T. R. Abbott (1926–2003)

Tivis Rebel Abbott Jr., 76 of Hamilton, Texas, died in the Olin E. Teague Veteran Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas, on Feb. 2, 2003. He was laid to rest in Eastlawn Memorial Park in Early, Texas, with military honors provided by Dyess Air Force Honor Guard.

Mr. Abbott was born December 29, 1926, in Stanton, Texas, to Tivis R. Abbott Sr. and Sarah Myrtle Hovey Abbott. He graduated from Galena High School in 1945 and continued his education at McMurray College in Abilene, University of Alaska, Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, and Northeastern State University in Tahlequah.

Mr. Abbott was a 24-year veteran of the Army Air Corps and its successor organization the U.S. Air Force. He served in Japan at the end of World War II and in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. He was retired from the Air Force and became an ROTC instructor in Muskogee, Oklahoma, teaching teachers to teach. He was a member of the VFW, the DAV and the Calvary Baptist Church of Hamilton.

His first wife, the former Wanda Jean Smith, preceded him in death in 1991. He then married Edith Lois Johnson who survives. He is also survived by three children, Rebel Abbott III and his wife Judy of Muskogee, Ann Myra and husband Steve of Belton, and Stan Thomas and his wife Joyce of Itasca; four sisters, Henry Beth Hogg, Matilda Treadway, Minnie Inez Jones, and Mamie Lee Harris; two sisters-in-law, Pat Gay and her husband Bob, and Mildred Newlon; two brothers-in-law, J. W. Smith and his wife Lucy, and Harry Johnson and his wife Opal; nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Carole Beach (1942–2014)

Carole Ann Blackwell Beach, 71, of Muskogee, died Tuesday, April 15, 2014. She was born to Ford and the late Ada Carter Blackwell, September 6, 1942, in Muskogee. Carole graduated from Muskogee Central High School in 1960 and then went on to marry her high school sweetheart Bill. After the birth of her two children, Carole went on to further her education receiving her BA in Education from Northeastern State University in 1971; in addition to receiving her master’s degree in 1976. She and Bill celebrated their 53th wedding anniversary October 29, 2013.

Carole was a high school teacher at Muskogee High School for 25 years until she retired in 1997 and was passionate about making a difference in the lives of her students. She was a member of the Muskogee Education Association, Oklahoma Education Association and National Education Association. After retirement, she and her husband owned a family retail business, Fern Mountain Creations for eight years. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, sewing and many family camping trips and vacations.

Carole was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, friend and will be greatly missed. Carole is survived by her husband, Bill and two children and their spouses, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren: son Kelly Beach and wife Diane, their three children: Cortny Noahr and husband Brandon, their children Kendley and Kayden of Muskogee; Jordan and Carter of Muskogee; daughter Kasey Littlefield and husband Roger, their three children: William, Alexis and Jacob of Tulsa. Her sister, LaNell Boyer and husband David of Webbers Falls, OK and numerous nieces and nephews in Oklahoma and Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Oklahoma Project Woman, 2727 E. 21st St. # 602, Tulsa, OK 74114.The family would like to express their sincere appreciation for the nursing staff at Good Neighbor Hospice. The memorial service will be held Saturday, April 19th at 11 a.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 2130 W. Okmulgee, Muskogee, OK 74401. Funeral service arrangements are under the direction of Bradley Family Funeral Service. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.bradleyfuneralservice.com.

 

Curtis Brackeen (1933–2012)

In the early hours of Monday, December 10th, 2012, God in his infinite wisdom called home his good and faithful servant, Curtis C. Brackeen, 79. Coach Brackeen was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Julius, Sr. and Willie Mae Holyfield Brackeen on September 10th, 1933. He was the fourth of seven children. He dedicated his life to God at a young age and was baptized at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church.

Coach Brackeen attended Dunbar Grade School and went on to graduate from the historic Manual Training High School with the class of 1952. He furthered his education at Langston University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in 1956. He enlisted in the United States Army and after his discharge in 1958 he went on to get his master's degree from Northeastern State University. Upon leaving the Army, he married Winona Givens. They shared thirty-three years together until her death in 2001. On October 11th, 2002, Curtis and Vivian D. Jones were united and she was at his side when he transitioned from the earth. They joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he was a dedicated member serving as a Deacon and singing with the men's choir.

Coach Brackeen worked for fourteen years in the Muskogee Public Schools. He taught elementary, junior high and was involved in high school athletics as an athletic director and coach. In 1977, he went to work at Indian Capital Technology Center as a counselor, principal, acting interim superintendent and other positions, including board member until his retirement in 1993. Known for his civic activities in Muskogee he served as a role model for youngsters for decades. He served on the city council and Vice Mayor.

For twenty-two years he was the color announcer for KBIX Radio for Rougher Football, past president of the Local Chapter of Kiwanis Club and lifetime member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He was named 2003 All State School Board Member and received the ICTC Distinguished Service Award. In 2009 he was inducted into the Langston University and Muskogee Public School Athletic Hall of Fame. On June 1st, 2011 ICTC dedicated the Curtis Brackeen Seminar Center to him for outstanding service to the institution. Proceeding him in death were his parents, three brothers, Roline, Joe and Otis Brackeen, and one sister, Rubye Brackeen Carter.

 

Neoma Bradley (1923–2012)

Neoma C. Bradley, 88, a retired Muskogee teacher, died March 21, 2012. She was born in Monroe, Louisiana, on August 31, 1923, the only child of the late L.D. and Mary Councille of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Mrs. Bradley was a 1941 honor graduate of Hot Springs High Schools. Following graduation, she was employed as a bookkeeper for the Arkansas – Louisiana Gas Company.

In 1945, she married Joe Russell Bradley and they made their home in Stillwater, Oklahoma. In 1946, she entered Oklahoma State University and graduated summa cum laude in 1949. At OSU, she held memberships in Orange & Black Quill Sigma Tau Delta, Kappa Delta P. and Phi Beta Kappa.

Mrs. Bradley began a teaching career in Muskogee at Alice Robertson Junior High in 1949. After a temporary leave, she came back to teaching in 1964 at Central High to begin a remedial language program. In 1966, she was selected to attend a federal reading institute at Colorado State University where she received certification as a reading specialist. She did graduate work in reading at OSU and Northeastern State, earning her Master’s Degree. Upon her retirement in 1986, she was serving as chairman of the English Department. In 1971, she was selected as Muskogee’s Teacher of the Year.

Her loyalty remained at OSU, where she was a member of the Alumni Association, the Posse Club and the Presidents’ Club. Her church membership was at First United Methodist, where she belonged to the Friendship Class. She is survived by her husband, Joe Russell, of the home; and a son, Mike, daughter-in-law, Stephanie, and two grandchildren, Jack and Kate, all of Tulsa.

 

Bob Branan (1945–2010)

Robert Franklin Branan, 65, died on Friday, November 6, 2010, after being hospitalized following a heart attack on Sunday. Coach Branan was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, on May 5, 1945, to George and Helen Pansy Branan. He attended Irving Elementary School, Alice Robertson Junior High School, and Central High School Class of 1963. He attended Northeastern State University where he met his wife Mary Sharon Miller whom he married on August 5 in 1967. He graduated from NSU in 1967 with an English and Journalism degree.

Bob and Sharon settled in Muskogee and started a family having two children Mike and Lori. He began his sports writing career at the Muskogee Phoenix during his senior year of high school, he continued writing until he began teaching Journalism and coaching baseball at Muskogee High School. He returned to his passion of writing for the newspaper years later as an avid sports writer reporting on local sporting events. During this time he also wrote for the Tulsa World newspaper, Daily Oklahoman and various other local newspapers.

Coach Branan loved teaching and coaching, giving his students life lessons that would help them succeed as adults. While at Muskogee High School he taught freshman English, basic journalism classes, facilitated the production of The Scout newspaper, facilitated the production of The Chieftain yearbook, and was head coach of the baseball team. After his career at Muskogee High School, he worked for Connors State College as the director of Media Relations.

Outside of teaching and coaching, Coach Branan was an accomplished writer, received his Master's in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma, worked for the Chicago Cubs for a summer, involved in the Bedouin Shriners, worked at the Department of Tourism in Muskogee, was President of the Muskogee Education Association, was League Director for Little League Baseball, coached for the American Legion, managed Honor Heights swimming pool, worked for Outlaw racing, and member of the First Baptist Church of Muskogee, loved the Atlanta Braves.

Most of all he was a great husband to Sharon, father to Michael and Lori Branan Purvis and grandfather to Hayden, Alexis Purvis, and Hunter Purvis. As his son Michael puts it, he was never at a loss for words and would treat a stranger as if he had known them for years. He was a very Loving and Caring, Husband, Brother, Father, Grandparent, Uncle, Teacher, Coach and Friend.

He is preceded in death by his parents George and Helen Pansy, one brother, George Freddie, aunts and uncles, and nephew Leonard Eugene Branan. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, son, Michael of Cookson, Oklahoma, daughter, Lori Branan Purvis and husband Tom of Bristow, Virginia; three grandchildren, Hayden Branan of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Alexis and Hunter Purvis of Bristow, Virginia; brother Leonard and wife Alma of Muskogee Oklahoma, aunt Mary Grace Branan of Muskogee, Oklahoma, nieces and nephews.

Services will be Tuesday, November 9 at 2:00 at First Baptist Church in Muskogee with Dr. Lance Sawyer officiating. Viewing will be at Foster-Petering Funeral Home until 11:00 Tuesday morning. Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery in Muskogee. Pallbearers will be Greg Stout, Kevin Pearson, James Hill, Marvin Stanley, Andrew Summers, Gary Flusche, John Griffin, and Greg Archer. Honorary pallbearers are former members of the Muskogee High School baseball team. To write about Bob Branan is difficult to say the least, he was a man with many accomplishments, words to say, and touched countless lives. As usual, he decided to leave early to get the field ready; we know we will see him someday in the big ballpark in the sky.

 

Virgil Burke (1919–1981)

Lt. Col. Virgil LeRoy Burke, 61, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, passed away in a Houston, Texas, hospital on Wednesday, February 11, 1981. Mr. Virgil was born December 12, 1919, in Spencer, Oklahoma, to Ray and Eva Burke. He graduated from high school in Spencer and enlisted in the Air Force from which he retired in April 1968. He later taught Junior Air Force Training Corps at Washburn Rural High School, Topeka, Kansas from 1972 until 1975, then taught for the Air Force in Minot, North Dakota, and Muskogee.

He was an Air Force veteran of World War II, was a member of the Spencer Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Lutheran Church, American Legion and a life member of American Ex-POW. He spent 18 months as a prisoner of war in Germany.

He is survived by his wife, Irma Becker Burke, one daughter, Mrs. Jim (Pam) Harrell, Houston, Texas; a son, John R. Burke, Topeka, Kansas; his mother, Mrs. Eva Burke, Bridgewater; two sisters, Mrs. Fern Brandt, Spencer, and Mrs. Earl (Thea) Williamson, Council Bluffs, Iowa; and two granddaughters.

 

Rubye Carter (1935–2008)

Rubye Mae (Brackeen) Carter, 72, died on December 2, 2008. She was born on December 18, 1935, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to Julius, Sr. and Willie Mae Holyfield Brackeen. She was laid to rest in Booker T. Washington Cemetery in Muskogee.

 

Helen Davidson (1924–2018)

Ruby Helen Davidson, 94, longtime resident of Muskogee, went to be with her Lord on Friday, June 22, 2018. She was born February 25, 1924, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to Fred and Bertha Alice (Van Meter) Stout. She grew up and attended public schools and graduated with the class of 1942. She furthered her education and earned a Bachelor Degree and then a Master’s Degree, both in Education. On December 26, 1958, she married her best friend, Mace Earl Davidson, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Together they shared 21 years of happy marriage together. She was a longtime faithful member of the Eastside Church of Christ.

Mrs. Davidson thoroughly enjoyed her career as a High School English Teacher. She taught at Muskogee High School from 1969-1984. After retiring from teaching, she regularly volunteered at Muskogee Regional Hospital. She also served as President of the Local Shakespeare Club and was a member of the Audubon Society. Her hobbies included playing the piano, traveling, and playing Jeopardy. Her family remembers she was an expert at Jeopardy and playing the piano until she was 92.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mace E. Davidson; her parents, Fred & Bertha Stout; her sisters, Pauline Daniels and Lou Martin; her brothers, Robert Stout and Jerry Stout; and her beloved Dachshund, Fritz. Helen’s survivors include, nieces, Jane Strickland and husband Randy of Muskogee, Susie Englebretson of Muskogee, Debbie Rider and husband Bob, Jewel Corley and husband Mark of Muskogee, Linda Richards of Juneau, AK, Melinda Jaynes and husband Jerry of Muskogee, and Lee Neuner of Illinois; nephews, Jim Stout and wife Donna of Checotah, John Stout and wife Arla of Oktaha, Jack Stout and wife Judi of Muskogee, Chuck Bradley and wife Tracy of Oklahoma, Mike Daniels and wife Annette of Muskogee, and Bobby Stout and wife Gayle of Hulbert; a host of great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

 

Mary Goines (1922–2011)

Mary Louise Goines, 88, passed away on Monday, June 6, 2011. She was born on December 14, 1922, to John Charles Corliss and Mattie (Schellenberg) Corliss. She was an American History and Junior and Senior English teacher for thirty-two years. She first taught at Ft. Gibson High School, later at Muskogee Central High School, and then moved to the new Muskogee High School when it was built. She was a Junior English Councilor, and Sponsor of Gunaike. She also tutored many students in her home to help them make better grades so that they might graduate with their class.

Mrs. Goines loved her teaching career, and always graded her own papers instead of using the help of her office practice girls. She wanted to make sure she got to know her students well so she could help them. She was also a sponsor for the Crack Squad during the time she taught, and traveled with them to many Rougher games. In fact, her favorite color was 'green.'

She was married to Wandell Eugene Goines in March of 1950. They are still thought of when people talk about the 'Red Feather Inn" and "Hickory Chef' restaurants. People from out of town loved their restaurants. She loved to travel, and she and her husband had visited all of the states while he was living. Her husband passed away in 1991. Her hobbies were growing beautiful plants and working in her yard.

She received her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Arkansas. She worked for Muskogee Mill and Elevator (Bower Feed) for many years as their office manager. After she and 'Gene' married, she went back to college at Northeastern State College, in Tahlequah, and received her Master's Degree. She retired from her fruitful career as a teacher in May of 1984.

Due to a lengthy illness, she lived with her sisters-in-law, Adene Goines and Virnnie Hogan. During the last nineteen months, she had been a resident of Brentwood Extended Care and Rehab in Muskogee. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, sister Opal Peterson, and sister-in-law Adell Simmons. She is survived by Adene Goines, Virnnie Hogan; nephews and nieces, Darrel and Carol Simmons, Cruce and Teri Simmons, and Jewel Dean and Joe Perry, all whom she dearly loved. She left many aides, nurses, and friends who loved her very much.

 

Dolores Grober (1930–2015)

“That it will never come again is what makes life so sweet.” 
-Emily Dickinson 

Dolores Nell Grober passed away on October 31, 2015 in Muskogee. She was born in Muskogee on August 5, 1930 to Raymond F. Ford and Edna Gorton Ford and was the oldest of three children. She grew up in Muskogee and graduated from Muskogee Central High School in 1947 and attended Christian College in Columbia, Mo., where she received her associates degree in 1949. It was 1948 when she met her husband, Carl Merle Grober, at “stag corner” in Muskogee. Merle had just returned from service with the U.S. Army in Korea and they began their relationship.

Dolores and Merle were married in Van Buren, Arkansas in 1950 and she went to work for People’s Credit while Merle attended Okmulgee Tech studying the electrical business. They settled in Muskogee where she had many friends, but Ruth Ann DeCamp was her closest, and they remained friends until her death.

In 1956 Dolores and Merle started their family and had two sons, Mark and Steven, and she quit work. The trials of raising two boys no doubt propelled her to want to finish her education and go back to work, however she put that on hold while Merle started Grober Electric in 1960 and they raised their children. Going to the lake, attending ball games, unsuccessfully trying to get her sons to learn piano and cooking were many of her activities. She was an exceptional cook and could always “just throw something together”. In 1970, she announced to her family that she was going back to school to become a teacher. 

Dolores graduated with honors from Northeastern State University in 1973, became an English teacher at Muskogee High School and later earned her Master’s degree from the University of Tulsa. Her passion for teaching was rewarded when she was named teacher of the year as voted on by MHS students. She loved the poetry of Emily Dickinson and the writings of Mark Twain, her favorite authors. She taught at MHS until her retirement from Muskogee Public Schools in 1995. She also taught classes at Connors State College and had the privilege of teaching three of her granddaughters while at Connors.

Dolores loved to travel to Europe, where she made sure to visit Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s cottage. She delighted in the opportunity to take her four granddaughters on their “senior” trips to Italy, England and France and may have even given them their first taste of wine. Her granddaughters truly were her source of pride and joy and she instilled in them her passion for education, literature and cooking. She was the perfect grandmother and learned how to use a smart phone and computer so she could keep up with her granddaughters and great grandchildren. Julie and Valerie, her daughters-in-law, were the daughters she never had, and they enjoyed cooking, shopping, attending plays and talking about their grandchildren together.

Dolores was active in First Presbyterian Church, Muskogee County Retired Teachers Association, Shakespeare Club and was a charter member of the Wednesday Night Winos. She loved to play bridge and was adamant about walking on a daily basis, as her neighbors would attest. She was an ardent supporter of education and the value of strong public schools to the community.

Her family already misses her terribly and appreciates the outpouring of kind words from her former students, colleagues and friends. They would also wish to thank the wonderful staff at Eastar and Cornerstone Hospitals and Dr. Jeremiah Rutherford and his staff for their care.

Dolores is survived by her husband Merle, with whom she celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on September 2, 2015; sons, Steven B. Grober and wife Julie, and Mark A. Grober and wife Valerie of Muskogee; granddaughters, Christina Ambuehl and Ben, Johns Creek, Georgia, Amy Finch and Allen, Tuttle, OK, Kelly Murray and Carl, Skiatook, OK and Emily Trotter and Jeff, Oklahoma City; great grandchildren, Liza Jane, Chaz, Beckett and Silas Ambuehl; Noah, Lily and Josiah Finch; Reed Murray and Darcy Nell Trotter; sister, Joyce McCormick and Alan, Tulsa, OK and brother, Raymond Ford, Jr. and Ellen, Lantana, Texas; sister-in-law, Georgelene Grober, Muskogee, OK; and numerous nephews and nieces.

There will be a celebration of Dolores’s life at 2:00 pm Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 2000 Haskell Blvd, Muskogee, Oklahoma. The family would ask that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made in her honor to the Education Foundation of Muskogee, Inc., 208 West Broadway, Muskogee, OK 74401.

 

Freda Guthrie (1932–2003)

Freda Louise Hicks Guthrie, 71, passed from this world on November 27, 2003. She was born in Council Hill, Oklahoma on April 21, 1932, to Clifford & Laura Hicks. She married the love of her life, Donald Augustus Guthrie Sr. on December 25, 1949. Freda returned to school after her children were in school and obtained a BS in chemistry and an MS of education. Freda taught chemistry and other sciences at Muskogee High School from 1971 until she retired in 1990.

Mrs. Guthrie is survived by son & daughter-in-law Donald A. Guthrie Jr. & Kathy of Choctaw, OK; daughter & son-in-law Brenda & Roger Frazier of Mesquite, TX; daughter & son-in-law Nita & Chris Sudderth of Midwest City, OK; six grandchildren Brian Frazier, Jeff Frazier, Steven Frazier, Paul Guthrie, Donald A. Guthrie III and Katie Sudderth; seven great-grandchildren; three sisters Floretta Brock, Francis Hicks, and Regina Land; numerous brothers and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald Guthrie, her parents, and daughter Theresa Gail.

 

Nancy Harrold (1940–2020)

Nancy Carol (Alcorn) Harrold, 79, of Fort Gibson was born June 2, 1940 in Bristow, OK to Lonnie and Irene Elizabeth (Townsend) Alcorn and received her Heavenly catcher’s mitt on Monday, February 24, 2020 in Fort Gibson, with her loving family by her side.

Nancy grew up in Bristow where she received her formal education. She started playing fast-pitch softball as a youngster with her eight sisters on a team coached by her dad. They traveled all over central and western Oklahoma and the Texas panhandle on the weekends in the late 1940’s and 50’s. In 1960, she married Wayne Harrold and they moved to this area. Having her first child only slowed her down for five weeks, because after all she was the catcher and her team needed her. Nancy continued to drive to Bristow for many years to play basketball and softball with some of her sisters and the teams they had played on for years. When her two kids, Tammy and Dale, started school, she found a slow-pitch team in Muskogee to play with.

In 1967, Nancy began her teaching career at Muskogee High School. She was a physical education teacher and the girl’s tennis coach. In the late 1970’s, she started playing with Tammy and her friends, former players and students, because her old teammates had hung up their gloves. Nancy has been an inspiration to many of her former players, teammates, and students. She taught them to always give it your all and do your best. Her motto was, “winning is so much better than losing.” Nancy was inducted into the Oklahoma ASA Hall of Fame. She was recognized as a master player, whose career spanned over 55 years.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Wayne (Papa) Harrold; a daughter, Tammy Delmedico; granddaughter, Angela Jones; seven sisters, Nona Williams, Reba Lee Provence, Maxine Lane, Reta Huntsinger, Patricia Burton, Lonnie Hohensee and Dot Mizell; and two brothers, Allen Alcorn and Sonny Alcorn.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Dale Harrold and wife Dianne; 7 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; sister, Betty Schivally and husband Gerald; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family request a memorial in Nancy’s name to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Foundation at FCA, 3809 S Blvd, Edmond, OK 73013 or www.okfca.org/donatenow. A service celebrating Nancy’s life will be held at 10:00AM Monday, March 2, 2020, at Fellowship Bible Church with Pastor Billy Parker and Pastor Bob Dewoody officiating.  Committal prayers and interment will follow in the Fort Gibson National Cemetery with Jace Harris, Dane Delmedico, Tyler Pickett, Mark Hammons, Jerry Schivally and Darrell Alcorn serving as casket bearers.

The family of Nancy Carol Harold has entrusted her care, services and burial to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com

 

Wayne Harrold (1936–1993)

Maurice Wayne Harrold, 56, died on March 4, 1993 in Muskogee, OK. He was born in Tulsa County, Oklahoma on September 14, 1936, to Maurice Calvin & Lenora (Vychytil) Harrold. He married Nancy Alcorn in 1960. Two children, Tammy and Dale, were born this union. Wayne served in the U.S. Air Force and is laid to rest at the Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.

Howard Jayne (1944–2020)

Howard Jayne was born in Muskogee, OK on July 9, 1944. He passed away on May 24, 2020. Howard had a happy childhood, and he loved to tell stories about the fun he had playing in his neighborhood with his friends. His father, Fred, was an owner of a neighborhood grocery store on Jefferson Street in Muskogee. His mother worked at the home and cleaned houses on a part time basis.

Howard was 13 when hard times fell on the family. His dad had a serious heart attack and could no longer work. His mother worked cleaning houses, but very little income was possible. By the time Howard was 16, it was time for him to find work he could do after school. The job he got and enjoyed for many years was working at the Ritz Theater in Muskogee. 

The Ritz Theater was owned by Procter & Marsh, and he met Lillian Procter on his first day of work. Lillian was just 12, but he immediately knew that she was the one for him. Lillian will tell you that she felt the same about Howard. 

When Howard was 18 his father passed away. He was the sole supporter of his mother and his brother, Joe, who was 12 at the time. Therefore, he got two other part time jobs besides the one at the theaters. Keeping down three jobs and going to school was a challenge, but Howard never wavered on his responsibilities. 

Finally, after a long courtship, Howard and Lillian were married on Sept. 1, 1969. In 1970, Howard and Lillian graduated from Northeastern University. Howard's intention was to teach in college & he earned an assistantship from Kansas University. Howard and Lillian moved to Lawrence, Kansas where he began his studies. However, after a short time, Howard decided that college teaching was not what he wanted. So, he and Lillian came back to Muskogee where he got a job teaching history and political science at Muskogee High School. 

Howard taught at Muskogee High School for 20 years and then finished his last 6 years of teaching at Alice Robertson Middle School. He earned quite a reputation as an educator. His former high school students will remember fondly his "Jaynie Awards" that he gave them every year. The annual event for 17 years where the seniors stole "Johnny Podium" and held it for ransom and his mock trials are only a few of the experiences that many students remember about being in class with Mr. Jayne. Howard was recognized by many as an outstanding educator. In 1992, he was selected Muskogee "Teacher of the Year." Throughout his career, many civic groups in Muskogee recognized him and several articles featuring Howard were published in the Muskogee Phoenix. 

Happily, Howard was able to enjoy a great 50th year wedding anniversary party with Lillian on September 1, 2019. Their children, son Andy and wife Jodi plus son Dan and wife Candace and four grandchildren; Evelyn, Ben, Carter, and Ivy surprised Howard and Lillian with a great party which Howard thoroughly enjoyed. 

Howard was preceded in death by father, Fred Jayne, and mother, Nell Jayne. Howard is survived by wife, Lillian; children and grandchildren mentioned above; brother, Joe Jayne; sister-in-law, Anne Morton and brother-in-law, Rob Morton. Howard Jayne was a loving husband, a devoted father, a dedicated educator, and a most outstanding "Pappy" for his grandchildren. 

Because of Covid 19, a memorial service celebrating Howard's life will be held at a later time. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1830 North York St, Muskogee, Oklahoma. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.cornerstoneofmuskogee.com.

 

Bobbie Keeter (1932–2015)

Bobbie Rhae Keeter, 83, of Muskogee, OK passed away peacefully on April 25, 2015, with her husband of nearly 60 years, Vyrl Keeter, by her side. Mrs. Keeter was born on March 14, 1932, in Stilwell, Oklahoma, to Mack and Emma Belle Garrett, and was raised on her family’s farm in the nearby community of East Peavine. She graduated from Stilwell High School in 1950 as Valedictorian of her class before earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics from Oklahoma State University, graduating with honors in 1954. Bobbie later earned a Master of Early Childhood Development Degree at OSU.

She was a Vocational Home Economics teacher at Central High in Muskogee until 1977, where she was passionate about making a difference in the lives of her students. She received many special honors and citations throughout her career. In 1977, she took the role of Food Service Consultant for the Oklahoma Department of Education until her retirement in 1994.

Mrs. Keeter was an active member of the York Street Christian Church in Muskogee. Her true passion was helping the youth of the church where she served as a mentor and teacher. She was well known for her outstanding sourdough bread which she shared with many friends and neighbors. She loved to bake and spent the months before the Christmas holiday preparing dozens of care packages for friends and family. She also loved her OSU Cowboys and could regularly be seen proudly wearing her orange.

Mrs. Keeter is survived by her husband, Vyrl Keeter of Muskogee, OK. She is also survived by her brother, Justice John Garrett and his wife Debi of Stilwell, Oklahoma. She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Patricia Carson of Stilwell, OK and her brother Frank Neal Garrett of Stilwell, OK. Her family wishes to thank the staff of Eastgate Village Heath Care Center of Muskogee, OK for their genuine care and support.

 

Rose King (1916–2011)

Rose Mussa King Mayer, 95, of Muskogee, died Friday, October 7, 2011, at Broadway Manor Health Care Center. She was born on June 24, 1916, in Carona, Kansas, to Joseph and Julia Mussa.

Mrs. King received her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science degrees from the University of Oklahoma. She taught general science, biology and physiology for 34 years, retiring from Muskogee High School in 1978. She taught biology two summer terms at Bacone College. She and Nellie Harris took over teaching bronze casting at Bacone College in 1976. Mrs. King continued the bronze casting classes for 32 years as a volunteer and later as an adjunct faculty member.

She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Morning Optimists, and an avid supporter of the Girl and Boy Scout organizations.

Mrs. King is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Kenie and Ken Tyrrell of Muskogee; son and daughter-in-law, George and Sandra King of Katy, Texas; four grandchildren, Brandi and John Rogers and Daniel and Christina King all of Katy, Texas, Will Tyrrell of Miami, OK and Anne Tyrrell, of Midwest City, OK and six great-grandchildren.

 

Eloise Lange (1924–1990)

Eloise Mabel (Teel) Lange, 66, died on January 19, 1990. She was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma on January 4, 1924, to John William & Mable Christmass (Guaerke) Teel. She married George Lange on November 29, 1946, and had three children, John, Marcy, and Nancy. Eloise is buried in Greenhill Cemetery in Muskogee.

 

Nedra Lewis (1939–2021)

Nedra Kay Lewis, 82, a lifelong Muskogee resident, was born January 24, 1939 in Muskogee, OK to Charles and Etta Mae (Laird) Lewis and peacefully passed away Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at her home with her family by her side. Ms. Lewis grew up in Muskogee where she received her formal education. She furthered her education and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Nedra taught school at Muskogee High School for 30 years, retiring in 1995. Her summers were spent traveling and reading a good novel.

Ms. Lewis was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Steven Leroy Lewis. She is survived by her brother, Charles Edward Lewis of Muskogee, and many friends. Nedra’s brother is honoring her wishes to be cremated and scattered on their parent’s grave. 

No services are scheduled at this time. The family of Nedra Kay Lewis has entrusted her care and cremation to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com

 

Pat Lunn (1922–2016)

Pat Holderness Hannan Lunn, 93, died of pneumonia on May 18, 2016.  She was born on August 25, 1922, in Madill, Oklahoma. She was the only child of Joe and Eddie Hannan. Her father was the president of the local First National Bank. She lived her entire childhood in Madill.  After graduating from high school, Mrs. Lunn attended Texas State College for Women (now Texas Woman’s University) in Denton, Texas for a year, but transferred her sophomore year to the University of Oklahoma. She majored in English and pledged the women’s sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma. She graduated with honors in 1945. 

She met her husband, Dick, at OU. The two dated that first year of 1942, but soon Dick enlisted in the United States Army and later served as a Lieutenant in the Pacific during World War Two, where he saw combat in Okinawa. Just before he was shipped overseas, they were married on May 25, 1945. In his absence, Mrs. Lunn worked at KOMA in Oklahoma City. She wrote Dick regularly and he returned home safely.

After the war, Dick entered law school at OU. Just before his second year, he was badly burned when a car carburetor he was working on exploded. To help her husband, Mrs. Lunn became one of the first women to attend law school classes at OU in 1947, where she took shorthand in all his classes. She transcribed her notes and brought them to Dick’s hospital room. Dick was able to continue to take classes and graduate Order of the Coif, which represented the top of his class.

Pat and Dick first moved to Tulsa, where Joe was born at the beginning of 1950, and Bill was born later in 1951. The family then moved for three years to Oklahoma City, then three years to Dallas, but ultimately came to Muskogee in 1958. Dick started a private law practice, initially with Pat as his secretary. Both boys attended Muskogee Public Schools. Mrs. Lunn was a loving mother, but believed in hard work, self-discipline, the value of education and expected her boys to do well. Joe became a professor of history at the University of Michigan and Bill became a lawyer in Tulsa.

As the boys left home, Mrs. Lunn went back to college and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. She became a sophomore English teacher at Muskogee High School in 1969, where she taught thousands of students in her classes for the next 25 years.

She was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir. She loved to play bridge and travel. Dick died in 1978, but she continued to live in the family house until her death.

She is survived by Joe, of Detroit, Michigan, and Bill; Joe’s two daughters, Sarah Leese of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Laura Lunn of Denver, Colorado; and a great-grandchild, Lydia Leese, of Ann Arbor. Three other grandchildren, Kathryn, Adrienne, and Michael Lunn of Tulsa, died as teenagers in 2007.

 

Jim McPherson (1937–2020)

James Robert “Jim” McPherson, 82, of Muskogee, Oklahoma went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, April 3, 2020. He was born on August 20, 1937 to Guy and Edith (Foster) McPherson in Claremore, Oklahoma. Jim taught music for twenty-five years in Oklahoma. He was a graduate of Hooker High School and earned both a Bachelor’s and Masters of music education degrees from Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma. While at Phillips University, he was a member of the Forty-Fifth Infantry Division National Guard Band, earning the rank of staff sergeant and becoming the director of the Stage Band. 

He married the love of his life, Rudena Mae Krausse, on June 20, 1960 in Enid, Oklahoma. They shared over 59 years of a happy life and marriage together. 

His teaching career began in the Waukomis Public Schools (1959-1963), where he taught both instrumental and vocal music. From 1963-1967 he taught instrumental music in the Cordell Public Schools, in 1967-1968 at Woodward. He then continued his music career as a sales associate and field clinician with the Southwestern Music Company in Weatherford, Oklahoma. In 1969 he returned to teaching in Muskogee, and taught two years at Alice Robertson Junior High, two years at West Junior High, and eleven years at Muskogee High School, where he was the director of the symphonic band, stage band and Jazz ensemble. He also taught classes in Music Theory. Jim spent his final years in education as the principal of Harris Jobe and Cherokee Elementary Schools, and retired in 1991. 

Organizations under Jim’s direction won the Oklahoma Sweepstakes Awards in 1980 and 1981. In 1981, the symphonic Band was selected as an Honor Organization for the Oklahoma Music Educators Association State Convention. During his career, the Symphonic Band won many honors in concert performance, including four “superior plus” ratings and ten “superior” ratings. Under his direction, The Muskogee Band was chosen to march in the Cherry Blossom Parade in Washington D.C. in 1982. 

The Muskogee band programs under Jim’s direction won many awards in the area of jazz education. The Alice Robertson Jr. High Jazz Ensemble was named Most Outstanding at the Tri-State Music Festival. The MHS Jazz Ensemble was five times named Most Outstanding at OSSAA contests. They were also named Most Outstanding at Phillips University Jazz Festival in Enid, Oklahoma; Southwestern Music Festival in Amarillo; the northeastern Jazz Festival in Tahlequah; and the University of Tulsa Festival. The 1978 MHS Jazz Ensemble was selected by the National Association of Jazz Educators to perform as the High School Honor Band during the National MENC Convention in Omaha, Nebraska. In 1976, The Jazz Ensemble was selected by Jazz Tours International to tour in Europe for two weeks. They performed in Paris, France; Brussels, Belgium; Amsterdam in the Netherlands; Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland. Jim served as State Chair of the Oklahoma chapter of ASBDA, President of the Oklahoma Unit of NAJE, and in 1976, as president of OBA. He also served as the OBA Marching Band Chair, and in 1978 was chair of the Oklahoma All State Band. In 1982, Jim was named the OBA Band Director of the Year. 

Jim was a member of Boulevard Christian Church for many years. Jim loved his family very much and enjoyed spending as much time as possible with them. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Edith McPherson; brother, Norman McPherson; brothers-in-law, Ted Williams and Maurice Mitchell. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Rudena McPherson of the home; daughters, Kim Brownell and husband Mark of Muskogee, OK, Terri Bookout and husband Daryl of Depew, OK, and Shari McPherson and John Clark of Muskogee, OK; grandchildren, Kali Anderson and husband Jacob of Norman, OK, Seth Brownell and wife Rhianna of Broken Arrow, OK, Cade Brownell and wife Leah of Bixby, OK, Meredith Bentley and husband Tommy of Choctaw, OK, and Elizabeth Martin and husband Wade of Prague, OK; great-grandchildren, Maxine Joy Anderson, Callie and Skyler Davis, Bentley Wade; Christian, Cannon, and Elianna Bentley; sisters, Patrica Williams Boliver, MO, and Kathryn Mitchell of Hooker, OK; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

In lieu of flowers Jim’s family has requested memorials be made to the Muskogee Alumni Community Band. ttps://cityofmuskogeefoundation.org 

Jim's family will celebrate his life with a private family graveside service with Dr. Stephen Wiley and Pastor James McCracken officiating. his grandchildren, Kalie and Jacob Anderson, Seth and Rhianna Brownell, Cade and Leah Brownell, Meredith and Tommy Bentley, Elizabeth and Wade Martin will be serving as honorary pallbearers. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1830 North York St, Muskogee, Oklahoma. Condolences may be made to the family online at www.cornerstoneofmuskogee.com.

 

Lorraine Newkirk (1918–1992)

Lorraine Miller Newkirk, 73, who taught English grammar and American literature to two generations of Muskogee students, died Tuesday, April 7, 1992, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, after a long battle with cancer. Mrs. Newkiek was born in Stillwater on June 6, 1918, to Floyd and Elsie Rader Miller. Reared in Skiatook, she graduated from Skiatook High School in 1935 while still 16. She majored in journalism and English at the University of Oklahoma and graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 1939. She was a member of Delta Delta Delta.

She worked as a reporter in Wewoka and for the Skiatook News, which her widowed mother owned and operated, and was a stringer for The Daily Oklahoman, Tulsa World and Tulsa Tribune before she and Richard Dwight Newkirk were married on December 28, 1941, in Claremore. At the end of World War II, she and her husband moved to Muskogee.

She began teaching English and journalism to eighth graders at Alice Robertson Junior High in 1948. She later transferred to Muskogee High School to teach American literature to high school juniors. She represented her fellow MEA teachers in salary negotiations with school administrators for three years in the early 1970s. In 1972 she was named Muskogee's Outstanding Teacher of the Year.

She received her master's degree in education from Northeastern State University in 1976 after studies there and at the University of Tulsa. She retired from teaching in 1978 after 30 years.

A lifelong member of the Democratic Party and active supporter of women's issues, she was a member of the American Civil Liberties Union, the National Organization for Women, the League of Women Voters, American Association of University Women and Kappa Kappa Iota. She was Muskogee County vice-chairman of efforts to enact the Equal Rights Amendment. Despite intense pain from bone cancer in her hip, she joined other ERA supporters in climbing the State Capitol steps during a rally in the early 1980s.

She was also a lifelong Presbyterian and a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Muskogee.

 

Willard Perry (1925–2013)

Willard N. Perry Sr, 88, died Friday, November 8, 2013, at his home in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma. Willard was born on July 19, 1925, in Muskogee, OK, to Samuel Elmer and Minnie (Harris) Perry. He was a teacher by profession, carpenter by trade, and farmer by choice. "Jack of all trades, Master of none." Mr. Perry was a graduate of Fort Gibson High School and Northeastern State University. He served his country in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged on September 14, 1956.

He leaves his wife, Ramona Perry, of the home; two daughters, Annette Jones and Allen of Yukon, OK, Amy Gower and Skip of Piedmont, OK; son, Willard Perry Jr, of Muskogee; "best daughter", Glenda Lewis and Joe of Wagoner; sister, Annis Jones of Fort Gibson brother, Budo G. Perry and Selena of Fort Gibson; two grandchildren, Amelia Gower and Asa Gower.

He was preceded in death by his father, Samuel Elmer Perry; mother, Minnie (Harris) Perry Hixson; step-dad, Pete Hixson; twin sister, Wilma Perry; brothers, Gail Perry, Elmer Perry, J. C. Hixson; and sister, Maxine Points.

 

Ray Phillips (1922–2009)

Ray "Coach" Phillips, 86, long-time resident of Coweta, Oklahoma, peacefully stepped into his heavenly home on January 29, 2009. He was born in Coweta on June 25, 1922. He married the love of his life, Alma Lea Nichols, on January 4, 1946, and "the games began and have been going on ever since," over 63 years!

Coach Phillips served his country during World War II in the United States Army from September 4, 1940, to June 23, 1945, having been decorated with numerous medals. He graduated from Coweta High School. Ray then attended Northeastern State University, where he received his Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree in Education.

He always put the wellbeing of his family ahead of his own. He taught his family the meaning of honesty and integrity by the way he lived his life and was kind beyond measure. He had a great sense of humor and was always one step ahead of you, as he was well known for pulling "jokes" and "pranks" on those he was around. You couldn't be around our dad and leave without having more love in your heart and a smile on your face.

Coach Phillips was a teacher and a coach at Coweta High School for 19 years and at Muskogee High School for 21 years. He attained one of the most successful coaching careers in the State of Oklahoma. His desire for those he taught and coached was that he would in some way have a positive influence on their lives. Although "tough" as a bear on the outside, he was "soft" as a kitten on the inside, always concerned for each and every student and athlete he came in contact with over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. He is survived by his wife, Alma Lea, two sons and their wives, Rick & Lana Phillips of Porter and Mike & Carol Phillips of Coweta. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Ben & Kim Phillips, Kelly & Dena Phillips, Nick Phillips, Marc Phillips, Kylee Phillips, Micah Phillips, and two great-granddaughters, Kylie & Shelby Phillips.

Ray "Coach" Phillips will be laid to rest at the Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma with full military honors.

 

Vinita Pittman (1922–2017)

Vinita Pittman, 95,  passed away on August 2, 2017, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Vinita was born in Guthrie, Oklahoma, on June 21, 1922, to John and Pauline (Severin) Cole. At the age of five, she moved with her family to Enid, Oklahoma, where she graduated from high school in 1940. She attended Bacone College and graduated from Northeastern State University. Vinita married Chester Pittman, Jr. on May 9, 1944, in Enid, Oklahoma. She achieved her Master’s degree from NSU while teaching sophomore and junior English at Muskogee High School. She taught for 16 years

Mrs. Pittman was saved at the First Baptist Church in Enid and baptized there in 1943. Her church was very important to her down through the years. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Muskogee. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She instilled family values filled with love and this strong love is being passed down which is quite a compliment to her. She had a wonderful marriage filled with love and support. Her love was evident as she cared for her husband through a long illness.  She enjoyed being a homemaker, sewing, and reading. One of her favorite authors was Max Lucado and her favorite devotional book was “God Calling” by A.J. Russell. She often gave this book to special friends.

Mrs. Pittman was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Chester, on July 24, 2001; one brother, John Cole and her sister, Dorothy Brown. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Judy Pittman of Newcastle, Oklahoma; daughter and son-in-law, Janice and Ken Davis of Muskogee; son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Victoria Pittman of Tulsa; grandchildren, Susan Riley (Greg) of Allen, Texas, Ricky Pittman (Tanja) of Mustang, Oklahoma, and Shari Bible (Mike) of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; great-grandchildren, Luke Pittman of Fayetteville, Arkansas and Cole Pittman of Oklahoma City, Madelyn Pittman of Mustang, Jacob Bible of Broken Arrow, Emily Bible of Broken Arrow, Katherine Ramirez (David) of San Antonio, Zachary Riley (Madie) of Austin, and Jennifer Riley of Allen, Texas. She will be missed by all who knew her. Vinita will be laid to rest at Fort Gibson National Cemetery.

 

Deloyd Reed (1933–1990)

Deloyd Reed, 57, died May 10, 1990, and is laid to rest in Fort Gibson National Cemetery. He was born March 13, 1933.

 

Alfred Richardson (1934–2018)

Alfred Charles Richardson, 83, died on March 16, 2018. On December 20th, 1934, a Christmas package arrived early at the home of Clara Walker and Alfred Charles Richardson. It was delivered in Wewoka, Oklahoma, in the form of a bundle, wrapped in love. It was a precious little baby boy–their first-born son. They called him little A.C., an acronym for Alfred Charles. Later, brothers and sisters joined this family.

Mr. Richardson was the first of ten siblings: Johnnie, Catherine, Wellington “Boobie”, Barbara, Joyce, Betty, Raymon, Tommie, and Cora Lee. Due to an unfortunate accident that took the life of his father at an early age, he was thrust into a position of not just an older brother, but also as a father figure to all his younger siblings.

This responsibility prevented him from entering school until his eighth-grade year. Despite his late insertion into public schools, he graduated as valedictorian of the Dunjee High School Class of 1954. He also served as the class president, and he was selected to play in the last (all black) Oklahoma All State high school football game.

Following graduation, Mr. Richardson enrolled at Langston University. Despite his size and stature, he excelled as a member of the Lions football team during all four years of his college career. He also became a member of the Beta Kappa chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in March 1956. He graduated from Langston University in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts.

Immediately following graduation, A.C. enlisted into the United States Army and served two tours of active duty, where he was stationed within the U.S. and in Germany. He then went on to serve an additional two years in the Army Reserves. After four years of service, he received an honorable discharge in 1964. In 1964, during his last few months of serving in the Army Reserves, he was hired as a teacher and coach at Taft Moton High School, with his lifelong friend Alexander “Bo” Springs. His new career at Taft brought a lot more than new career opportunities. Perhaps most importantly, he met the love of his life, Dee Gardner, who was also a teacher at the high school. They were married a few months later in Summit, Oklahoma on August 15, 1964.

In 1967, Mr. Richardson received a Master of Science in Vocational Arts from Oklahoma State University, thus elevating his teaching career from industrial education to vocational carpentry. Following the birth of his second son, he changed his teaching location to Central High School in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where he instructed students in vocational cabinet making. He continued for an additional 18 years.

His classroom was known as the barbershop of the high school, where you could find students receiving literal haircuts, deep conversations on current events, and sermons on life lessons. To his students, he was known as “Prof.” often regarded as the “professor of opportunity,” he was an ambassador for making the most out of any situation. He truly believed that the dimness of your past did not have to reflect the brightness of your future. He taught carpentry until retiring in May of 1988.

In addition to his professional accolades, Mr. Richardson's personal life was far more rewarding. His union with Dee encompassed 54 wonderful years. It also produced two boys: Allyn Christopher in 1966 and Adrian Charles in 1970, and would later result in three grandchildren: Kristen, Arrion, and Ma’Kalynn.

AHe accepted Christ at an early age. He had a deep love for God and served God throughout his entire life. He is a former member of Fairview Baptist Church in Cromwell, Oklahoma. He later became a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where he served on the usher board and also delivered the welcome addresses each Sunday.

Aside from family and career, Mr. Richardson participated in several extracurricular activities. He served as a basketball official for the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association (OSSAA) for more than 25 years. In addition, he was a loyal member of the Morning Optimist Club. Through his membership, he earned several publication awards for his work with the club’s newsletters. He enjoyed bowling, carpentry, cooking, and listening to jazz music. He was also an advocate of saving. Any loose change or bills found were added to his personal collection, but not before he inserted a special “crease” which would always help him distinguish his money for safekeeping. He was a living example that the key to financial freedom was saving and budgeting.

In every facet of Mr. Richardson’s life, he was a leader. Although a man of few words, his actions spoke much louder. He always believed that you could accomplish anything that you prepared for with hard work and dedication, and he exemplified this throughout his life.

Those who preceded him in death were his parents, his brothers, Johnnie Richardson and Wellington “Boobie" Richardson, and one sister, Betty Martin.

He leaves to honor and celebrate his life his beloved wife, Dee Richardson; two sons, Allyn (Rachel) Richardson of Oklahoma City, OK, and Adrian Richardson of Muskogee, OK; three grandchildren, Kristen (LaVelle) Compton of Oklahoma City, OK, and Arrion and Ma’Kalynn Richardson of Muskogee, OK; four sisters, Catherine N. Richardson of Las Vegas, NV, Barbara J. Miller (Richardson), Joyce A. Richardson (Kwame) Mumina, and Cora Kemp (Larry) Epps, all of Oklahoma City, OK; two brothers, Raymon Taylor of Kansas City, KS, and Tommie J. Taylor of Oklahoma City, OK; and a host of other relatives and friends.

 

Tom Rogers (1935–2004)

Thomas Joseph "Tom" Rogers, 68, died Monday, August 16, 2004, in Muskogee, OK. He was born October 1, 1935, to James and Elizabeth Rogers. He was a retired teacher. He was laid to rest in Greenhill Cemetery in Muskogee.

 

Barbara Staggs (1940–2014)

Barbara Staggs, 74, a longtime Muskogee educator and Oklahoma State Representative, died Saturday, November 22, 2014, at St Francis Hospital in Tulsa. Born in her grandmother’s home in Hulbert, OK on July 18, 1940, the daughter of Truman and Valera (Trapp) Masterson moved to Muskogee while only a few weeks old. Mrs. Staggs attended public schools in Muskogee, graduating from Muskogee High School in 1958, Northeastern State University with a B.A. in Education in 1963, the University of Tulsa with an M.A. in English in 1968, and University of Tulsa with an Ed.D. in 1987.

After completing her education, she spent over 25 years in public education serving as a teacher of English, drama, speech, and broadcasting, principal and superintendent. She believed in supporting activities which benefitted education – at all levels. Mrs. Staggs had a strong belief that a sound public education system was critical to the economic growth and quality of life in Oklahoma. This belief prompted her to run as State of Oklahoma, State Representative in 1996 for District 14. Barbara was the first woman elected to the legislature in District 14 and served on the Common Education Committee, among others.

During her tenure, she helped establish the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and she was instrumental in passing a bill that gave funding to the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. Mrs. Staggs served as a legislator for 12 years, until her retirement in 2006. In 2007, she was elected to the Chairmanship of Muskogee County Democrats and served as a Northeastern State University representative, for the first year teacher observations committee while continuing to serve Muskogee on numerous civic and humanitarian organizations such as; Leadership Oklahoma, Muskogee Morning Optimists, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Five Civilized Tribes Museum, Three Rivers Museum, Muskogee Development Corporation, NSU Alumni board, Board of Directors of Southwest Educational Development Laboratory, NAACP, Port of Muskogee board, Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, Oklahoma Foundation for the Education of the Blind, Noon Lions Club, Service League of Muskogee, Lakewood Girl Scouts, Soroptimist, CASA, Women’s Leadership Conference, and 2010 for Freshman Girls. 

On August 29, 1959, she married Ross Staggs and they recently celebrated 55 years of marriage. Their family was blessed with two sons, Rick and Matt. Mrs. Staggs was baptized at First Baptist Church Muskogee in 1949 and has been very active as a member of the ‘Life Matters’ bible study class as well as numerous other departments over the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Ross Staggs; sons, Rick and wife Lezlie of Reno, NV and their daughter, Jessica Medina and her son, Keegan Duggins, and Matt Staggs of Muskogee.

 

Ray Wise (1939–2017)

Raymond Giuliano Wise, 77,  died peacefully at home with family by his side in Muskogee, Oklahoma on January 9, 2017. Raymond is survived by his wife, Patricia Wise; children, Michelle and husband Kurtis Rowan of Muskogee; Mikel Wise of Tulsa; a sister, Huguette Luchesi of Antibes, France; brother, Andre Giuliano of Antibes, France; grandchildren, Jillian and husband Patrick Dawes of Dallas, Texas; Makenzi Sandersfield of Muskogee; Jacob Wise of Norman; Levi Sandersfield of Muskogee; Konner & Caleb Rowan of Muskogee; and great-granddaughter, Aria Sandersfield of Muskogee.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Pierre and Albine Giuliano of Antibes, France, Larry and Marie Wise of Muskogee, and parents-in-law, Haskell and Virgie Hughes of Muskogee.

Mr. Wise was born on April 08, 1939, in Antibes France. He graduated from Northeastern State University with a Master’s degree in Education in 1975. He married Patricia Hughes on July 7, 1962, and moved to San Bernardino, California, to begin his career as a French teacher and coach. In 1971, he moved back to Muskogee where he taught at Muskogee High School and then Ft. Gibson Schools, where he retired.  Mr. Wise was accomplished at woodworking and often could be found in his workshop, whistling. Raymond was a member of the First Assembly of God church in Muskogee, OK.