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

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published Jul. 16, 2006

Mable Marie Hauch

Tecumseh resident Mable Marie Hauch, 95, died Thursday, July 13, at Sunset Estates of natural causes.

She was born Sept. 7, 1910, in Shawnee to William Henry Shaw and Dora Ethel Nodine-Shaw.
She attended Shawnee schools and was married Sept. 22, 1929, in Tecumseh to Orian A. Hauch.
Mable was an artist. She taught oil paintings and china painting at the senior citizens center. She was a member of the Methodist church in McLoud.
She enjoyed horseback riding and sewing.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one daughter, two sisters, two grandsons and one granddaughter.
Survivors include one daughter, Dixie and her husband, James Flowers of Tecumseh; one son, Norman Dewayne and his wife, Laurie, Hauch of Napa, Idaho; eight grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. today and 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday.
Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Gaskill Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Geary Sorrells officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery


Ella Thelma Hobbs

Ella Thelma (Storey) Hobbs went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, July 13, after a short illness.

She was born April 17, 1917, in a covered wagon near Artesia, N.M., to Robert Marion Storey and Laura Pearl (Magers) Storey.
On June 23, 1934, she married Raymond Olive Hobbs in Carrizozo, N.M. They lived in New Mexico, Texas and Arkansas before settling in Oklahoma in 1960. She was a member of the Wanette United Methodist Church. She taught Sunday school for many years. She has lived in Wanette since 2001.
Hobbs was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sons, Paul and Teedle; two grandsons, Merrick and Kelly; one great-grandson, B.J.; three brothers, Cecil, Fred and Hugh; and three sisters, Blanche, Rosella and Bessie.
She is survived by three sons and their spouses, Vernon and Lauren Hobbs and Dwain and Linda Hobbs, all of Macomb, and Bud and Wilma Hobbs of Wanette; daughter-in-law, Alice Hobbs of San Antonio, N.M.; four daughters and their spouses, Winona and Russ Oden and Carolyn and Richard Little, all of Tahlequah, Jean and Wayne Green of Earlsboro, RoseMary and Billy Jones of Tecumseh; one brother and sister-in-law, Orville and Oneta Storey of Alamogordo, N.M.; one sister, Lavina Robinson of Odessa, Texas; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Ham of Truth or Consequences, N.M., and Mary Helen Aren of Las Cruces, N.M.; 28 grandchildren; 61 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren, 13 step-grandchildren, 28 step-great-grandchildren; and three special friends and neighbors, Dori Bennett, Mae Bostick and Madge Malone of Wanette.
Visitation was 1 p.m. Saturday.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Tribbey Cemetery with the Rev. Gene Teel and the Rev. Jimmy Adams officiating.

published Jul. 18, 2006

Josephine Marie Kolar

Lifelong Prague resident Josephine Marie Kolar died Sunday, July 16, at the age of 83 in Prague.
She was born Feb. 23, 1923, in Prague to Frank and Mary Frances (Adam) Spaniel. Josephine was raised by her grandparents, Frank and Annie (Leader) Adams, after her mother passed away when she was just a baby.
She attended Fairview Grade School and graduated from Prague High School. She married Woodrow Franklin in Okemah and was a homemaker. Her husband preceded her in death on July 1, 1988.
She was also a lifelong member of Prague United Methodist Church where she served for many years as chairperson of the calling committee and hostess for meals served at funerals.
Josephine was a member of ZCBJ and was very proud of her Czechoslovakian heritage. In 1970, the family built a home east of Prague on the former townsite, Lambdin.
Also preceding her in death were her grandparents; one grandson, Troy Don Oliver; and her mother-in-law, Sadie Kolar.
She is survived by her son and his spouse, John F. and Carolyn Kolar of Aledo, Texas; a daughter, Mary Jo Oliver and her husband Leroy; seven grandchildren, Keri Ross, Kim Besly, Riann Cunningham, Laura Luce, Carol Johnson and Brad Oliver; and eight great-grandchildren with another one on the way.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Prague United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dyton Owen and the Rev. Sharon Capron officiating.
Burial will follow at the Prague Cemetery with the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.
A guest book is available to share your memories on-line at www. ParksBrothers.net.


W.C. Taylor

Norman resident W.C. "Bill" Taylor died Tuesday, July 11, in Norman. He was 75.
He was born May 13, 1931, in Maud to Homer and Flossie Taylor.
Bill was born and raised in Maud. He attended Ray City, Okla., Schools and graduated from Asher High School in 1949.
In 1949 he joined the U.S. Marine Corp. He served 14 years during the Korean War. After leaving the Marines he farmed for a few years and had cattle. He always wanted to own land and farm, which he did with his uncle when he was younger.
He was a self-employed truck driver for many years.
His parents preceded him in death.
Survivors include his daughters and sons-in-law, Donna and Glenn Clemons of Choctaw, Helen and Wayne Henry of Springfield, Mo., Nancy and Ron Fraizer of Wichita, Kan., Susan Ayala of Tulsa; sister, Vera Parson of Shawnee; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Vista Cemetery with the Rev. Chad Brodrick officiating.


Virginia Lee Bishop

Chandler resident Virginia Lee Bishop, 84, died Saturday, July 15, in Shawnee.
She was born Oct. 10, 1921, in Agra to Walter "Buck" and Margaret (House) Gillaspy.
Virginia graduated from Chandler High School in 1939.
She married Troy O. Bishop on Aug. 22, 1942, while Troy was in the U.S. Army at Fort Lewis, Wash.
During her career, Virginia worked in the offices of the court clerk, county clerk and county commissioners of Lincoln County. She retired after 32 years of service.
She was a member of First Baptist Church in Chandler and the VFW Auxiliary.
Her parents and two brothers precede her in death.
Survivors include her husband, Troy, of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Jonnie Sue Bishop of Chandler; three grandchildren, Wallecia Bishop, Teresa Cudd, Gary Wayne Bishop; other relatives and many friends.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Chandler, with the Rev. Rick Blackwell officiating. Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.

published Jul. 19, 2006

Arthur C. Wells III

Lifelong Shawnee resident Arthur C. Wells III, 35, died Monday, July 17, at a local hospital.
He was born March 2, 1971, to Arthur C. Wells Jr. and Regina Post.
He attended Shawnee schools while growing up and was of the Baptist faith. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Shawnee.
Survivors include his parents, Arthur C. Wells, Karen Wells and Regina Post, all of Shawnee; one son, Gabriel Arthur Wells of Shawnee; three sisters, Annette Granger and her husband, Bart, of Durant, Angel and Stacie Wilson, Anna Post and Adam Strong, all from Shawnee; one brother, Chris Jones and his wife, Ellinda, of Colorado; grandparents, Viola and Ivan Hopkins of Shawnee and Jack and Vinita Powers of Tecumseh; aunts and uncles, Gary and Sana Powers of Oklahoma City, Sharon and Sam Slattery, Gary Wells, all of Shawnee, Linda Kuzniar and Donna Lee, both from Chicago, Randy Hopkins, and Pamela Johnson, both of Shawnee; a number of nieces and nephews; best friend, (like a brother) Cash Tate of Shawnee.
Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at Walker Funeral Service Chapel in Shawnee.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Jimmie Don Gibson officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park, Shawnee.


Alice V. McGuire

Longtime Maud resident Alice V. McGuire died Saturday, July 15, in Ardmore. She was 97.
She was born July 20, 1908, in Konawa to Isaac Nathan and Claudia Vesta (Birdieshaw) Edwards.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Maud and a member of the Eastern Star Lodge.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, John Delbert McGuire; one son, Bill Lee McGuire; four brothers and six sisters.
Alice is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Delbert J. and Juanita McGuire of Ardmore, Bob and Billie McGuire of Ada, Jim and Phylis McGuire of Mesquite, Texas; a daughter, Joyce Bradley, and her husband, Clifford, of Rockwall, Texas; and one brother and sister-in-law, Nathan and Mildred Edward of Washington; 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.
Visitation was Monday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m, Tuesday from 8 a.m to 7 p.m., and will be today from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Knight-Swearingen Funeral Home at the corner of Broadway and Monroe in Maud.
Funeral Services will be 2 p.m. today at the First Baptist Church in Maud with the Rev. Carl Whitfield officiating.
Burial will follow at Cummings Cemetery, Maud, under the direction of Knight-Swearingen Funeral Home.
The family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Maud or the Maud Nutrition Center.


Su Halley

Shawnee resident Su Halley left this life to be with her heavenly father Monday, July 17, after a lengthy illness.
She was born July 15, 1930, in Marietta to John Frank and Ruth Inez Miller.
Su spent most of her childhood in Ada. Later she moved to Shawnee and graduated from Shawnee High School. Shortly after she graduated, Su became society editor for The Shawnee News-Star.
After she married C.J. Halley, she dedicated the rest of her life to her family.
Su's love for and deep faith in Jesus Christ directed her life. She was a member of PEO and an avid bridge player. She was a devoted wife and mother.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, C.J.; sister, Doris King of Lawton; daughters, Sarah Myers and husband, John, of Dallas, Texas, and Anne Halley of Norman; and the three joys of her life, grandchildren, Jonathan, Laura and Matthew.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church of Shawnee. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a thank you to all the nurses and therapists for their caring and dedication to Su these past years.
We love you dearly and will miss you so much.


Paul L. Martin

The family of Paul L. Martin wishes to announce the departure from this life Friday, July 14, to go be with the Lord he so long has served.
A World War II Navy veteran, he lived the past 20 years in Harjo. He also lived in Nebraska, Texas and California. He left many friends and changed lives wherever he went.
He was preceded in this journey by his wife of 63 years, Maxine (Benge) Martin; his mother, Myrtle; his father, Roger; sister, Verna Lee.
Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Jan and Sue (Hawkins) Martin; nieces, Mary Lee and Lori; three grandchildren and their husbands, Susan and Keith Prather, Sharra and Kyle Weaver, Shelly and Steven Krad; five great-grandchildren; host of friends from Costa Rica and parts of America.
Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh.
Donations may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America; c/o Verterans Hospital, Oklahoma City.


Ramon Bussey

Shawnee resident Ramon Bussey, 76, died Sunday, July 16, in Shawnee.
Viewing will be noon to 8 p.m. today. The family will receive friends 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Cooper Funeral Home. Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh is directing arrangements.


Byron Dewayne Hatley

Shawnee resident Byron Dewayne Hatley died Thursday, July 13, at the age of 36.
Memorial Services were Tuesday, July 18, at the Rainey Mountain Kiowa Indian Baptist Church in Mountain View with the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

published Jul. 20, 2006

Alice Kay Lester

Alice Kay Lester, a longtime resident of Chandler, went to be with the Lord on Saturday morning, July 15, 2006. Alice was born in Whitter, Calif., on Sept. 14, 1942, to Henry Othel Bragg and Lovey Kirby Bragg, who preceded her in death.
Alice graduated from California High School in 1960 and afterwards attended Lawton School for Medical and Dental Assistants in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Soon after arriving in Chandler in 1976, she began working as a dental assistant for Dr. D.C. Pennington. In 1981 Alice went to work at Oklahoma Gas & Electric as a customer service consultant and continued working at OG&E until she retired in 1996. While employed with OG&E, Alice was a member of the Business and Professional Women's Club and served as the organization's President, Treasurer and District Secretary. She also participated in the Community Round Table and the Chandler Chamber of Commerce Combined Appeal. One of her favorite community events was the Lincoln County Indian Arts Festival, which she served as co-chair in 1997.
Alice was a Christian and a woman of faith and prayer. She attended the Assembly of God Church in Chandler and frequently chaperoned Saturday night youth socials. Besides her faith, her children and family were her greatest passion and devotion. Alice also found pleasure working in her flower and vegetable gardens, cooking a variety of foods and desserts, reading books and magazines and making unique holiday arts and crafts.
Alice is survived by her three children, Steven Lester of Oklahoma City, Kathy Massey of Tulsa, and Mark Lester of Oklahoma City; one brother, Elbert Bragg of Denver, Colo.; one sister, Henri Isaacs of Chandler; two granddaughters, Amy Berry of Tulsa and Elizabeth Massey of Tunkhannoch, Pa.; two nephews, John Bragg of Whitelyville, Tenn., and Clint Bragg of Gallatin, Tenn.; three nieces, Diana Isaacs of Dallas, Texas, Rebecca Isaacs of Dallas and Tara Kay Bragg of Gallatin; lifetime friend and cousin, LaMona Christi of Prague; longtime friends, Shala Asal of Columbia, Mo., and Wanda Webb of Corona, Calif. and many other relativies and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials be made to: Lupus Foundation of America, Oklahoma Chapter, 3131 N. MacArthur Blvd., Suite 106B, Oklahoma City, OK 73122-1097, Phone: (405) 495-8787.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. today at Oak Park Cemetery, Chandler, with the Rev. Doyle Seeley officiating.
Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler is directing arrangements.


Jerry Lee Lowe

Shawnee resident Jerry Lee Lowe, 60, died Tuesday, July 18, 2006, in a Midwest City hospital.
He was born April 22, 1946, in Oklahoma City to Arvel J. and Marion (Bottoms) Lowe. He attended Prairie Valley schools and graduated from Earlsboro High School in 1964. He lived in this area most of his life.
On Feb. 6, 1973, he married LuWana Blackstone in Bixby.
Jerry served in the U.S. Army and was a member of Liberty Baptist Church. He worked at Tinker Air Force Base for 33 years, working as a woodcraftsman and in medical data.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Ruth Buckmaster and Margaret Gomez.
Survivor include his wife, LuWana Lowe of the home; son, Randy Lowe of Shawnee; daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Paul Parker of Shawnee; grandson, Kim's son, Colby Lowe; nieces and nephews, Chuck and Marla Sawyer of Harrah, Kathy and Dale Smith of Shawnee, Gina and Bud Ward of Oklahoma City, Susie and David Osborne of McLoud and Leslee Warkentein of Tulsa; many uncles, aunts and cousins; mother-in-law, Wanda Lane of Shawnee; sister-in-law, Pam Riggin and her husband, Jerrell of Shawnee.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. today at Fairview Cemetery with Bill Matthews officiating.
Memorials may be made to the Jerry Lee Lowe Memorial Fund for Colby Lowe c/o MidFirst Bank, 2320 N. Harrison, Shawnee, OK 74804.


Dorothy Nadene Roddy

The Roddy Family rejoice in the life of Dorothy Nadene Roddy who passed from this Life on July 18, to be in the presence of her Heavenly Father.
She was born June 5, 1917, in Shawnee to Frank Isaac McCowan and Sylvia Nadene Martin. She moved to Muskogee in 1939 and on June 28, 1939, married Ralph R. Roddy.
Ralph and his father had started A&A Plumbing in 1939 and in 1947 Ralph and Dorothy opened and operated Roddy Plumbing until his death in May 1964. She had been the bookkeeper and continued to operate Roddy Plumbing until 1968.
From 1968 to 1996, Dorothy worked at Lakeland Florist. During her 63 years in Muskogee she was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and its Women's Circles.
In October 2002, she moved to Collinsville, Okla. to live with her son, Jimmy Roddy, and then to Broken Arrow in October 2003, to live with her daughter, Ann Helsley.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents; husband Ralph Sr.; son Harry Lee Roddy; three brothers, Paul Edward McCowan, Harry Elmer McCowan and Francis Isaac McCowan Jr.; and one grandson, Todd Marshall Helsley.
Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Ralph R. Jr. and Lois Roddy of Houston, Texas, and Jimmy F. and Shirley Roddy of Collinsville; one daughter, Mary Ann Helsley of Broken Arrow; five grandchildren, Bettina Roddy of Farmington Hills, Mich., Craig and wife Laurie of Owasso, Chris and wife Patricia of Memphis, Tenn., Cary and wife Jennifer of Arlington, Texas, and Tony Helsley of Tulsa; and seven great-grandchildren, Amanda, Jonathan, Sara, Matthew, Cole, Tabitha and Steven.
To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Dorothy was just "Nana."
She is also survived by three sisters, Elna Ruth Marr of Billings, Mont., Edna Mae Spearance, and Francis Ann Lofton, both of Shawnee.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Jim Coder and his staff, all of Dorothy's nurses and the staffmembers of St. Francis Hospital BA, Cedarcrest Care Center, and Hometown Hospice, all in Broken Arrow.
A viewing will be 6 p.m. to 9 p.m today.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday, July 21, at Hayhurst Funeral Home, 1660 South Elm, Broken Arrow, OK.
Family only at Fairview Cemetery, Shawnee.


Darrell Dean Smith

Tulsa resident Darrell Dean Smith, 67, peacefully departed this life, Friday, July 14. in his home after a long illness.
He was born April 27, 1939, in Wetumka.
Darrell graduated from Checotah High School. He was a man with a vision. He previously owned S&S Vending in Muskogee and Service Vending in Tulsa. He loved golf and being outdoors.
Survivors include his mother, Jewell Smith of Shawnee; sisters, Jean Ritchey of Ft. Worth, Texas, and Wilene Hobson of Ada; one son, Lonnie Smith, of Tulsa; one daughter, Cindy Morgan and husband, Dwaine, of Broken Arrow; and two grandchildren, Shaun Morgan and Stephanie Morgan.
He will forever be loved and missed.
A celebration of his life will be held at his home in Tulsa at noon Friday, July 21.


Orvil L. Hamon

Orvil L. Hamon, 94, passed away Monday, July 17, in Shawnee.
He was born Oct. 18, 1911, in Riply to John E. and Florence Gunn Hamon.
Orvil was known as a kind and generous man, who loved his family very much.
He was preceded in death by his wife Ruth in 1996.
Survivors include his son, Jim and wife, Donna, of Seminole; daughter, June McNutt and husband, Harold, of Noble; sister, Ruby Poe of Shawnee; six grandchildren, Richard, Rhonda, Teresa, Calvin, Robin, and Gerald; eight great-grandchildren, Michael, Gracie, Calvin Jr., Amber, Brittany, Jennifer, Brandy, and Brandon.
Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Friday at IOOF Cemetery in Norman under the direction of Guardian Norman Funeral Home, Norman.

published Jul. 21, 2006

Robert K. Maden

Shawnee resident Robert "Bob" K. Maden, 80, died Wednesday, July 19, at at local nursing home.
He was born Jan. 2, 1926, in Dodge City, Kan.
On Oct. 5, 1996, he married Juanita Green in Shawnee.
He served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II.
Bob worked for Action in Shawnee.
He attended Hartstreet Full Gospel Church.
Bob enjoyed music, working with wood and had a great sense of humor.
Survivors include his wife, Juanita, of Shawnee; son, Robert Maden Jr. of Gladstone, Mo.; two stepsons and spouses, Wes and Connie Green of Shawnee, Paul and Bonnie Green of Mustang; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other family members.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Walker Funeral Chapel with Pastor Ellis Gregg officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.


Thelma Ruth Saulsberry

Thelma Ruth was born to Ruth Jane and O.W. Rice on July 16, 1929. Although an only child, she did not grow up alone. She was surrounded by aunts, uncles and cousins in southwest Oklahoma. She commented throughout her life that while she grew up during the depression, her life as a child was full and filled with blessings.
Her family moved to Shawnee, Oklahoma in 1946 after the war so that she could attend Oklahoma Baptist University. Thelma pursued a degree in education and became an English teacher upon her graduation. On several occasions she tutored students who were too sick to attend classes. One student that she spoke of often was a girl named Paula, who had contracted polio and was spending much of her time in an iron lung. Thelma sought to find interesting activities, books and projects for them to work on that would expand Paula's view of the world. Later in life, she contacted Thelma to tell her that the time they spent together that summer made a huge difference in her life and created in her a belief that she could accomplish something significant with her life in spite of the infirmity caused by polio.
Thelma also taught second grade Sunday school for more than 20 years--working to make the Bible stories come to life for her young charges. Later in life, she worked with international students to learn English as their second language. Many of her students were doctors and nurses prior to moving to the United States, but their lack of ability to speak English was compromising their careers. Thelma's work with these students made it possible for them to return to their careers and support their families both here in the United States and abroad.
Thelma was married to Robert E. Saulsberry for 35 years and moved to Dallas, Texas in the summer of 1964. They adopted two daughters, Jann and Robyn. Thelma found great joy in raising her two girls. She taught them of her faith in Jesus Christ and the ability to see Him in creation. Her later years centered around enjoying the lives of her grandchildren.
Thelma is survived by her two daughters, Jann Saulsberry of Nashville, Tenn., and Robyn Bush of Richardson, Texas; her son-in-law, Tod Bush; and two grandchildren, Tyler and Lindsey Bush.
Thelma died early Wednesday, July 19, 2006. Graveside service will be held Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at Resthaven Cemetery.


Geary Wayne Sherrill

Geary Wayne Sherrill, 58, died Thursday, July 20, in Meeker.
Graveside service will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday at New Hope Cemetery, Meeker, with the Rev. Tracy Barnett officiating. Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


John Edward Smith

McLoud resident John Edward Smith died Wednesday, July 19, in Oklahoma City. He was 69.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Dale Cemetery with the Rev. David Brassfield officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Smith~Parks Funeral Service in Harrah.


Thurman Lee Smith

Midwest City resident Thurman Lee Smith died Wednesday, July 19, at the age of 85.
Funeral Services with military honors are scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday at the Swearingen Funeral Chapel, Seminole, with Doyle Loveland officiating.
Burial will follow at Little Cemetery, Seminole County, under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


Verlin "Bud" Sowards

Stroud resident Verlin "Bud" Sowards died Wednesday, July 19, at the age of 87.
Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday at the Parks Brothers Funeral Services, Stroud.
Service will be 11:30 a.m. Monday at the First United Methodist Church in Stroud with the Rev. Phil Ervin officiating.
Burial will be at the Stroud Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Services.

published Jul. 22, 2006

Daniel Watson

Earlsboro resident Daniel Watson, 69, died Wednesday, July 19, in Shawnee.
He was born Sept. 11, 1936, in Wewoka to Willie B. and Winey M. Ellis. He has lived in Shawnee and the surrounding area most of his life, living in Earlsboro since 1985. He was a Bethel High School graduate and attended Oklahoma Christian University.
Daniel served with the U.S. Marines during the Korean Conflict.
On Aug. 23, 1955, he married Frankie L. Kaseca in Shawnee.
Daniel was a member of the Seminole Nation and attended Abiding Grace Tabernacle. He retired from Tinker Air Force Base as a computer analyst.
He enjoyed bowling, playing and coaching baseball and fast-pitch softball. He played on the Shawnee Braves softball team and coached women's softball, basketball and little league sports. He had a passion for playing his bass guitar and singing at church services.
He was preceded in death by a son, Timothy Owen; his mother and father; and a brother, Theodore Watson.
Survivors include his wife, Frankie Watson of the home; six sons and four daughters-in-law, Greg and Martha Watson of Shawnee, Darrell Watson of Wintzville, Mo., Tommy and Ella Watson of Shawnee, Danny Watson of Oklahoma City, Brent and Lisa Watson of Shawnee and Patrick and Jamie Watson of McLoud; former daughter-in-law, Carolyn Blanchard of Shawnee; one brother and two sisters-in-law, Leroy and Henryetta Ellis of Tecumseh, and JoAnn Watson of Tecumseh; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visition will begin 10 a.m. Saturday.
Wake will be 7 p.m. Sunday at First Indian Baptist Church in Shawnee. Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at First Indian Baptist Church with the Rev. Ellis Rolette and Eastman Factor officiating. Burial will be at Mack Family Cemetery .


Cynthia Kay Blake

Prague resident Cynthia Kay Blake died Saturday, July 15, in Prague at the age of 63.
Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague. A graveside service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, Lincoln, Neb.
Services are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

published Jul. 23, 2006

Clarence Eugene "Gene" Cooke Jr.

Shawnee resident Clarence Eugene "Gene" Cooke Jr. died Friday, July 21, at a local hospital. He was 81.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Resthaven Memorial Park with the Rev. Charles Massoth, O.S.B., officiating.
He was born Jan. 11, 1925, in Shawnee to Clarence Eugene Cooke Sr. and Jessie Myrtle (Kelley) Cooke. He married Marjorie Jean Hart on July 11, 1949. He served in the U.S. Navy and was the owner of Cooke Electric Co. He was a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus.
He was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie on April 18 and by his parents.
Survivors include two daughters and a son-in-law, Cyndi Cooke of Oklahoma City, and Debbie and Allan Baker of Choctaw.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any charity.

published Jul. 25, 2006

Betty Jean Burgess

Lifelong Konawa resident Betty Jean Burgess, 70, went to be with her Lord and savior Sunday, July 23, in Ada.
She was born Nov. 5, 1935, in Concho to Hixton Burgess and Irene Mary (Coker) Burgess.
Betty has resided on the Coker Family place, east of Konawa, all of her life.
She was a loving homemaker and caregiver for her family. She was a member of High Springs Indian Baptist Church and a member of the Rebekah Lodge.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents, the Rev. Dan and Mamie Day Coker, John and Jeanetta Tiger Burgess; sister, Mary Wiley; two brothers, Robert "Peck" Armstrong and Danny "Chebon" Armstrong; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Survivors include three sisters, Katie Breeden of Ada, Nettie Moreland and Edna Odell, both of Asher; two brothers, Frank Armstrong and Bill Armstrong, both of Konawa; several nieces, nephews, a host of other family and friends.
Betty's nieces and nephews will serve as pallbearers.
Wake service will be 6 p.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel. Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Dorsey Nero and the Rev. Kellos Walker officiating. Burial will follow at Vamoosa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home of Konawa.


Millie Kerschner

Former Shawnee resident Millie "Teresa" Kerschner, 66, died Sunday, July 23, at her home in Paden.
Teresa was born Nov. 26, 1939, in Poteau to Elton and Opal (Loggains) Barnes. She attended Monroe High School and Poteau Community College. She had lived in Shawnee for 21 years before moving three years ago to Paden.
On Nov. 29, 1961, she married Guy Kerschner in Raton, N.M.
She served two years in the U.S. Air Force and was a stenographer for the Department of Human Services.
Her parents preceded her in death.
Survivors include her husband, Guy Kerschner of the home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Ricky Don and Roselyn of Tecumseh and Billy Joe and Dawnita of Tulsa; two grandchildren; two step grandchildren; and one step great-grandchild; two brothers, Cleve "Bud" Barnes of Poteau and Donald Ray Barnes of Poteau; numerous nieces, nephews and other family and friends.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Vaughn Cemetery in Gilmore, Okla., with Phil McGehee officiating. Memorials may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation


Roger Jackson Marquis

Longtime Seminole resident Roger Jackson Marquis, 59, died Saturday, July 22, at Seminole Medical Center.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole. Services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Church of Christ in Little with Rusty Dawson and James Branscum officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery, north of Seminole, under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

published Jul. 26, 2006

Mary A. Casey

Shawnee resident Mary A. Casey, 95, died Saturday, July 22, at her home.
She was born Oct. 3, 1910, in Fayette, Ala., to Posie and Leona Yerby.
Mary graduated from Poteau High School. She then attended Oklahoma A&M College, graduating in 1933 with a bachelor of arts degree in business. She also had a private pilot's license.
In 1936 she married Jerry Casey in Claremore. Before Jerry's death in 2004, they celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary.
Mary worked 13 years as an executive secretary and assistant to the presidents of various insurance companies; 30 years as co-owner and office manager of Jerry Casey Insurance Agency; 58 years as co-owner of a sheep and cattle ranch and 53 years as a real estate investor and property owner.
She was a resident and active enthusiast of Shawnee since 1946, state chairperson for more than five years of Oklahoma Make It With Wool, Pottawatomie County Chairperson of the March of Dimes for several years and member of the Emmanuel Episcopal Church Alter Guild. She also was the loving, supportive wife and behind the scenes manager of all projects in which her late husband, Jerry Casey, was involved in as an officer in civic organizations such as Greater Shawnee Area Chamber of Commerce, Shawnee Rotary Club, Pottawatomie County Industrial Exposition, Oklahoma Tuberculosis Association and Boy Scouts of America.
Mary traveled extensively in North, Central and South America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Africa, Japan and China. She went on a 6,000 mile personal houseboat expedition covering the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Coast, Hudson River, the Great Lakes and the Ohio, Cumberland, Mississippi and Arkansas Rivers. At 89, she went on an Air Stream motor home trip to Alaska.
Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Don Ealey of Shawnee; son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Monica Casey of Edmond; five grandchildren and spouses, Bert and Kim Frichot of Harrah, Marie and John Gossling of Houston, Texas, Angie and Thomas Hesser of Edmond, Stephanie and Bill Stout of Fruitland, Idaho, Roger and Debbie Casey of Allen, Texas; 24 great-grandchildren.
The family would like to think Mary Henry of Paden, Toni Salha of Shawnee, Kayleigh Craig of Prague and Heartland Hospice personnel who willingly, lovingly and professionally cared for Mary during the last two years of her life.
Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Broadway and Highland, with the Rev. Clark Shackelford officiating. Cremains will be placed in the columbarium at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church.
Memorial donations in Mary's name may be made to the charities of choice.


Geneva Clark Davis

Norman resident Geneva Davis left her earthly home Sunday, July 23, at the age of 79.
She was born Audrey Geneva Decker on December 12, 1926 to Jesse Warren and Esther (Jacks) Decker at their home in St. Louis, Okla. She attended school and grew up in the St. Louis area.
In 1945, she married Carold D. "Jim" Clark on May 14 in Konawa. They were married for 26 years. Geneva was a very creative, artistic person. She started early on, using water colors and painting on glossy pictures, in which she sold to earn extra money.
She and Jim moved to Norman from Pauls Valley in 1960 where she was a professional seamstress, sewing for her children and the public.
She married Jesse P. Davis on July 27, 1972 in Norman. They opened a ceramic shop in 1974 where they worked until their retirement in 1989. At that time, they did extensive traveling.
Geneva was a member of the First Baptist Church of Norman.
Preceding her in death are her parents; sister, Lavonne Risenhoover; brother, Herschel Decker; and second husband, Jesse Davis.
Survivors include her children, Donna J. (Clark) Cook of Norman, Peggy (Clark) Smith and her husband Scott of McLoud, and Russell Clark and his wife Jane of Norman; sister, Jerrie James of Port Lovaca, Texas; and Jim Clark of Moore, the father of her children. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Stephanie Morgan and husband, Brian, of Newalla, Jessica Cochran and her husband, Dax, and James Clark, all of Norman; great-grandchildren, Austin Culver, Alex Morgan, Denton Cochran, and Codi Ann Cochran.
Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Havenbrook Funeral Home in Norman.
Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, south of St. Louis, under the direction of Havenbrook Funeral Home, Norman.


Belva Jean Pennokee

Former Seminole resident Belva Jean Pennokee died Sunday, July 23, at her residence in Oklahoma City. She was 53.
Wake service will be 7 p.m. today at Rock Springs Baptist Church, Sasakwa.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Rock Springs Baptist Church with Eugene Harjo and Jimmy Murphy officiating.
Burial will follow at the Wilson Family Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


James Malcolm Miles

Norman resident James Malcolm Miles, 63, died Saturday, July 22, at a Norman hospital.
James was born Nov. 5, 1942, in Shawnee to Charles and Pauline (Baker) Miles.
He was a Sac and Fox tribal member and a faithful member of Victory Baptist Church. He will be greatly missed there, especially by Francis (Jr.) Brown, his best friend of more than 40 years.
"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." II Timothy Chapter 4:6-7.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jack and Joe B. Miles and an infant son, Clinton Miles.
Survivors include two sons, Timothy Miles and Jeremy Miles; one daughter, Sara Miles; two grandsons, T.J. Miles and Rainy Miles; five granddaughters, Kimberly Miles, Shiloh Miles-Holt, Cheyenne and Seneca Miles and Chantal Miles; 1 great-grandson, Zachary Miles; four brothers, Richard, Charles, Jefferson and John Miles; three sisters, Delores Holland, Charlene Given and Mildred Williams.
Memorial services will be 7 p.m. Friday at Victory Baptist Church, 2301 S.E. 15th, Oklahoma City, and 1 p.m. Saturday at the First Indian Baptist Church, Minnesota and Darrow Streets, Shawnee.


Vergie Mae Longhorn

Shawnee resident Vergie Mae Longhorn, 77, went to be with her Lord and Savior Sunday, July 23, after a lengthy illness.
She was born February 1, 1929 to Sam Roberts and Agnes Sloat-Sloan in Hominy. She was raised by Frank Sloan and Agnes Sloat-Sloan in Little Axe, Okla. She attended Nowles Grade School and the high school at Haskell Indian Institute, in Lawrence, Kans.
In 1949, she married Ernest Frank Longhorn on February 12 in Shawnee.
Vergie was a dedicated mother and homemaker to nine children. She also worked at North Rock Creek School from 1971 to 1988.
Preceding her in death were her husband, Ernest; daughter, Vonnie Garza; mother, Agnes Sloat-Sloan; sister, Helen Martel; and brother, Ted Sloan.
Survivors include three sisters and one brother-in-law, Marjorie Kaniatobe, Jennifer Sloan, and Esteline Schulenberg and husband, Don; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Wendell Sloan and James Sloan and wife Rosetta; her children and their spouses, Vivian and Howard Shane, Cynthia Longhorn, Nathan and Roseanne Longhorn, Twila and David "Rusty" Parker, Ewell and Teresa Longhorn, Joel Longhorn, Avis Longhorn, Weda Longhorn and Gordon Scott; 24 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. today at Gaskill Funeral Chapel.
Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Sallateeska Baptist Church with the Rev. Wayne Wilson officiating.
Burial will follow at Johnson Cemetery under the direction of Gaskill Funeral Chapel.


Randy C. Switch Sr.

Del City resident Randy C. Switch Sr. died Saturday, July 22, in Oklahoma City. He was 53.
He was born in Shawnee on July 21, 1953 to William and Waltsie Ruth (Williams) Switch.
Randy, an Absentee Shawnee tribal member, was a resident of the Shawnee area for most of his life and graduated from Shawnee High School.
He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1974 until 1981 and then worked as a machinist at Tinker Field for 33 years, retiring in 2005.
Preceding him in death are his mother; one sister, Doris Bullchild; and one granddaughter.
Survivors include four sons and two daughters-in-law, Christian and Sandra Switch of Midwest City, R.C. and Charlene Switch of Del City, Kevin Switch, and Charles Switch, both of Shawnee; two daughters, Jessica Switch of Oklahoma City and Traci Switch of Midwest City; father and stepmother, William and Oma Switch of Shawnee; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Voguel and Barbara Switch of Shawnee and Delbert and Christina Switch of Fort Worth; eight grandchildren.
Visitation will begin 9 a.m. today at Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at the Switch Family Cemetery with Bill Yardy officiating under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh.


Danny Gene Allison

Lifelong Seminole resident Danny Gene Allison died Sunday, July 23, at the Midwest Regional Hospital in Midwest City. He was 66.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and until service on Thursday at the Swearingen Funeral Chapel in Seminole.
Wake service will be 5 p.m. today at the Swearingen Funeral Chapel.
Service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at the Swearingen Funeral Chapel in Seminole.

published Jul. 27, 2006

Virgil Don Smith Sr.

Shawnee resident Virgil Smith Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away Saturday, July 22, at the age of 56. He will be greatly missed.
He was born to Homer and Leona Smith in Madill on Jan. 14, 1950. He left high school early to work on the farm, learning to operate farm machinery.
For more than thirty years, he switched between operating heavy equipment and driving long-haul trucks, depending on his family's needs and available work. Though his first love was always the open road.
Virgil loved the simple things in life, hard work, his children, grandchildren, friends and most of all, a good home-cooked meal. Nothing put a bigger smile on his face than visiting with his family over a home-cooked meal of pork chops and fried potatoes, and playing with his grandchildren after dinner until all of them, including Virgil, fell asleep on the living room floor.
When at home, Virgil loved to visit his brother and best friend, Jack Smith and his wife, Norma. They would drink coffee in the morning and watch old Westerns in the afternoon.
Preceding him in death were his parents and his brother, Benny Smith.
Survivors include his wife, Nancy Smith; children, Civona McKinney, Virgil Smith Jr, Corinna Rodriguez, Jennifer Smith and Colleen Smith; 11 grandchildren; numerous extended family members and friends, all of whom loved him very dearly.
Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. today, at Greenlawn Southwest Cemetery in Bakersfield, Calif.
A celebration of Virgil's life will take place in his hometown of Shawnee.


Betty Ann Landrum

Mannford resident Betty Ann Landrum departed this life Wednesday, July 26, in Mannford at the age of 69.
She was born July 19, 1937, in Pottawatomie County to Lonnie and Vida (Conner) Fry.
She married Don D. Landrum in 1959 in Tulare, Calif. He preceded her in death on Oct. 1, 2001.
Betty was a homemaker and a member of the Freewill Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents and four brothers.
Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Jason and Katy Landrum of Mannford; daughters and sons-in-law, Shanda Landrum of Grapevine, Texas, Susan (Landrum) and Kevin Fahlund of Memphis, Tenn., Landi and Victor Martinez of Waukesha, Wis.; sister, Peggy Moore of Tulare, Calif.; seven grandchildren, Conner Martinez, Caitlin Martinez, Campbell Martinez, Judge Landrum, Jacob Landrum, Wade Landrum and Bo Landrum.
Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with Elder Johnny Miller officiating and the Rev. Henry Braisher assisting. Burial will follow at Paden Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.


Darla Jenenne Wear

Edmond resident Darla Jenenne Wear died Saturday, July 22, in Edmond at the age of 45.
Graveside service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Little Cemetery with the Rev. Roy Robertson officiating.
Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole, is directing arrangements.


Brenda June Black

Oklahoma City resident Brenda June (Ashby) Black died Sunday, July 23, at the age of 58.
Viewing will be until service time today at the Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel, Seminole.
Service will be 2:30 p.m. today at the Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel.
Burial will follow at Little Cemetery, 8 miles north of Seminole on Hwy 377, under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

published Jul. 28, 2006

Sue Batt

Lifelong Shawnee and Bethel resident Sue Batt, 65, died Tuesday, July 25, in Oklahoma City.
She was born September 1, 1940, in Shamrock, Okla.
She was married in October 1967, in Decatur, Texas, to Leroy Batt.
Sue was a homemaker. She also was a member of Northeast Free Will Baptist Church.
She loved her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed playing cards and loved the outdoors.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Nancy Spangler.
Survivors include her husband, Leroy Batt of the home; daughters and sons-in-law, Donna and J.R. Campbell of Bethel, Cindy and Steve Givens of Stillwater, Karen and Tommy Ward of Pink; sons and daughter-in-law, Carl Cole of Amarillo, Texas, Roy and Trina Batt of Bethel; nine grandchildren, Rick Campbell, Angie Young, Amber, Zachery, Tasha, Brittany, Tiffany & Cassie Batt, and Lindsey Ward; one great-grandson, Colton Campbell; one sister, Judy Anderson of Texas; brothers, Jerry Leyerly of McLoud, Dan Likens of Pennsylvania; brother-in-law, Harold Spangler of Yukon and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
Service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Blackburn Chapel Baptist Church with the Rev. Mike McCauley officiating. Burial will be at Blackburn Cemetery.


Jimmie Deatherage

Tecumseh resident Jimmie Deatherage, 58, died Tuesday, July 25, in Tecumseh.
He was born August 3, 1947, in Tecumseh to Robert Willie and Dora Alice (James) Deatherage.
Jimmie attended Forest View, Tecumseh, and Harjo Schools. He served with the U. S. Army Special Forces during Vietnam. He worked in residential construction as a roofing contractor. He was a member of the Free Will Baptist Church.
He was known around Pottawatomie County for his kindness and caring ways to others. He will be missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Arthur and Fred Deatherage; and one sister, Ann Walker.
Survivors include his daughter, Holly Deatherage of Utah; son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Stacey Vick of Lubbock, Texas; three sisters and one brother-in-law, Mildred Ada of Shawnee, Anita Shephard of Tecumseh, Loreta and Bobby Coats of Tecumseh; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Ralph and Virgie Deatherage of Lubbock, Texas, Donnie and Shirley Deatherage of Shawnee; and three grandchildren.
Viewing will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday with service following at 3 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Chapel with John Harrison and Bobby Coats officiating


Brady L. Ray Watson

Former Bethel resident Brady L. Ray Watson, 48, died Sunday, July 23.
He was born Aug. 31, 1957, to Brady Clel Watson and Wanda Ray (Dunning) Watson in Gedion, Mo.
Brady was a hardworking man for 20 years doing maintenance on the A-Wac planes and also was a self-employed truck driver.
He loved riding motorcycles. He also loved music and even played in the bands, Foxfire and Oklahoma Connection.
Brady enjoyed his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.
His father and brother, Lester Doyne Miller preceded him in death.
Survivors include his mother, Wanda Watson; his children, Kimberly Cardenas, Shonda Watson, Dustin "Cowboy" Watson and Brady L. Ray Watson Jr.; four grandchildren, Brandon, Chloe, Hannah and Rylan; brother, James Miller of Carney; sister, Karen Bobbett of Midwest City; and aunt, Juanita Nely.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Strode Chapel with Joe Merrell and Ken Grissam officiating. Burial will follow at Carney Cemetery under the direction of Strode Funeral Home of Stillwater.


Raymond J. Bray

Shawnee resident Raymond J. Bray, 83, died Wednesday, July 26, at a Norman hospital.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.

published Jul. 29, 2006

Bobby G. Villines

Tecumseh resident Bobby G. Villines died Thursday, July 27, in Tecumseh at the age of 76.
He was born May 15, 1930, in Rosedale, Okla., to Fred and Jeffie (Pirtle) Villines.
Bobby was a longtime resident of Pink and a graduate of Rosedale High School.
He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
On Aug. 28, 1955, he married Mary Dinkel in Lakin, Kan.
Bobby worked with an oil field service company and was a member of Pink Baptist Church. He enjoyed listening to the church choir and attending choir practice. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, reading and country music.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Haley Nicole Villines; and 1 brother, Fritz S. Villines.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Villines of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Lou and Dee Lewis of Midwest City and Carol and Ron Leister of Tecumseh; four sons and two daughters-in-law, Bobby and Stephanie Villines of Rossford, Ohio, Jerry Villines of Perry, Fred and Arlene Villines of Shawnee and Glen Villines of Tecumseh; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother and sister-in-law, Douglas and Sammie Villines of Weatherford; and numerous relatives and friends.
Service will be noon today at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Brother Shane Lester, pastor of Pink Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Brown Cemetery, Tecumseh.


Barbara J. Murray

Tecumseh resident Barbara J. Murray died Thursday, July 27, at the age of 73.
Graveside service will be 3 p.m. today at Troy Cemetery in Troy, Okla.
Arrangements are under the direction of Corbett Funeral & Cremation, Oklahoma City.


Carolyn Sue Kolander

Longtime Seminole resident Carolyn Sue Kolander died Wednesday, July 26, at the age of 55.
Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Monday at the Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Roy Robertson officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home


Jackie Ann Smith

Seminole resident Jacqueline Ann "Jackie" (Gill) Smith died Sunday, July 23, at the age of 53.
Service is pending. Cremation services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

published Jul. 30, 2006

Phyllis May Coker

Phyllis May Coker of Shawnee went to be with her Lord and Savior Friday, July 28, 2006.

She was born Phyllis May Robertson on Sept. 23, 1918, in Jefferson City, Mo. She was the second of three daughters born to Aubrey Bernard "Bob" Robertson and Mildred Ann (Affolter) Robertson.
She graduated in 1936 from Jefferson City High School, then began working for a local telephone company as an operator. On June 23, 1945, she married Staff Sgt. Clifford Oliver Coker. After her husband completed his tour of duty in the Army Air Corps, they returned to Oklahoma and, in 1955, settled in Shawnee with their three children.
Phyllis devoted her life to raising her children, taking care of her home and husband, and serving in her church. At the time of her death, she was a member of Temple Baptist Church. She was an accomplished poet, seamstress, artist and a loving wife and mother.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, her parents and sister, Bernice Wheeler.
She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Les and Nita Coker of Shawnee; daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Mark Richardson of Madison, Ala.; and daughter and son-in-law Linda and Mike Rudd of Shawnee, with whom she has lived the past nine years. She also is survived by one sister and brother-in-law, Marion and Vic Ihler of Jefferson City, Mo.; six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Services will be 2 p.m. Monday at Walker Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Mike Craig officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.
Memorials may be made to The Gideons International, the Temple Baptist Church Building Fund or The Alzheimer's Research Foundation, 6465 South Yale, Suite 206, Tulsa, Okla., 74136-7804.


Ruby Whitson

Ruby Whitson was born Aug. 10, 1931, in Wilson, Okla., and departed this life on Saturday, July 29, 2006, in Midwest City, Okla., at the age of 74.
Ruby, the daughter of Robert and Ivy Rogers, was a resident of Midwest City. Ruby married Ralph Whitson on June 21, 1960, in Paden, Okla.
She is survived by her husband, Ralph Whitson of the home; her daughter and son-in-law, Rose and Denny Williams of Choctaw; brother and sister-in-law, Gerald and Kay Rogers of Yukon; grandchildren, Daniel and Jasmine Salazar, USMC, of San Clemente, Calif.; Michael and Christina Whitson of Paden; and Eric and Star Whitson of Midwest City; great-grandchildren, Lecite Salazar and Amber Whitson; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Bill and Barbara Whitson of Oklahoma City; Paul Whitson of Thomas; Johnny and Carol Whitson of Oklahoma City, and Sue and Dale McConnell of Sun City West, Ariz.
Funeral will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with the Rev. Paul Heard and the Rev. Jim Eastep officiating. Burial will follow at Paden Cemetery.


Archie B. Hill Jr.

Archie B. Hill Jr., 77, a lifelong resident of Shawnee, died Friday, July 28, 2006, at a local hospital.
Services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Walker Funeral Service. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Zinna Ellen Richards

Zinna Ellen Richards, 76, Shawnee, died Saturday, July 29, 2006, at a local hospital.
She was born Oct. 2, 1929, in Springfield, Ill., to Durwood Teater Sr. and Iva (Furry) Teater. She attended school in Springfield, Ill.
She married Kenneth Richards on Aug. 27, 1968, in Springfield, Ill., and was a daycare provider. She was a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church and Golden Hearts. She enjoyed visiting with people on the phone.
Her parents, husband and sister preceded her in death.
Surviving are a daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Rob LaReau of Shawnee; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Bill Burgess of Springfield, Ill.; Bob and Jan Burgess of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Scott Hillary of Shawnee, Matthew Burgess, Eric Burgess, both of Springfield, Ill.; Lauren Burgess of Houston, Texas; Greg Cornett and Leslie of Frisco, Texas; sister, Frances Goff, and brother, Durwood Teater.
Service will be noon Monday at St. Benedict Catholic Church with the Rev. Maurus Jaeb, O.S.B., officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Gaskill Funeral Chapel.
Memorials may be made to St. Benedict Catholic Church.


Carolyn Sue Kolander

Longtime Seminole resident Carolyn Sue Kolander died Wednesday, July 26, 2006. She was 55.
Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Roy Robertson officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


Velda Mae Fox

Velda Mae Fox, 62, Maud, passed away Tuesday, July 25, 2006, at the age of 62.
Visitation will be 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday at Knight-Swearingen Funeral Home in Maud. After cremation, the remains will be interred in the Fox Family cemetery in Spencer, W.Va.
Memorial donations be made to the Maud Volunteer Fire Department, either at the Maud city clerk's office or to P.O. Box 217, Maud, Okla., 74854.