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

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published Apr. 17, 2007

David Ray Corrick

Shawnee resident David Ray Corrick died Saturday, April 14, in Oklahoma City, at the age of 91.
He was born May 1, 1915, in Renfro, Okla., to Rolly J. And Elizabeth (Watson) Corrick,

He attended Franklin Elementary and Shawnee High School.

On Aug. 10, 1946, he married Ruby Odessa Cox.

He was a Supply Superintendent at Tinker Air Force Base and retired after 20 years. He was the pastor of Old Center Church, Central Oklahoma.

He served in the U.S. Army Nov 20, 1940 to Aug. 21, 1945; 1st Cavalry/12th Regiment-Pacific Theater World War II. He was a Purple Heart Recipient and received the Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with four bronze service star, World War II Victory Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge First Award, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two bronze service star, and Honorable Service Lapel Button World War II.

Mr. Corrick enjoyed the harmonica, fiddle, singing, carpentry and writing.

Preceding him in death were his parents; spouse, Ruby Odessa Corrick; one brother, Cleatus Corrick; and one sister, Willie Belle Martin/Corrick.

Survivors include his sons, Carl David Corrick of the home and Bill Lee Sluder and his wife, Christine, of Tyler, Texas; brothers, Clifford Corrick of Houston, Texas, A.J. Corrick of Carrolton, Texas, Paul Corrick of Galveston, Texas, and R.B. Corrick of Stafford, Texas; sisters, Betty Khun Corrick of Euless, Texas, and Sadie Corrick of Shawnee; grandchildren, Charlynne and Joe Nichols of Tyler, Texas, Rick and Dannie Sluder of Tyler, Texas, and Randy and Robbi Sluder of Austin, Texas; seven great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren.

Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Downtown Pentecostal Holiness Church with the Rev. Ron Baldrige officiating. Burial will be a Fairview Cemetery.


Leta Mae Hendershot

Dale resident Leta Mae Hendershot, 76, went to be with God Saturday, April 14, at her home.
She was born Dec. 27, 1930, north of McLoud to Johnnie and Dottie (Carr) Mauldin.

She was raised in the McLoud and Dale area. She graduated from Dale High School in 1948.

On Oct. 17, 1948, she married Don Hendershot in Gainesville, Texas.

She worked for Shawnee Schools for several years. She was a member of the Dale United Methodist Church and song leader for 35 years.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Don; her parents; three brothers, Vernon Mauldin, Cecil Mauldin and Chock Maulding; four sisters, Linnie Mauldin, Jewell Garner, Lorene Black, Louise Winkler; granddaughter, Sheena Parker; great-grandson, Taylor Parsons.

Survivors are three daughters and one son-in-law, Debbie Akins of Shawnee, Connie and Bud Akins of Dale, and Pennie Claborn of Midwest City; seven grandchildren and their spouses, April and Scott Livernois, Christy and Mike Parson, Brock and JoEtta Akins, Brian Claborn, Summer Parker and Fiance, Cody Lilley, Savannah Parker, Bryan and Jessica Akins; seven great-grandchildren, two brothers and one sister-in-law, Travis Maulding of McLoud, and Joe and Joyce Mauldin of Shawnee.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the chapel of Walker Funeral Service with the Rev. Russell Currie officiating. Burial will follow at the Dale Cemetery.


Curtis A. Gibson

Norman resident Curtis A. Gibson died Sunday, April 15, in Crescent at the age of 41.
Mr. Gibson was born Nov. 10, 1965, in Norman.

He is survived by his mother, Loretta Gibson of Norman; his brother, Leon Yandell and his wife of Norman; daughters, Jennifer Gibson of Norman and Melanie Gibson of Ponca City; niece, Paisley Yandell; and numerous extended family.

Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Today at Gibson Cemetery in Norman with Melvin Mann officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Service, Norman.


Robert David Dent

Former Tecumseh resident Robert "Bob" David Dent, currently of the Antlers area, died Thursday, April 12, in Dallas.
Graveside service was held Monday, April 16, in Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Mills-Coffey Funeral Home, Antlers.


Bobby Glen Huggins

Longtime Konawa area resident died Sunday, April 15, at his resident in Konawa at the age of 74.
Memorial service with military honors will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday at Konawa Cemetery with Pastor Pam Shirk officiating.

Services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa.


Opal L. McCallie

Stroud resident Opal L. McCallie died Saturday, April 14, in Stroud at the age of 88.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. To 9 p.m. Today at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Stroud.

Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Assembly of God, Stroud, with Don Wilburn officiating. Burial will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Highland Cemetery, Okemah under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service of Stroud.


LaVada M. Robertson

Lifelong Seminole County resident LaVada M. Robertson, 81, died Saturday, April 14, at Seminole Medical Center.
Graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Today at Wolf Cemetery, south of Seminole, with the Rev. Steve Cline officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Swearaingen Funeral Home

published Apr. 18, 2007

Kenneth Farrington, Minnie Farrington

Macomb residents Kenneth Farrington, 91, died Friday, April 13, and Minnie Farrington, 96, died Saturday, April 14, in Shawnee.
Kenneth was born Nov. 1, 1915, in Prague to George Leroy and Hazel (Milligan) Farrington.

Minnie was born Oct. 23, 1910, in Lincoln County to Octavious and Margaret (Anderson) Smith.

They both grew up in the Tecumseh area.

On July 19, 1934, they were married in Tecumseh. Following their marriage they lived in Oklahoma City from 1941 to 1961. They then moved to the Macomb area where they farmed and raised cattle.

Kenneth served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked in the oil field as a heavy equipment operator. He was a member of the American Legion Hill Huett Post 260 of Tecumseh. Kenneth enjoyed gardening and farming.

Minnie was a homemaker. She was a Citizen Potawatomi Tribal member and an original member of the Potawatomi Pow Wow Club. She enjoyed canning, flower and vegetable gardening and sewing.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister.

Minnie was preceded in death by Kenneth on April 13, her parents, seven brothers and one sister.

Survivors include their daughter and son-in-law, Peggy and James Cribbs of Del City; two grandsons and spouses, Larry and Gigi Cribbs of Midwest City, and Michael and Donna Cribbs of Del City; granddaughter and spouse, Penny and Eric Burt of Broken Arrow; six great-grandchildren, Jacob, Brent, Adam and Heath Cribbs, Naomi Cribbs and Jessica Burt; many nieces and nephews.

Kenneth also is survived by a brother, Wayne Harrington of Newhall, Calif., and two sisters, Louise Jarvis of Norman and Kitty Henderson of Round Rock, Texas.

Service will be 2:30 p.m. Thursday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Darrell Witten officiating. Burial will be at Tecumseh Cemetery.

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


Knox E. Shingleton

Meeker resident Knox E. Shingleton died Sunday, April 15, at Meeker Nursing Center at the age of 83.
He was born July 21, 1923, in McLoud to Elmer E. Shingleton and Effie Edwin (Cochran).

He attended White Rock schools and graduated from Oklahoma State University.

On Sept. 19, 1946, he married Mary Ruth Armitage in Chandler. They were married for 56 years.

Knox worked in production control at Tinker Air Force Base. He served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II as a 2nd Lieutenant. He was a member of Mammoth Baptist Church and Masonic Lodge in McLoud. Knox enjoyed farming and caring for his cattle.

Preceding him in death were his parents; wife; three sisters, Othel Ross, Winona Presley and Helen Nickols; two brothers, Lyle and Edwin Shingleton; one son, Charles Eldon Shingleton of Meeker; three step-grandchildren, Dacia, Patrick and Jonathan; several nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the Chapel of Walker Funeral Service with Joe Sinko officiating. Burial will be at Rossville Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Lincoln County 4-H Club.


Evelyn M. Fuller

Shawnee resident Evelyn M. Fuller, 81, died Saturday, April 14, in Shawnee.
She was born Sept. 2, 1925, to Henry and Bonnie (Yoder) King in Henryetta.

On June 3, 1945, she married Leroy Fuller. He preceded her in death Dec. 12, 1984.

She worked at Tinker Air Force Base until her retirement.

She was a member of the Creek Nation. She enjoyed fishing and loved her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; one grandson, David Scott Fuller; and one sister, JoAnn Wingo.

She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, David and Jacquetta Fuller of Shawnee; two daughters and one son-in-law, Karen K. Fuller and Beverly and Ernest D. Davis, all of Shawnee; four sisters; one brother; seven grandchildren, Tara Smith of Shawnee, Ronny Tuttle of Vista, Calif., Edward Kirkendall of Maud, Angie Garrison of Oklahoma City, Brian Davis of Shawnee, Ernest Davis of Shawnee, Michael Davis of Shawnee; 14 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lois and Kenneth Fullbright of Shawnee.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Today at Fairview Cemetery with the Rev. Johnny Stephens, First Church of the Nazarene, officiating.

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


Monroe Shirey
 
Macomb resident Monroe Shirey, 76, died Sunday, April 15, in Macomb.
He was born April 29, 1930, to Alex and Mae (Folks) Shirey in Tecumseh.

Raised in Tribbey and Macomb, he lived in Macomb for most of his life.

He worked as a ranch hand for Fred Humphrey and Zollie Edgin. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, cutting wood and spending time with his family. He had a great sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Lucille Roe and Annie Kessinger; and three brothers, Willie Shirey, Clyde Shirey and an infant brother.

Survivors include, sister, Mamie Aber of Shawnee; numerous nieces, nephews, friends and other family members.

Service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at the Lakeview Church of Christ with Steve Mills and Ben Glover, minister of Lakeview Church of Christ, officiating. Burial will follow at Prairie View Cemetery.

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


Bettie Jean Parris

Former Shawnee resident Bettie Jean Parris, currently of Midwest City, died Sunday, April 15, in Midwest City at the age of 78.
She was born Aug. 23, 1928, in Oklahoma City to Earl O. Kratz and Tressa Faye Greer.

In 1988 she married Joe Parris. They spent 18 years together.

Bettie graduated from OKCCC with an associates degree in Business Management. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Choctaw. She loved to make crafts, sew, crochet, make pottery, cook and paint. Her favorite shows were the Lawrence Welk Show and the Grand Ole Opry, which she listened to on the radio and then on TV.

Preceding her in death were her mother, Tressa Faye Greer; her father, Earl O. Kratz; and her step-father, Fred Long.

Survivors include her husband, Joe Parris of Midwest City; children, Barbara O'Conner and Wesley of Midwest City, Tim Harris and husband, Bill, of Harrah, James Patterson and wife, Jerri, of Newalla, Tom Parris and wife, Susan, of Richardson, Texas, Carol Wilburn and husband, Fred, of Allen, Texas, and Jeff Parris and wife, Frankie, of Carrollton, Texas; 29 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Resthaven Memorial Park with the Rev. Kenny Lindsey officiating.


John C. Anderson Jr.

John C. Anderson Jr., 62, died Friday, April 6, 2007, at St. Paul Hospital in Dallas.
He was born July 18, 1944, in Henderson, Texas, to J. Clifton Anderson and Mary Katherine (Moss) Anderson.

John graduated from The University of Oklahoma and practiced as a clinical social worker in Oklahoma and Texas, after being affiliated with the Dr. Pepper Bottling Company in Shawnee. While in Shawnee he was a member of St. John Lutheran Church.

John is survived by immediate family members, son, Paul Anderson of Austin, Texas, and sister, Dr. Mary Ann Mullican of Dallas, Texas, in addition to extended family members and friends.

A graveside service will be held in Henderson at a later date. Contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

published Apr. 19, 2007

Kenneth G. Knox

Ken Knox, 80, survived World War II and the Korean War as an Air Force Staff Sergeant, but lost his fight for life at Shawnee Solara Hospital on Tuesday, April 17.
Ken, a Shawnee resident since 1981, was born in Oklahoma City on May 24, 1926. He was the son of Opal Eva Kelley Knox and Arrol Grady Knox of Goldsby, Okla., and Hartshorne, Okla.

A chance encounter at a Rainbow Girl's Pie Supper led to a 46-year marriage to Avonne Timblin Knox until her death in 1996.

After enlisting, using a little white lie at the age of 17, and being stationed in the Philippines, Japan and Korea, Ken returned to Oklahoma City as a decorated soldier. He went on to work for OG&E and retired as a Regional Electric Supervisor after 40 years of service. Ken loved people and the pranks he pulled on them, to tell funny stories, to laugh, Saturday trips to the park with a car full of kids that loved him, to attend his grandsons' sporting events, OU football and horseracing.

Ken was a member of Lions, Kiwanis, International Assoc. Of Electricians, OG&E Pioneer Club, and the Draper Park Christian Church. His belief can best be described with a quote from his favorite poem "...Do not stand at my grave and cry. I am not there; I did not die."

Ken is survived by his daughters, Timmi Merritt and her husband, Rex, of Tulsa, Kellie Hobby and her husband, Richard, of Edmond; brother, Bruce Knox and his wife, Ann, of Oklahoma City; grandsons, Kyle Klein and his wife Leslie, Dr. Eric Klein, T.J. Hobby and his wife Pamela; great-grandchildren, Katy, Eli and Emma Klein; long-term caregiver, Silvia DeRemer; and his beloved fianci of nearly ten years, Ruth Reese of Shawnee.

Services to celebrate Ken's life will be held 2 p.m. Friday, at Vondel Smith Mortuary's South Colonial Chapel with burial following at Memorial Park Cem. Services are under the direction of Vondel L. Smith & Son Mortuary, 6934 S Western Ave, OKC.


Mildred Townsend Keller

Comfort, Texas, resident Mildred Townsend Keller, 90, died Monday, April 16, in Comfort.
She was born July 24, 1916, in Konawa to Irving Harrison and Ethel Rella (Bates) Townsend.

She attended Shawnee High School and college in Shawnee.

Mildred married Frank Dudley Keller Jr., who preceded her in death in 1970.

She worked as a homemaker and was a Methodist church member. She lived in Shawnee until 1941 and then moved to Crystal City, Texas.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Frank Dudley Keller Jr.

Survivors include her husband, Bill, of Comfort, Texas; daughter, Karen Busbee of Comfort, Texas; grandchildren, Richard Busbee and wife, Laurie, of Boerne, Texas, Amanda Busbee of San Antonio, Texas, and Melissa Busbee of New Braunfels of Texas; two sisters-in-law and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Today at Fairview Cemetery with Dr. Bob Searl officiating.


Carrol L. Draper

Noble resident Carrol L. Draper died Monday, April 16, in Shawnee at the age of 64.
He was born Jan. 3, 1943 in Blanchard to Ernest and Oma (Melton) Draper.

Carrol attended Lakeview and Washington Elementary and graduated from Norman High School.

On June 4, 1976, he married Janet Henderson in Corona, Calif. Following their marriage, he and his wife moved to their current home in Noble, where together they raised their children.

Carrol served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was the OEH Director for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. He was an enrolled member of the Mississippi Choctaw, being proud of his heritage.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Draper of the home; five daughters, Sheila, Debra, Rebecca, Shelly and Kisha; two sons, Tony and Chad; one brother, Doyle; two sisters, Joyce and Dorothy; niece, Kathy; 16 grandchildren; several other nieces, nephews and friends.

Special thanks to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation where Carrol worked, Angelic Hospice, Cancer Care Staff and Dr. Nguyen, CPN Health Clinic Staff and Dr. Nguyen, St. Anthony Hospital and Golden Rule Nursing Home.

Service will be 10 a.m. Today at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Bob Trousdale officiating.

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


Charlee Angel Wright

Former Maud resident Charlee Angel (aka Loretta Charlene) died Thursday, April 5, at the age of 61.
Memorial service will be 6 p.m. Saturday at 2900 W. Hwy 22, Corsicana, Texas.

published Apr. 20, 2007

Ernie "Skeeter" Hand

Shawnee resident Ernie "Skeeter" Hand, 61, was called home Thursday, April 19, after a long battle with cancer.
He was born August 7, 1945, in Durant to Andy and Ola Hand. He grew up and attended school in Fletcher.

He was a long time employee of Donco, Rocor and City Trailer Trucking Company's in Oklahoma City. He served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967 during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed fishing, traveling and spending time with family. He also enjoyed playing with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Jean of Shawnee; children, Anyia Hand and wife, Dana, Ernie Hand and wife, Samantha, of Oklahoma City, Johnny Hays and wife, Becky, Karen McDonald and husband, Rick, and Roger Hays, all of Shawnee, Melissa Wickersham and husband, Rodney, and Michele Martin of Oklahoma City; 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; sister, Sylvia Johnson of Cochise, Ariz.; aunt, Enid of Cement, Okla.; and many extended family members and friends.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Resthaven Funeral home in Shawnee. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

A special thanks from the family to Heartland Hospice and Sunset Estates.


Patricia Kimberly Decker

Long time Seminole resident Patricia Kimberly "Kim" (Norman) Decker, 46, died Thursday, April 19, in Oklahoma City.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. To 8 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. To service Saturday.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel, 100 West Strothers Ave., Seminole. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery in Seminole.

published Apr. 23, 2007

Lauren Ashley McCain 

Lauren Ashley McCain, 20, a Virginia Tech freshman entered into the place prepared for her by the "love of her life" Jesus, on Monday, April 16, 2007.

Born Dec. 20, 1986, she is the daughter of David and Sherry McCain of Hampton, Va.

Lauren's life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to serve her Lord and she radiated the love of Jesus that touched everyone that knew her.

Lauren attended grade school in Stillwater, OK, and she began her relationship with Jesus Christ while attending Hillcrest Baptist Church. Moving to Jacksonville Beach Elementary, she continued to grow in the Lord at Mayport Naval Station Chapel, Florida. She attended Gregory-Portland Junior High in Portland, Texas, attending First Baptist Church. Moving then to Hampton, Va., Lauren was schooled at home participating in Restoring Moms co-op for high school. She was actively involved in the youth and drama ministries of Restoration Church, and then entered Virginia Tech which she thought of as "almost heaven". She was also involved in Campus Crusade, Bridges International Ministries and {nlcs} the church on campus at Virginia Tech where she touched many people with the love of Christ. It was from there that she entered her heavenly home. Her family and friends cherish wonderful memories of this beautiful, sensitive and caring young woman.

In addition to her parents; her brothers, Joel and Christian, and her sister, Abby, survive her. Her loss is also felt by her maternal grandparents, Robert and Louella Pickard; paternal grandmother, Ruth Ann Boydstun; maternal great-grandmother, Fern Martin; aunts, uncles and cousins who love her deeply.

Visitation will be held from Noon until 8 p.m. Tuesday at Aydelotte Baptist Church, 10201 N. Harrison, Shawnee. The family will be there to receive friends from 6 p.m. To 8 p.m. Visitation will continue on Wednesday from 9 a.m. Until service time.

A celebration of her life will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday at Aydelotte Baptist Church. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery, Meeker, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh.

Donations may be made to Restoration Church-Phoebus Baptist, 508 Foxhill Road, Hampton, VA 23669, to go towards Christian and Abby's college education and as Lauren's desire to fund an International Studies student at Virginia Tech.


William Robert Switzer

William Robert Switzer, 83, was called to the glory of our Lord on Tuesday, April 17, 2007. He was married to Jacqueline Ruckman Switzer also of Shawnee, Ok, who was called to be with the Lord in 1997.
Born to Harriet Benear and William T. Switzer on Aug 12, 1923, Robert was raised in Shawnee. He served in the European theatre during World War II and returned home to work in the outdoor advertising industry until his retirement in 1982.

Robert never knew a stranger. He always found a way to relate to others, either through politics, religion or stories of the 'Big One' (World War II). He was proud of his faith and often referred to himself as being an Old 'Radical' Lutheran. Robert's tales of life experiences ranged from the comical to the impressive.

Opa's family members are his children and their spouses, Richard A. Switzer, Randy A. Switzer, Robert K. And Mary Switzer and Leslie and Bill Murray; his grandchildren, Rheanna, Derus, Edward, Paul, Janice, Eric, Mark, Paula, Daniel and Preston and two great grandchildren Adam and Elijah

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Monday at Fairview Cemetery, Shawnee, with Pastor David Klumpp officiating.

A memorial service is to be held 2 p.m., Saturday, April 28, at Bennett's Funeral Home in Mechanicsville, Va.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to St Paul Lutheran Church, Building Fund, 8100 Shady Grove Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23111


Misty Dawn Orr McConnico

Misty Dawn Orr McConnico went to be with the Lord Wednesday, April 18.
She was born June 24, 1971, Jerry Orr and Barbra Orr.

Misty grew up in Edmond and attended Edmond schools.

She was attending OSU-OKC, majoring in marketing.

Misty enjoyed fishing, cooking and spending time with her family and dogs.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jerry Orr.

Survivors include her husband, Charles McConnico of the home; children, Samantha Masquat, Becky Contreras, Josh Mathis; mother, Barbra Orr; brother, Dwayne Orr; grandmother, Neoma Baptiste; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and friends.

Misty was full of life and never met a stranger. Her sudden untimely death has left a deep void in all who knew her.


Susan E. Worlund

Harrah resident Susan E. Worlund died Thursday, April 19, in Midwest City at the age of 65.
She was born Oct. 25, 1941, in Watertown, N.Y., to John Maxwell and Vivian (McIntyre) Maxwell. She attended schools in Pittsburg and Boston.

On Aug. 3, 1964, she married Robert L. Worlund in Albuquerque, N.M.

Susan worked as a secretary for W.W.R.S. Incorporated (A business operated by her sons involving several Mazzio's Restaurants.) She was loved by all that knew her. Her greatest joys were raising her five sons, her chichuahua, Cinsu, and playing cards.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Surviviors include her husband, Robert, of the home; five sons and four daughters-in-law, John Worlund of Harrah, Mark and Sheila Worlund of Shawnee, Tim and Sandi Worlund of Prague, Scott and Kristy Worlund of McLoud, and Greg and Dena Worlund of Oklahoma City; eight grandchildren, Ashley, Wyatt, Blake, Paige, Sheldon, Katelynn, Rylee and Vi; one sister, Eileen Morrow of Amarillo, Texas; and her Chihuahua, Cinsu.

Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Larry Sparks officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery.


Noma Maxine Rounsaville

Lifelong Konawa area resident Noma Maxine (Mosley) Rounsaville died at her residence in Konawa at the age of 81.
Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Konawa with the Rev. Grady Roundtree and the Rev. Cary Tipton officiating. Burial will follow at Konawa Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


Roger A. Butts

Tecumseh resident Roger A. Butts died Wednesday, April 18, in Tecumseh at the age of 58.
Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Larry Sparks and Mike Taylor officiating. Burial will be at Tecumseh Cemetery under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh.

published Apr. 24, 2007

Mary Louise (Easley) Sullinger

Shawnee resident Mary Louise (Easley) Sullinger, 67, died Friday, April 20, at Odyssey Hospice in Oklahoma City.
Mary Louise was born to Bartie and Ora Mae Fleetwood Easley.

When she was seven the family moved to California where she completed her education and started her own family. With her husband Robert she raised her children, Jimmy Douglas, Michael David, and Deborah Jean who have always been a great part of her life. She always worked hard to provide a loving home and a place for her family.

Mary Louise was a very talented woman in her design and skills as a seamstress, and had a great love for and talent for music and an abiding belief in the Lord.

She was preceded in death be her parents, and her sisters, Bulah Mae, Edith Mildred, Sybil Jean, and Sharon Kay, and her brothers, Teddy, Bartie, Jr., William (Bill), Orville (Pete), Roy and Bobby Joe, and one granddaughter, Misty Sullinger.

Survivors include her three children, her grandchildren; Bianca Sullinger, Zachary Sullinger, Jeremy Singer; sisters, Betty Tillman of San Jose, Calif., and Wanda Wagner of Snohomish, Wash.; and many nieces and nephews.

Mary Louise had a great many friends in and around the Shawnee Community and especially at the Shawnee Towers where she lived for many years. She also loved the Bowlegs area where her children grew up and attended school.

Service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel.


Ryan Allen Berglund

Shawnee resident Ryan Allen Berglund, 24, passed away Sunday, April 22.
He was born Aug. 15, 1982, to Mark and Kim Pinkerton in Watonga.

Ryan grew up in Watonga, graduating from Watonga High School in 2001. At the age of 10, Ryan's grandmother Donna taught him to play golf. This began his love for the game of golf. After high school graduation he attended and graduated from San Diego Golf Academy in Chandler, Ariz., in December 2003. He earned an Associate Business Degree and a degree in Golf Course Management. He worked at Domick Golf and Country Club in Ardmore as Assistant Pro and was currently working at the Shawnee Golf and Country Club as Assistant Golf Pro.

Ryan was a member of the Watonga Christian Church. Besides playing golf, Ryan loved going to the lake, hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends.

He was preceded in death by great-grandparents, Susan Berglund, Raymond and Helen Neely, Carl and Daisy Pinkerton, Leroy and JoCielia Kohl; grandparents, Jim and Donna Parrish, Mike Pinkerton and one cousin, Haley Pinkerton.

He is survived by his parents, Mark and Kim Pinkerton of Watonga; two sisters, Courtney Pinkerton of Watonga, Amber Pinkerton of Edmond; fiancie, Breann Baldwin of Stillwater; grandparents, Tony and Donna Kohl of Watonga; uncles and aunts, Don Pinkerton, Roy Pinkerton and wife Kim, Jimmy Parrish and wife Ann, Wes Parrish and wife Atima, Vicky Lopez and husband Frank, Lisa Spradlin and husband James, Ray Parrish, aunt "Pete" Lawerence, Angie Brodrick and husband Keith; 29 cousins as well as numerous other relatives and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Christian Church in Watonga with the Rev. Davis Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Watonga.

Arrangements under the direction of Wilkinson Mortuary, Watonga.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Ryan Berglund Golf Scholarship with Wilkinson Mortuary as custodians.


Lauren Ashley McCain

Lauren Ashley McCain, 20, a Virginia Tech freshman entered into the place prepared for her by the "love of her life" Jesus, on Monday, April 16, 2007.
Born Dec. 20, 1986, she is the daughter of David and Sherry McCain of Hampton, Va.

Lauren's life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to serve her Lord and she radiated the love of Jesus that touched everyone that knew her.

Lauren attended grade school in Stillwater, OK, and she began her relationship with Jesus Christ while attending Hillcrest Baptist Church. Moving to Jacksonville Beach Elementary, she continued to grow in the Lord at Mayport Naval Station Chapel, Florida. She attended Gregory-Portland Junior High in Portland, Texas, attending First Baptist Church. Moving then to Hampton, Va., Lauren was schooled at home participating in Restoring Moms co-op for high school. She was actively involved in the youth and drama ministries of Restoration Church, and then entered Virginia Tech which she thought of as "almost heaven". She was also involved in Campus Crusade, Bridges International Ministries and {nlcs} the church on campus at Virginia Tech where she touched many people with the love of Christ. It was from there that she entered her heavenly home. Her family and friends cherish wonderful memories of this beautiful, sensitive and caring young woman.

In addition to her parents; her brothers, Joel and Christian, and her sister, Abby, survive her. Her loss is also felt by her maternal grandparents, Robert and Louella Pickard; paternal grandmother, Ruth Ann Boydstun; maternal great-grandmother, Fern Martin; aunts, uncles and cousins who love her deeply.

Visitation will be held from Noon until 8 p.m. Tuesday at Aydelotte Baptist Church, 10201 N. Harrison, Shawnee. The family will be there to receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visitation will continue on Wednesday from 9 a.m. until service time.

A celebration of her life will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday at Aydelotte Baptist Church. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery, Meeker, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh. For live webcast go to listen.okbu.edu.

Donations may be made to Restoration Church-Phoebus Baptist, 508 Foxhill Road, Hampton, VA 23669, to go towards Christian and Abby's college education and as Lauren's desire to fund an International Studies student at Virginia Tech.

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


Helen Oxley

Tecumseh resident Helen Oxley died Friday, April 20, in Shawnee at the age of 82.
Helen was born Dec. 29, 1924, in Shawnee to Olive Newton and Lillie (Sterling) Vanderburg. She grew up in Shawnee and attended Shawnee public schools.

On Dec. 26, 1962, she married Duel E. Oxley in Denton, Texas. He preceded her in death on Jan. 17, 1994.

Helen was a homemaker and a member of the Pentecostal Church of God in Tecumseh.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; one son, Darrell Chambers; two grandsons; one granddaughter; and one great-grandson.

Survivors include four sons and five daughters-in-law, David and Vickie Chambers of Denver, Colo., Donald and Glenna Chambers of Shawnee, Dale and Jeannie Chambers of Shawnee, Danny and Donna Chambers of Shawnee and Kay Chambers-Dapprich; six daughters and sons-in-law, Winona Allen of Oklahoma City, Corene and John Sharp of Bethany, Oweda and Harley Curry of Sulphur, Wilda and Hoot Norris of Lebanon, Lucky and Larry Burgess of Oklahoma City and Dusty and Roddy Culpepper of Oklahoma City; 34 grandchildren; 62 great-grandchildren; 18 great-great grandchildren; numerous other relatives and friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. today at Pentecostal Church of God with the Rev. Fred Owens, the Rev. Leroy Kerbo and Jerry Kuhn officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery.

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


Hazel Frances Parsons

Longtime Chandler resident Hazel Frances Parsons died Sunday, April 22, in Cushing at the age of 95.
Hazel was born Aug. 12, 1911, in Chandler to Frank and Nellie Mae (Brassfield) Quast.

On June 11, 1927, she married Roy L. Parsons in Tecumseh.

Hazel worked as a grocery store clerk for many years and was a member of the Chandler Southern Baptist Church.

Her parents; husband; son, Bobby; great-grandson, Aaron Arevelo; one brother and one sister preceded Hazel in death.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, John and Carol Parsons of Enid; two daughters, Ruth Cox of Houston, Texas, and Donna James of Chandler; 10 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and many friends

Service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday at the Chandler Southern Baptist Church, Chandler, Okla., with the Rev. Keith Henley and the Rev. Mike Mitchell officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery in Chandler. Services are under the direction of the Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Chandler.

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


Donald Ray Kessinger II

Donald "Don" Ray Kessinger II, 28, died Saturday, April 21, in Konawa.
Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ellis and Linda Gregg officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery in Tecumseh.

Arrangements under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa


Christine Posey

Seminole resident Christine Posey, 69, died Monday, April 23, at Seminole Regional Hospital.
Visitation will be 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. today and until service time on Wednesday.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Wewoka.

Arrangements under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home.


Henry D. Hensley

Former Shawnee resident Henry D. "Hank" Hensley, 73 year-old retired civil engineer, died at his residence in Sherman, Texas, on Friday, April 20.
Hank was born July 20, 1933, in Shawnee to Roscoe Hensley and Mary Grace Martin Hensley.

He graduated from Shawnee High School and later received his bachelor of arts degree in civil engineering from University of Texas in Arlington.

He served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. On Aug. 22, 1958, he married Mary Pat Newell in Odessa, Texas.

Hank was employed as an engineer for Tarrant County and later established his own business, H&H Engineering in Arlington. He moved to Sherman following his retirement in 1999. Hank loved to golf and was a member of the Legacy Bible Church.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brother, Earl Hensley; and three sisters, Marie Coleman, Mary Taylor and Beulah Harp.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Pat Hensley of Sherman; sons, Greg Hensley of Arlington and Brett Hensley of Henderson, Texas; daughter-in-law, Karen Hensley of Henderson; granddaughter, Morgan Hensley of Henderson; and sister, Jeanne Taylor of Tecumseh.

Service was held Sunday, April 22, in the Waldo Funeral Home Chapel, Sherman, Texas. Burial ws held Monday, April 23, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Shawnee.

Family and friends can sign the online guest register at www.waldofuneralhome.com

published Apr. 25, 2007

Walter R. Howell III

Shawnee resident Walter R. Howell III, 60, more commonly known as "Wally" to his friends and family, died Saturday, April 21, at his home.
He was born Feb. 26, 1947, in Tulsa to Walter R. Howell Jr. and Ivy (Polumbus) Howell.

Wally graduated from high school in Midwest City in 1965 and graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1990 with a bachelors degree in secondary education.

On Aug. 5, 1972, he married Sandra Glass in Sapulpa. He had lived in Shawnee since 1992.

He was a U.S. Marine veteran. He worked for the Highway Patrol, Capitol Division, and taught school in Midwest City for one year. He was a member of St. Benedict's Catholic Church and St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Del City.

Preceding him in death were his parents and two brothers, Joseph and John Howell.

Survivors include his wife, Sandra of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Walter R. Howell IV and Kimberly of Stillwater; grandson, Jackson Howell of Stillwater; sister, Ivy Bradford and husband, Heath, of Oklahoma City; sister-in-law, Maria Howell of Donna, Texas; a number of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. today. The family will be at the funeral home to visit with friends and relatives.

Service will be noon Wednesday at St. Benedict's Catholic Church with Fr. Maurus Jaeb O.S.B. officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.


Rose Inez Brewer

Shawnee resident Rose Inez Brewer passed away Saturday, April 21, at the age of 56.
She was born Sept. 22, 1950, to Russell and Jewell Wren in Shawnee and has lived here all her life.

On May 15, 1971, she married Oscar Brewer in Macomb.

Rose was a member of Temple Baptist Church in Shawnee and enjoyed oil painting as she was known to be very artistic.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Russell and Jewell Wren.

Rose is survived by her husband, Oscar Brewer of the home; a daughter, Amber Brewer of Tecumseh; brother, Ray Wren of Shawnee; two sisters, Doris Mabry of Shawnee and Kathy Schneider of Manass, Va.; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Temple Baptist Church in Shawnee under the direction of Barnes and Johnson Funeral Home, Midwest City.


Wilda Mae Dooley

McLoud resident Wilda Mae (Waggoner) Dooley, 70, died Monday, April 23.
Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the Asa Smith Memorial Chapel, Harrah. Burial will follow at Dale Cemetery, Dale.

Arrangements under the direction of Smith-Parks Funeral Service, Harrah.


Wilma O. Carroll

Milfay resident Wilma O. Carroll, 88, died Sunday, April 22, in Stroud.
Visitation is 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Service.

Service will 2 p.m. Thursday at Parks Brothers Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Clyde McGuire officiating. Burial will follow at Stroud Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service.


Doris Anne Self

Carthage, Mo., resident Doris Anne Self, died Monday, April 23, in Carthage.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. today at Davenport Cemetery, Davenport with the Rev. Charles Self officiating.

Arrangements under the direction of Parks Brother Funeral Service.


Harry Tyson

Former Shawnee resident Harry Tyson, died Wednesday, April 24, in Garland, Texas.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Dale Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

published Apr. 26, 2007

Frona Reeves (Bush) Hunsucker

Shawnee resident Frona Reeves (Bush) Hunsucker, 87, died Tuesday, April 24, in Colonial Estates.
Frona was born on February 8, 1920 to Charles Andrew and Tennie (Henry) Bush in Foreman, Ark. She was the youngest of 12 children.

Frona married Robert Hunsucker on August 20, 1938, and they spent 68 wonderful years together. They moved to Shawnee in 1951 and have been here ever since. She was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, which she joined in 1951. She was also a member of Eastern Star. Frona was devoted to her family above and beyond the call of duty. She was a loyal friend, as well as being very giving and generous. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her step-mother, Winnie Bush, and 11 siblings.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Hunsucker of the home; two children, Charles Hunsucker and wife, Mickey Ruth, of Austin, Texas, and Lynn Turner and husband, Gene, of Shawnee; four grandchildren, Leslie Rae Hunsucker-Pollock, Amy Lynn Hunsucker-Prasad, Heather Lee Turner, and Sarah Elizabeth Turner; two great-grandchildren, Sai Savan Pollock and Banyan Flint Pollock; numerous niece, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Tony Haddad at Unity Hospital, Heartland Hospice of Shawnee, and Colonial Estates.

Visitation will be today from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Sam Hendry and Chaplin Donny Knight officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heartland Hospice of Shawnee.


Ann Roberts

Our beloved mother, Ann Roberts, widow of E.L. "Bert" Roberts, died peacefully Tuesday, April 24, in Lewisville, Texas.
Ann was born October 2, 1917, in Seminole to Joseph P. and Letitia A. Coughlin.

When she was an infant, her family moved to Shawnee. She attended St. Benedict's School and Shawnee High School where she graduated in 1934 at the age of 16.

She went to work for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company where she met and married E.L. "Bert" Roberts in December 1939. In 1945, Bert and Ann moved to Ada where they raised five children.

Ann led a very energetic life as a mother, homemaker and a member of St. Joseph's Altar Society. Following her husband's death in 1969, Ann re-entered the workforce and continued working into her '70s. After retirement she remained actively involved in St. Joseph church activities. In 2001 Ann moved to Lewisville, Texas, to be close to her daughters.

Ann was a life-long Catholic and a devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church for more than 50 years. Her strong faith and loving kindness were a source of inspiration for many. She possessed a keen intelligence, a ready wit, and a contagious laugh.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Bert Roberts; son, Fr. Victor Roberts; and grandson, Rob Gregory.

Survivors include her daughters, Tish Hall and husband, Dale, of Plano, Texas, Peggy Buchanan and husband, Brian, of Lufkin, Texas, Judy Willett and husband, Leonard, of Irving, Texas, Susan Roberts and husband, Larry Spitzer, of Lewisville; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be 10 a.m. Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ada, with Abbot Martin Lugo, OSB, St. Gregory's Abbey of Shawnee, will officiate. Visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Criswell Funeral Home, Ada.

Pallbearers will be her sons-in-law and grandsons, Dale Hall, Brian Buchanan, Leonard Willett, Larry Spitzer, David Buchanan, Brett Buchanan and Marc Knight.

Memorials may be made to St. Gregory's Abbey, 1900 W. MacArthur Street, Shawnee, Okla., 74804.


George W. Hess Jr.

Shawnee resident George W. "Bill" Hess Jr. died Monday, April 23, in an Oklahoma City hospital at the age of 75.
He was born July 28, 1931, in Mena, Ark., to George W. Hess Sr. and Nan (McMillan) Hess.

He attended Bismark High School in Arkansas, Henderson State College in Arkadelphia, Ark., and The University of Oklahoma.

On Aug. 11, 1951, he married Mary Jane Shinn.

Bill was a high school social studies teacher and basketball coach. He was a member of Hazel Dell Baptist Church, Pottawatomie County Coaches Association and The Oklahoma Coaches Association. Bill loved to be with family, and he loved to garden and traveling.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one sister, Helen Ryan.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Jane Hess of the home; two sons, Michael Hess of the home and Terry Hess and wife, Debbie, of Shawnee; grandchildren, Paula and Adam Monroe of Dale, Glenn of the U.S. Navy and Emlee of Shawnee; two sisters, Betty Toombs of Midwest City and Phyllis Vaught of Mena, Ark.; one brother, Doyle Hess of Fernley, Nev.; and several nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at the old Dale High School Gymnasium with Dr. Montie Campbell, the Rev. Doug Parker, and the Rev. Lee Witt officiating. Burial will be at Dale Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hazel Dell Baptist Church Building Fund, 10702 Hwy 177, McLoud, OK 74851.


Don E. Spurgin

Shawnee resident Don E. Spurgin, 74, died Monday, April 23, in Shawnee.
He was born May 16, 1932, in Shawnee to Earnest and Callie Spurgin. Don was the youngest of seven children.

He attended high school in Shawnee and Tecumseh.

Don was married Nov. 11, 1948, in Shawnee to Gladys Williams. This union produced three sons.

He was a master machinist for more than 50 years. He dearly loved his work and left for a short time due to illness. He retired as a result of his declining health over the past few years.

During his younger years Don played football for both Shawnee and Tecumseh. He also was a golden gloves boxer. He was a former member of the Tecumseh Round-up Club.

Don's faith and love of family enriched the lives of all who knew and loved him. The birth of each new grandchild and each great-grandchild brought a renewed spirit to his own life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; four sisters; a sister who died in infancy; and his son, Tim and Tim's wife, Barbara.

Survivors include the love of his life, Gladys; two sons, Keith Spurgin and his wife, Jeri, Shawnee, and Steve Spurgin and his wife, Sandy, Shawnee; eight grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.

Service will be 3:30 p.m. Thursday at Bethel United Methodist Church on Hardesty Road with Pastor Chris Talley officiating. Burial will be at New Hope Cemetery in Tecumseh.


Georgia Dee Franklin

Shawnee resident Georgia Dee Franklin, 79, died Monday, April 23, after courageously fighting a long illness.
She was married to Benjamin Ray Franklin on Feb. 7, 1947.

Georgia held many jobs during her lifetime and excelled at them all. At the tender age of 18, she started her first job at Richardson Drugs in Shawnee, then moved on to the local telephone company. After moving to Dallas, Texas, she became a PBX operator for Sanger Harris along with selling Mary Kay Cosmetics. She ended her career as a life insurance salesperson for American General Life and Casualty, earning multiple awards, including becoming a member of the Presidents Council.

Although Georgia loved working, her greatest job was raising her three sons, Benjamin Ray Franklin II, Thomas Wayne Franklin, and Michael Gene Franklin. Her love was unconditional and continued until her last breath. She taught them to be good men who have integrity, courage and respect for others.

Georgia had the love of her grandchildren Michelle Rene Franklin, Travis Ryan Fletcher and Michael Charles Parker.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Iva Dee; husband, Benjamin Ray Franklin; son, Benjamin Ray Franklin II; brothers, Wayne Dee and Tommy Dee.

Survivors include her sons, Thomas Wayne Franklin of Shawnee, and Michael Gene Franklin of Oklahoma City; sisters, Jean Dee of Norman and Brenda Muth of Buffalo, N.Y.; grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside service will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Tecumseh Cemetery with Chaplain Harry Smith officiating.


Glen R. Key

Chandler resident Glen R. Key, 90, died Wednesday, April 25.
Service will be 11 a.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel of Chandler.

published Apr. 27, 2007

Billy "Bill" Eugene Slaughter

Shawnee resident Billy "Bill" Eugene Slaughter, 74, died Wednesday, April 25, in Shawnee.
He was born March 14, 1933, in Konawa to Dave and Ethel Slaughter.

Mr. Slaughter came to Shawnee with his parents as a child and grew up in Shawnee. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in March, 1950, and served during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge in April, 1953, he returned to Shawnee where he worked in the construction industry. He later went to work in the oil industry as an offshore driller.

He married in 1976 to Maria T. Salvatierra. They moved to Pauls Valley. Mr. Slaughter continued to work as an offshore driller and toolpusher until his retirement from ODECO in the early '90s when he and his wife returned to live in Shawnee.

Mr. Slaughter was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Doana Slaughter; great-granddaughter, Victoria Judy; and sister, Katherine Lucille Sharp.

Survivors include his wife, Theony Slaughter of the home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Sammy and Nancy Slaughter, Shawnee, and Marco and Sonya Guerrero, Mustang; four daughters and sons-in-law, Billa and Randy Judy, Shawnee, Sandy Ferguson and Raymond Redfield, Tecumseh, Rossana and Brian O'Neil, Santa Clara, Calif., and Patty and Jeff Jones, Pauls Valley; two sisters, Lorada Jones, and her husband, Kenny, Shawnee, and Willie Mae Johnson, Wynnewood; 17 Grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; numerous other relatives and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel.

The family will receive visitors directly after the service at the Shawnee Big Book Group, 402 E. Highland.


Ella Mae Bowden

Ella Mae Bowden, 67, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, April 25, in McAlester after a long battle with cancer.
She was born July 10, 1939, to Joe and Jennie (Herndon) Woodruff.

She married Charles Edward Bowden Sr. July 17, 1961. They spent 17 years together before he passed in 1978.

She retired from TDK after 24 years of service. Ella Mae was a member of Fairview Baptist Church.

She enjoyed her gambling trips with her co-workers, hanging out at the Rainbow Inn with her friends, playing bingo, and spending time with her grandkids.

Ella Mae was preceded in death by her parents, husband and daughter, Carolyn Bronson.

She is survived by her children, Jennie Wolfe and husband, Bill, of Canadian, Okla., Eddie Bowden and wife, Marie, and Randy Bowden and wife, Angela, both of Shawnee; brother, Billy Woodruff of McGehee, Ark.; nine grandchildren and two great-granddaughters; her dear friend Sue Marshall; numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Visitation will be 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. today.

Services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Messer officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

She will be dearly missed by all.


Martha Louise Pate

Former Shawnee resident Martha Louise Pate, 88, died Sunday, April 22, in Las Vegas, Nev.
She was born April 18, 1919, in Jefferson County, Ill., to Charles and Alice Brookman Simmons.

She graduated from Salem High School and attended Business College in St. Louis, Mo.

Martha was married Feb. 25, 1939, in Henderson, Ky., to Ralph Pate . He preceded her in death Jan. 18, 2000.

Because her husband served in the army during World War II and following, they lived in many different places. They moved to Shawnee in 1981.

Survivors include her two sons, Robert Pate and wife, Lois, of Las Vegas, and Charles Pate and wife, Sharron, of Pensacola, Fla.; grandsons, Maj. Brian C. Pate, Staff Sgt. Robert Pate, and Scott Tassani; granddaughters, Cynthia Grzelak, Mary Pate Hartsell, Susan Pate, Wendy Raphael, and Alisa Parenti; four great-grandsons; four great-granddaughters; sister, Catherine Moss of Fla.; brother, Charles Simmons and wife, Doris, of Minneapolis, Minn.; and sister-in-law, Mamie Simmons; numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Resthaven Funeral Home.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Temple Baptist Church with the Rev. Mike Craig officiating.

Memorials may be made to Temple Baptist Church Building Fund, Gideon Bibles or to the charity of your choice.


Dr. Archie Lee Denham

Newcastle resident Dr. Archie Lee Denham, 85, died Thursday, April 26.
Services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the Newcastle Christian Church, 2200 N. Main St.

Arrangements under the direction of Vondel L. Smith & Son Mortuary, 6934 S. Western Ave., OKC.

published Apr. 28, 2007

Frances Lesline Sedlacek

Prague resident Frances Lesline Sedlacek departed this life on Friday, April 27, in Prague at the age of 99 years and 10 months.
She was born June 27, 1907, in Czechoslovakia to Bartolomej and Antonie (Malek) Gojis. Her father left their country for America. In 1914, Frances, her baby sister, Marie, and their mother, Antonie, traveled by train to Rotterdam, then boarded the last civilian ship coming to America before World War I to join Frances' father.

Frances and Joe Sedlacek were married in January 1929. They made their home on a farm near Wilzetta for more than 50 years. Joe died on Sept. 16, 1981.

Frances was a homemaker and a member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church where she was a member of the Altar Society. She also was a member of the Lincoln County Home Demonstration Club for 40 years and worked on the Election Board for 25 years.

Also preceding Frances in death were her parents; sister, Marie Lowery; and brother, Jack Clayton

She is survived by nephews, George Lowery of Tulsa, and Gary Clayton of Alaska; sister-in-law, Irene Sadowski of Redding, Calif.; other nieces and nephews; and many, many friends.

A Wake Service will be held 7 p.m. Sunday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Monday at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with the Rev. Adrian Vorderlandwehr, OSB, and the Rev. Jim Goin officiating. Burial will follow at the Catholic Cemetery in Prague.

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

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

published Apr. 29, 2007

Juanita Lovene Myers

Seminole resident Juanita Lovene (Adams) Myers, 74, died Saturday, April 28, at her home.
Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be announced at a later date.

Arrangements under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.


Carol W. Silas   

St. Louis, Okla., resident Carol W. Silas, 67, passed away, Thursday, April 26, in Oklahoma City.

He was born Nov. 28, 1939, to Hubert Wilton and Ines Marie (Vieux) Silas in St. Louis.

He was born and raised in St. Louis where he attended school.

He joined the U.S. Army, while serving in the military, he married Marie Elena Medlock. 

Following the military, he worked for the oilfield, moving around from Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma until finally settling back in the St. Louis area for the past 30 years.

He worked as a foreman for Koch Pipeline for 20 years.

He enjoyed team roping and fishing. He was baptized as a young man at the St. Louis Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Connie Wood; brother, Kenneth Ray Silas; and uncle, Charlie Vieux.

Survivors include first wife, Elena Silas of St. Louis; son and daughter-in-law, Kurtis and Lisa Silas of Tecumseh; daughter, Ronda Silas of Seminole; four sisters; Murieldean Laxton of Victoria, Texas, Patricia Elaine Hargus of Shawnee, Karen Sue Milburn of Little and Delta Louise Silas of Shawnee; brother, Charles Leroy "Roy" Silas of Tecumseh; four grandchildren, Kalyn Silas, Kody Silas, Terry Morrison and Heather Morrison; one great-grandchild, Lane Wade; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Robert Ingram officiating. Burial will follow at Senkekwe Family Cemetery in St. Louis.

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


T.J. Walker 

McLoud resident T.J. Walker, 67, passed away Thursday, April 26, in Shawnee.

He was born Nov. 27, 1939, to Bill and Trula (Stroud) Walker in Bromide, Okla.

He was raised in Lubbock, Texas, where he met and married his wife, the former Deloris Noey, on August 26, 1966. They moved back to Oklahoma, living in Oklahoma City, as well as Wanette, where they raised their family and were currently living in McLoud.

He worked as a carpenter with The University of Oklahoma until his retirement, being especially proud of the Yorkshire Apartments.

He was an OU football and basketball fan, as well as a Dallas Cowboy fan. He enjoyed reading, sports and NASCAR. Family was the focal point of his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister.

Survivors include wife, Deloris Walker of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Chandra and Scott Stewart of Edmond, Shelley and Jeff Huxhold of Reno, Nev.; son, Kevin Walker of McLoud; two sisters; four brothers; two grandchildren, Alexandra Funderburgh and Addison Stewart; many friends and other family members.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Bethel Cemetery with Scott Stewart officiating.

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


Opal Orsburn 

Longtime Seminole County resident Opal Orsburn, 85, passed away Saturday, April 28, in Shawnee.

She was born Jan. 18, 1922, in West Point, Ark., to Milton and Myrtle (Taylor) Riding.

She attended West Point School.

Opal and Ed Orsburn were married Feb. 12, 1938, and to this marriage eight children were born.

She was a member of Midway Baptist Church, Wewoka, and was a mother and homemaker.

She is preceded in death by her parents and two sons, Bobby and Charles.

Survivors include husband, Ed Orsburn of the home; son, James A. and wife, Rena, of Holdenville; daughters, Avis and Herb Clark of Norman, Carolyn Pruett of Shawnee, Joyce Harris of Holdenville, Lynda and Greg Miner of Shawnee, Mary and Al Crain of Madill, Okla.; 17 grandchildren; 48 great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Frank Ridings of Michigan, David Ridings of Arkansas; and sister, Marie Gilligan of Louisiana.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Midway Baptist Church with the Rev. Phillip Mullins officiating. Burial will follow at Holdenville Cemetery.

Grandsons and great-grandson will serve as pallbearers.

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


Langston Lee Gordon

Stroud resident Langston Lee Gordan, 15, died Friday, April 27, in Stroud.
Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Stroud High School Auditorium with Pastor Clyde McGuire officiating. Burial will follow at Kendrick Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Stroud.