. Buoy, 74, of Shawnee died Tuesday in an Edmond hospital.
She was born May 16, 1932, in Paden to Clarance and Dovie Ann Van Cleave. She graduated from Meeker High School and also earned an associate degree in business from Rose State College.
Margie was a loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed reading and spending time with her family.
She retired from Tinker Air Force Base. She also owned Massages by Marjolea.
She married William E. Buoy on July 9, 1949.
Margie was a member of Liberty Baptist Church, and also was involved in the YMCA and Salvation Army.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Leonard and Edward Hill.
Margie is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Steve Buoy, Meeker, and David and Rita Buoy, Meeker; two daughters, and sons-in-law, Regina and David Simpson and Lisa and Steve Clifton, all of Shawnee; grandchildren and their spouses, Michael and Amy Buoy and Matthew and Carmencia Buoy, all of Meeker, Misty and Tim Scott, Topeka, Kan., L.E. Buoy, Anthony Buoy, Parker and Wesley Buoy, all of Meeker, Jason Buoy, Dallas, Texas,Blake, Brooke and Benjamin Simpson, Levi and Garrett Clifton, all of Shawnee; great-grandchildren, Madison, Rachel and Macy Buoy, all of Meeker; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Jeanie Heath, Marietta, and Martha and Bill Bradley, Prague, and beloved relatives and friends from northwestern Oklahoma.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Salvation Army.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Liberty Baptist Church with Bill Matthews and Phil Thompson officiating.
Burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery in Meeker under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

M
Chester Lee Plunkett

Shawnee resident Chester Lee Plunkett, 71, died Tuesday, Aug. 15, in Shawnee.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh.


Virginia Mae Boydston

Harrah resident Virginia Mae (Yost) Boydston, 76, died Tuesday, Aug. 15, in Harrah.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at First Baptist Church in Harrah with Dr. Tony Nickel officiating.
Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service, Harrah.


Vernon D. Parsons

Stroud resident Vernon D. Parsons, 80, died Wednesday, Aug. 16, in Tulsa.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and 8 a.m. until service time Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Services in Stroud.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Deer Creek Baptist Church, Stroud, with the Rev. Mike Haines officiating.
Burial will follow at Stroud Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Stroud.

published Aug. 18, 2006

James Edward Bower

Victoria, Texas, resident James Edward Bower, 86, died Wednesday, Aug. 16.
Mr. Bower was taken care of by Vitas Hospice.
He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Mary Ellen Bower; parents, Charles and Alma Bower; brother, Charles A. Bower; sister, Cleolynn Johnston; niece, Christopher Ann Clements.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Ann Curtis Bower of Victoria, Texas; son, Thomas Arthur Bower of Guadalupe, Colo.; daughter, Julia Ann Bower of Austin, Texas.
Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 3002 Miori Ln., Victoria, Texas. Arrangements are under the direction of Porter Loring.
Memorials may be made to Victoria Bach Festival, St. Francis Episcopal Church or Vitas Hospice, 5430 Fredericksburg Rd. No. 200, San Antonio, TX 78229.


Cozell Graham

Tecumseh resident Cozell Graham, 95, went to be with the Lord Thursday, Aug. 17, at her home surrounded by her loved ones.
She was born Feb. 1, 1911, in Haskell, Texas, to John Robert and Mary Elizebeth Shackelford. She spent most of her young life in Texas, graduating from Frankfort High School in Mineral Wells, Texas.
In 1934, she married Howard Graham in Wichita Falls, Texas. They moved to Temple, Okla., where they farmed for several years. They later went into the restaurant business in Duncan, Waurika and Temple.
Cozell was a loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her family and volunteering at the senior citizens center and Meals-on-Wheels. She was an active member of Freewill Baptist until her health declined.
After the death of her husband in 1973, she moved to Tecumseh.
She also was preceded in death by her parents, six brothers and three sisters.
Survivors include four daughters and sons-in-law, Randall and Joyce Priddy of Fort Worth, Texas, Jerry and Pauline Kinnaird of Comanche, Oklahoma, Dennis and Mary Trahan of Tecumseh, Larry and Kathy Crawford of Midwest City; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; nephews, nieces and lots of friends.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Angelic Family Hospice.
Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Dr. Steve Graham and Mike McCauley officiating.
Burial will be 3 p.m. at Temple Cemetery, Temple, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh.
Donations may be made in Cozell's memory to Angelic Family Hospice.


Gale Ruth Kathleen Schwartz

Shawnee resident Gale Ruth Kathleen Schwartz, a beautiful angel, was called home to heaven on Wednesday Aug. 16, at the age of 48. Gale, a former resident of Duncanville, Texas, passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Gale had fought and overcame ovarian cancer more than 10 years ago. Her amazing courage never faltered when she learned of its return three years ago. She participated adamantly in chemotherapy drug studies. She was determined to help find a cure.
She was born in Woodside, N.Y. She and her family moved to Abilene, Texas, in 1969 where she attended Abilene High School. She made her home in Duncanville for more than over 20 years before moving to Shawnee.
Gale was a member of Victory Church. She was an avid cat lover and a member of the Humane Society.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Loretta and William Schwartz.
She is survived by two brothers, William C. Schwartz, and his wife, Kay, of Shawnee, and Paul Zuyus and family of Corpus Christi, Texas; two sisters, Joyce Schwartz of Norman and Lori Schwartz of Norman; several aunts and uncles; numerous nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous friends she had made in her life's journey.
Some people only worry
about getting the best life has to give...
But a few people...
Special people... like Gale...
Thought it more important to give life her best.
Some people wait around,
hoping good things will come to them.
Gale worked hard to make good things happen.
She constantly dreamed new dreams,
learned new things,
And accepted life's challenges
that were thrown at her with strength,
determination and grace.
Some people might have been afraid of such challenges,
experiences, And taking risks...
But Gale never let that stop her
Moment by moment, day by day,
She was the bravest person I've ever known...
And I'm proud she was my sister.
She will forever remain in our hearts...
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the doctors and nurses at OU Medical Center and the staff of Loving Care Hospice.
A private graveside service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Fairview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.


Charlotte Ann Bonin

Norman resident Charlotte Ann (Stokes) Bonin, 63, died Wednesday, Aug. 16, at Mercy Health Center in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Carl Whitfield officiating. Burial will follow at Konawa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole.


Vernon G. Statton

Meeker resident Vernon G. Statton departed this life Thursday, Aug. 17, in Shawnee, at the age of 85 years.
He was born July 16, 1921, in Duncan, Okla., to David W. and Clara E. (Graham) Statton. He served in the United States Navy during World War II.
On July 26, 1941, he married Betty L. McDaniel in Oklahoma City.
Vernon worked many years at Tinker Air Force Base as a branch chief. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Meeker.
Preceding him in death were his parents, wife, one daughter and two brothers.
Survivors include two sons, David Statton of Edmond and Fred Statton of Meeker; three daughters, Veta Statton of Choctaw, Verndadine Wages of Meeker and Norma Henson of Oklahoma City; sister, LaVena Audrey of Oklahoma City; five brothers, Tommy Statton of Oklahoma City, Everette Statton of Oregon, Lloyd Statton, Marion Statton, both of Cleora, Okla. and Earl Statton of Moore; 10 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; other relatives and friends.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Meeker, or any organization of your choice.
Viewing will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Parks Funeral Chapel in Meeker.
Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Michael Melton officiating.
Burial will follow at Rossville Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.

published Aug. 19, 2006

H. Harber Lampl

Shawnee resident H. Harber Lampl, 69, died Monday, Aug. 14, at his home.
He was born Oct. 18, 1936, in Wichita, Kan., to Maurice Bernard Lampl and Dorothy Nunnelly Spurr.
Harber graduated from Shawnee High School in 1954. He then attended Oklahoma State University and graduated in 1959. In 1965, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin School of Banking.
He was married to Dorothy Joan Ham from 1958 to 1978.
Harber worked in finance, banking and investments. He was a member of Greater Shawnee Area Chamber of Commerce, Historical Society of Pottawatomie County, India Shriners, Free Masons, Knights of Templar and Oklahoma Heritage Association.
He also was chairman of Hope House Big Gifts,a sponsor of Mabee-Gerrer Museum, president of American National Bank of Shawnee, president of Oklahoma Bankers Association, chairman of Board of Regents, Oklahoma State College Regent from 1972 to 1980 and an avid water skier and boater.
Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother, David Lampl.
Survivors include his five children, Brad Lampl of Houston, Texas, Mignonne Evans of Dallas, Texas, Mary Kaneakua of Kauai, Hawaii, Ellen Lampl of Austin, Texas, and Suzanne Lampl of New York, N.Y.; 12 grandchildren; brother, Maurice Lampl and his children; nephew, Brent Lampl, the son of his brother, David Lampl.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with Pastor Larry Sparks officiating.
Memorials may be made to United Way, P.O. Box 697, Shawnee, OK, 74802.
Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Jesus Galindo Granados

Shawnee resident Jesus Galindo Granados, 57, died Tuesday, Aug. 15, of cancer at his home in Shawnee.
He was born April 28, 1949, in Meoqui Chihuahua, Mexico, to Ramon and Romelia Galindo.
On April 30, 1967, he married Elsa Hernandez.
Preceding him death were his mother and father; brother, Juan Carrera; brother, Luis Galindo; and sister, Maria Carrera.
Survivors include four sisters and three brothers-in-law, Beatriz and Roberto Llamas, Carmen and Jose Rodriguez, Antonia and Ramiro Garcia and Martha Galindo; three sons and daughters-in-law, Jesus and Juanita Galindo, Luis and Yadira Galindo and Ramon and Flor Galindo; one daughter, Patricia Galindo; 13 grandchildren, Charlie, Jessica, Amie, Lisa, Alex, Amy, Leslie, Luis, Karen, Stephanie, Dyanna, Fernando, Janeth, and one on the way.
Mass will be 10 a.m. today at St. Benedict Catholic Church in Shawnee with Father Manuel Madallanes officiating.
Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Angelic Family Hospice.


Pearl Attebery

Chandler resident Pearl Attebery, 85, died Thursday, Aug. 17.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Chandler.


Jackie Ray Qualls

Wewoka resident Jackie Ray Qualls, 67, died Saturday, Aug. 8, in Holdenville, Okla.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague.
Burial will follow at Little Cemetery in Seminole County under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


Donna Deloris Snider

Longtime Wewoka resident Donna Deloris "Audie" Snider died Wednesday, Aug. 16, at her home surrounded by her family.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at First United Methodist Church, Wewoka, with the Rev. Amanda Lockwood officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Wewoka, under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home of Wewoka.

published Aug. 20, 2006

Martha A. Mitchell Barker

Tecumseh resident Martha A. Mitchell Barker, 84, passed from this life Friday, Aug. 18, in Shawnee.

She was born Feb. 4, 1922, in Canton, Texas, to Edgar Andrew and Ida Mae (Woodruff) Strebeck.
She married Raymond Lewis Mitchell on May 29, 1945. He preceded her in death in 1963.
In 1957 she married Edward Tracy Barker. He preceded her in death in 1991.
She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Maud, where she lived for 30 years before moving to Tecumseh.
She was a member of the Shawnee Rebekah Lodge No. 271.
She operated Globe Confectionery in Ardmore and operated two nursing homes in Wilson. She worked at Lantz Drug in Shawnee and operated a restaurant in Marietta.
She enjoyed her work at the Maud School cafeteria and operated a restaurant with her daughter in Maud. She was head cook at Maud Nutrition Center for several years and was a homecare provider until 1999.
She enjoyed her grandchildren, pets and fishing. She enjoyed playing the fiddle, guitar, singing and piecing quilts.
She is preceded in death by her husbands; two grandchildren: Deborah Mitchell and Buddy Dean Mitchell; three sisters, Lillie Harrison, Minnie Donahou and Myrt Smith; and three brothers: Dutch Strebeck, Archie Strebeck and George Strebeck.
Survivors include one son, Louis Ray "Buddy" Mitchell of Tecumseh; one daughter and son-in-law, Edna and Bob Montgomery of Tecumseh; 12 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
Viewing will be held noon to 7 p.m. today and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday at Knight-Swearingen Funeral Home of Maud at the corner of Broadway and Monroe streets.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Rosehill Cemetery in Ardmore with Pastor John Mixon of Tecumseh New Hope Baptist Church officiating.
Casket bearers will be grandsons James Renfro, Dawayne Renfro, Danny Cramer, Rocky Mitchell, Buddy Allen Mitchell and Robbie Mitchell.
Services are under the direction of Knight-Swearingen Funeral Home of Maud.


Helen Louise Hofmann

Former Shawnee resident Helen Louise (Harmon) Hofmann, currently a resident of San Luis Obispo, Calif., passed into the waiting arms of her Lord Sunday morning, July 16, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. She was 94.
Born Feb. 1, 1912, she was the only child of Charles and Lucy (Harris) Harmon of Shawnee. Helen's parents divorced and when her father remarried, she gained three brothers. She was reared by her grandparents in Shawnee and graduated from Shawnee High School in 1930.
In 1933 she moved to the Long Beach area where she worked in the clothing district and Van de Kamps, among other jobs.
On a city bus she met her husband, Navy sailor William Jacob Hofmann. After a short courtship, William and Helen were married in 1936.
In 1938 the couple, now living in William's childhood hometown of Elyria, Ohio, welcomed their only child, Carol Louise.
William's position as a welder with the military kept them on the move for many years. The two made their final home in Quail Valley, Calif. Helen was a hostess in the early 1960s for the Sun City development nearby. After William passed away in 1999, Helen moved to San Luis Obispo to be close to her family.
Helen had as good of a life as any could wish for, without any major ongoing concerns. She had a resounding triumph over breast cancer 14 years ago and took daily walks. She continued to enjoy her many hobbies until a fall this past January curtailed her activities.
She had a positive and loving soul which she shared with all her friends and family.
Preceding her in death were her husband and her brother, Charles.
Survivors include her son-in-law and daughter, Bill and Carol Greene of Oceano, Calif.; her only grandchild, Bill Greene, and his wife, Hily; and one great-granddaughter, Sarah Greene, all of Paso Robles, Calif.; brothers, Clyde Harmon of Santa Maria, Calif., and James Harmon of Utah; and her brother-in-law, John Hofmann, and his wife, Margaret, of Eureka, Calif.
In accordance with Helen's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Helen's name to your local hospice care providers.
Arrangements are under the direction of Reis Family Chapel, San Luis Obispo.


Cynthia Ann Troutman Peterson

Cynthia Ann "Cindy" Troutman Peterson was born at Homestead Air Force Base, Fla., on July 20, 1957, and departed from this life in Prague on Friday, Aug. 18. She was 49.
Cindy was the daughter of Clifton B. Troutman and Jerry L. (Ream) Troutman. She graduated from Prague High School with the class of 1975. She then earned a teaching certificate after graduating with a bachelor of science degree from Oklahoma State University in 1979.
Following her graduation from OSU, she began her teaching career in the fall of 1979 at Strother Public Schools. She taught kindergarten and pre-kindergarten continuously at Strother until her death. She had also earned a master of education degree from the University of Central Oklahoma.
She was a member of the Prague United Methodist Church.
She was preceded in death by her father and both grandfathers.
Survivors include two daughters and a son-in-law, Kristen and Billy Rusk of Meeker and Kacey Harris of Prague; two sons, Scott McLaughlin and Tanner Peterson, both of Prague; her mother, Jerry Troutman of Prague; two sisters, Cathy Hall of Prague and Susan Riordan of Seguan, Texas; her maternal grandmother, Flora Ream of Moore; her paternal grandmother, Berenice Troutman of Durant; and four grandchildren, Lauryn and Taryn Rusk of Meeker and Bailey and Cooper Harris of Prague.
Funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday at Prague United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dyton L. Owen officiating and Brother Tim Emmons assisting. Burial will follow in the Prague Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service of Prague.
A guest book is available to share memories online at www.ParksBrothers.net.

published Aug. 22, 2006

Cynthia Ann Troutman Peterson

Cynthia Ann "Cindy" Troutman Peterson was born at Homestead Air Force Base, Fla., on July 20, 1957 and departed from this life in Prague, Okla. on Aug. 18. She was 49.
Cindy was the daughter of Clifton B. Troutman and Jerry L. (Ream) Troutman. She graduated from Prague High School with the class of 1975. She then earned a teaching certificate after graduating with a B.S. degree from Oklahoma State University in 1979. Following her graduation from OSU, she began her teaching career in the fall of 1979 at Strothers Public Schools. She taught kindergarten and pre-kindergarten continuously at Strothers until her death. She had also earned a Master of Education from the University of Central Oklahoma.
She was a member of the Prague United Methodist Church.
She was preceded in death by her father and both grandfathers.
Survivors include two daughters and a son-in-law, Kristen and Billy Rusk of Meeker and Kacey Harris of Prague; two sons, Scott McLaughlin and Tanner Peterson, both of Prague; her mother, Jerry Troutman, of Prague; two sisters, Cathy Hall of Prague and Susan Riordan of Seguan, Texas; her maternal grandmother, Flora Ream of Moore; her paternal grandmother, Berenice Troutman of Durant; and four grandchildren, Lauryn and Taryn Rusk of Meeker and Bailey and Cooper Harris of Prague.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. today at the Prague United Methodist Church with Rev. Dyton L. Owen officiating and Bro. Tim Emmons assisting. Burial will follow in the Prague Cemetery.
A guest book is available to share memories online at www.ParksBrothers.net.


Robert Samuel Kinnamon

Shawnee resident Robert "Bob" Samuel Kinnamon, 84, passed away Monday, Aug. 21, at his home.
He was born June 24, 1922, at Econtuska Community to John Robert and Annie M. (Kubicek) Kinnamon.
Robert attended North Rock Creek schools.
On Oct. 9, 1943, he married Beulah D. Guinn in Richmond, Calif.
He worked in a ship yard, at Steffans Dairy, and had the first convenience store in Shawnee, P.D.Q. Grocery, which they later moved to Meeker where it became B & R Food Town.
Robert was a member of Hilltop Baptist Church, Chamber of Commerce, and was former president of Grove School Board.
He was a hard worker who enjoyed raising cattle and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his parents; sister, Anna Mae Enochs; brother, James Kinnamon; and son, Robert Earl Kinnamon.
Survivors include his wife, Beulah, of the home; three children and one daughter-in-law, Janice Gett of Oklahoma City, Donna Wright of Norman, Ron and Diana Kinnamon of Meeker; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Wilma Lackey, Rose Honeycutt, both of Shawnee, and Betty and Monty Barrett of Cookson, Okla.; four brothers and sisters-in-law, Johnny Lee Kinnamon and wife, Gladys, of Dale, Donald H. Kinnamon and wife, Lavonna, of Stroud, J.D. Kinnamon and wife, Linda, of Conroe, Texas, Tommy Kinnamon and wife, Betty, of Dale; numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Hilltop Baptist Church with the Rev. Gary Nickerson officiating.
Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.


Thelma Odessa Roberts

Lifelong Seminole resident Thelma Odessa Roberts died Sunday, Aug. 20, at Seminole Estates Care Center in Seminole at the age of 91.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.
Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Swearingen Funeral Home.
Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.


Paul Waltman

Longtime Maud resident Paul Waltman, 73, died Saturday, Aug. 19, at his home in Maud.
Service will be 11 a.m. today at First Baptist Church, Maud, with the Rev. Wayne Taylor officiating.
Burial will follow at Cummings Cemetery in Maud with military honors under the direction of Knight~Swearingen Funeral Home, Maud.

published Aug. 23, 2006

Lula Faye McKey

Lula Faye "Pat" McKey passed away peacefully from the earth on Tuesday, Aug. 22., surrounded by her loving family, to join her beloved late husband, Bob McKey.
She was born in Konawa March 8, 1923, to Angie and Walter Moore. She grew up in Shawnee and was the second youngest of five children.
On Dec. 11, 1945, she married her childhood sweetheart, Robert "Bob" McKey.
She worked a number of years a J's Hallmark and was a longtime member of Wallace Avenue Baptist Church.
Pat relied heavily on her faith to overcome cancer and many other medical conditions.
She always had a kind word and was truly loved by everyone who knew her.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sisters, Lillian Smith and Jewel Roberts.
Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Diane and Larry Gill and Teresa and Richard Finley, all of Shawnee; grandson, Blake Finley of Orlando, Fla.; granddaughter and great-grandson, Lindsey and Hunter Steuart of Edmond; sister, Linnie Rushing of Shawnee; brother, Dub Moore of Cleveland, Okla.; many dear nieces and nephews; and her hospice family, Donnie, Earl, Georgia, Joyce, Julee, Kim, Rachelle and Tracy.
The casket will be open until the service.
A memorial service to celebrate her life will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Walker Funeral Service with the Rev. DuWayne Colvin, Scott Gordon, Donnie Knight and Lindsey Steuart officiating.
Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.
Donations may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF), 825 Northeast 13th Street, Oklahoma.


Howard Lee Edmonds

Howard Lee Edmonds, 59, born July 24, 1947, in Talladega, Ala., died Sunday, Aug. 20, 2006.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Myrtle Marie Edmonds of Meeker,
and two sisters, JoAnn and Evelyn.
Survivors include brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Nancy Edmonds; son, Ricky Edmonds and his daughter, Hannah Edmonds; son and daughter-in-law, Terry and Christina Edmonds and their daughters, Neesha, Kelsie and Tosha, all of Meeker; along with many friends and family.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Living Waters Tabernacle in Meeker.


Jackie Ray Davidson

Paden resident Jackie Ray Davidson, 53, died Monday, Aug. 21, in Prague.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Welty Cemetery in Welty, Okla., with Pastor Terry Pittman officating.
Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


Donny Lee Sipes

Wewoka resident Donny Lee Sipes died Monday, Aug. 21, at the age of 29.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church in Wewoka with the Rev. John Lively officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home.

published Aug. 24, 2006

George Ray Davis

Shawnee resident George Ray Davis, 71, died Monday, August 21, in Shawnee.
He was born March 6, 1935, in Oklahoma City, to George Olen & Inez (Bentley) Davis.
He was married May 8, 1950, in Chickasha, to Joyce Turley.
He was born and raised in Oklahoma City and had lived in Moore for several years following his marriage. In 1979 he moved to Tecumseh and lived there until moving to Shawnee in 2001.
He worked most of his life as a muffler repairman. He also worked for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation for 11 years until he retired in 2001.
George was an avid bowler. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles and drag racing, as well as deer hunting.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, James Keith Davis; and one sister, Geraldine Davis.
Survivors include his wife, Joyce of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Debra and Danny Wells of Earlsboro; four sons and daughters-in-law, George and Connie Davis of Canyon City, Colo., Brad and Teresa Davis of Oklahoma City, Chris and Donna Davis of Moore, and Jason and Angela Davis of Shawnee; nine grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; sister, Deloris Justine Lee of Norman; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday, August 25, at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Darrell Witten, Chaplain of Heartland Hospice, officiating.


Esther R. Prudhom

Edmond resident Esther R. Prudhom passed away August 22, 2006.
She was born December 25, 1926, in East Greenville, Penn., to Elsie Endy Trew and Paul Endy.
Esther moved to the Panama Canal Zone in 1943 where she graduated from high school and worked for the U.S. Army. In 1945 she graduated from Central Radio and Television School in Kansas City, Mo., and was employed by TWA, in communications, at La Guardia Field in New York.
She returned to the Panama Canal Zone and married Ernest (Ernie) Prudhom February 15, 1947, in Gatun, Canal Zone. She was a devoted wife and mother who followed her husband's career with relocations to Pennsylvania, Florida and Shawnee. She developed the volunteer program at Mission Hill Hospital in Shawnee in the early 1970's and was the owner and operator of the Shawnee Travel Shoppe for 10 years until her retirement in 1990. She and Ernie moved to Edmond in 1992.
Esther was a member of the Quail Springs United Methodist Church and a volunteer at Mercy Hospital.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Ernie.
Esther is survived by one daughter, Terry Ritchey of Denver, Colo.; two sons Tom and Vicki Prudhom, and Ernie and Bobbi Prudhom, Jr., both of Edmond; six grandchildren, Paige West, Kristen, Tommy, Jennifer, Christopher and Dustin Prudhom; and two great-grandchildren, Caroline and James West.
Services will be 2 p.m. Friday at Quail Springs United Methodist Church. Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City under the direction of Matthews Funeral Home in Edmond.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mercy Hospital Hospice.


Roy Dee Biggs

Shawnee resident Roy Dee Biggs, 84, died Saturday, Aug. 19.
He was born Feb. 15, 1922, near Moore, Okla. He lived on his family homestead and farm until moving to Shawnee in 1977.
In 1948, he married Helen Lorene Polley. They were married 55 years before she preceded him in death in March 2004.
Roy worked at Douglas Aircraft during World War II and for Oklahoma Gas and Electric Equipment Company for more than 20 years. He also farmed much of his life and was the manager of Shawnee Golf and Country Club for nearly 10 years.
Roy was a longtime member of Shawnee Lions Club and St. Paul's United Methodist Church.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Acy and Cassie Biggs; sister, Ruby Lucile Biggs; two brothers, Floyd and Chester Biggs.
Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Nanette and Keith Powell, Shawnee; son, Gregg, San Francisco, Calif.; granddaughter Camille Price and her husband, Joseph, of Noble.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Shawnee.
Walker Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.
Contributions in his honor can be made to the St. Paul's United Methodist Church Building Fund and World Neighbors.


Agnes M. Mocabee

Former Konawa resident Agnes M. Mocabee, 88, died Monday, Aug. 21, at Northwest Medical Center in Bentonville, Ark.
Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel, Konawa, with the Rev. Mitch Williams officiating. Burial will be at Vamoosa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.

published Aug. 25, 2006

Glenda Cathy Locke Willoughby

Choctaw resident, Glenda Cathy Locke Willoughby, 53, died Tuesday, August 22, in Oklahoma City.
She was born Dec. 6, 1952, in Texarkana, Texas, to Marcus and Olif Locke.
Glenda graduated from Shawnee High School in 1971. Her career started out at St. Anthony's and Baptist Hospital. Later on, she was employed by Wal-Mart. She worked at the Shawnee store for several years, eventually transferring to Oklahoma City.
She married Glenn Willoughby in 1975.
Glenda enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved researching genealogy and working with Girl Scouts.
She was a member of the Pink Holiness Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marcus and Olif Locke, and one sister, Mary Nell Locke.
Survivors include former spouse, Glenn Willoughby, Midwest City; daughter, Jan Silva, Shawnee; daughter and son-in-law Kathy and Mike Green, Yukon; brother, Frank Locke, Shawnee; brother and sister-in-law Duane and Jana Locke, Choctaw; grandchildren: Jessica Locke, Brian Locke, Tristen Locke, Bryer Tucker, Carlee Green, and Dakota Green; and one niece, Zena Cotton
Services will be 11 A.M. Saturday, at Pink Holiness Church, with Brother David Wooten officiating.
Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park in Shawnee.


Betty Frances Woodson

Sand Springs resident Betty Frances (Fowler) Woodson died Thursday, Aug. 24, after a long struggle with multiple myeloma. She also suffered from macular degeneration and hearing loss.
Betty was born March 14, 1929, in Oklahoma City to Marvin and Sallie Fowler.
She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1947, where she lettered in tennis and was a member of National Honor Society.
After high school, she attended Oklahoma A & M. She was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority and served as Rush Chairman.
She worked for a CPA in Shawnee before moving to Tulsa where she was a secretary and worked in a law firm.
On Aug. 8, 1953, she married Charles S. Woodson at St. Paul's Methodist Church, Shawnee.
The couple resided in Tulsa until 1960 when they moved to Drumright, Okla.
Betty was active with the Methodist Church, Elks Auxiliary, bridge club, library board and numerous school activities. She also loved to play golf.
Due to her failing health, she and Charles moved to Sand Springs in 2005.
Preceding her in death were her parents.
Betty is survived by her husband, Charles, of 53 years, Sands Springs; her children, Charlotte Keho and husband, Danny, of Sand Springs, Scott Woodson and wife, Dana, of Mannford, Okla., and Gary Woodson and wife, Julia, of Sand Springs; grandchildren, Andrew Woodson and wife, Kendra, Peter Woodson, Matt Woodson, Sammi Woodson, Aaron Woodson and Patty Keho; and two brothers, Joe Wiley Fowler, Stillwater, and Jay Marvin Fowler, Dallas, Texas.
Burial will be 1 p.m. Monday at Euchee Valley Memorial Park, Cushing (6 mi. West of Drumright).
A Celebration of Life will follow at First United Methodist Church, Drumright.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Dean McGee Eye Institute Foundation, 608 Stanton L. Young Blvd., Suite 300, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104.
Donations also may be sent to First United Methodist Church, 211 N. Penn, Drumright, OK, 74030, or to the First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 336, Sand Springs, OK, 74063.
Arrangements are under the direction of Palmer and Marler Funeral Home, Cushing.


Opal Louise Temple

Longtime Chandler resident Opal Louise Temple, 97, departed this life Thursday, Aug. 24, at her home in Chandler.
She was born Aug. 19, 1909, at the family home East of Chandler. She was the daughter of A.O. and Mabel H. (Rowley) Kalka.
Opal married Milton Glen Temple on April 19, 1935, in Chandler.
Opal was a homemaker. She enjoyed playing cards and other games. She also was an avid gardener and walked frequently, even before exercise became popular.
She was a member of First Baptist Church in Chandler.
Preceding her in death were her parents; husband; two brothers, Joe Kalka and Irvin Kalka; three sisters, Minnie Lake, Ruth Clarkson and Viola Ingram.
Survivors include one daughter, Glenda Temple, of Chandler; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at New Zion Cemetery, Chandler, with the Rev. Mike Mitchell and the Rev. Keith Cole officiating.
Expression of sympathy may be made to the American Cancer Society, Cancer Research Division of the Oklahoma Medical Foundation, or to Prairie View Hospice in Chandler.
A guest book to share your memories is available on-line at www.parksbrothers.net.


Mary Jo Fisher

South Lake Tahoe, Calif., resident Mary Jo Fisher, 77, died Monday, Aug. 14, in South Lake Tahoe.
She was born Sept. 2, 1928, in Shawnee, to James Dewey Bachuss and Lula Pearl (Hause) Bachuss
She was married to Lawrence (Tobe) Harvey Fisher.
Mary was a wife, mother, telephone operator and tire treader for Firestone.
She was a member of USO, PTA, mother's softball league and Lady's VFW Auxilary.
Mary loved to dance and to listen music. She also had a passion for reading and loved science fiction movies.
Preceding her in death was her husband, Tobe Fisher.
Survivors include one brother, Clyde Bachuss; five children, 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Fairview Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Sparks officating under the direction of Walker Funeral Service, Shawnee.


Mark William Ketterman

Shawnee resident Mark William Ketterman, 50, died Wednesday, Aug. 23, in Tecumseh.
Viewing will be from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Service will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Cooper Funeral Chapel.
Other information is pending. Arrangements are under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.


Donald George Bailey

Donald George "Sockey" Bailey, 71, died Monday, Aug. 21, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa.
Wake service will begin 6 p.m. Thursday at Stout-Phillips Funeral Chapel. The body will then be taken to Middle Creek Indian Baptist Church 3 p.m. today.
Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Middle Creek Indian Baptist Church #2, Holdenville, with the Rev. Frank Moppin and the Rev. Tom Bear officating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home, Wewoka.


Sharon S. (Walker) Patrick

Harrah resident Sharon S. (Walker) Patrick, 53, died Thursday, Aug. 24, in Midwest City.
Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Arlington Memory Gardens in Midwest City under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service, Harrah.

published Aug. 26, 2006

Alta Lee Holland

Shawnee resident Alta Lee Holland, 93, died Thursday, August 24, at her residence.
She was born August 17, 1913, in Asher to Albert Lee Jackson and Velma (Lowden) Jackson.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents and two sisters.
Survivors include her sister, Verna Lucus; brother, Delbert Jackson; many other relatives and friends.
Services will be 2 p.m. today at Resthaven Memorial Park (Trinity Chapel) with the Rev. Bill Matthews and Phil Thompson of Liberty Baptist Church and Chaplain Donny Knight of Heartland Hospice officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park.


John Harvey Hamilton

Shawnee resident John Harvey Hamilton "uncle Johnny", 67, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 23.
He was born June 29, 1939 to Claude and Lois Hamilton. When John was 18 months, their home was destroyed in a fire that took the life of his mother. Because his father was away on military service, he was raised by his aunt and uncle, DeEsiree and John Rains.
John was married Feb. 14, 1959, in Lexington to Sue Coleman. They moved to Inverness, Fla., in 1970 where he was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and the Lions Club. He worked as a contractor for several telephone companies throughout the country. They moved to Shawnee in 1992.
Johnny loved to deep sea fish and to watch Nascar. He also enjoyed to "hunt" with his metal detector.
He was preceded in death by his father, Claude L. Hamilton; uncle, John Rains; aunt, DeEsiree Rains; and son, John L. Hamilton.
Survivors include his wife, Cherrel Hamilton of Shawnee; daughters, Lori Ann Martin and husband, Doug of Smithville, Tenn., and Kimberly Dawn Joachim and husband, Jeff of Houston, Texas; and nine grandchildren.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Central Church of Christ in Shawnee.


Kenneth Ray Lingar

Kenneth Ray Lingar, 64, died Wednesday, August 23.
Graveside Services will be 12 p.m. today at Little Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.

published Aug. 27, 2006

Freida Lezzell Soderstrom

Freida Lezzell Soderstrom of Shawnee died Thursday, Aug. 24, at an Oklahoma City nursing home. She was 81.
She was born Dec. 2, 1924, in Pauls Valley to William Frank and Virgie Jewell (Knight) Love. She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1943.
She married Gustave Raymond Soderstrom in November 1952 in Norfolk, Va.
She worked for the city of Shawnee water department as a clerk at the drive-through window before retiring in 1991. She was a member of Wesley United Methodist in Shawnee, but in recent years had been active in St. Luke's United Methodist Television Ministries of Oklahoma City. She enjoyed cooking, reading, sewing and collecting cookbooks.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers, W.E. "Dub" Love and Ira Raymond Love, and her sister, Virginia Ellen Shelton.
Surviving are her daughter and son-in-law, Ellen and Johnny Mansfield of Oklahoma City; her brother and sister-in-law, Ted Duane and Betty Love of Goliad, Texas; a niece, Pamela Love Metcalf, and her husband Clinton Ted, of Spring, Texas; two cousins, Mary Lamb and Helen Brooks, both of Shawnee, and other nieces, nephews and friends.
Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday in the Chapel of Walker Funeral Service with the Rev. Linda Brinkworth officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Luke's United Methodist Television Ministries.


Coy Wynn Sims

Coy Wynn Sims, 60, died Friday, Aug. 25, at his home in the Little community north of Seminole.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at the Church of Christ at Little, with Don Ramsey officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole.


Anita Louise Valliere

Funeral for Anita Louise Valliere will be 10 a.m. today at Loyal Shawnee Community Building, White Oak, with Don Greenfeather officiating. Burial will follow at Lewis Shawnee Cemetery under the direction of Musgrove-Merriott-Smith Funeral Service & Crematory of Claremore.

Anita died Wednesday, Aug. 23, at Hillcrest Medical Center, Tulsa, at the age of 72.
The daughter of Leonard and Mary (Dick) Washington, she was born March 14, 1934, in White Oak. She grew up in White Oak and graduated from Eufaula Indian School as the Sequoyah Salutatorian of her class. Anita moved to Claremore in 1966 from Pawnee.
In 1984, she retired from Claremore Indian Hospital. She was an elder of the Shawnee Tribe and was proud of her heritage. Attending powwows was one of her favorite activities.
Anita is survived by her son, George Valliere and wife Elaine of Claremore; daughters, Mary Valliere of Tulsa, Carla Honeyestewa and family of Albuquerque, N.M., and Bonnie Heminokeky and family of Shawnee; brothers, Alfred Halfmoon of Wichita, Kan.; Melvin Halfmoon of Oakdale, Calif.; Freddie Halfmoon of Tulsa, and James Squirrel of Miami; sister, Patsy Johnson of Tulsa; and grandchildren, Edward George, Cassie Carpenter, Morgan Valliere, Mason Valliere and Whitney Whitehawk.

published Aug. 29, 2006

Fred Leroy Ledford

Lifelong Shawnee resident Fred Leroy Ledford, 78, died Sunday, Aug. 27, in Oklahoma City.
He was born June 7, 1928, in Shawnee.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Annabelle Buxton and Claud Ledford; five brothers, Ted, Harry, Walter, Marvin and one at birth; two wives, Norma Louise Aday Ledford and Tonya Morgan.

Fred is survived by children, Joe and Sheila Ledford, Shawnee, Cathy and Steve Hopkins of Okla. City and David and Becky Ledford of Davis; seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; in-laws; friends, including best friends, Kenneth Spears and Roland Parrish, both of Shawnee.

Visitation will be 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. today only at Resthaven Funeral Home, Shawnee.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at Resthaven Funeral Home.

Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.


William Mullins

Seminole resident William "Irv" Mullins died Sunday, Aug. 27, at the age of 90.
Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church in Seminole.

Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery with the Rev. Tommy Clark officiating. Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole is directing arrangements.


Seldo William Gilliland II

Prague resident Seldo William Gilliland II died Saturday, Aug. 26, at the age of 91.
Burial will be at Sandy Cemetery in Polk, Pa.

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

published Aug. 30, 2006

Johnthan Stephens

Shawnee resident Johnthan Stephens, 41, went to be with our Father in heaven on Friday, Aug. 25.
As a young boy, he enjoyed hunting and raising Beagles with his father. He won many hunting events at a young age.

Johnthan had recently completed training at Gordon Cooper Area Vo-Tech as an upgrade skilled carpenter CTR. He worked construction and in the oil field most of his life and was an avid body builder.

Johnathan enjoyed many other accomplishments in his life. Most of all he loved his children and grandchildren who will miss his companionship greatly.

Preceding him in death were his loving father, Lonnie Vandever; sister, Louise Thomison; grandmother, Marie Stephens; half brothers, Nathan and Mayo Bates; and one nephew, Kirby Allison, of Denison, Texas.

He left behind his beloved mother, Ruby Vandever; two daughters and one son-in-law, Christina Marie Stephens-Nadeau and husband, Dustin Nadeau, and Nicole Stephens; two sons, Justin Dale (J.D.) Stephens and Nicholas Kade Stephens, all of Shawnee; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Cathy and Donald Cole of Denison, Paula Winlock and Debbie Robinson, both of Shawnee; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Mike and Sandy Harris of Stroud and Gregory Stephens; two grandchildren, Trinity Kaelynne Nadeau and Rhylee Mae Nadeau; nephews and nieces, Michael and Lisa Botkin, Gregory Chance Stephens, Delaney and Destiny Stephens, all of Shawnee, Eric Kyle Harris of Stroud, Austin Bizzell, Shoshawne Bates, Dusty Bates, all of Shawnee, and Jeremy Allison, Robert Campbell and Zek Tucker, all of Denison; one aunt, Rose Thompson of Shawnee; cousins, Sherry Thompson of Dale and Victoria Wallace, Shawnee; great nephews, Caleb Botkin of Shawnee and Tristen Allison of Denison; great niece, Celeste Campbell of Denison; Serenity Ataddelety of Shawnee; Kayla Allison of Denison; lifelong friend, Tommy Whitehead; and numerous other friends and family members.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Walker Funeral Chapel with a fellowship dinner at the Sac & Fox multi-purpose room at 12:30.

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


Gilbert E. Brown

Eufaula, Okla., resident Gilbert E. Brown died Tuesday, Aug. 29, at the age of 80.
Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Oak Ridge Baptist Church 9 miles East of Eufaula on Highway 9.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hunn, Black & Merritt Funeral Home, Eufaula.

published Aug. 31, 2006

Betty Ruth Manis

Former Shawnee resident Betty Ruth (McKee) Manis entered her eternal home Saturday, Aug. 26. She died in a convalescent hospital near her Lafayette, Calif., home.
She was born Dec. 9, 1929, in Shawnee to Ralph H. and Clement L. McKee.

She graduated from Shawnee High School with the class of 1947 and attended OBU, Kansas City Art Institute and Denver University.

At Denver University she met a dashing young man named Armen Manis, who would be the love of her life. They were married Jan. 1, 1949, in Shawnee and lived happily in California until her passing.

Betty relished her long career as a travel agent. She had many fond memories to cherish and fascinating tales to tell.

Survivors include her husband, Armen, of the home; two sons and one daughter-in-law, Barry Manis of Lafayette and Frank and Janice Manis of Los Alamitos, Calif.; brother, Don McKee, of Oklahoma City; three granddaughters, Lauren, Caroline and Julia of Los Alamitos; two nieces, Leslie Williams of Oklahoma City and Jenni Smoliak of Jenks; three nephews, Brent McKee of Laguna Hills, Calif., Jeff McKee of Phoenix, Ariz. and Chad McKee of Enid; cousins, Tom Yates of Meadowview, Va., Mike Yates of Broken Arrow, Okla. and Skeets Yates of Edmond.

There will be a private service.

At Betty's request, her earthly remains will be scattered throughout Jerusalem.


Vernon F. Fountain

Shawnee resident Vernon F. Fountain, 88, died Tuesday, Aug. 29, in Oklahoma City.
He was born Feb. 28, 1918, in Crossroads, Ark., to Charlie F. and Lula Belle (Morris) Fountain.

He moved to Oklahoma with his family as a young boy.

On Nov. 8, 1938, he married Mary L. Taylor in Alex, Okla. Following his marriage he moved his family to California where they lived for 38 years before moving back to Shawnee in 1980.

Vernon served in the United States Army during World War II.

He worked as a supervisor of commercial construction until his retirement.

Vernon enjoyed building and working with his hands, as well as fishing.

He was preceded in death by his son, Dale Fountain, grandchildren, Michael Ray Fountain and Regina Clark; and his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Fountain, of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Rayford and Patricia Fountain of Pasadena, Calif.; son, Clifton W. Fountain of Shawnee; daughter-in-law, Mellita Fountain of Olympia, Wash.; two granddaughters, Amber Fountain of Pasadena, Calif., and Deanna Sanchez of Houston, Texas; and three great-grandchildren, Nicholas Sanchez, Anthony Sanchez and Kerri Clark.

The family will be at Cooper Funeral Home from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday to receive friends.

Service will be 12 p.m. Friday at Hillside Cemetery.