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

submitted by Kay Sugg Best

published May. 16, 2007

Norma Elizabeth Grace

Shawnee resident Norma Elizabeth Grace, 86, passed away Monday, May 14, in Shawnee.
She was born Oct. 16, 1920, to Thomas T. and Margaret (Porter) Waul in Okemah.

Mrs. Grace grew up in the Okemah area and graduated from Okemah High School in 1938.

She and Earl James Grace were married July 6, 1938, in El Reno and for the next 57 years she never left his side. He preceded her in death in 1995.

Mrs. Grace worked for U.S. Rubber Company from 1951 to 1954 and also with Nth Stone in Oklahoma City from 1954 to 1975.

In 1997 Mrs. Grace moved to Shawnee where she was currently residing. She loved her husband very much; having been his constant companion. Mrs. Grace was a loving mother and wife and enjoyed her family. She was a good mom. She also enjoyed fishing with her family.

Mrs. Grace gave her life to Christ in 1982 and was baptized at First Southern Baptist church in Del City. At the time of her death, she was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Shawnee where she enjoyed her Sunday School class.

Preceding her in death were here parents, Thomas and Margaret Waul; and her husband Earl, James Grace.

She is survived by her two sons, Richard Earl "Dick" Grace and wife, Virginia, of Shawnee and Robert Dean "Bob" Grace and wife, Melody, of Amarillo, Texas; two sisters, Helen Bixler of Tulsa and Dorothy McClure of Tulsa; six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the Parks Brothers Funeral Home Chapel in Okemah with the Rev. Bailey Smith officiating.

Arrangements under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Home, Okemah.


Jason R. "Jake" Miles

Shawnee resident Jason R. "Jake" Miles, 34, died Sunday, May 13, in Shawnee.
He was born Sept.18, 1972, in Oklahoma City.

He was reared in Oklahoma City. He then lived in Okemah for a short time and has resided in Shawnee the past 10 years.

Jake was a 1990 graduate of Bridge Creek High School. He had also attended St. Gregory's College and Oklahoma State University.

Mr. Miles worked as a City Inspector for the past five years. He also was a former Sergeant for the Department of Corrections.

He was a member of the Shawnee Home Builders Association.

He was loved by many, missed by all and gone too soon. He rode to live and lived to ride.

He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Miles.

Survivors include his two daughters, Madison Miles of Okemah and Maylee Miles of Oklahoma City; one sister and brother-in-law, Stacy and David Sisson of Shingle Springs, Calif.; niece and nephews, Lauren Sisson and Mason Sisson, both of Shingle Springs, Calif.; grandmother, Juanita Cole of Oklahoma City; mother, Susan Miles of Oklahoma City; numerous other relatives and friends.

The family has designated the Jason R. "Jake" Miles Memorial Fund at Arvest Bank in Shawnee as appropriate for memorials.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the Shawnee Home Builders Cabin, 33001 Lake Road, Shawnee. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens in Oklahoma City.

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


Velta G. Welborn

Shawnee resident Velta G. Welborn, 83, died Monday, May 14, at Unity Health Center.
She was born May 13, 1924, to Charles Gus Newby and Ollie May (McDaniel) Newby, in Ada.

She graduated from Meeker High School in 1942.

She married Ernest "Windy" Welborn on May 13, 1942, in Chandler.

She retired from Tinker Air Force Base in 1985. Velta was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Meeker for many years and Wallace Avenue Baptist after her move to Shawnee. She was awarded Shawnee's Most Marvelous Mom.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and two brothers, Homer and Marvin Newby.

Survivors include her four children, Bill Welborn and wife, LaDonna, of Meeker, Linda Welborn Kincaid and husband, James, of Oklahoma City, Teresa Welborn Simpson and husband, Ed, of Harrah, and DeWayne Welborn of Owasso; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; three brothers, Raymond Newby, Marley Newby of Shawnee, and Harold Newby of Chandler; nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

She will be remembered for her laughter and loving way of sharing life.

Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Meeker First Baptist Church with the Rev. Joe Jones officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery, Meeker.


Dr. Mary L. Brown

Shawnee resident Dr. Mary L. Brown died Sunday, May 13, in Shawnee.
She was born to J.W. (Bill) and Maud (Spear) Mathews in Boswell, Okla.

She graduated from Hugo High School. She attended SMU and graduated from The University of Oklahoma. She received her Medicine degree from The University of Oklahoma school of Medicine. She had practiced Internal Medicine in Oklahoma and later in Texas.

While at The University of Oklahoma she was a member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority and the honorary Medical fraternity. She was a member of the Episcopal Church.

She was preceded in death by her son, Joseph Richard; parents; one sister and one brother.

Survivors include one sister, Wynnell Robertson and her husband Ted; one niece, Marian Ward of Edmond; five nephews, Jim Robertson of Shawnee, Dr. Bill Henson of Plano, Texas, Dick Henson of Corsicana, Texas, Jim Mathews of Wewoka, Hayden Mathews, of Richardson, Texas; several great-nieces and nephews.

Graveside service will be 11 a.m. today at Resthaven Memorial Park with the Rev. Sam Hendry. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Raymond Dewayne Corona

Seminole resident Raymond Dewayne Corona, 21, died Monday, May 14, in Seminole County.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Seminole with the Rev. Jerry Benson officiating assisted by the Rev. Jeremy Benson. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.


Elbert Lee Rogers

Meeker resident Elbert Lee Rogers "Buddy", 61, died Friday, May 11, in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 2 p.m. today at the Luther High School Auditorium with Bro. Dennis Osborne officiating. Burial will follow at the Luther Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Browns Funeral Parlor, Luther.


Calvin Eugene Henshaw

Stroud resident Calvin Eugene Henshaw, 75, died Monday, May 14, at his residence.
Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Stroud with the Rev. Joe Molencupp officiating.

Arrangements under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Stroud


Edna Pauline Gash

Chandler resident Edna Pauline (Foster) Gash, 82, died Monday, May 14, in Meeker.
Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Rossville Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Browns Funeral Parlor, Wellston.


Jerry Jeter

Oklahoma City resident Jerry Jeter, 54, died Monday, May 14, in Oklahoma City.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Forest Hill Cemetery with Jim Grogan of Victory Christian officiating.

Arrangements under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh.

published May 17, 2007

Noma Mae Vest

Meeker resident Noma Mae Vest, 79, died Monday, May 14, at her home.
She was born Nov. 9, 1927, in Cromwell, Okla., to Earl A. and Mandy Mae (Estep) Butler. She graduated from Seminole High School in 1947.

On Sept. 22, 1951, she married Leonard Vest. They enjoyed 29 years together.

Noma lived in Costa Mesa, Calif., and Reno, Nev., for 33 years before moving to Meeker in March 1983. She worked for Sylvania, Hughes Aircraft, and then retired from TDK in 1992. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints of Shawnee, a union member of IBEW of Northern Nevada, and was involved in the scouting program. She enjoyed quilting, embroidery, sewing and collecting dolls.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband; brothers, Jack O. Butler and David Lee Butler.

Survivors include her children, Rachel Marie Vest of Oklahoma City and Daniel Lee Vest of Meeker; sisters, Leona Carden of Arizona, Georgia Lou McKee and husband, David, of Idaho; brother, J.D. Earl Butler of California; brother-in-law, Ralph Leon Vest of New Mexico; sister-in-law, Lois McKee; grandchildren, Nathanial Charles Vest and Melissa Mei Vest; three great-grandsons; numerous other family members and friends.

Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today at Resthaven Funeral Home.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints with Bishop Mike Meyers officiang. Burial will be at Little Cemetery, Seminole.


William "Bill" Bassett

Maud resident William "Bill" Bassett passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2007 in Norman, Okla., at the age of 81.
He was born Oct. 5, 1925 in Cromwell, Okla., to Harold Elmer and Hazel (Bridgeman) Bassett.

On Oct. 30, 1942, he married Tawana Lee (Bussey) Bassett in Maud.

Bill retired 20 years ago from Buck Exploration where he was in the oilfield.

He served during World War II in the U.S. Navy receiving the Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with five stars.

His parents, one sister, and one grandchild, Clinton Bassett, precede him in death.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Robert W. and Carolyn Bassett of Maud; two daughters and sons-in-law, Mary L. and Walter Byrd of Poetry, Texas, and Linda and Donnie Johnson of Vici, Okla.; one brother, Richard Bassett of Oklahoma City; eight grandchildren, Alan Bassett, Mark Estes, David Estes, Kerta Thrower, Michael Emmerick, Trena Hopson, Larrianne Bishop, and Clynt Johnson; and 15 great-grandchildren.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. today at Cummings Cemetery in Maud with the Rev. Carl Whitfield officiating and the U.S. Navy presenting military honors

published May 18, 2007

Dr. Thomas Andrew Avery

Shawnee resident Dr. Thomas Andrew Avery, 60, departed this life Tuesday, May 15.
He was born March 29, 1947, to Adron Andrew Avery and Mildred Jane Fiscus in Caney, Kan.

He was reared in Stillwater and resided in Shawnee for over 30 years.

In 1985 he married his wife, Judy.

He graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1967 and received his Medical Doctor Degree in 1972 from The University of Oklahoma School of Medicine. He had practiced in Addictive Medicine, Psychiatry, Critical Care and Substance Abuse Treatment.

He was an Emergency Room Physician from the Arkansas border to the Texas border. In 1970, he started a minor emergency clinic in Shawnee. He was instrumental in forming the emergency room at Shawnee Medical Center hospital and also trained many emergency room physicians. He started the first EMT's training in Pottawatomie County. He also was the medical examiner for the Pottawatomie Counties sheriffs department. He retired from practice in 2001.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Adron and Mildred Avery; and sister, Jane Fiscus.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Ann Avery of the home; sister, Rosalee Swann; son, Jason Andrew Avery; five daughters, Ben and Kelli McCullar, Clayton and Shelli Guinn, Greg and Suzanne Pritchard, Terri Gray, Sherri Ragsdale and Natasha Schweitzer; ten grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at the Resthaven Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Brent McCutcheon officiating. Entombment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery


Gladys Audell Luman

Oklahoma City resident Gladys Audell Luman, 98, passed away Tuesday, May 15.
She was born Jan. 16, 1909, to Ambrose and Maude Zachary in Sterling, Okla. Gladys was raised in Marlow.

She attended Oklahoma College for Women, Chickasha.

She lived the majority of her life in Oklahoma City, with the love of her life, Carl.

She was a founder and member of the Thursday Book Club, and was a member of the Floribunda Garden Club, Oklahoma Art League and Nichols Hills United Methodist Church.

Her greatest accomplishment in life was that of wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. A day never passed that Nana wasn't doing for or thinking of her family.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Roy Zachary; sisters, Ruby Carr and Lela Fae Allen; and her husband of 50 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Kara Lee Merrell of Edmond; son, Dr. Jack Luman and wife, Mary Ann, of Shawnee; grandchildren, Jeff and Kim Luman of Shawnee, Jenee and Troy Epps of Edmond, Julie and Pheland Lucas of Bixby, Mark Bonney of Muskogee, Pam and Jason Smitherman of Edmond, and Lisa Merrell of Bristow; as well as 12 great-grandchildren.

Graveside service will be 3:30 p.m. today at The Garden of the Shepherd at Rose Hill Burial Park.

The family would like to extend their appreciation and acknowledge the staff of Rose Manor Nursing Home and Heartland Hospice, both of Shawnee. Memorials can be made to Heartland Hospice of Shawnee, 2700 N. Kickapoo, Shawnee, 74804.

Arrangements under the direction of Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper.


Pauline Christine Mundhenke

Shawnee resident Pauline Christine Mundhenke, 77, passed away Thursday, May 17, in Shawnee.
She was born Sept. 9, 1929, to Martin and Marie (Maul) Graf in Culbertson, Neb.

She was a housewife and enjoyed sewing and traveling.

She was preceded in death by her parents and 11 sisters and brothers.

Survivors include husband, LeRoy Mundhenke of the home; three children, Patricia Chandler and husband, William "Billy", of Omaha, Neb., Karen Crecelius and husband, Ronald, of Shawnee, Ronald Johnson and wife, Karen, of New Mexico; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one sister, Katherine of Connecticut.

No service is scheduled. Cremation is being handled by Walker Funeral Service.


Olga (McKimmey) Zampini

Las Vegas resident Olga "Pokey" (McKimmey) Zampini, a homemaker, passed away Saturday, May 12, at the age of 89.
She was born Aug. 26, 1917, in McLoud, and resided in Nevada for 60 years.

Olga was a member of the Church of Nazarene.

She is survived by her sons, Joseph (Jettie) McKimmey of Shawnee and Jack (Millie) McKimmey of Las Vegas; granddaughters, Cathy Ross of San Antonio, Texas, Debra McKimmey of Las Vegas, and Lori Rihaly of Reno; grandsons, Steven McKimmey of Beaumont, Texas, Jeffrey McKimmey of Jackson Hole, Wyo., Chris McKimmey of Las Vegas, Rodney McKimmey of Las Vegas, and Gary McKimmey of Anaheim, Calif.; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Service was held 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 15, at Palm Mortuary, Las Vegas, Nev., with burial at Palm Valley View Cemetery, Las Vegas.

Donations may be made to Nathan Adelson Hospice.


Thurman Wayne Conger

Longtime Seminole resident Thurman Wayne Conger, 70, died Wednesday, May 16, in Oklahoma City.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with Delmar Hume officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Wewoka.

Arrangements are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home


Juanita Faye Hembree

Sparks resident Juanita Faye Hembree, 77, died Wednesday, May 16.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at the White Dove Cemetery, Sparks.

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

published May 19, 2007

Paul W. O'Brien

Paul Warren O'Brien passed on to glory on Thursday May 17, at the Stillwater Medical Center. Services have been entrusted to Strode Funeral Home.
There will be a Rosary 7 p.m. today at the Strode Funeral Home Chapel, Stillwater. Mass of Christian Burial will be 9 a.m. today at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Stillwater with burial following in Chapel Hill Cemetery in Oklahoma City.

Arrangements are under the directon of Strode Funeral Home in Stillwater.


Lillian Ruth Parrett

Oklahoma City resident Lillian Ruth Parrett, 73, died Tuesday, May 15.
Service will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel, Prague.

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


Melba F. Wiggins

Paden resident Melba F. Wiggins, 73, died Thursday, May 17.
Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Paden Holiness Church. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery, Paden.

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


Wanda Lou Williams

Lifelong Vamoosa and Konawa area resident Wanda Lou (Goodrich) Williams, 79, died Thursday, May 17, at her residence in Vamoosa.
Service will be 2 p.m. Monday with the Rev. Michael Vallandingham and the Rev. Pam Shirk officiating.

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

published May 21, 2007

Walter Maxwell Downey

Longtime Seminole resident Walter Maxwell Downey, 92, died Friday, May 18.
Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jess Powers officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery.

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


Sven Soderstrom

Chandler resident Sven Soderstrom, 78, died Thursday, May 17.
Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Church of The First Born, Chandler.

Arrangements are under the direction of Parks Brother Funeral Service, Chandler.


Mildred LaDonna James

Mildred LaDonna James, 74, went to be with the Lord Thursday, May 17, after 12 years of illness.
She was born April 26, 1933, to Percy Otis and Daisy Gertrude (Havlovic) Shaw in Watonga.

LaDonna moved to Shawnee in the 1940s where she made her home and raised her family.

She graduated from Shawnee High School in 1951 and then graduated from nursing school in 1978 with her LPN license.

LaDonna was a member of Liberty Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Larry Don Muzny; and grandson, Justin King.

She is survived by her children, Percy Charles Muzny, Gaylinn King, both of Shawnee, and Mike Muzny and wife, Pam, of Edmond; grandchildren, Logan King, Zack, Josh, and Steven Muzny, and Sara Vanwinkle.

Graveside service will be held 11 a.m. Monday at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Lester Dewayne Quary 

Meeker resident Lester Dewayne Quary, 59, departed this life Saturday, May 19, in Midwest City.

He was born Aug. 27, 1947, to Mary J. (Walker) and Benny LeRoy Quary in Dinuba, Calif.

He married Judy Ann Seaton on Oct. 28, 1966, she preceded him in death March 15, 1970. He then married Jean E. Novotny in Prague June 25, 1971.

Lester was a long-time employee of Standard Roofing in Oklahoma City. He was serving as fleet superintendent for Standard Roofing at the time of his death. He was also a life time member of the NRA.

Survivors include his wife, Jean E. Quary of the home; one son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Gayla Quary of Meeker; one daughter and son-in-law, Tammy and Chris Mitchell of Meeker; his parents Benny L. and Mary Jane Quary of Prague; two brothers and one sister-in-law, Steve and Diane Quary of Prague and Rick Quary of Tahlequah; one sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Jerry Seaton of Paden; and four grandchildren, Matt and Jeff Brown and Own and Evan Quary.

Service will be 2 p.m. Monday at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Prague with Father Adrian Vorderlandwehr, O.S.B. officiating and the Rev. Tim Emmons assisting. Burial will follow at the Prague Cemetery.

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


Doris Mae Parsons 

Seminole resident Doris Mae Parsons, 81, departed this life Friday, May 18, in Seminole.

She was born Feb. 18, 1926, to Earl and Ora Lee (Biffel) Day in Prague.

She married Harold Parsons in Seminole Nov. 22, 1958.

Mrs. Parsons was a homemaker.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother.

Survivors include her husband, Harold Parsons of the home; son and daughter-in-law, Tommy and Sandy McAnally of Marlow; two daughters and sons-in-law, Patricia "Pat" and Richard Hand of Prague and Teresa and Allen Steffy of Seminole; brother and sister-in-law, James and Elsie Day of Kemah, Texas; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Service will be 10 a.m. Monday at the First Baptist Church of Prague with Bro. Tim Emmons officiating. Burial will follow in Little Cemetery, Seminole County.

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


Jeanne Gaskill Quackenbush

Lifelong Shawnee resident Jeanne Gaskill Quackenbush, 87, died Thursday, May 17, at Unity Hospital.
She was born July 21, 1919, in Shawnee to William Edward and Sadie Jane (Rockwell) Gaskill.

A graduate of Shawnee High School, she attended Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo., then attended The University of Oklahoma where she received her bachelor's degree in voice and piano.

She married her childhood sweetheart, Ray H. Quackenbush who passed away in 2006.

Her father was the founder of Gaskill Funeral Chapel in Shawnee.

She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Shawnee, and was a volunteer at Shawnee Hospital, where she broke records for the most hours.

She was a wonderful artist, she loved to paint, and enjoyed singing.

She was also preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her son, Dr. Ray "Mike" Quackenbush of Chicago, Ill; daughter, Mary Jane and husband, Dr. George T. Sawabini, of Dearborn, Mich.; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Gaskill Funeral Chapel.

There will be private family services.


Donnie R. Anderson

Tecumseh resident Donnie R. Anderson, 69, died Friday, May 18, at his residence.
He was born Oct. 3, 1937, to Jubal Anderson and Myrtle (Deathridge) Anderson in Shawnee.

He graduated from Shawnee High School in 1956.

He and Glenda would have celebrated their 48th anniversary this July.

He was a member of Spirit Rain Christian Center. He enjoyed watching horse racing.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and 11 brothers and sisters.

Survivors include his wife, Glenda Anderson of the home; two daughters, Linda Denise Anderson of the home and LaDonna Duke and husband, Jim of Shawnee; five grandchildren, Angela, Joe Bill, Todd, Cody, and Casie; ten great-grandchildren; one sister, Betty Burke of Norman; and several nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Monday at Resthaven Memorial Park with Dr. Carol Hopper officiating.

published May 22, 2007

Inola Isenhower

Tecumseh resident Inola Isenhower died Sunday, May 20, in Tecumseh at the age of 83.
She was born May 19, 1924, in Shawnee to Wes and Florance Coffey.

Inola was raised in the Black area and attended Black Schools. She had and lived most of her life the the Pink area. She was a member of one of the three founding families in Pink. She had also served the Pink community as Mayor.

On Oct. 30, 1942, she married Howard Isenhower in Tecumseh.

Inola worked as a Psychiatric Nurse at Norman Griffin Memorial Hospital before retiring. She enjoyed traveling and being with family.

The last of 11 children in her family, she was preceded in death by 10 brothers and sisters.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Harold and Bridget Isenhower of Tecumseh; sister-in-law, Suzie Cranford of Springfield, Colo.; grandchildren, Amy Guffey of Shawnee and Stephanie Branham of Pink; great-grandchildren, Sierra Branham and Brooklyn Branham; and numerous nieces and nephews including Roberta Landtroop of Prague.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Cooper Funeral Chapel. Burial will be at Brown Cemetery.

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


Lloyd Farrow

Our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Lloyd Farrow of Shawnee passed away on Sunday, May 20, 2007, at the age of 81.
Lloyd was born on Aug. 9, 1925, in Bendavis, Mo. He was the eldest son of Clarence and Ollie (Sutton) Farrow, and was raised in Mannford, Okla., with ten siblings. In his teens, he broke horses and worked cattle as a ranch hand. He joined the U.S. Army at 18, fought in Europe in World War II and was wounded in Bettandorf, Germany. He spent the Korean War guarding the Italian and Yugoslav border. He then served in Vietnam with the First Air Calvary from 1965 through 1966.

At Fort Mason, Calif., Lloyd met and married Nelda Johnston, who was also stationed there. They were married for 52 years and had five daughters.

After retirement he moved to Tecumseh, where he raised and ran race horses. After 27 years in Tecumseh, he and Nelda moved to Shawnee where he continued to raise horses for the sheer joy of it.

Preceding him in death were his parents and his brother, Jesse Farrow.

He is survived by his wife, Nelda; daughters and sons-in-law, Phyllis and Ed Bolt, Marilyn and Bill Hahn, Joyce Jaquess, Beth Farrow and Eric Ring, and Nadine and Irl Meade; four grandchildren, Jeremy King, Jessica Carter, Travis Carter and Miles Farrow and one great-grandson, Isaiah Smith. He is also survived by nine siblings and their spouses, Bill and Clara Farrow, Don and Pat Farrow, Twila and Danny Young, J.W. (Bud) and Neoma Farrow, Darrel and Lou Farrow, Alvin (Duroc) and Gerry Farrow, Shirley and Buddy Zickefoose, Patricia and Gene Riley, and Jimmy and Linda Farrow. He is also survived by a host of other family and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Mannford Assembly of God Church in Mannford with Pastor Don Yandell officiating. Military Honor Guard Service and burial will follow at Oakhill Cemetery, Mannford, Okla.


Neta Bell Judd

Seminole resident, Neta Bell Judd, 83, departed this life Saturday, May 19, 2007 at her home in Seminole.
She was born March 9, 1924, to Ed and Ola (Andrews) Wayland in Tuttle, Ok.

She married Bob Judd in October of 1947 and they enjoyed 59 wonderful years together.

Neta was a member of the Assembly of God church for 43 years. She enjoyed sewing, playing the piano and singing, crocheting, cooking, and most importantly, taking care of her home and her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Survivors include her husband, Bob Judd, of the home; children, Drenda "Dee" Fisher of Norman, Joan Wiley and husband, David, of Shawnee; grandchildren, Chris Fisher of Edmond, Amy Wood of Norman, Jordan and Nathan Wiley of Shawnee; great grandchildren, Ashley Wood and Gabe Fisher; two brothers, Arazell Wayland and Denzel Wayland and wife, Ruby; sister, Zelma Mackey; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the caring staff of Alleve Home Care and Hospice and Leta Skaggs.

Service will be 1 p.m. today at Freedom Assembly of God with the Rev. Roy Roberson officiating. Pallbearers will be Chris and Gabe Fisher, Jordan and Nathan Wiley, Jack Lee, Ray Hall, and Roy and Ashley Wood. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.


Kevin Gregory Block

Norman resident Kevin Gregory Block, 54, died Sunday, May 20, at the Norman Veteran Center.
He was born Jan. 24, 1953, in Shawnee, the son of Leo Francis Block and Margie Bell Block.

He attended St. Benedict Parochial School and graduated from Shawnee High School in 1972. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Fort Leonardwood, Mo., and spent an overseas tour in Korea. After his tour of service he enrolled at Seminole Junior College. Because of his love of carpentry, he quit school to pursue a career in that field. With the on set of diabetes, his health declined to a point where it was necessary for him to have constant care. His residence for the last 12 years was the Veterans Center in Norman.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one sister, Karla Block Guin.

Survivors include three brothers and sisters-in-law, Chris and Theba Block of San Antonio, Kerry and Linda Block of Shawnee, and Kenny and Jana Block of Harrah; two sisters, Kristen Allard of Shawnee and Karen Hayes and husband, John, of Shawnee; nieces and nephews, John Guin, Eva, Terry and Michael Block, Andrew Block, Kyle Brown, Kerry and Aaron Block,

A Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. today at the Chapel of Walker Funeral Service. The Mass of Christian Burial will be noon Wednesday at St. Benedict Catholic Church with Father Maurus Jaeb, O.S.B. officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery


Lloyd F. Farrow

Lloyd F. Farrow, 81, died Sunday, May 20, in Shawnee.
Service will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Mannford Assembly of God Church. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, Mannford, Okla., under the direction of Mannford Funeral Home.


Frances Ann Owens

Lifelong Seminole resident Frances Ann Owens died Sunday, May 20, at Seminole Medical Center at the age of 63.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Bowlegs Assembly of God Church with the Rev. Roy Robertson officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.

published May 23, 2007

Dr. William C. Click

Shawnee resident Dr. William C. Click died Sunday, May 20, at the age of 81.
He was born Dec. 8, 1925, in Madill, Okla., to Claude and Mae Click.

He graduated from Durant High School in 1943 and The University of Oklahoma Medical School.

On Sept. 16, 1961, he married Jan Ellen Kilgore in Duncan, Okla.

He was a medical doctor of Ophthalmology. He was a General Practitioner for ten years in Chickasha. He began his Ophthalmology practice in Shawnee in 1967 and retired in 1997. He served in the Korean War as a U.S. Navy Medical Officer.

Dr. Click was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, served as president of the Pottawatomie County Medical Society, served on admissions board at The University of Oklahoma Medical School, and served as clinical associate professor on volunteer faculty for the Department of Ophthalmology at The Oklahoma University Medical School. He also preformed charitable work for several Shawnee charities and organizations.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed raising and training hunting dogs for field trial competitions and was a ardent follower of OU football.

Preceding him in death were his wife, parents, and sister, Eugenia Humphreys.

Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Bill and Pam Click of Lake Forest, Ill., and Bob and Kristin Click of Plano, Texas; four grandchildren, Taylor and Haley Click of Lake Forest, Ill., and Madeline and Aidan Click of Plano, Texas; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Paul's United Methodist Church with Dr. Rockford Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.


David Ray Pirtle

Former Shawnee resident David Ray Pirtle, 51, passed away Monday, May 21, at his Texas City, Texas, home.
David was born Sept. 5, 1955, to Bill and Judy (Oden) Pirtleto at Fort Hood, Killeen, Texas.

The family moved to Shawnee in 1968. David graduated from Shawnee High School with the class of 1973. Throughout his college career at Texas A & M University, David worked as a trainer for the Aggie football team.

His freshman year David met Texas City native Deborah Ann DeCuir. The two married on Jan. 3, 1976, and moved to Shawnee following graduation in 1977.

The couple returned to Texas City where David began his career in education as a coach and teacher at Blocker Junior High School. He also served as assistant principal at Texas City High School and as principal of the Stafford and LaPorte (Texas) junior high schools before returning to Texas City and fulfilling his dream of being principal of Texas City High School.

Throughout his life David served as a role model for his family, students and friends. He was a very active volunteer with Boy Scouts and was especially proud when his son Brett achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He was equally devoted to his daughter Rebecca's gymnastics and high school cheerleading activities.

He enjoyed fishing, woodworking and being an ace shade-tree mechanic. David was equally devoted to his church where he was a member of the choir and frequently organized mission trips in his work with the Methodist Church's U.M. Army. He was also an active volunteer for Habitat for Humanity.

David was preceded in death by his mother, Judy Pirtle; sister, Diane Pirtle; and nephew, Ryan Linderer.

Survivors include his wife, Deborah of the home; son, Brett and daughter, Rebecca of Houston; father, Bill Pirtle of Oklahoma City, sister, Susan and niece, Alyssa Linderer of Yukon; sister, Carey and husband, Danny Head of Ponca City; niece, Erika Martin of Norman and nephew, Clayton Head of Oklahoma City.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at First United Methodist Church in Texas City under the direction of Emken-Linton Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Forest Park East Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Tim Puckett, Travis Cox, Harry Hedrick, Roy Boenig, David Hoobler, Gene Conners and George Fuller.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Texas City ISD Foundation for the Future, P.O. Box 1190, Texas City, Texas, 77592-1190.


Kevin Crownover

Bedford, Texas, resident Kevin Crownover died Saturday, May 19, in Bedford at the age of 45.
He was born Oct. 26, 1961, in Tacoma, Wash. He was reared in the Oklahoma City area and resided in Texas most of his adult life.

He was a 1979 graduate of Putnam City High School.

Kevin worked as an Information Assets Manager for South West Securities in Dallas, Texas.

Survivors include his mother, Linda Howard of Tennessee; father, Vernon Crownover of Oklahoma City; stepmother, Carol Crownover of Chicago, Ill.; sister and brother-in-law, Angela and Terry Hedge of Meeker; brother and sister-in-law, David and Beth Crownover of Chicago, Ill.; nieces, Chante Ford and Audrey Hedge; great niece, Reagan Elsen; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Cooper Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery.

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


John Hogue

Tecumseh resident John Hogue died Monday, May 21, in Tecumseh at the age of 31.
He was born Oct. 20, 1975, in Shawnee to Johnnie Lee Hogue and Carol Ann Villines. He was a lifelong resident of Shawnee and Tecumseh. He graduated from Tecumseh High School.

John was a self-employed tile setter. He enjoyed golf, fishing and hunting.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Bob Villines, Johnie Leister and Francis Hogue.

Survivors include his son, Caden Standlee of Prague; mother and step-father, Carol and Ron Leister of Tecumseh; father and step-mother, Johnnie and Jana Hogue of Tecumseh; brothers, Brandon Lee Hogue of Tecumseh, Jeremy Allen Hogue of Missouri, Cody Leister of Shawnee, Darrin Stephens of Maud and Jarod Hile of San Diego, Calif.; sisters, Miranda Leister of Shawnee, Tiffany Hile of Shawnee and Brittany Collier of Tecumseh; grandmothers, Mary Villines of Tecumseh and Joyce Leister of Prague; numerous friends and other family members.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Chad Brodrick and the Rev. Robert Ingram officiating. Burial will be at Brown Cemetery.

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


Alecia Rena Dean

Former Stroud resident Alecia Rena Dean, currently of Cushing, 23, died Saturday, May 19, in Cushing.
Visitation will be noon to 9 p.m. today, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and 8 a.m. until service Friday.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Chapel with the Rev. Mike Mitchell officiating. Burial will follow at Sunrise Cemetery, Kellyville.

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


Betty Brown

McLoud resident Betty Brown, 82, died Sunday May 20.
Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Mcloud Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Dale Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

published May 24, 2007

Judy M. Bridges

Tecumseh resident Judy M. Bridges, 58, passed away Monday, May 21, in Tecumseh.

She was born Aug. 20, 1948, to Warren & Jane (Agnew) McDoulett in Oklahoma City.

She was raised in Oklahoma City and was a 1966 graduate of Capitol Hill High School.

On Aug. 22, 1980, she married Glenn Bridges in Del City. Following their marriage, they lived in Mustang and in 1984 they moved to Bethel Acres.

She was a senior electronic specialist at Lucent Technologies, formerly known as Western Electric and AT&T. She was also a teacher's assistant in the special education department at Bethel Schools and drove a school bus.

She was a Camp Fire leader for more than 15 years and was a Tri County Library Board member.

Her grandchildren were the focal point of her life.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Jane McDoulett; and aunt, Aileen Langley.

Survivors include her husband, Glenn Bridges of the home; two daughters and one son-in-law, Michele and Phillip Jackson of Shawnee and Konnie Ardizzone of Shawnee; one son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Karen Bridges of Oklahoma City; father, Warren McDoulett of Oklahoma City; four brothers; one sister; 16 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter; many friends and other family members.

Service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Cooper Funeral Chapel with Robert McDoulett officiating. Burial will follow at Bridges Family Cemetery.

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


Dr. William C. Click

Shawnee resident Dr. William C. Click died Sunday, May 20, at the age of 81.

He was born Dec. 8, 1925, in Madill, Okla., to Claude and Mae Click.

He graduated from Durant High School in 1943 and The University of Oklahoma Medical School.

On Sept. 16, 1961, he married Jan Ellen Kilgore in Duncan, Okla.

He was a medical doctor of Ophthalmology. He was a General Practitioner for ten years in Chickasha. He began his Ophthalmology practice in Shawnee in 1967 and retired in 1997. He served in the Korean War as a U.S. Navy Medical Officer.

Dr. Click was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, served as president of the Pottawatomie County Medical Society, served on admissions board at The University of Oklahoma Medical School, and served as clinical associate professor on volunteer faculty for the Department of Ophthalmology at The Oklahoma University Medical School. He also preformed charitable work for several Shawnee charities and organizations.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed raising and training hunting dogs for field trial competitions and was a ardent follower of OU football.

Preceding him in death were his wife, parents, and sister, Eugenia Humphreys.

Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Bill and Pam Click of Lake Forest, Ill., and Bob and Kristin Click of Plano, Texas; four grandchildren, Taylor and Haley Click of Lake Forest, Ill., and Madeline and Aidan Click of Plano, Texas; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Paul's United Methodist Church with Dr. Rockford Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.


Floyd Larry Vulgamore

Lifelong Seminole resident Floyd Larry Vulgamore died Wednesday, May 23, in Seminole at the age of 63.

Service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Allen Wood and Windred Lowe officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery with military honors.

Services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home


Kenneth I. Edgmon

Longtime Cromwell resident Kenneth I. Edgmon, died Tuesday, May 22, at Seminole Medical Center at the age of 85.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at the Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Carl Whitfield officiating. Services will conclude in the Chapel. Burial will take place at Little Cemetery, Seminole County.


Emma Agnes Miller

Prague resident Emma Agnes Miller departed this life on Wednesday, May 23, 2007, in Prague at the age of 93.

She was born on Nov.15, 1913, in Prague, to Josef Anton and Agnes (Fojtik) Kubicek.

She married Ottis Oliver Miller on Nov. 4, 1936. He preceded her in death on Sept. 22, 1993.

Emma was a homemaker.

Her parents, three brothers, one sister, and one granddaughter also preceded Emma in death.

Survivors include sons and daughter-in-law, Alfred and Linda Miller of Roscoe, Texas, Charley Miller of Harrah, and George Miller of Meeker; daughters and sons-in-law, Bessie and John Valouch of Choctaw, Minnie and Gerald McGuire of Prague, Betty and Johnny Provaznik of Prague, Emma J. and Richard McConnell of Eufaula; sisters, Lillie and Jerry Saulsberry of Broken Arrow, and Hermie Dawkins of Exeter, Calif.; 22 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Miller's family will receive friends at Parks Brothers Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday.

Service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with the Rev. Terry Pittman officiating. Burial will follow at Gable Cemetery in Prague. .

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

published May 26, 2007

Perry D. Roulston

Longtime Konawa area resident Perry D. Roulston, 75, died Thursday, May 24, at his residence after a courgeous battle with cancer.
Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the First Baptist Church in Konawa with Ed George officiating. Burial will follow at Vamoosa Cemetery with full military honors.

Services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Konawa

published May 27, 2007

Jesus "Jesse" Diaz

Bowlegs resident Jesus "Jesse" Diaz, 97, died Thursday, May 24, at his home.
Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel with Larry Sneed officiating. Burial will be in Willet, N.Y.

Arrangements are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole


Verlin Frost

Rossville, Okla. resident Verlin Frost, 95, departed this life Saturday, May 26 in Rossville.

He was born Oct. 2, 1911, in Arnett. The eighth of nine children born to John and Fluella (Beam) Frost.

They came to Lincoln County in a covered wagon at the age of five. Verlin often shared the story of that journey; the cold weather and the whole family sleeping in the wagon trying to keep warm.

Verlin started his business career operating Rossville Grocery and hauling cream, eggs, pork and cattle to Oklahoma City for local farmers.

He was married Sept. 14, 1931, in Edmond to Opal Elizabeth Moulin.

Most of his business career and life were spent in Lincoln County operating several successful businesses. He bought and sold land and peaked with 2,000 acres and 250 head of cattle. Verlin live in the same home he and Opal built more than 50 years ago.

Verlin commented many times:

"I have seen more changes in my lifetime

that any generation in all of history".

Verlin was preceded in death by his parents, all eight brothers and sisters, his wife of 67 years, Opal, and one grandson, Todd Frost.

Verlin is the last of his generation and leaves behind his daughter and son-in-law, M. Sue and John Schmidt, Ada; sons and daughters-in-law, Kent and Carol Frost, Rossville, and Terry and Janet Frost, Afton, Okla.; grandchildren, Scott Frost, Erik Frost, Margala Rossen and Brett Frost; great-grandchildren; Stephanie Rossen, Michael Rossen, Nikolas Frost and Hyatt Frost.

Viewing and Visitation will be until 11 a.m. Tuesday at Parks Brothers Funeral Home in Prague.

Service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at First Baptist Church, Meeker, with the Rev. Joe Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Rossville Cemetery.

An on-line guest book is available to share at www.ParksBrothers.net


Corey Allen Fletcher

Life-long Maud resident Corey Allen Fletcher, 37, died Friday, May 25, at Seminole Medical Center.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Maud First Baptist Church with the Rev. Carl Whitfield officiating assisted by the Rev. Brad Hawkins. Burial will be at Cummings Cemetery in Maud under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.


Pauline Ruth Trent Hill Crabtree

Pauline "Granny Pud" Ruth Trent Hill Crabtree, 81, died Friday, May 25.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at First Christian Church, Kingfisher, with Pastor John Sellers officiating. Burial will be at Kingfisher Cemetery under the direction of Sanders Funeral Service, Kingfisher.


Melba Christene Boston

Shawnee resident Melba Christene Boston, 69, died Friday, May 25, in Shawnee.
Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. today and from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday.

Service will be 1 p.m. at Walker Funeral Service Chapel. Burial will be at Resthaven Memory Gardens, Oklahoma City, under the direction of Walker Funeral Service.

published May 29, 2007

Melba Christene Boston

Shawnee resident Melba Christene Boston died Friday, May 25, in Shawnee at the age of 69.

She was born Nov. 13, 1937, in Gans, Okla., to Manuel and Marie (Cooper) Wright.

In June 1955 she married Glen Boston.

She was a homemaker.

Preceding her in death were her husband of 47 years, Glen Boston; sons, Mark and Shannon Boston; infant son; and her father.

Survivors include her daughters, Glena Brock and husband, Jim, and Yvonne Boston; grandchildren, Amy Collier, Jennifer Brock, Bryan Collier, Tracy Collier, Stacy Collier, Robert Brock, Marvin Brock, Jimmy Brock; 15 great-grandchildren; mother, Marie Compton; brothers, Alvin Wright, Wayne Wright and wife, Linda; sister-in-law and friend, Bronice Evans; brothers-in-law, Kieran Boston and wife, Dorthea, and George Nowlin Boston and wife, Lynette; several nieces and nephews.

Service will be 1 p.m. today at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with Mr. Dwyane Dennis officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memory Gardens in Oklahoma City.


Clyde J. Heinzig

Prague resident Clyde Johnny Heinzig departed this life in Prague on Sunday, May 27, at the age of 86.

Clyde was born in the township of Old Dent, near Prague on Aug. 19, 1920, to John and Myrtle (Mobley) Heinzig.

Clyde proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, 84th Infantry Division Railsplitters during World War II in Central Europe. He was honorably discharged on Jan. 1, 1946. On Oct. 27, 1949, he re-enlisted for duty in Korea and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant, Chief Section, Artillery. He was honorably discharged on Oct. 28, 1952. His decorations and citations included the World War II Victory Ribbon, Good Conduct, American Theater Ribbon, EAME Theater, three Bronze Service Stars and Bronze Star Medal, Marksman 30 Caliber Carbine, Korean Service Medal with five Bronze Stars.

He retired from U. S. Naval Ordnance Test Station, China Lake, Calif., where he was Ordnanceman, Head of Operations, Projectile Range Division, Rocket Test.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include, one son, John G. Heinzig of Chandler, Ariz.; one sister and brother-in-law, Lavonne and Ledoy Dukes of Prague; one brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Bonnie Heinzig of Yukon; several nieces and nephews.

Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, at Parks Brothes Funeral Chapel in Prague with the Rev. Kevin Wehrli officiating. Burial wil follow in the Prague Cemetery under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service in Prague.

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


Elbert L. Moody

Shawnee resident Elbert L. Moody died Saturday, May 26, in Shawnee at the age of 89.

He was born Aug. 3, 1917, in Newalla to Albert and Augie Moody. He was a graduate of Shawnee High School.

On Aug. 3, 1975, he married Frances Henderson in Shawnee.

He was a welder in the shipyards in California during World War II. After the war he was a welder for AMACO Oil until his retirement.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two sisters, Dessa Lockhart and Leoma Sweigart.

Survivors include his wife, Frances, of the home; children, Sharon and Del Geen, Steve and Susan Moody, Mark Moody, Carolyn and Curtis Richmond, Pam and Bob Byers, and Jan and Ronny Green; grandchildren, Jeff and Kim Taber, Steven and Megan Taber, Jennifer Moody MacDonald, Alyssa and Aaron May, Scott and Allison Griffith, Steven Blair, Roone and Anne Richmond, David Coker, Chris and Dana Byers; 12 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews as well as many other loving relatives and friends.

Service will be 2 p.m. today at First Christian Church with Pastor Ray Belford officiating


Dorothy Gouldy

Shawnee resident Dorothy Gouldy died Friday, May 25, at the age of 88.

Memorial service will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Walker Funeral Service Chapel with the Rev. Dave Lewis officiating.

Service is under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

published May 30, 2007

Joann Bidack Welch

Current Meeker resident and former Chandler resident Joann Bidack, 64, departed this life Monday, May 28, in Shawnee.

She was born Nov. 5, 1942, in Chandler to Jimmie Major and Wilma Jean (Johnson) Welch.

She graduated from Chandler High in 1960. Joann worked as a Loan Officer for many years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Meeker and Chandler Eastern Star.

Her parents preceded her in death.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and Cindy Bidack of McLoud; daughter and son-in-law, Gina and Sam Davis of Meeker; sister, Connie Wilson of Edmond; seven grandchildren; and other relatives and many friends.

Viewing will be from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. today at the Parks Brothers Funeral Home in Chandler and again from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday at the Parks Brothers Chapel in Meeker.

Services will be 2 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church in Meeker with the Rev. Joe Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Park Cemetery, Chandler.


Dorothy Mae Gouldy
(nee Bennett)

Shawnee resident Dorothy Mae Gouldy, 88, departed this life Friday, May 25, after a long illness at the home of her daughter, Sue Lynn Petrie Ray, near Chandler, Texas. Both Dorothy's husband of almost 66 years, William C. Gouldy, and her daughter were at her side.

The Bennetts were long time residents of Shawnee. Her paternal grandparents, James L. and Ella May (Hodge) Bennett came to Shawnee in the early 1900's.

She was born April 15, 1919, in Shawnee. Dorothy Mae graduated in 1936 from Shawnee High School. She attended William Wood College in Fulton, Missouri, then earned a degree in Fine Arts from The University of Oklahoma.

She and Bill married in 1941. After he completed military service in the U.S. Navy during World War II, they returned to Shawnee to raise their family. Bill started the W.C. Gouldy Real Estate Co., which included financing and insurance.

The Gouldy's had two children, Sue Lynn (1947) and William C. Jr (1953).

Dorothy was widely acclaimed as an excellent homemaker and cook.

Dorothy Mae was an accomplished artist, painting predominately portraits. She received many honors for her art work through the years. Some of her work was sent around the world while she was attending Oklahoma University. One of her portraits received special honors at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art at Saint Gregory's University.

She taught children's Sunday School, served as a Elder in the United Presbyterian Church, was past President of the Women's Association, and a Honorary member of the Program Agency of Presbyterian Churches for Christian Service. She was a member of P.E.O., Shakespeare Club, loved playing bridge, cooking, art, and traveling.

Dorothy was a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, and great grandmother. She will be deeply, deeply missed.

Other survivors include her son-in-law, James E. Ray, and daughter-in-law, Sue Gouldy Robertson of Bethel Acres; Dorothy Mae's immediate descendants include grandson Shawn Petrie, wife LouAnna, and daughters, Amanda and Lindsey of Kingwood, Texas; grandson Jason Petrie, wife Christy, and children, Caroline and Jack of Missouri City, Texas; granddaughter Beth Gouldy of Oklahoma City; granddaughter Erin Gouldy Files, and husband Dustin of Edmond; grandson Larry Kinley and wife, Mary of Oklahoma City; and granddaughter Stacy Kinley Miller, husband, Mike, and daughters, Ashley and Emily of Meeker.

Dorothy Mae Bennett Gouldy was preceded in death by her parents, Faye Roys Bennett and Berta C. Waidele Bennett; and her son, William C. Gouldy, Jr (1992).

Services will be 2 p.m. Thursday at the Chapel of Walker Funeral Service. Burial will be near other family members in Fairview Cemetery, Shawnee.


Maria Louise Haney

Shawnee resident Maria Louise Haney, 74, went home to be with her loving father Monday, May 28, at a local hospital.

She was born Oct. 22, 1932, in Arroyohondo, N.M. to Joe D. Vargas and Cora B. (Botwell) Vargas.

She was married March 18, 1966, in San Jose, Calif., to Jesse Haney.

Maria was a housewife and homemaker and was a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Steve Archuleta.

Survivors include her husband, Jesse Haney of the home; five children, Erlinda Perea of Colorado Springs, Colo., Rudy Archuleta of Canyon City, Colo., Sorena Ambriz and husband, Tim, of Shawnee, William Wedow and wife, Yolanda, of Colorado Springs, and Jay Haney of Shawnee; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Senida Sanchez of Carson City, Nev.

Service will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Chapel of Walker Funeral Service with Father Aloysius Lyimo, A.J. officiating.


Elroy Wilkerson

Seminole resident Elroy Wilkerson, 60, died Monday, May 28, at Mercy Health Center in Oklahoma City.

Viewing will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and from 8 a.m. to service Friday at Swearingen Funeral Home.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel, Seminole, with Pastor Pat Coffey officiating. Burial will follow at Little Cemetery under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home, Seminole.

published May 31, 2007

Iva Mae Russell Mason

Iva Mae Russell Mason was born Jan. 4, 1928, in Kellyville, and departed this life May 29, in Norman, at the age of 79.
Iva, the daughter of Avery and Rosa Bell (Coop) Kelly, was a resident of Noble.

She graduated from Kellyville High School in 1946.

She was employed by OTASCO from 1947-1952.

She married Harvey Eldon Russell Jan. 26, 1950. They first made their home in Okemah and then in Prague. While living in Prague, Iva was the owner/operator of Prague Florist and The Clothes Closet. They moved to Meeker/Shawnee area in 1976 and she opened The Clothes Closet in Shawnee that same year.

Harvey preceded her in death on Dec. 5, 1994. Following his death she retired from The Clothes Closet and moved to Pryor.

On April 26, 2003, Iva married Ray Mason of Noble.

Iva was a member of the First Baptist Church Noble, the Eastern Star, and Prague Federated Arts.

Also preceding her in death were her parents; brother, Tracy Kelly; and an infant sister.

Survivors include her husband, Ray Mason of the home; son, Kelly Russell of Maramec, Okla.; daughters and son-in-law, Shelly Johnson of Tulsa and Debbie and Chris Teape of Keller, Texas; step-children, David and Gina Mason of Jones, Angie and Dahl McKinney of Dale; brother and sister-in-law, George and Bobbye Kelly of Springdale, Ariz.; sisters and brother-in-law, Doris Ogden of Pryor and Ruth and Jim Lamb of Pryor; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and five step-grandchildren.

Service will be 2 p.m. Friday at Parks Brothers Funeral Chapel in Prague with Iva's grandson, Ryan Johnson, officiating, assisted by Dr. Cleve Haley of First Baptist Church Noble. Burial will follow at the Prague Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ron Lamb World Dental Relief, P.O. Box 747, Broken Arrow, OK 74013.

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


William "Bill" Michael Bruno "Chief"

McLoud resident Bill Bruno, 75, "walked on" Friday, May 25, at Midwest Regional Specialty Hospital.
Bill was born April 30, 1932, in Shawnee to Mike and Era Mae (Peery) Bruno.

Bill became soul mates with Glenna Horton and they were married July 27, 1952, in Tucson, Ariz. Five children were born to this union.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean war.

Bill and Glenna were members of Hillside Baptist Church of McLoud. Bill had spiritual wisdom and had been before the Church Deacon Selection Committee and was scheduled to be ordained as deacon. The church voted unanimously May 23, 2007, to approve Bill as "Honorary Deacon".

He was preceded in death by his parents; three infant siblings and his two youngest sons, Matthew Bruno and Paul Daniel Bruno.

Survivors include his wife, Glenna; two sons, Michael of Big Bend, Texas, and Mark and Phyllis of Lyons, Kan.; one daughter, Loretta "Lori" and Ron Oden of Lyons; ten grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; four brothers, Carl, Anthony and Tom of Arizona, and Leon and Veta of Tecumseh; four sisters, Francis Lackey of Tecumseh, Barbara and Bill Brown of Wanette, Louise and Danny Halterman of Colorado and Zona Gail and Monty Smith of Arizona; a host of other family and friends.

Service was held Tuesday, May 29, at Hillside Baptist Church, McLoud. Burial was held at Jamison Cemetery, McLoud.

Memorial donations may be made to Hillside Baptist Church for the purchase of playground equipment.


Mary Louisa Lee

Stroud resident Mary Louisa Lee, 102, died Wednesday, May 30, in Stroud.
Visitation will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. today at Parks Brothers Funeral Service, Stroud.

Service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at the Assembly of God, Wellston with the Rev. Dewayne Settle and the Rev. Jeromye Jackson officiating.

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


Annie Ruth Stastny

Prague resident Annie Ruth Stastny, 89, died Wednesday, May 30, in Prague.
Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at the Czech National Cemetery in Prague with the Rev. Adrian Vonderlandwehr, OSB, officiating.

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