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

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published May. 16, 2006

Opal Irene Thronesbery

Opal Irene Thronesbery, Edmond resident, formerly of Chandler, was born Sept. 14, 1920, in Pocahontas, Ark., and departed this life on May 14, in Edmond. She was 85.
Opal was the daughter of William and Cordelia Taylor Haus. She married Floyd Thronesbery on July 1, 1940, in Chandler.

She was a nurses aid and a homemaker for many years.

Opal attended Sunset Heights Baptist Church in Edmond and the First Assembly of God Church in Chandler.

Her parents; husband of 51 years, Floyd; two sisters, Emma Crystal and May West; and stepsisters preceded her in death.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Melba and John Ewing of Edmond, and Carolyn and Jimmie Ledgerwood of Okmulgee; three grandsons; one granddaughter; three stepgrandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and twin greatgrandchildren on the way; one brother-in-law, Bethel Thronesbery; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Thronesbery and Gracie Thronesbery; several nieces, nephews and other relatives and many friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the Sunset Heights Baptist Church, Edmond, with the Rev. Kevin Bowen and the Rev. Doyle Seeley officiating. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. in Carney Cemetery, Carney, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.

A guest book is available to share your memories online at www.ParksBrothers.net.


Betty Elaine Ruby

Betty Elaine Ruby went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, May 11, 2006.
Elaine was born March 13, 1955, in Rapid City, S.D. She married the love of her life, Ron Ruby, on June 18, 1976. They had three daughters, Arlinda, Christina, and Stephanie.

Elaine held many jobs throughout her lifetime, but the ones she was most proud of were that of mother and Me-Ma (grandma). A member of the congregation at Countryside Pentecostal Church of God, she held her church family in the highest regard.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Ron; both parents, John and Betty Lutheran; one sister, Jean Barrett; two brothers, Larry and Dennis Lutheran; and a special "daughter", Lori Giles.

She is survived by her three daughters and their husbands, Arlinda and Kyle Copeland, Christina and Robbie Gilliam,and Stephanie and Luke Isenhower; four grandchildren, Abigail and Lola Gilliam and Ethan and Libby Isenhower; two stepsons and three stepdaughters and their families; five brothers; one sister; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews; and many other special friends.

Service was held 2:30 p.m. Monday, May 15, at Countryside Pentecostal Church of God in Tecumseh with the Pastor Dennis Stone officiating.

Happy Mother's Day Mom. You may seem far from us but you'll always be in our hearts. We Love You!! Welcome Home Mom!


Tom Belcher

Longtime Chandler resident Tom Belcher passed away Thursday, May 11, 2006. He will be remembered by family, friends, and thousands of young men as the owner of the Chandler Baseball Camp; a cornerstone of the community and a place where boys learned the lessons of the game and life.
He was born October 17, 1940, in Oklahoma City.

Tom began playing baseball as a young boy. His love, dedication and commitment to the game led him to become the ace pitcher from 1958 to 1962 at the University of Texas in Austin. While at Texas he was named All-Conference and Most Valuable Athlete. He pitched in two College World Series tournaments. Signing with the New York Mets out of College, he went on to spend three years in the New York Mets organization.

Tom and his family moved to Chandler in 1969 where he worked alongside his brother, Jim, and his father, Bo. Working with youth baseball became his life's passion. Tom was involved with many civic activities, including the Chamber of Commerce and the Chandler Library.

His parents, one son, Russell, and one brother, Jim preceded Tom in death.

Survivors include his two daughters, Leslie Belcher and Amy Turcotte, and two grand-children, Thomas and Katherine Sowell, all of Alexandria, Va.

To honor his many years of teaching and training young men, his daughters have established a memorial fund in his name. Gifts may be sent to the Boys and Girls Club of America, 1275 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30309.

Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at First United Methodist Church, Chandler, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.

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


John Edward Zimmerman

Stillwater resident John Edward Zimmerman, 82, died Sunday, May 14, at Stillwater Medical Center.
He was born Feb. 29, 1924, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Charles Zimmermann and Emma Damske.

On June 14, 1946, he married R. Jeanne Baker in Iowa. She preceded him in death Feb. 27, 1991.

John remarried July 4, 1991, to Janet Y. Clymer in Las Vegas, Nev.

He was always helping people and had such a tender heart. He was willing to help a friend or a stranger and will be missed by those who knew and loved him.

John served in the submarine service in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

He enjoyed fishing, traveling, museums and reading.

He was a member of Victory Christian Center, Lions Club, Morning Optimist and the VFW in Janesville, Wis.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; sister, Marion Reiter; brothers, James and Richard Zimmerman.

Survivors include his wife, Janet, of the home; his children and spouses, Michael and Linda Zimmerman of Janesville, Richard Zimmerman and friend Kati of Fond du Lac, Wis., James Zimmerman of Plymouth, Wis, Lauren O'Day of Oshkosh, Wis., Judith O. and Roger Buggs of Beloit, Wis., Brent Sandy of Perry, Marsha and John Epperson of Augusta, Kan., Kym and Mark Payne of Stillwater; 16 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Zimmermann.

Service will be 4 p.m. Wednesday at Strode Funeral Home Chapel with Phyllis Brown officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Strode Funeral Home of Stillwater.


H.L. Holsapple

Shawnee resident H.L. Holsapple died Sunday, May 14, in Shawnee. He was 90.
Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel, Tecumseh. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.


Jamie Price

Shawnee resident Jamie Price, 38, died Sunday, May 14.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Rossville Cemetery, south of Wellston, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service.


Juanita Coker

Juanita Coker, 82, of Wanette, died Wednesday, May 10, in Wanette.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel in Tecumseh with Bill Howse III, pastor of New Horizons Fellowship Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Wanette Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh.

Born in Trousdale, she lived most of her life in the Trousdale-Wanette area. She attended school at Trousdale.

On April 4, 1942, she married C.G. Coker in Purcell.

A homemaker, she worked at Griffin Memorial Hospital until retiring. She was a member of New Horizons Fellowship Church in Wanette. She loved her gardens and caring for other people. She loved her family and home.

She was preceded in death by her husband on June 28, 1993; son, Gregg Coker on Aug. 27, 2005; one brother; four sisters.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Glenda and David Powell of Denver, Colo., Gail and Dick Baldwin of Las Vegas, Nev.; grandchildren, Sarah Powell and Lucas Powell, both of Denver; many nieces and nephews.


Larry Dale Taylor

There is a new bright and shining star in the heavens tonight, if you will listen real close you may hear it singing "Jesus Loves Me".
Larry Dale Taylor was born to Gordon Lawrence Taylor and Helen (Collins) Taylor on Aug. 4, 1946, in Okemah.

Larry loved people and always had a smile for everyone. He had a great love of music and to go to church.

He was preceded in death by his father on March 30, 2006; a brother-in-law, Melvern Smith; several aunts and uncles; and both sets of grandparents.

Larry is survived by his mother, Helen Taylor of Shawnee; sister, Patsy Smith of Del City; niece, Julie and her husband, Jerry Rhodes of Moore and their children, Nicholas and wife, Leathia, and Sarah Rhodes of Moore; a nephew, Randy and wife, Jodie Cram of Choctaw and their children Kacie and Carson of Choctaw; and step-nephew, Blake Veal of Choctaw.

Service will be noon Wednesday at Walker Funeral Chapel with burial at Highland Cemetery in Okemah at 3 p.m. The family wants to express their special thanks to Heartland Hospice and Colonial Estates Nursing Home for their dedicated care.


Milton E. Wilks

Milton E. Wilkes, 94, of Shawnee formerly of Bastrop, La., passed away Saturday, May 13, at a local nursing home.
Milton was born to Frank and Martha Wilks on Dec. 11, 1911, in Hilly, La. Milton attended Hilly schools and graduated from Ruston High School. Milton also attended Louisiana Tech where he ran track and received his B.S. degree from Southwestern Louisiana Institute (now University of Louisiana Lafayette).

He married Bernice Thompson April 16, 1939, in Monroe, La. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and played in the Navy band. Milton was also a member of the Rotary club in Bastrop. He enjoyed coaching little league baseball and taught Sunday school at the First Baptist Church in Bastrop. He was also county supervisor for the Farmers' Home Administration, USDA in Morehouse Parish. After retirement he worked for Keith-Babb Auctioneers and was a farm appraiser. He was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church of Shawnee.

Survivors of Milton include one son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Jackie Wilks of Shawnee; two grandsons and daughter-in-law, David Wilks of Norman, Bryan and Courtney Wilks of Jenks, and many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to Oklahoma Baptist University scholarship fund for track in memory of Milton Wilks.

Darrell Whitten, hospice chaplain, conducted his memorial service on Monday at 10 a.m. at Golden Rule Nursing Home residential care area.


Emanuel Vickery

Longtime McLoud resident Emanuel "Vick" Vickery passed away Saturday, May 13.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Bill Eisenhour Southeast Chapel. Burial will follow at Sunny Lane Cemetery in Del City. In lieu of flowers, tax deductible memorial donations may be made to the McLoud Public Park Playground Equipment Fund, c/o Bank First, PO Box 300, McLoud, Ok 74851


Lorena M. (McClellan) Franklin

Cushing resident Lorena M. (McClellan) Franklin, 91, died Monday, May 15, at the Linwood Nursing Home in Cushing.
Wake service will be 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at the First Indian Baptist Church, 1034 E. Walnut, Cushing.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the First Indian Baptist Church with the Rev. Duane Pratt officiating. Burial will follow at the Wakolee Cemetery, Shawnee.

Palmer Marler Funeral Home of Cushing is directing arrangements.

published May 17, 2006

Jeanne Claudette Haley

Jeanne Haley of Shawnee passed away Thursday, May 11, after battling cancer for more than nine months.
She was born on Aug. 15, 1946, to Raymond and Wanda (Skeene) Haley in Shawnee.

Jeanne served as a court administrator for 17 years.

Her most happy moments where working in her yard and tending to her birds and peacocks. She was a loving and caring person. She will be missed greatly.

She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Haley; grandparents from both sides of her family; three uncles; one dear aunt; and two cousins, she loved dearly.

Survivors include her mother, Wanda Haley; brother, Jerry Haley; children and their spouses, Shelly and Doug Mclin of Prague, Brandon and Charlotte Cartwright of Seminole, Shane Clukey of Seminole; grandsons, Spencer Mclin and Logan Cartwright; nephew and niece, Richard Haley and Audra and Steven Larson; longtime friends, Mary Young, Mary Ann Wilson and Debbie Bowles.

At her request no services will be held.


Neone King

Neone King, 76, of Asher, passed away Monday, May 15, in Shawnee.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Wanette Cemetery with D.W. "Red" Barnes officiating. Cooper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. King was born September 21, 1929 in Wanette to VanBuren and Violet Mae (Stark) McKinley. She was raised in Wanette.

On April 22, 1946 she married Martin L. King in Gainesville, TX. Following their marriage they lived in Oklahoma City and Bethany. They later returned to Wanette in 1972.

She retired from Wilson's Meat Packing Plant, and later owned and operated King's Grocery in Wanette for many years and was a home health care aid for 6 years.

Neone was a member of Avoca Church of Christ and enjoyed gardening and sewing.

She was preceded in death by her husband on March 14, 1985; as well as her parents; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a brother, Floyd McKinley.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Janice and Louie Riddles of Mustang, and Phyllis and Jack Bray of Newalla; son, Marcus King of Wanette; grandchildren, Douglas, David, and Darren Riddles, Kirk Bray, and Joshua and Jordan King; brother, Hoyt McKinley of Asher; and sister, Verma Mosier of Tuttle.


Henry Boatman

Wewoka resident Henry Boatman, 89, died Saturday, May 13, in his home.
Service will be 2:30 p.m. today at Stout-Phillips Chapel with Dewayne Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Tate Mountain Cemetery under the direction of Stout-Phillips Funeral Home.


Civic leader dies of cancer
By Mike McCormick
SNS Executive Editor

Shawnee city commissioner Bob Downing died Tuesday following a short bout with cancer.
His wife Osyth said Tuesday afternoon that her husband died about 1:30 a.m. Tuesday in Shawnee Care Center from pancreatic cancer. She had taken him there Saturday evening.

His death came on the day that had been declared in his honor. Several hours before he died, the city commission declared Tuesday, May 16, "Bob Downing Day" in Shawnee.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday at United Presbyterian Church, 330 N. Beard.

Bob Downing
Downing, 83, suffered a stroke behind his right eye last July. It destroyed his eye sight, his wife said Tuesday, as she mentioned that he had lost sight in his other eye earlier in life.

"That left him in pretty bad shape," she said from her home.

Despite the stroke, Downing continued to carry out his role as commissioner, attending commission meetings regularly, and was active in the community until just recently.

Downing served as city commissioner from Ward 6 since 1995. Initially he was appointed to the commission to fill a vacancy created when Dick Miller moved from the ward and resigned.

In 1996 he was elected to fill the two years remaining on that term and later that same year was appointed vice mayor when Chris Harden became the mayor following the death of longtime mayor Pierre Taron.

Downing was re-elected in 1998 and again in 2002 to four-year terms. He served a vice mayor of Shawnee for eight years.

He was a longtime member of the Shawnee Rotary Club, having served as secretary for more than 40 years. He had served on the Shawnee Economic Development Foundation as a trustee and treasurer since 1999.

Downing received his 50-year pin from Rotary several years ago.

Bill Weaver was a long-time personal and close friend of more than 50 years. As Weaver reflected on their relationship, he recalled that Downing came to Shawnee in 1953 from Guthrie and became a Rotarian about two weeks before Weaver, who joined the first week of 1954.

"We're going to miss him," Weaver said. "His family and our family were very close friends. We had taken cruises together, traveled to Rotary conventions, gone camping, even fishing through the years."

Weaver pointed out "there was nothing pretentious about him. I think he enjoyed the public service so much because all of the years he worked he was tied down in his business.

"He was a very close, personal friend. There were so many things in our lives that paralleled," he added. "Our kids and his kids grew up together.

When Downing came to Shawnee, he purchased the Herald Printing Co. He sold it in 1976 and worked for Demco Printing until he created Databank Printing in 1979, operating it until 1989 when he retired.

He devoted his time to civic and church work since that time.

Bill Gillmore, who said he was a life-long friend and fellow Presbyterian, called Downing's death "such a tragedy to lose him." Commenting after Tuesday's Rotary Club meeting, he added, "Bob always came up to me before church and shook my hand and visited with me."

Chris Waddell, president of the local Rotary Club, during Tuesday's weekly meeting asked for members to keep Downing and his family in their prayers.

"He was huge part of Rotary history in Shawnee," Waddell said.

Don Adkins, past governor of Rotary, also attended Tuesday's meeting. "He was so supportive of Rotary and the Rotary district. He kept you in line, he was good guy," Adkins said.

Another Rotarian, Gary Vogel, said Downing was the first to ask him to join the Rotary Club. "I joined his table. He always had a joke, a handshake and he always made you feel comfortable."

Steve Beall, assistant superintendent of Shawnee schools and fellow Rotarian, echoed Vogel's comments.

"He always knew who you were and always made you feel comfortable."

Retired lawyer and long-time Rotarian Lindsay Peters called Downing "the finest Rotarian I can think of."

Downing and his wife have three children and seven grandchildren.


Norissa Elvina Richardson

Longtime Seminole resident Norissa Elvina Richardson, 90, died Monday, May 15, at her home.
Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Maple Grove Cemetery with Ron Mitchell officiating.

Swearingen Funeral Home is directing arrangements.


Dorothy Patricia Quinalty

Lifetime Seminole resident Dorothy Patricia (Lewis) Quinalty, 83, died Monday, May 15, at Seminole Medical Center.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at the First Assembly of God Church in Bowlegs with Pastor Roy Robertson officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery (8 miles north of Seminole on Hwy 99).

Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole is directing arrangements


Daniel Thomas Sr.

Wewoka resident Daniel Thomas Sr., 65, died Wednesday, May 10, at Colonial Estates Nursing Home in Shawnee.
Service will be 1 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church in Wewoka with the Rev. Edin Thomas of Midway Independent Baptist Church, Fort Scott, Kan., officiating. Burial will follow at Westwood Cemetery in Wewoka under the direction of Myers Mortuary, Wewoka.


Dorothy Patricia Quinalty

Lifetime Seminole resident Dorothy Patricia (Lewis) Quinalty, 83, died Monday, May 15, at Seminole Medical Center.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at the First Assembly of God Church in Bowlegs with Pastor Roy Robertson officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery (8 miles north of Seminole on Hwy 99).

Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole is directing arrangements.


H.L. Holsapple

Shawnee resident H.L. Holsapple, 90, died Sunday, May 14, in Shawnee.
Mr. Holsapple was born Oct. 14, 1915, in Clayton, Okla., to J.C. and Lizzie (Harper) Holsapple.

He lived in Wister, Okla. until he was 14. He then moved to Shawnee. He was a 1936 graduate of Shawnee High School.

On Jan. 27, 1940, he married Emmy Lou Frost in Taos, N.M.

During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army.

With the help of his father and brother, Mr. Holsapple built the house he has resided in for 65 years. A carpenter, he also built several homes in the Shawnee area and worked for United Builders. He also built several Walgreen stores across the United States.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and was an avid Paul Harvey fan. He was a member of Carpenters Local Union No. 329.

Preceding him in death were his wife; one grandson, Rodney Cooper; one granddaughter, Bobbie Jo Cook; and his parents.

Survivors include three daughters and son-in-law, Janice Cooper of Shawnee, Judy and Bob Cook of Shawnee, Nancy Holsapple of Norman; numerous grandchildren, including Cindy Dellinger, Shawn Cooper and Kenny Cook, all of Shawnee; numerous great-grandchildren; special friend, Nina Self.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel, Tecumseh, with Pastor Doyle Loveland officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.


Jim H. Spain

Okemah area resident Jim H. Spain, 83, passed away Sunday, May 14, in Okemah.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Okemah. Burial will follow at the Highland Cemetery, Okemah, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Home, Okemah.

published May 18, 2006

Mildred L. Wiggins

Shawnee resident Mildred L. Wiggins, 82, died Monday, May 15, at her home.
She was born March 25, 1924, in Albion, Okla., to Earl and Maude May (Shotten) Singletary.

On Oct. 14, 1959, she married F. Leroy Wiggins.

She was a homemaker.

Her parents; son, Billy Dean Garrett; infant daughter, Oleta Mae Wiggins; brothers, Floyd and Troy Singletary; granddaughter, Anita June Reiter; and grandson, Douglas Bryant, preceded her in death.

Survivors include her husband, F. Leroy Wiggins of the home; three daughters, Ruby Wiggins of Eufaula, Nancy Harvey of Del City, Frankie Luker of Oklahoma City; sister, Dora Lee Moore of Atoka; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren.

Service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Walker Funeral Chapel with Pastor Leo Allard officiating. Burial will follow at Memory Lane Cemetery, Harrah.


Ola Mae Clark

Ola Mae "Candy" Clarke, 92, died Monday, May 15, at a local nursing home.
Ola Mae was a woman whose generosity, strong will and love of family were admired by those who knew her.

She was born in Antlers and grew up in Shawnee, where she attended the First Christian Church, Shawnee Schools and Oklahoma Baptist University.

Ola Mae had a lifelong devotion to music. In 1930 she graduated from Shawnee High School, which was during the great depression. She attended OBU where she and her sister, Cora, were members of the Girl's Quartet. Ola Mae received her "life certificate" from OBU and went on to teach school in elementary education and choral music. Every month she sent back money to help pay for her sisters education.

In 1938 she married Harry E. Hambleton in El Reno. They lived in Davenport, Iowa, where she gave birth to her daughter, Sylvia. In 1945 she returned to Shawnee where she gave birth to her son, Stephen Paul, who died shortly after. She worked as a secretary at Shawnee High School and at KGFF Radio as a singer and continuity editor.

In 1950 she married Frank Earl "Jelly" Clarke of Meeker. She later received her bachelors degree from OBU and masters degree from Central State University.

Ola Mae was a counselor and choral music teacher for Shawnee Public Schools for more than 20 years. She enjoyed being a member, organist and choir director of the First Christian Church in Meeker, traveling with husband Jelly, square dancing, being a member of state and local Delta Kappa Gamma, Eastern Stars, retired state and local educators and singing for weddings and funerals.

In 1988 she married Wallace Johnston in Arizona.

Preceding her in death were her parents, John and Telitha Amend; sisters, Lucille Hunt and Cora Potterfield; her husbands, Harry E. Hambleton, Frank E. "Jelly" Clarke and Wallace Johnston; son, Stephen Paul Hambleton; and step grandson, Dennis Parks.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sylvia and J.T. Weedman of Shawnee; grandchildren, Julie and Justin Lockwood of Caney, Kan., Melanie and Tim Gaines of Shawnee; great-grandchildren, Quint and Kurt Lockwood and Audrey Gaines; stepdaughters and families, Bonnie and Conrad Cochran of Oklahoma City, Sue Parks of Meeker; stepgrandchildren, Bob McDowell of Oklahoma City, Sherry and Ed Miller of Edmond, John and Joanna McDowell of Wichita, Kan., Aurdyeth Cochran of Oklahoma City, Frank and Kathy Parks of Tulsa, LeAnn and Terry Nunnley of Meeker; stepgreat-grandchildren, Sean Nanney and Lauren Nanney, Katie and Laura Miller, Bradley and Christina McDowell, Jamie, Caitlin and Andrew Parks, Jason and Valerie Kirkwood; stepgreat-great-grandchilren, Cheyanna, Cameron and Kiley Kirkwood.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at First Christian Church , Meeker. Graveside service will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park, Shawnee.


Janet Juanita Speers

Janet Juanita Speers died Tuesday, May 16, 2006.
Survivors include her husband, John Speers; children, Terri Warren, Jerry Church, Sabrina Moreno and Jeff Speers; siblings, Larry Daughtery, Patsy Vanfleet; grandchildren, Jerry Church III, Brian, Brandon and Brayden Moreno.

Service will be 2:30 p.m. Monday at Earlsboro First Baptist Church with Pastor Brian Payne officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Demuth Funeral Home is directing arrangements.


Jamie Price

Shawnee resident Jamie Price died Sunday, May 14, in Shawnee at the age of 38.
Jamie was born April 19, 1968, in Shawnee to Jerry W. and Shirley Day.

On September 23, 1995, she married Chester Price in Shawnee.

Jamie was a dog groomer and a member of the Fresh Fire Church in Shawnee.

Her father and brother-in-law preceded Jamie in death.

Suvivors include her husband, Chester Price of Shawnee; son, Zackrie Jones of Shawnee; daughter, Kacie Jones of Shawnee; mother, Shirley Day of Shawnee; brother and sister-in-law, Alan and Alice Day of Shawnee; two sisters and brother-in-law, Terry and Joe Gasper of Meeker and Shelly Burnett of Meeker; other relatives and many friends.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at the Rossville Cemetery, Wellston, with Pastor Joseph Wilks officiating.

Parks Brothers Funeral Service of Chandler is directing arrangements.


Clyde Lee Gasaway

Lifelong Konawa area resident Clyde Lee Gasaway, 66, died Tuesday, May 16, at his residence.
Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Konawa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


Robert J. Downing

Shawnee resident Robert J. "Bob" Downing, 83, died Tuesday, May 16, at a local nursing home.
He was born Sept. 11, 1922, in Ninneka, Okla., to Leona McKinny and Oliver Perry Downing.

Downing married Osyth L. Moore. He was a commercial printer.

He was a 50 year member of the Rotary Club; City Commissioner for nine years; co-ed board; Masonic Lodge; Shawnee Economic Development; Airport Board; Secretary Manager Elks Lodge for nine years; elder of First Presbyterian Church; and member of ReAct board.

Downing took a month long trip to Australia (Rotary Exchange). He also enjoyed many scenic bus trips to all sections of the U.S. and several cruises including inside passage. He attended several conventions for the Rotary Club and the city.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Carl and Glen Downing; and sister Dorothy Blackwood.

Survivors include his wife, Osyth Downing of the home; three children, Carl Downing of Fort Wayne, Ind., Carol Hendrick and her husband, Duvall of Oklahoma City, Donna Murphy and her husband, Kurt of Shawnee; seven grandchildren; two sisters, Jewell Deit of Oklahoma City, and Mildred Richards of Tonkawa.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at First United Presbyterian Church with Larry Goins officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Anna Lee Merkel

Longtime Konawa area resident Anna Lee Merkel, 90, died Tuesday, May 16, at Unity Health Center, North Campus.
A mass of Christian burial will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Joe Arledge and Father Matthew Brown, O.S.B., officiating. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.

published May 19, 2006

Ruby Opal Wood

Shawnee resident Ruby Opal Wood, 79, Wednesday, May 17, in Shawnee.
She was born December 11, 1926, in Blanchard to George Wood and Ida Jane Fritz.

She attended Shawnee Public Schools and worked as a cutter for many years at Shawnee Garment Factory. During WW II she worked for Douglas Aircraft as a "Rosie The Riveter". She also had been a Taxidermist.

Ruby loved fishing, woodworking, painting, and sewing.

She was preceded in death by both parents; her first husband, George Bushell; her second husband, Vone "Red" Haynes; three brothers, Leslie and his wife, Opal Wood, Luther Wood, and Huston Wood; two sisters, Marie Wood and Betty Judkins.

Survivors include her son, Michael John and his wife, Linda Bushell of Ada; daughter, Sharon and her husband, Keith Furgason of Shawnee; step-daughter, Christine and husband, Keith Kotwitz of North Carolina; brother, William and his wife, Beverly Wood of Bethel Acres; sister, Merline and her husband, Paul Vrem of Blanchard; two sisters-in-law, Loweda Wood of Texas, Glayds Wood of Oklahoma City; eight grandchildren, Zachary, Levi and Amanda Bushell, Brandy and Mike Lohman, Chantillee Jacobs, Rennee Jacobs, Pastor Russ and Gay Furgason, Saundra Duncan; two great-grandchildren, Christopher and Madison Lohman.

Visitation will be Friday.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Carol Hopper officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.


Thomas Lee Hardesty

Shawnee resident Thomas Lee Hardesty, 54, died Wednesday, May 17, at his home.
He was born Aug. 5, 1951, in Shawnee. Tom graduated from Shawnee High School in 1969. He graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1976 with a degree in architectural technology.

Tom was employed at B & B Builders of Shawnee for 25 years.

He was loved and will be greatly missed by co-workers and friends, Cecil Bernard and Jacque Humphrey, as well as many other co-workers and friends whom he loved dearly.

Preceding him in death are his grandparents, Tena and Dallas French and Ed and Zelma Hardesty.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Sherilynn Hardesty of the home; two children, Tracy Turley and husband Gary of Shawnee, and Brian Burrough and his wife, Kristy, of Moore; nine grandchildren, Tiffanie, Seth and wife, Holly, Kira, Andy, Keith, Pamela, Melissa, Tyler and Cody; one great-grandson, Liam; mother, Pam Goree of Shawnee; father, Wendell Hardesty of McLoud; two brothers, Steve Hardesty and his wife, Pam, of Oklahoma City, Mike Hardesty and his wife, Paula, of Oklahoma City; five nieces and nephews; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins; brother-in-law, Gary Lower and his wife, Elaine of Oklahoma City.

A celebration of life service will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Family of Faith Fellowship, located 6 1/2 miles north of I-40 on Hwy. 18.

Tom and his family request that instead of flowers, donations be made to Heartland Hospice or charity of choice.

published May 20, 2006

Margaret Sue Bruton

Chandler resident Margaret Sue Bruton, 64, died Thursday, May 18, in Oklahoma City.
Service will 10 a.m. Monday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Chandler, with the Rev. Larry Stribling officiating. Service is under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.


Joy Dell Gilley

Shawnee resident Joy Dell Gilley, 79, died Thursday, May 18, at a local nursing home.
Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel

published May 21, 2006

Margie L. Christesen

Shawnee resident Margie L. Christesen, 83, died Saturday, May 20, at a local nursing home.
Service will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Little Cemetery


Joy Dell Gilley  

Joy Dell Gilley, 79, went to the Lord, Thursday, May 18, 2006. She was born Joy Dell Hopkins, December 3, 1926 in Paden, Oklahoma.

Joy married the love of her life, Lawrence Gilley whom she met while working at Woolworth in Shawnee. During her early married years she traveled around Oklahoma with her husband, Lawrence who worked for Oklahoma Seismograph settling in Shawnee to raise their children.

Joy Dell held many jobs throughout her lifetime at Harps, Sylvania, cafeteria manager at Acme School and retiring from Shawnee School System after many years as the Shawnee High School Cafeteria Manager. In her retirement she worked for First Christian Church preschools lunchroom. Joy was best known for her love of cooking. As the Shawnee High School Cafeteria Manager, she would always have special treats for all the teachers and students. The class of 1990 especially loved her and officially named her kitchen at the high school, "Granny Gilley's Kitchen." She was always ready to help with school activities when her school kitchen was needed and jumped in to make them a success to include the annual "Apple Polishers Banquet." She catered weddings and was always available to help Junior Service League with their annual fund raiser.

Joy was an avid embroiderer and quilter; she picked back up the sewing needles when her granddaughter, Jennifer started embroidering; remembering how much she loved it. Joy started a long journey with her daughter-in-law's, Terri and Jo Ann making embroidered baby quilts for each of her children, sister, grandchildren and great grand children which she nick named the "Heritage Project." She had a very special relationship with all her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a charter member of the Shawnee quilt group, "Outlaws" where she enjoyed cooking for their gatherings. Her cooking skills touched so many lives during her years that when you walked the street with her you never knew who would stop and talk to you to you to include the Governor of the State of Oklahoma.

In her retirement, her love to help was continued by volunteering to help with senior organizations, helping those she felt were in need. She spent many years assisting several elderly women with their daily living skills and befriending two women in particular, Carmen and Dortha.

She traveled to California to visit her daughter and son-in-law, Cecilla and Jerry and loved spending time vacationing along the coast of Santa Barbara and Monterrey Bay.

She was a member of Temple Baptist Church.

Joy was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Gilley, parents, Tom Hopkins and Etta Harris, step mother, Mary Hopkins and step father, Lester Harris. Brothers, Billy and Fred Hopkins.

Her children, Curtis and Terri Gilley, Gary and Jo Ann Gilley, Larry and Linda Gilley of Shawnee and Cecilla and Jerry Stogsdill, Bakersfield, California. Her very special sister and friend, Pat Hopkins, Tulsa, OK; and brother and sister-in-law Jack and Heidi Hopkins, Clarksville, Tennessee. Her grandchilren, Chad Stogsdill, Dr. Brian Gilley, Jon Gilley, Jennifer Brooks, Eric Gilley, Sara Gilley, Barrett Gilley, Justin Goodman; Erin, Cory and Becky Lawton. Great-grandchildren, Tyler Stogsdill, Aurianna Oricchio-Gilley, Tansy Brooks, Parker Gilley, Courtney Gilley, Kelsey Gilley and Giulia Gilley and Christina. Special long time friends, Una and Russell Willis and Maxine Marzolla. Numerous other friends and relatives as Joy Dell never knew a stranger.

Her funeral will be held at Walker Funeral Chapel, Monday, May 22, 2006 10:00 a.m. with Phil Thompson and Dr. Brian Gilley officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park


Betty Jean (Winters) Lawrence

Shawnee resident Betty Jean (Winters) Lawrence, 81, died Saturday, May 20, at her home.
Service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.


James Sommerville

Longtime Seminole resident James "Mark" Sommerville, 35, died Thursday, May 18, at his home.
Service will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Gary Wilburn officiating. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery in Seminole.

Swearingen Funeral Home of Seminole is directing arrrangements.


Joyce Ann Fredrickson Laney

Joyce Ann "Joy" Fredrickson Laney, a homemaker, educator, traveler, and political activist, died Thursday, May 18, after a long battle with leukemia.
Joy worked for over 20 years as an educator, initially as a first-grade teacher and later as a librarian and assistant principal at Noble Elementary School. She was very active in First United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City and McFarlin United Methodist Church in Norman. She also served one term as a member of the Pink town council. Between 1977 and 2003, Joy lived with her husband, Bill, at "Wicklow," their beloved home in Pink.

Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today at Havenbrook Funeral Home in Norman. Family will receive friends between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. today. Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church in Norman with the Rev. Cal Brannon and the Rev. Phil Fenn officiating.

Arrangements are being handled by Havenbrook Funeral Home of Norman.

Memorial donations can be made to McFarlin Foundation. Condolences may be sent to www.havenbrookfuneralhome.com/Obituaries.html.


Kenneth Ray Pence

Longtime Chandler resident Kenneth Ray Pence, 68, departed this life Thursday, May 18, in Cushing.
He was born Aug. 22, 1937, in Allen to Othar L. and Clara (Marshall) Pence.

Kenneth served his country with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

On July 25, 1958, he married Edna DeAnn Bean in Guthrie. She preceded him in death May 12, 2004.

Kenneth taught in the science department of the Chandler Public Schools for many years.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Chandler and the American Legion.

Also preceding Kenneth in death were his parents.

Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, LaRetah Kay and Kevin Najera of Tulsa; grandson, Douglas Anthony "Tony" Lee of Oklahoma City; brother and sister-in-law, Leslie Hansford and Joy Pence of Auburn, Wash.; other relatives and many friends.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Highland Cemetery, Okemah. A memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, Chandler, with the Rev. Sungsu Hwang officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.

Memorials may be made to the Pence Scholarship Fund, in care of First Bank of Chandler, 902 Manvel, Chandler OK 74834.


Jack E. Parrish Sr.

Shawnee resident Jack E. Parrish Sr., 78, died Thursday, May 18, 2006, in Shawnee.

He was born March 6, 1928, in Deepwater, Mo., to Marion O. and Juliette F. (Davis) Parrish. He graduated from Shawnee High School in 1945.

He retired from the U.S. Air Force as senior master sergeant and the Alabama State Troopers. He was a Mason and of the Presbyterian faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jean Parrish, and a son, Jack. E. Parrish Jr.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Tony Owens of Montgomery, Ala.; a daughter-in-law, Marsha Parrish of Montgomery, Ala.; the children's mother, Boncile N. Parrish of Montgomery, Ala.; grandchildren, Slade and Laura Parris and Kirsten and Lance Parrish Owens, all of Montgomery, Ala.; sisters, Russie Early of Overland Park, Kan.; Margaret St. Clair and Jean Knodle, both of Riverside, Calif., Carol Souders and her husband, Garry, of Shawnee; a brother, Phil Parrish and his wife, Sally, of Norman; special companion and friends, Mary Matthews and Carl; a special pet, JJ, his dachshund, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Graveside service will be at 2:30 p.m. Monday at Deepwater Cemetery in Deepwater, Mo.

published May 23, 2006

Robert Rex Klapp

Longtime Asher resident Robert Rex Klapp went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 20, at his residence.
He was born Aug. 4, 1929, to Emmett and Bessie (Horn) Klapp in Tecumseh.

Rex was baptized at First Christian Church in Tecumseh. He graduated from Asher High School and worked at the family business, Klapp Drug Store.

He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on Sept. 9, 1947, and served as sergeant during the Korean War. He received an honorable discharge on Sept. 8, 1956. On Feb. 13, 1957, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as an SP6. He retired May 31, 1968, after serving his country more than 20 years in Alaska, Japan, Korea, West Germany, Virginia and California. His list of medals include the Korean Service Medal, UN Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal among others.

On April 17, 1961, he married Norma Jean Etchieson in Denver, Colo.

After retirement, Rex worked at Joseph Harp Correctional Facility as a correctional officer and also at Wolfe Nursery in Norman and Oklahoma City.

He enjoyed doing lawn work, coin collecting,watching basketball and baseball games and spending time with his family and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents; wife, Norma Jean Klapp, on Dec. 5, 1992; one brother, Dale Klapp; and one great-grandchild, Bryson Hobbs.

Survivors include two daughters, Donna Hobbs and Debra Pataki of Konawa; one son, David Bertram of Oklahoma City; one sister and brother-in-law, Irene and Charles Burgett of Tulsa; special loving companion, Emily Scott of Asher; goddaughter and good friend, Lawanah Sanders of Asher; several nieces and nephews including Charlie and Sharon Burgett, John Burgett, Charles and Nancy Potts; five great-nephews; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.

Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Avoca Church of Christ, Asher, with Dallas "Red" Barnes officiating. Burial will follow at Vista Cemetery with full military honors. Serving as casket bearers will be Christian Hill, Ryan Bertram, Thomas Hughes, John Hamilton, Dock Perry and Wes Caldwell.


Betty Jean Lawrence

Shawnee resident Betty Jean (Winters) Lawrence, 81, went to be with the Lord Saturday, May 20, at her residence.
She was born Jan. 22, 1925, in Wewoka to Thomas Altstatt and Lena Pearl (Edwards) Altstatt. She attended Wewoka Public Schools.

She married Delbert Otis Winters in 1942 and later married Benjamin Lawrence on Sept. 26, 1958; both preceded her in death.

She worked for Sylvania for many years until it closed, she then worked at Tinker Air Force Base until 1987.

Lawrence lived in this area most of her life. She loved to read westerns and crochet. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She attended Dale Baptist Church.

Also preceding her in death were her parents and a sister.

She is survived by her children, Tom Winters, Barbara Childers, Ron and Gina Anderson, Mike and Becky Brown, all of Shawnee, Judy and Wayne Burrows and Roger and Linda Lawrence, all of Wagoner, and Keith and Kathy Lawrence of Muskogee; sister, Jo Doss of Wichita, Kan.; and a number of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Doug Parker officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.


Donella Boykin

Midwest City resident Donella "Pearleane" Boykin, 91, died Saturday, May 20, in Midwest City.
She was born July 17, 1914, in Bearden to Robert Liles and Thula Josephine (Carrol) Orr.

Boykin lived in the Shawnee/Tecumseh area most of her life, she lived in California for a brief period.

She attended school at Trenton and Excelsior in Seminole County.

On Nov. 20, 1939, she married Troy Boykin in Okemah. He preceded her in death June 4, 1993.

Boykin worked in assembly at Sylvania and was a homemaker.

She enjoyed gardening, feeding birds, caring for her pets and spending time with her family and friends.

Also preceding her in death were her her parents; sister, Helen Wilson; and brother, Virgil Orr.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in law, Carolyn and Wes Young of Shawnee; granddaughter, Debbi and Jim Greenlee of Oklahoma City; two great-grandchildren, Scott and Emily Greenlee of Oklahoma City; and two brothers, Robert Orr of Texas and Wallace Orr of Idaho.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Pete Miller of Heartland Hospice officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Pearlie Jane Davis

Longtime Prague and Paden resident Pearlie Jane Davis, 77, died Sunday, May 21, in Prague.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Prague, with Brother Paul Heard officiating. Burial will follow at Paden Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.


Chris Mills

Longtime Seminole County resident, Chris Mills, 51, died Friday, May 19.
Service will be 10 a.m. today at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with Pastor Steve Cline officiating. Burial will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at White Chapel Cemetery in Springfield, Mo. Arrangements are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.

Visitation will be 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. today and 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday at Wilson Brim-Daniel Funeral Home, Springfield, Mo.

published May 24, 2006

Margaret Forrester

Former Shawnee resident Margaret "Sam" Forrester, 72, died Thursday, May 18, at her home in Deer Creek, Wis., after a lengthy illness.
She was born Feb. 9, 1934, in Holdenville to Ollie Brixey and Thomas Russell Sebastian. She grew up a tom-boy in rural Oklahoma.

Margaret attended catholic high school for several years in order to tame her love of juke joints, dancing and generally raising cain. While there, she played on the nuns' softball team and sang alto in choir. She often felt she lost herself in the necessities of raising four children, but managed to master most needle crafts and gardened with a passion -- irises and daylilies held a special place in her heart. After the children were older, she took up oil painting, winning a number of ribbons in local and regional art competitions. Her later years were limited with progressive COPD, but she learned that she like portabella mushrooms, egg-drop soup, Stephen Colbert and snow.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles "Don" in January of 2001; son, Terry in December of 1981; her parents and all four of her brothers and sisters.

Survivors include her two sons, Curtis Fields of Porum, Tom Forrester of Sacramento, Calif.; daughter, Toni Forrester of Deer Creek, Wis.; two special daugters-in-law, Shelley Faura of Sacramento, Debra Ewing of Deer Creek; all of whom miss her very much, but are glad she no longer suffers.

At her request no services will be held. In life she was a consistent support of Disbabled Veterans of America and Wild Care Foundation (Noble, Okla.) and would be especially pleased if memorials were made in her name to either organization.


Darius Avery Booker

Darius Avery Booker died Saturday, May 20, in Shawnee.
He was born Feb. 16, 2006, in Shawnee to Damon Booker and Stacey Therese Harragarra.

His maternal grandfather, Victor Harragarra, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his parents, Damon Booker and Stacey Therese Harragarra of the home; brothers and sisters, Damien, Dominic and Destiny Booker of the home; maternal grandmother, Sharon Harragarra of Shawnee; paternal grandmother, Cathey Hill of Tulsa; maternal great-grandparents, Henry and Wanda Stoneroad of Oklahoma City.

A wake service will be 7 p.m. today at Nagawee United Methodist Church. Resthaven Funeral Home is assisting the family with services.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Nagawee United Methodist Indian Church with the Rev. Becky McMillan and the Rev. Stephen Floch officiating. Burial will follow at Concho Indian Cemetery under the direction of Resthaven Funeral Home.


Nathan James David Clanton

Nathan James David Clanton, infant son of David Clanton and Tammy Hallmark, died Sunday, May 21.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Wolf Cemetery with the Rev. Roy Robertson officiating under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


Louis W. Austin II

Chandler resident Louis W. "Bill" Austin II, 51, died Sunday, May 21.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at First Christian Church, Chandler, under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Chandler.


Theodore William Schulze

Theodore William "Ted" Schulze, 55, died Friday, May 19.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Swearingen Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Lynn Borrego officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Seminole under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

published May 25, 2006

Judge Donald E. Powers
On May 22, Judge Donald E. Powers passed on to a life everlasting.
Judge Powers served the twenty-third Judicial District in Lincoln and Pottawatomie Counties for 28 years and established an excellent reputation as a distinguished trial judge. He also served as the first presiding judge over the Multi-County Grand Jury for the State of Oklahoma.

He was a native of Tryon, Okla., graduated from Central State College and received his law degree from the OU College of Law.

During World War II, he was a navigator on the B-24 serving in the 15th Air Force in Italy and flew 51 combat missions, receiving the Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He served in the Korean War with the 160th field artillery of the 45th Infantry Division and was discharged as a Captain.

He began his law practice in Chandler and was appointed County Attorney.

Returning from the Korean War, Judge Powers served in Washington DC as Congressional Secretary for Congressman Tom Steed until being elected District Judge. Through his tenure on the bench, Judge Powers served by special appointment on the Court of Bank Review, Court of Tax Review and Court on the Judiciary. He was Oklahoma Judicial Conference President and National Conference of State Trial Judges Executive Committee member. He loved serving his community. He was the recipient of the Silver Beaver Award by the Will Rogers Boy Scout Council. He served as Lion's Club President, American Legion Commander, Oklahoma Boys State staff member, Central State University Alumni Association President and Central State University Foundation Chairman. He also was honored by the Oklahoma Bar Association with the Judicial Excellence Award for his outstanding service to the state and legal communities.

He served the United Methodist Church on both the local church and conference levels. He was on the Conference Board of Laity, Conference Council on Ministries, Board of Prison Ministries and the Episcopacy Committee as well as serving on the Official Board and also as Sunday School Teacher, Church School Superintendent and Lay Leader.

He was a 33rd Degree Mason, Past Worshipful Master of Chandler Lodge No. 58, and served as District Deputy Grand Master.

He was preceded in death by his father, Floyd, a Tryon and Guthrie merchant, and mother, Ethel (Barclay) Powers, his brother, Robert Powers and sister, Floreine Clemons Thiessen.

Surviving are his wife, Mary; and two sons, Don Jr. and wife Linda Kay, and Jim and his wife Linda Carol all of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Michael Powers and wife Katy of Norman, and Melanie Powers White and husband Nick of Choctaw; and great-grandchildren, Peyton, Sophie, Ella, Cole, and Harrison Powers, and Savannah, Ethan, and Baylee Fuqua all of which he was very proud.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Quail Springs United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City with burial at Oak Park Cemetery in Chandler at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Guy Langston officiating under the direction of Smith and Kernke Funeral Directors, Oklahoma City.

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Alleve Hospice, 8524 S. Western, Suite 105, Oklahoma City, OK 73139.

published May 26, 2006

Roberta "Jean" (Lovett) Sanders

Lifetime Shawnee resident Roberta "Jean" (Lovett) Sanders, 74, beloved wife of Gaylord "Sandy" Sanders met our loving God on May 23, 2006. She entered this world on Feb. 21, 1932.
Jean was a graduate of Dale High School, class of 1949. She remained a proud Dale Pirate for life.

She started her career at Hamburger King, moving on to Southwestern Bell, Sylvania Electric and Cowdens Garment Factory before pursuing a degree at Oklahoma Baptist Univeristy. She graduated Cum Laude in 1983 with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education. She taught at Northridge Christian Academy and Bethel Acres Public Schools.

Jean's true passion lay in teaching children and others about Jesus in classrooms, on the "joy bus" and church camps spanning her entire life.

She was a vital member of Lakeview Church of Christ, both in their prison ministry and mission trips. She freely gave her time, money and extraordinary effort to these endeavors.

Jean recently received an award for Outstanding Volunteer of the Year from Shawnee Interfaith Hospitality Network for her efforts to relieve the suffering of families in crisis.

She will be greatly missed by all.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dave and Myrtle Roberts; sister, Jerry Roberts; and older brother, "Little David."

She is survived by her five daughters and sons-in-law, Sherri and Billy Beene, Ruth Pittser, Sheila and Warren Hutson, Teresa and Daryl Barnett, Debra Sanders; three sons and daughters-in-law, Eddie and Becky Reed, Tommy and Debbie Sanders, Richard Sanders; 25 wonderful grandchildren; 12 precious great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, including but not limited, David Lee Shivers and the children of the late Betty Reed; Ricky, Rusty, Vicki, Mitchell, Steven, Stacey, David and Lee, along with her five sisters-in-law, Velma McKinney, Audrey Hollingsworth, LaJuana Maddox, Evelyn Sanders and Liz Harris; and brother-in-law, John Paul Harris.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Lakeview Church of Christ with Mike Snider and Ben Glover officiating. Burial will follow at Dale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be made to the Shawnee Interfaith Hospitality Network in care of Maracon McLaughlin.


Walter Carroll Lam

Tecumseh resident Walter Carroll "Bob" Lam, 78, died Wednesday, May 24, in Tecumseh.
He was born May 18, 1928, in Trousdale, Okla., to Edward O. and Eula V. (Judy) Lam.

Lam graduated from Trousdale High School in 1946. He served in the U.S. Army in the European theater and has lived most of his life in Pottawatomie and Seminole counties.

He worked as an accountant for 76 Union Oil for many years until his retirement.

Lam attended Highland Church of Christ.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman, he especially enjoyed quail hunting and trips to Branson, Mo. to attend music shows.

He is preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Homer Dubler; brothers, Edward Lam, Jr. and Billy Lam; and a son, Monte Carrol Lam.

Survivors include Rebecca Webb of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Joe Don Morgan of Tecumseh; two sons and daughters-in-law, Michael D. and Leslie Lame of Littleton, Colo., Rick and Sue Lam of Tecumseh; daughter-in-law, Jerri Trammell of Tecumseh; stepdaughter and son-in-law, Melinda and John White of Bethany; grandchildren, Monica Bozarth of Shattuck, Okla., Robby Cummings of Frisco, Texas, Angela Holden of Missouri City, Texas, Chris Lam of Tecumseh, Amy Morgan Carter of Shawnee, Rick Lam Jr. of Tecumseh, Heather Parsons and Paula Jones of Bethany, and Emilie Lam House of Weatherford; five great-grandchildren; sister and brother-in-law, Chris and Wilmer Lewis of Greeley, Colo.; brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Carolyn Lam of Tyler, Texas; and other loved ones and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Leslie Smith and Ricky Lam Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Wanette Cemetery.


Kathy Record

Tecumseh resident Kathy (Mason) Record, 58, died Wednesday, May 24, in Shawnee.
She was born Nov. 30, 1947, in Kermit, Texas, to George Walter and Katherine Elaine (Muse) Mason. Although born in Texas, she lived in Tecumseh since 1961.

She attended Tecumseh schools.

For several years she ran a child day care service out of her home. She enjoyed working crossword puzzles and caring for children, as well as singing in the church choir.

She was a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death were her parents and a son, Paul Record in 2001.

She is survived by her son, Steven Record of the home; brothers and sisters-in-law, Roger and Cindy Mason of Tecumseh, and Glen and Bobbye Mason of Shawnee; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and other family members.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Tecumseh with the Rev. Mack Peercy officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery.

There has been a burial fund set up at First United Bank, Tecumseh for donations in Kathy's name.


Curtis D. McAllister

McLoud resident Curtis D. McAllister, 43, died Tuesday, May 23. He was born Sept. 8, 1962.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Norma Philbrick; maternal grandparents, Ted and Anna Grubb; and maternal uncle, Curtis Grubb.

Curtis is survived by his wife, Diana McAllister of McLoud; four children, Darrell and Rodney McAllister of Mustang, Amber Brantley of Texas and Tessa Watson of Shawnee; eight grandchildren; two brothers; three sisters; his father, Paul D. McAllister of Wyoming; his dad, Gary Philbrick of McLoud; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends.

Curtis, in life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. You will remain in our hearts forever.

Service will be 3 p.m. Saturday at General Assembly Church of the First Born, 811 N. Center, Shawnee.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be made in his name to the "Make a Wish" foundation.


Kay Moreland Waller

Longtime Seminole resident Kay Moreland Waller, 63, died Tuesday, May 23.
Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery, Seminole County, under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.

published May 27, 2006

Ronald Carl Nicely

Shawnee resident Ronald Carl Nicely, 72, died Thursday, May 25, at Unity Health Center.
He was born Aug. 15, 1933, in Pason, Okla., the son of John Nicely and Esta (Helmes) Nicely.

Nicely graduated from Meeker High School in 1952.

On Dec. 24, 1953, he married Dorothy Green.

He served two years in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany as a helicopter mechanic. He worked at Tinker for 40 years before retiring.

Nicely was a member of Forrest Baptist Church and enjoyed bowling and watching his grandchildren play baseball.

His father preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Nicely of the home; mother, Esta Nicely; children, Ronald Nicely and wife, Janet, and Terri Luman; grandchildren, Tony Nicely, Chris Nicely, Heather Nicely, Chasity Luman, Jennifer Pitts, and Renee Ring; great-grandchildren, Connor and Ryan Ring; two brothers, David Nicely and wife, Pam, and Johnnie Nicely and wife, Marilyn; three sisters, Betty Code and husband, Dale, Carol Neller, Imogene Watkins and husband, Glen; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

At his request, no services will be held.


James Lee Teague

Longtime Prague resident James Lee Teague, 80, died Friday, May 26, at his home.
James, the son of Willie E. and Vera (Coyle) Teague, was born in a one room house in Albany, Bryan County, Okla., on Dec. 15, 1925. He was the oldest of four boys.

In 1928 his parents moved to a farm at Shiloh, Texas, where James attended school in a two room schoolhouse. His family moved to Durant in 1939, where he graduated high school.

James served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II seeing service in the South Pacific (Marshall Islands).

He married "the girl next door", Ruby Patton, on Oct. 20, 1945. She preceded James in death on March 13, 2005.

James received his bachelor's degree in 1950 from Southeastern State College at Durant and his master's degree in 1953 from Oklahoma State University, Stillwater.

He taught school in Harjo, Broken Arrow, Barndall, Prague and Gordon Cooper Vo-tech.

After moving to Prague in 1960, James opened a cabinet shop. While living in Prague, James worked in almost all civic organizations in the community. He served 18 years on the city council, served three terms as mayor, was past president of the Lions Club, Lincoln County legislator or OREA, volunteered at the Prague Historical Musuem and was a member of OEA, NEA, Sierra Club, American Legion, and First Baptist Church.

James retired from Gordon Cooper Vo-tech in 1983 following 32 years of teaching.

His parents and two brothers, Roy Allen Teague and Millard Eubanks Teague, also preceded him in death.

Survivors include his sons and daughters-in-law, Dennis and Sharon Teague of Oklahoma City, and Stuart and Sherry Teague of Prague; daughters and son-in-law, Belinda and Ted Nakamura of Oklahoma City, and Priscilla Mars and friend, Larry Baker of Prague; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Prague with the Rev. Jarrod Kendall officiating. Burial will follow at Prague Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.

Memorial may be made to: Friends of the Library, 1115 Jim Thorpe Blvd., Prague, Ok 74864.

A guest book is available to share your memories online. Please visit www.parksbrothers.net


Bobby Lee Smith

Longtime Prague resident Bobby Lee Smith, 72, died Friday, May 26, in Meeker.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Prague Cemetery with the Rev. Mike Matlock officiating under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Prague.

published May 28, 2006

Daniel Boone White

Daniel Boone "D.B." White passed away, Thursday, May 25, 2006, in Norman at the age of 70. He was born July 21, 1935, in Tribbey to Daniel Boone and Mary Bethel (Ray) White.

He married Johnnie Sue (McDaniel) on Dec. 6, 1956, in Ada. He was retired from the United States Air Force, where he was a staff sergeant with the 461 Combat Defense SQ. SAC. Strategic Air Command. He was military disabled. He was a member of the DAV - Lifetime member of the Disabled Association of Veterans. He served as a deacon at the Free Will Baptist Church and was a longtime member of the church. He loved hunting and fishing, working on his property, spending time with his family and puppies. He loved get-togethers and cookouts.

He is survived by his wife, Johnnie Sue White of the home; one son and daughter-in-law, Zane and Diana White of Seminole; three daughters and sons-in-law, Suzanna and Cam Dooley of Yukon, Laurie and Ronnie Calaway of Yukon and Kathy White Richmond of Seminole; two brothers, Thomas White of Seminole and Burney White of Shawnee; three sisters, Marqueriette Wilson of Earlsboro, Oleta McFatridge of Ardmore, and Aline, one special sister-in-law, Louise White; seven grandchildren, Amber White, Heather White-Richards, Cama Dooley, Jonathon Calaway, Megan Calaway, Dayna Grandstaff and Trey Richmond; two great-grandchildren, Britton Richards and Austyn Lee White-Richards, the sunshine of his life.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2006, at the Free Will Baptist Church with the Rev. David McDougal officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery in Tecumseh.

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


Delcie M. (Barnett) Folks

Delcie M. (Barnett) Folks, 92, Tecumseh, died Saturday, May 27, 2006, in Shawnee.
She was born May 6, 1914, in Okay, Okla., to Riley Thomas and Ola Maybell (Rider) Barnett. She lived in Tecumseh from 1942 to 1962. Then she moved to Bellflower, Calif., until 1969, at which time she moved back to Tecumseh and had lived here since.

On July 1, 1934, she married George Joyce Folks in Macomb. He preceded her in death on Jan. 22, 1975. She worked as a housekeeper in Macomb, as well as working at Cattleman9s. While living in California, she worked in a hospital. She was a member of the Pentecostal Church of God, Tecumseh.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, an infant daughter, four brothers: Riley Austin Barnett, William James Barnett, Rayford Barnett and J.D. Barnett; and two sisters: Ruby Lovette and Juanita 3Nita2 Gentry.

Surviving are three sons and daughters-in-law: Jerry and Jewel Folks of Tecumseh, Gene and Stella Folks of Norman and Bill and Yolanda Folks of Tecumseh; six grandchildren; five great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters; six sisters, Elsie Coley, Laura Davis, Murrel Dwight, Naomi Winsett, Esther Carter and Norma Carter; and two brothers, Connie Barnett and Charley Barnett.

Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2006, at the Pentecostal Church of God with the Rev. Fred Owens officiating. Burial will follow at Mars Hill Cemetery.

Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh is in charge of arrangements.


Doris Prentiss Taylor

Doris Prentiss Taylor, 93, a retired Shawnee area funeral home secretary, died Friday, May 26, 2006, at an Arlington, Texas, assisted living center.
She was born May 22, 1913, in Howe, Texas, to Prentiss Lynn and Vallie Stark Taylor. She was raised in Howe and graduated from Sherman High School in Sherman, Texas, and attended Austin College in Sherman and business college there.

She was employed by Roesch Brothers Funeral Chapel in Shawnee for more than 35 years. After retirement, she traveled extensively, visiting 27 countries and all of the United States except Minnesota and North Dakota.

She was a member of First Christian Church in Shawnee and AARP Chapter 1527.

Preceding her in death were her parents and a sister, Velma Lynn Taylor.

Surviving are a foster brother who is also her cousin, Louis Wayne Allgood and his wife, Harriet, of Arlington, Texas; and their children, Janis Rae Allgood of Austin, Texas, Louise Gray of Abilene, Texas, and Susan Priddy of Manvel, Texas; and their children as well as many cousins.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Akers Cemetery in Howe, Texas. Visitation begins at 1 p.m. today at Moore Funeral Home, Bowen Road Chapel, 4216 S. Bowen Road. Arrangements are under the direction of Moore Funeral Home in Arlington, Texas.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 101 Summit Ave., No. 300, Fort Worth, Texas, 76147, or the charity of your choice.

published May 30, 2006

Zelmarean Bartlett

Zelmarean Bartlett passed away Saturday, May 27, in Shawnee.

She was married to Rudy Bartlett 65 years; he preceded her in death in March 2001. She is survived by her daughters, Estelle Goldsby, Sarasota, Fla.; Virginia and Jimmy Don Lowry, Conroe, Texas; Audrey "Sunny" Saunders, Shawnee; her grandchildren, Bud Goldsby and wife Stephanie, Sarasota, Fla.; Jamie Saunders and fianci Ryan Focht, Inola; Stacey Saunders, Shawnee; great-grandchildren, Roman and Piper Goldsby, Sarasota, Fla., numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and special friends, Bertha, Valera, Vergie, David, Charles, John, Shirley, many friends at Shawnee Colonial Estates and her One Plus Sunday school class.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at Resthaven Funeral Home, 500 SW 104th, Oklahoma City. A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to her church of 37 years, Southern Hills Methodist Church, Oklahoma City.


Calvin C. Springer

Chandler resident Calvin C. Springer, 86, died Sunday, May 28. Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.

published May 31, 2006

Amy Katherine Goodwin Jordan

Amy Katherine Goodwin Jordan was born May 31, 1910, in Olustee, Okla., to Lynford A. and Amy Josephine Cobb Goodwin, whom were married before statehood in 1905.
She was reared in Altus and graduated from Altus High School in 1927. She attended college at the Oklahoma College for Women and The University of Oklahoma, where she pledged Delta Gamma and then returned to Altus to teach until her marriage in 1937 to William H. Jordan of Thomas, Okla.

Jordan spent many years as a homemaker in Calumet and El Reno, where she was actively involved in sewing and bridge clubs and with the activities of her children.

In 1966 she returned to college at Central State University for a degree and certification in Library Science. She then returned to Altus as the supervisor of Altus High School Library. She did post graduate work at St. John's College in Sante Fe, N.M. and the Peabody School of Library Science at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tenn.

Jordan retired at 75 and moved to Shawnee to be near her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In 2001 she moved to the Statesman Club in Oklahoma City and enjoyed living with many dear friends, old and new.

Katherine died Tuesday, May 30, in Shawnee.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, L.A. Goodwin Jr., Emerson Goodwin, Josephine Goodwin Ellis and Edward Arthur Goodwin.

Survivors include her children, Patrick Goodwin Jordan and his wife, Bonnie of Calumet, Mary Jane Jordan Richards and her husband, Gordon of Shawnee; grandchildren, Dr. Dorrie Jordan-Parrott and her husband, Terry of El Reno, Jeffrey Jordan Richards and his wife, Cheri of Shawnee, and Samuel Vahn Richards and his fiance, Kathleen Ludwig of Norman; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Caleb Richards of Shawnee, and Jordan and Logan Parrot of El Reno; nieces and nephews, Joanne Randall of Mechanicsville, Va.,Harry Ellis of Honolulu, Hi., Laurel Baggett of Oklahoma City, Jane Goodwin of Albuquerque, N.M., and Lynn Goodwin of Tulsa.

Katherine was a unique and beautiful lady, devoted mother who was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by her friends and family.

A family graveside memorial service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Resthaven Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Apothecary Garden of the Oklahoma Pharmacy Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 18731, Oklahoma City, Ok 73154, or charity of your choice.


Sherry Renee Bertram

Sherry Renee Bertram passed away May 23, 2006, in Arlington, Texas, after an extended illness of cancer.
She was born in Shawnee to SR and Billye Threlkeld.

On Sept. 28, 1977, she married Steve Bertram in Shawnee.

Sherry was employed with ONG for 26 years.

She would like to say a special thank you to her husband, family, friends and co-workers for their constant love and support throughout life's ups and downs. Thank you for all the lovely cards, letters and phone calls offering encouragement.

Preceding her in death were Fred and Gladys Bertram.

She is survived by her husband, Steve Bertram; parents, SR and Billye Threlkeld of Shawnee; sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Bill White of Shawnee; brothers-in-law and wives, Max and Julie Bertram of Shawnee, Mike and Anita Bertram of Shawnee; special friend, Corretta Blancett; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and her beloved dog, Itsy Bitsy.

A celebration of life service will be 2 p.m. Friday, June 3, at Immanuel Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Immanuel Baptist Church Building Fund, 1101 E. Main, Shawnee, OK 74801.


Tiffany Michelle Richey

Harrah resident Tiffany Michelle Richey, 31, died Monday, May 29.
Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Candlewood Chapel. Services are under the direction of Ford Funeral Service.


Shirilan Kay Foreman

Konawa resident Shirilan Kay Foreman, 57, died Monday, May 29, at Unity Health Center.
Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Friday at Vamoosa Cemetery with the Rev. Pam Shirk officiating. Swearingen Funeral Service of Konawa is handling arrangements


Mary Lou Sturgill

Shawnee resident Mary Lou Sturgill, 76, died Monday, May 29, at her residence of natural causes.
She was born June 19, 1930, in Wade, Okla., to J.P. Howell and Marie (Bolin) Howell.

She attended Shawnee High School.

On April 14, 1953, she married Bernis Sturgill in Huma, Ariz.

Sturgill was a member of Wallace Baptist Church. She loved raising her family, fishing, gardening and feeding the birds.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, one brother and two sisters.

Survivors include one daughter, Donna Williams of Shawnee; three sons and daughters-in-law, Duane and Sharon Sturgill of Virginia, Austin and Karen Sturgill of Shawnee, Jimmy and Cindy Sturgill of Shawnee; three brothers, Earl, Robert and J.P. Howell; one sister, Sue Boydston; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. today.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday with Dwayne Colvin and Scott Gordon officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Jerry Clyde Neay

Shawnee resident, formerly of Ada, Jerry Clyde "J.C." Neay, 60, died Saturday, May 27, at an Oklahoma City hospital.
He was born Oct. 17, 1945, in Oklahoma City to Joseph Stinson and Peggy Lucille Kelley Bailey.

Neay attended school in Fort Worth, Texas. He was a fireman in Shawnee from Jan. 15, 1970, until retirement on May 11, 1987. He was also a part-time carpenter.

He attended Northeast Free Will Baptist Church, Shawnee.

Survivors include a daughter, April Jonker of Colwich, Kan.; son, Jerry Wayne Neay of Shawnee; and six grandchildren.

Service was held 2 p.m. Tuesday at Criswell Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Michael W. McCauley officiating. Burial followed at Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Criswell Funeral Home.