<![CDATA[Enid News & Eagle: Obituaries]]> (2024)

August 18, 1954 - July 2, 2024Charles Eldon Julius, of Henderson, KY, died July 2, 2024, after a lengthy battle with cancer.He was a long-time set designer, tech director and stage manager for Evansville Civic Theater, but he will also be remembered as a teacher/mentor/friend — and occasional therapist — to a legion of young and some not-so-young community theater aficionados.During his tenure at Civic (1990 to 1993 and then again from 1999 until his retirement in 2020), he designed and built stage sets for more than 130 productions.Charles was born Aug. 18, 1954, in Okeene, OK, and spent his childhood in Enid, OK. He had a bachelor's degree in theater from Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts in Chickasha, OK, and a Master's degree in technical theater from Emporia (KS) State University.Charles worked as tech director for several years at Theatre Tulsa in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While there he built, lit and did sound for many dramatic productions as well as major musicals. He also designed sets and tech directed for other area theater companies, including the American Indian Theatre Company and the Claremore Community Theatre.He worked as a set designer at University of Arkansas/Fort Smith for a brief time.Charles moved to Evansville in 1990 with his wife and family and joined Civic Theater in the fall of that year.Charles is survived by his wife Vicki Julius; son Charlton Julius (Neema); daughter Jennifer Vire (Tim); three grandsons, Brett, Brock (Robyn) and Bryce Vire; one granddaughter, Chloe Julius; and one great-grand-baby on the way. He is also survived by a sister, Roberta (Julius) Branscum; nephews, Timothy and Christopher Branscum; two great-nieces; two great-great-nieces; and a great-great nephew.

December 17, 1941 - July 1, 2024Judith Anne Ford DeVaughn ascended to heaven on July 1, 2024, holding the hand of her husband and surrounded by family who loved her. The perfect ending to a beautiful life story. She was exactly the person who writers of love stories, history lessons and inspirational works attempt to encapsulate — but always fall short.Judy was born on December 17, 1941, in Enid, Oklahoma. She was raised in Helena, OK, on a farm and learned to work hard and loved the work she did. During high school she excelled in debate and basketball and participated in the Cinderella Pageant. After high school, Judy attended Stephens College in Missouri and then transferred to Oklahoma State University, where she joined Kappa Kappa Gamma, served as the Secretary and Treasurer for the Senior Class and was crowned Queen of the School of Veterinary Medicine. Judy graduated with a degree in Education in 1964.Judy met Richard at OSU and their journey began. They married in August 1964 and left Oklahoma, hand in hand, with everything they owned in a small vehicle headed for Kansas City. Judy taught science at Antioch Junior High while Richard sold shoes and attended dental school.They settled in Enid and have called Enid home since 1967. Judy was an amazing teacher at Emerson Junior High and is remembered as telling her students "you are beautiful!" — and she meant it. Judy found beauty in everything and everyone. With an amazing talent she painted the beauty she saw. But it was Richard she found the most beautiful. Judy loved Richard with everything she had.She was married to her best friend and the love of her life Dr. Richard DeVaughn for sixty (60) years. Judy had three children, Dustin (wife Susan), Wendi (husband Rob) and Pepper (wife Bailey), who all consider her the most important person in their lives. Her grandchildren — Harrison, Grace, Keagan, Dylan, Haley and Scarlett — all called Judy "Maui" and argued over who was her favorite.Maui taught all of us, her husband, children, grandchildren and students, a lesson that can be summed into one word: effort. Maui gave her utmost effort in everything she did and granted us a gift of witnessing how life should be lived.Judy loved spending time with her family and being involved in every aspect of her grandchildren's lives. She was their number one fan and was always there to cheer them on in all of their activities. She loved traveling with Richard and enjoyed exploring the world. She treasured her PEO sisters, Wednesday night dinner group, and golf, bridge, Mahjong, and Mexican Train friends.It was very important to Judy to give back to the community. She volunteered with Loaves and Fishes, served as the Rosehill Cemetery treasurer for 20 years, taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, led several projects at Monroe Elementary, served on the PTA board and as President, was a Cub Scout Den Mother and Bluebird Troop Leader, led the Bond Project for Enid Public Schools, and was a member of the Enid Junior Welfare League and PEO. She loved making Enid a better place to live and will be truly missed by her family and all her friends.Memorials may be made to Hospice Circle of Love or Loaves and Fishes, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory serving as custodian of the funds. Condolences may be made online and the service may be viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com. A Celebration of Life Service for Judy will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Central Christian Church, with Rev. Susan Southall officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.

May 25, 1967 - June 28, 2024The celebration of life for Timothy "Tim" Kirkpatrick is 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 12, 2024, in the Kremlin High School Gymnasium. Pastor Bill Kalfas will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction of Henninger-Hinson Funeral Home.Timothy "Tim" Douglas Kirkpatrick, 57, passed away on June 28, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma. He was born May 25, 1967, in the U.S. Naval Hospital in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, to Roy Douglas and Mary Helen (Coakley) Kirkpatrick. Timothy was a proud member of the National Guard, dedicating over 20 years of service to his country. He served two tours in Iraq, one tour in Afghanistan, and was deployed to help with cleanup and rescue efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. He also worked for Oklahoma Department of Corrections for over 25 years, spending over 14 years as an officer before an injury in Afghanistan forced him into office work. He was well respected by his coworkers and the inmates he encountered over the years. During his tenure at the DOC he proudly served as a member of the honor guard.On June 16, 2000, Tim married his loving wife Dana in Alva, Oklahoma, at the Nazarene Church. Tim was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and his brother, Robert Kirkpatrick. He is survived by his loving wife, Dana; children, Jessica Barkhurst, Christina Duvall and husband John, Erica Graham and husband Neil, Christopher Kirkpatrick and wife Steffany, Mason Hamilton, Katie Kirkpatrick and fiancé Jeff Bagnell; and 13 grandchildren. Tim was a husband, father, and proud grandfather known as "Pappy" to his grandchildren, friends and fellow veterans. Tim's commitment to service and his country will be remembered by those who knew him, as well as his devotion to his family.Memorial contributions can be made to the Kremlin Lions Club or Kremlin Athletic Fund.

August 14, 1938 - July 1, 2024Mass of Christian Burial for Frank Maly, 85, will be Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, with Reverend Mark Mason celebrant. Burial will follow in Bison Cemetery under the direction of Anderson-Burris Funeral Home and Crematory.Frank was born August 14, 1938, in Bison, Oklahoma, to Emil and Mary (Houska) Maly and died July 1, 2024, in Enid.He grew up on the family farm and graduated from Memorial High School in Enid. Frank was a bricklayer for many years, worked Pillsbury Mills, and was a farmer. He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where he served as an usher. Frank was a lifetime member of Knights of Columbus Council 1044 and Knights of Columbus Assembly 0854. He held many offices in the Knights of Columbus over the years. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jerry Maly; brother, Laddie Maly.Frank is survived by his children, Terry Maly and Michele Long; four grandchildren, Donald, Nathan, Christopher, and Kimberly; and three great-grandchildren, Sapphire, Evelyn, and Raelyn; many cousins and friends.Condolences may be made online at www.andersonburris.com.

August 14, 1970 - June 30, 2024The visitation with family for Cory L. Lawson, 53-year-old Enid resident, is 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 6, 2024, in the Henninger-Hinson Funeral Home Chapel.Cory was born August 14, 1970, to Ralph and Lila (Merritt) Lawson in Enid and died June 30, 2024, in Oklahoma City.Cory attended local schools. He worked at various companies in Enid, including the Enid News & Eagle, Ryder Truck, and Wal-Mart. Mostly he was a caretaker for his entire family. He was a kind and caring man whose heart was as big as his stature. He never missed an opportunity to help someone in need and would do anything you asked of him no matter how big or small. When he wasn't teasing his father unmercifully he was going fishing with him and taking care of him. Cory's capacity for love was unending, and everyone who came in contact with him received that love tenfold. Cory will be greatly missed as he was taken too soon. He is survived by his long-time companion Yvonne Young of Enid; his sister Kellie Pitts and husband David of Seminole; his brother Chris Lawson of Enid; two nieces, Kelsie Pitts and Kiersten McCormick and husband Aaron, all of Seminole; one great-niece Lila; one great-nephew, Levi; as well as numerous cousins and friends.He was preceded in death by his parents; uncle, Bobby; and aunt, Ethel.Memorials in Cory's name may be made through Henninger-Hinson.

March 10, 1947 - June 29, 2024Marsha was born in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on March 10, 1947, to Walter and Edna Stokes. Her father was soon called away to fight in Korea, where he was killed in battle. At a young age she was adopted by her aunt and uncle, Lorene and Odell Cagle, and grew up in North Little Rock.Marsha graduated from Hendrix College and taught PE in several Kansas schools, working at Camp Noark GS Camp in NW Arkansas in the summers. She worked for the American Red Cross in Kansas City for many years and later moved to California, where she worked in computer tech. Marsha was a member of New Hope Methodist Church in Enid, where she served as a Lay Speaker.Marsha is survived by two half-sisters, Lee Donavski and Alita Easley.Memorials may be made in her name to: Girl Scouts Diamonds, c/o Mollie Cerna, 1719 Merrill Dr., Little Rock AR, 72212.

February 14, 1939 - June 27, 2024Leon Boyle, 85, of Byron, Oklahoma, died unexpectedly, on June 27, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma. He was born to Eugene and Viola Boyle, in Anthony, Kansas, on February 14, 1939. Leon grew up near Wakita, Oklahoma, and attended Wakita schools, graduating from Wakita High School in 1957. After graduation, he worked in Wichita, Kansas, for Boeing Aircraft Co. for a short period, but his love for the outdoors led him to go to work in the oil field.He married the love of his life, Betty Puffinbarger, on September 7, 1960. They raised their two daughters, Debbie and Billie, in the Wakita area. A series of promotions led he and Betty to move to Oklahoma City until 1996. At that time, they chose to find a house and move back to the Wakita area for when they retired. To occupy his time during retirement, in 1996 he chose to begin his own oil consulting company, 212 Operating, Inc. Leon was a wonderful and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, as well as a caring uncle and a friend to many. He had a love for bird dogs and was an avid quail hunter. He also enjoyed playing the guitar and going fishing. He had obtained his pilot's license and in his spare time he loved flying locally on nice days and evenings in his single seat open co*ckpit biplane. He was known for his high expectations and his witty personality, never missing an opportunity for ornery banter. While his life was unexpectedly cut short, we take peace in knowing he lived a long-fulfilled life. He will be deeply missed by all who loved and cared for him. He is survived by his daughters, Debbie Tucker of Alva and Billie Boyle of Enid; four grandsons, Ty Smith, wife Jodi and their children, Dakota and his girlfriend Kylie and Samantha of Amorita, Jace Smith and wife Rachael and their children, Cade, Cole and Emma of Byron, Trae Smith and wife Michelle and their children, Hayle, Hana, and Hope of Byron, Chantz Tucker and wife Maddie and their children, Arthur and Deacon of Byron; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his dear wife, Betty; his parents, Eugene Boyle and Viola Eulberg; and his brother, Leonard Boyle.Graveside service will be Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Byron-Amorita Cemetery, with Pastor Bryan Laramore conducting the service. Viewing will be on Friday, July 5, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with family present from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Lanman Funeral Home, Inc., in Cherokee. Arrangements are by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc., of Cherokee. www.lanmanfuneralhome.com Facebook: Lanman Funeral Home Inc.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Byron-Amorita Fire Department or Byron-Amorita Cemetery through the funeral home. A Gathering will be held following the graveside services at the Byron-Amorita fire station.

August 22, 1936 - June 28, 2024Gene Paul Goforth was born August 22, 1936, at Okeene, Oklahoma, to Otis and Lillian Bisel Goforth and passed away Friday, June 28, 2024, at the age of 87. He was a resident of the Okeene community his entire life. Gene's father started the family business, Goforth Equipment, in 1927. Gene started working with his father at the store in 1958 and soon after took the family business over. Goforth Equipment remained open until closing recently this year. He graduated from Okeene High School in 1955 and attended and graduated from Okmulgee Tech in 1957. Gene was a member of the Okeene United Methodist Church, the Masons, the Okeene Chamber of Commerce and was a past member of the Okeene City Council. Gene farmed and ranched and in the 1980's took all the sports photos for the Okeene Record. Gene was an avid supporter of everything in Okeene from the schools to the town. Everyone in Okeene knew Gene by his "honk." He married Juanita Schultz at Okeene First Baptist Church on April 23, 1958. Gene was preceded in death by his parents; wife Juanita; one brother, Lowell Goforth; and one sister-in-law, Phyllis Goforth. He is survived by two sons, Gene Paul Goforth Jr. and Wayne Markham of Oklahoma City, OK, Michael Goforth and Kandy of Colorado Springs, CO; one daughter, Terry Goforth and Wayne Trail of Weatherford, OK; four grandchildren, Katie Trail, Ashton Goforth, Emily Trail and Bradon Goforth; as well as numerous other relatives and friends. Funeral services for Gene Goforth will be Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Okeene United Methodist Church, with Pastor Bennet Peters officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery in Okeene. Wilkinson Mortuary of Okeene is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Okeene Hospital Foundation and Okeene Schools.

April 9, 1924 - June 25, 2024Funeral services for Victor Nichols, age 100, of Enid, will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 1, 2024, at Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Tom Pullin officiating. A private burial will follow in Pleasant View Cemetery, in Jet. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.Victor was born April 9, 1924, in Meno, OK, to John and Lena (Koehn) Nichols, and passed away Tuesday, June 25, 2024, in Enid.Victor married Dora Emery on June 13, 1942, in Cherokee, OK. They lived in Jet for several years, where he joined the Marine Corps. When he returned, they moved to the family farm south of Goltry, where they raised their three daughters. Then they moved to Carrier in 1959, where he owned a mechanic shop and later did custom-cutting. When living in Carrier, he and Dora where members of the Carrier Congregational Church, and when he moved to Enid, he became a member of the East Maine Nazarene Church. He is survived by three daughters, Adella McDowell, Rita (Loren) Frey, Helen (Jim) Geminden; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Dora, granddaughter Kendra Frey, son-in-law Bob McDowell, two brothers, and two sisters.Memorial contributions in Victor's name may be made to East Maine Nazarene Church or the donor's choice, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared, and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

October 1, 1937 - June 27, 2024Darrel Dean Smith was born on October 1st, 1937, in Isabella, Oklahoma, to Loren Clarence Smith and Florene Myrtle Wilson. Darrel, aged 86, passed away on June 27th, 2024, while in hospice in Oklahoma City.Darrel attended Homestead and Okeene High School and completed his studies in Hillsdale, Oklahoma, where he graduated in 1957. After high school, Darrel enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a Radio Carrier Repairman Operator from 1956 to 1958. In 1970, Darrel graduated from Central State University in Edmond with a Bachelor's Degree in industrial arts. While in Edmond, he served as a police officer with his K9 partner, King, who later became their beloved family pet. Darrel was a dedicated worker who always put his family first. He excelled in drafting, ran his own business for many years, and eventually retired after teaching industrial arts and coaching various sports.Darrel married Judy Kay Wight on November 28th, 1958, and they had three daughters: Dena, Melody, and Tischa. Darrel was known for his sense of humor, his love for the Oklahoma Sooners, riding motorcycles, and his devotion to his wife, Judy Kay. He was an avid woodworker and enjoyed sharing his craft with others. He was a member of the Church of Christ, where he enjoyed volunteering in the food pantry.Darrel is survived by his wife, Judy Kay, and his daughters Dena Sanders (husband Jack Sanders), Melody Schell (husband Joseph Schell), and Tischa Ludzack (husband Don Ludzack). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ashley Freelove, Alex Ewbank, Trent Ludzack, Madeline Albright, James Ludzack, Valerie Ludzack, Avery Schell, Ashton Schell, Sienna Schell, and Isaiah Schell, as well as five great-grandchildren. Darrel is preceded in death by his parents, Loren and Florene Smith; brothers Douglas Smith, Charles Smith, and Roger Smith; and grandson Thomas Ludzack. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 2nd, at 2 p.m. at Ladusau-Evans Chapel, with Rev. Jim Edmison officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. A Reception will follow. Condolences may be made online and the service may be viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

Memorial Service for Nicky L. Tatro, 75, will be at a later date.He was born October 11, 1948, in Cherokee, OK, to Aubrey and Nell Tatro and passed away June 22, 2024, at Greenbrier Rehab Center, Enid, after several weeks of bad health.Nick was a Marine and graduated from Northwestern OSU, Alva, with a degree in law enforcement. He was a policeman in Blackwell and Weatherford, OK.Preceding him in death were his parents, daughter Rene and granddaughter Morgan.He will be greatly missed by his son, Terry (Sara) Tatro; grandson, Greg; brother, Mike (Terry); special friend, Dayla Canada; and many other friends, classmates and cousins.Donations may be sent to Wounded Warriors.

May 5, 1948 - June 27, 2024Linda Kay (Onstott) Downing was born May 5, 1948, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, to Jack and Marie Onstott. She grew up on a farm near Braman with her two sisters and went to Plainview Country School, then later moved to Blackwell in 1956. Linda was a member of the Blackwell First Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir. She graduated from Blackwell High School in 1966 as Salutatorian, because of that pesky B in Typing class. After attending Northern Oklahoma College and graduating in 1968 with an Associate's Degree in Business, she got her first job with Cities Service Gas Company in Oklahoma City. Following college, she married John Ailey in 1968 and later had two daughters, Debra in 1973 and Susan in 1974.After moving to Medford in 1976, she began a 35 year career in the oil and gas industry at KOCH and OneOK, retiring in 2012. She was a member of the Medford First Baptist Church and then later the Medford Nazarene Church, where she faithfully served in the choir, as a Sunday School teacher, and Church Treasurer.In 1991, she married her love, Steve Downing and was blessed with four more children: Jeremy, Alyssa, Lizzie and Aaron, officially becoming the "Brady Bunch." She was the most revered Grandma Linda to Hailey, Seth, Emma and Jarrett, Jackson and Cambri, Maggie, Mallary, Olivia and Braden, Mason, Grady, Ethan, Jace, Levi, Colby, Cole and Eli and Great-Grandma Linda to Jameson and a new baby being born in July. Linda was an encouraging and supportive Mother-in-Law to Andy, Aaron, Maura, Nathan, and Brett.As a loyal and loving member of the Three Musketeers with her sisters, Nancy and Shirley, and their husbands, Monty and John, they enjoyed many trips and laughs together over the years.Aunt Linda was beloved by so many nieces and nephews. She was the most attentive and loving dog mama and grandma to Toby, T-Bone, The Cookie(s), Petey, Camry, Scooby, Maya Marie, Cutaway, Molly, Jetta, Sawyer, Hutton and Rigby.Spending time with her grandkids and following them all over the country chasing their dreams was her favorite. She enjoyed all of her Christmas decorations, spending time traveling especially in the camper, reading, winning Yahtzee, and loving on her dogs. More than anything, she had a servant's heart and loved any and all children whom she met.Linda went to be with Jesus June 27, 2024.She was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and Jack Onstott, and her beloved granddaughter, Mallary.Funeral service for Linda will be Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 10:30 at the Nazarene Church in Medford. Burial will follow at Rosemound Cemetery, Medford, with arrangements by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc., of Medford. Viewing will be Monday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with the family present. www.lanmanfuneralhome.com Facebook: Lanman Funeral Home Inc.In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer a donation to www.cholangiocarcinoma.org to help find a cure.

February 9, 1948 - May 6, 2024William Charles Fitch, known affectionately as Bill, passed away on May 6th, 2024, at the age of 76, in Oklahoma City. Bill was born to the late Gertrude Fitch and Lawrence Fitch.Bill is survived by his daughters Cathy Baker, Amy Johnson, and Ann McMillan, along with eight grand-children and two great-grandchildren.His memory will forever be cherished by those who loved him.

July 10, 1927 - June 22, 2024Funeral service for Bobett Jean Larkey, 96, of Enid, will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 1, 2024, in Anderson-Burris Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Nathan Oney officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.Bobett was born on July 10, 1927, in Enid, Oklahoma, to Marvin Lester and Maude Ruby (Griffin) Sheets and passed away June 22, 2024, in Savannah, Texas, with her family by her side.She grew up in Enid and graduated from Enid High School. Bobett then went to Enid Business College. On December 26, 1962, she married Irvin Larkey in Enid, where they made their home. Bobett worked at Enid Production Credit for 16 years. She was a member of New Hope Methodist Church, Bethany Home Extension Club, Enid Gem and Mineral Society. Bobett enjoyed bus trips, cruises with family and friends and playing the piano. She volunteered at elementary schools and was on a bowling league for many years.She was preceded in death by her husband, Irvin; parents; and brother, Jack Sheets.She is survived by her daughter and husband, Diane Larkey and Gerald Cutcomb; granddaughter, Caitlyn Cutcomb; sister-in-law, Valera Sheets; nephews, Sam and Jerry Sheets; nieces, Kathy Rhinehart, Nancy Rahm, and Nancy Sheets; many friends.Memorials may be made through Anderson-Burris to New Hope Methodist Church. Condolences may be made online at www.andersonburris.com.

November 28, 1948 - June 20, 2024Celebration of Life Service for James Lee Hankins, 75, will be Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in Anderson-Burris Funeral Home Chapel. Cremation arrangements are by Anderson-Burris Funeral Home Funeral Home and Crematory.James was born November 28, 1948, in Enid, Oklahoma, to Thomas A. and Dorothy Mae (Batchelder) Hankins and died June 20, 2024, in Tulsa with his family by his side.He grew up in Enid and graduated from Enid High School. James enlisted in the Army in 1966, serving in Vietnam. He was awarded the Bronze Star and a Purple Heart before being honorably discharged in 1969. Following his discharge, he returned to Enid and was a policeman with City of Enid. James graduated from Northwestern Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree. He worked as a special agent for the Frisco Railroad. James worked at Autry Tech from 1983 until his retirement in 2010. He enjoyed time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. James loved to travel.He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Linda Sue and Mary Ann; and a brother, Butch.James is survived by his children, James Hankins (Kim) and Rani and husband Kirk Smith; grandchildren, Koby (Hope) Smith, Jefferson (Brooklyn) Smith, Ross (Grey Escude) Smith, James Hankins and Leslie Hankins; three great-grandchildren, Everett, Arlo and Hattie; brothers, Thomas, Bobby (Tammy) Hankins; sisters, Sharon (Duane) Callaway-McNeil, Betty (Freddie) Emerson, Margaret (Jack) Pilgrim, and Beverly (Gary) Hart; many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.Memorials may be made through Anderson-Burris to Our Daily Bread. Condolences may be made online at www.andersonburris.com.

October 27, 2018 - May 31, 2024Arnold Schweer was born on a farm near Covington, OK, on October 27, 1918, and passed peacefully from this life on Friday evening, May 31, 2024, in Enid, OK, at the age of 105 years, 7 months, and 4 days.Arnold was the second child born to Fredrick and Lena (Meier) Schweer. Growing up, he and his brother Herold spent many hours working on the farm, while their dad worked in the oilfield; riding horses; and playing baseball. As they got older, they played on the town team together. Arnold also played some basketball, and since the ball was brought back to the center circle for a jump ball after each made basket, his height was a big asset. Arnold had a lifelong love for baseball and loved attending games at David Allen Memorial Ballpark in Enid in later years.Arnold attended Lone Star School northeast of Covington and graduated from Covington High School in 1936. After graduation, he joined the family farm operation, farming in the Covington area until his retirement in 1981. He also began selling insurance in the mid-1970's and continued this with the help of his daughter Judy until 2013. Arnold served during WWII with the 807th Army Aviation Engineers, and early in the war he was stationed in the Aleutian Islands as the Japanese fleet was approaching. Since there were very few rifles and less ammunition, he put his blacksmith skills to work and crafted a knife from scrap parts so he could defend himself. He was later deployed to Okinawa until the end of the war.Arnold married Ione Crews in 1959, and they were married for 39 years before she passed away in 1998. They had 3 children: Judith Marg, Fred Schweer and Paul Schweer.Arnold was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church of Covington for most of his life, serving as a Sunday School teacher, elder, and chairman of the Building Committee when the current church was built. He moved his membership to Zion Lutheran, Fairmont, in later years "because he could understand the preacher". As a young man, Arnold was active in the local and state Walther League, serving on the state board when the current Camp Lutherhoma property was acquired and as state president when Oklahoma hosted the international convention in 1957. He also served on the school board for Covington-Douglas Schools, and was active in the VFW for many years.As passionate as Arnold was about his family, farming, and sports, he was most passionate about his love for Jesus. He spent time every day reading his Bible and in prayer. He lived out his faith through the love, kindness, care and concern he showed to his family and everyone he came in contact with.Arnold was preceded in death by his wife Ione; parents Fred and Lena Schweer; brother Herold Schweer; and sisters Lorene Whiteneck, Darlene Braley, Irene Gragert and Esther Mittlestedt. He was also preceded in death by in-laws Walter Wyssman, Perry Whiteneck, Jack Braley, Merton Gragert, Johnnie Mittlestedt, Robert and Reba Crews, James and Laverne Crews, Jack Stovall and Lee and Joan (Crews) Thorpe; as well as nephews Phillip Mittlestedt, Roger Mittlestedt, Danny Schweer, Larry Schweer, Jim Crews, Steve Stovall; and niece Lana (Stovall) Tarnoff.Arnold is survived by his daughter Judith Marg, son Fred Schweer and wife Cathy, and son Paul Schweer and wife Cheryl. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews and their families.A private graveside service and burial were held at Covington Community Cemetery on June 5, 2024.A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 29th, at 10:30 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 510 Fairmont Rd, Fairmont OK. This will be followed by a lunch and time of fellowship in the Zion Lutheran Church Parish Hall.In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorials be made to St. Johns Cemetery Permanent Fund, c/o St. Johns Lutheran Church, 205 E. Jackson St., Covington, OK 73730, or to the giver's home church or local community charitable organization.

July 12, 1938 - June 20, 2024A Celebration of Life for Dondevere "Don" Herman Herth, age 85, of Enid, will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 24, 2024, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, with Pastor David Reber, Jr., and Pastor Kenneth Wade officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home.Don was born July 12, 1938, in Enid, to Herman and Iola (Nehring) Herth, and passed away Thursday, June 20, 2024, in Enid.He grew up in the Fairmont area, and attended Fairmont Lutheran School, graduating from Garber High School in 1956. He married Betty Marie Kroll on December 21, 1957, at Breckenridge Lutheran Church. After high school, he worked for the Soil Conservation Service, Pillsbury, Vance Air Force Base, Bank Lumber Company, Union Equity, Champlin Refinery, and eventually retired from Farmland Nitrogen Plant. After retirement he worked part-time at Johnston Elevator. Don was a long-time member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church.He was a member of Herschel Timm's Country Pride Band for "umpteen" years, and he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and was meticulous in his yard work. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He is preceded in death by his parents; father- and mother-in-law Otto and Marie Kroll; brothers-in-law, Don Kroll and Ray Dean Kroll; and sister-in-law, Linda Kroll.He is survived by his wife of 66½ years, Betty Herth, of the home in Enid; three children, son Terry and wife Lorie, of Texas, and daughters Donolyn Merchant and husband Tom, of Choctaw, OK, and Kristy Pendleton and husband Scott, of Enid; three grandsons, Eric Walton, Shane Pendleton and wife Olivia, Jacob Herth; and one granddaughter, Lexie Pendleton. Four great-granddaughters also survive him, Zoe and Sadie Walton, and Willa and Elsie Pendleton; as well as a brother, Martin Herth and wife Gail, of Oklahoma City; brother and sister-in-law, Ralph and Barbara Kroll; sister-in-law, Deborah Kroll; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and many friends.Memorial contributions in Don's name may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

October 30, 1954 - June 20, 2024A Celebration of Life Service for Susan Diane Young-Nivison, age 69, of Enid will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 24, 2024, at Oakwood Christian Church, with Rev. Eric Keller and Rev. Alan Seibel officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. The family will receive friends Sunday, June 23rd, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.Susan was born October 30, 1954, in Enid to Levernon "Buzz" and Anita L. (Kiely) Young and passed away at her home on June 20, 2024, after a courageous fight with cancer.She attended Enid Public Schools and graduated in 1972. She worked as a land secretary for several years before beginning a career in Law Enforcement for the City of Enid Police Department for 20 years, retiring in 2007. She was the 90th President, and first female President of the Oklahoma Sheriff and Peace Officers Association. She was awarded the Meritorious Award, from the Oklahoma Peace Officers Association; the Honorable Service award from the Enid Police Department; and the Masonic Police Officer of the Year. Susan later helped her friend Dave McCreary with house remodeling.She married James "Jim" Nivison on October 21, 1988, at First Presbyterian Church. Susan was a member of Oakwood Christian Church.Susan is survived by her husband Jim of the home; son Travis Young; stepdaughter Lisa Green; stepson Anthony Nivison; 9 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Randy and Buzz Young, Jr.; and several other family members. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister-in-law Dede Young. Memorials may be made to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation — Cancer Division, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory serving as custodian of the funds. Condolences may be made online, and the service may be viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.The family would like to say thank you to the special people that helped with Susan's care, including Vicki Young, Stephany Wieden, Kris Rogers, Helen Witty, Tiffany Hall and staff of Elara Caring Hospice.

The Memorial services celebrating and honoring the life of Carol Ann Moody, 72, of Enid will be held Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in the Brown-Cummings Chapel, with Pastor Charlie Newman officiating. Burial will follow in the Enid Cemetery. Complete cremation care and services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home. Carol was born June 30, 1951, to Bernice Buth in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and passed from this life June 12, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma. She was raised and educated in Colorado Springs. After schooling she worked as a waitress.She married Bill David Moody Sr. November 11, 1967, in Colorado Springs, and from this union came four children.The couple moved to Borger, Texas, in 1969 and later to Okeene, Oklahoma, in 1978, and she was a homemaker for many years. In 1999 she became an Office Manager for an appraisal company. In 2007 she opened Wheat Capital Appraisals until her retirement in 2010. She enjoyed camping, creating arts and crafts, reading, volunteering on the election board, crocheting and spending time with her family, being a Mother, Nana and GG to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Taking care of her husband brought her great joy.She is survived by her husband, Bill Moody Sr. of the home; four children, Kelli Looney and husband Mike, Bill Moody Jr. and wife Heather, Scott Moody and wife Emily, Corri Denton and husband Joseph; her grandchildren, Chris, Rachel, Coby, Devon, Ethan, Cody, Kyle, Cole, Caden, and Ashton; nine great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lois Moody; and various nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents. Memorials may be made in her honor to the Enid SPCA, with Brown-Cummings serving as custodian of the funds. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

April 14, 1922 - June 17, 2024The funeral for Margaret Merryman Castor, 102-year-old Enid resident, is 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 21, 2024, in the Henninger-Hinson Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.Margaret E. (Castor) Merryman was born April 14, 1922, in Shamrock, Oklahoma, to Lewis and Vida (Jones) Woodruff. She died June 17, 2024, at 102 years of age. She moved to Enid at a young age and graduated from Enid High School. She also attended Enid Business College.She married Elgin Castor on January 5th, 1941. Elgin died in 1999. They had three children: Mike Castor (Deloris), Denise Marshello, and a baby named Patrick which died shortly after birth. In addition to her children, she leaves behind three grandchildren, Cody Castor (Tina), Clinton Castor, and Shellea Peterson; great-grandchildren, Haley and (Tyler) Stach, Stephanie and Jake Pipak, Cole Castor, Vann Castor, Rebekah Smith, Ralph Fatzer and Ryan Fatzer, and Cannon, Dacy, and Dally Peterson; and one great-great-grandchild, Dawson Stach. She later married Dean Merryman who also preceded her in death. "(Was she hard on husbands?)."Margaret spent her early days raising children and then worked at Kingfisher Federal Savings and Loans. She started as a teller and worked way up to Loan Offices and board member.She was a member of Central Christian for 95 years. Anyone who wishes may make memorials to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and Traditions Hospice, with Henninger-Hinson as custodian.

The Celebration of life for Melissa Marie Cronister-Scanell, 49, of Enid will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024, in the Kremlin Community Center. Complete cremation care and services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home. Melissa was born November 4, 1974, to Cindy and Calvin Cronister in Enid, Oklahoma, and passed from this life June 13, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma, surrounded by family.She was raised and educated in Enid, graduating from Enid High School in 1993. She worked as a Certified Nurse Aide at Highland Park Manor until 2008 when she became medically unable due to an accident. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, sitting by the campfire, taking walks, searching for unique rocks, and watching documentaries on ITV. She was a free-spirited gypsy and a fierce protector of her family. She is survived by the love of her life, Justin Conrady; her mother and stepfather, Cindy and Robert Simmons; two children, Kesha Cronister and Colby Long and his wife, Justice; two grandchildren, Calvin and Riddian, and another due in September; a very special niece, Brianna Lynch; four sisters, Michelle Beutelschies and her husband Zack, Jennifer Johnson and her husband Brian, Jennifer Wilson and her husband Rodney, and Ashley Sanchez and her husband Dulce; two brothers, Josh Cronister and Bradley Simmons; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Calvin Cronister, and her grandparents. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

June 7, 1927 - June 16, 2024Funeral service for Bud Nagel, 97, of Garber, will be Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. in Anderson-Burris Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Jonathan Gilliland officiating. Burial will be at 1:00 p.m. in Garber Cemetery. Bud was born on June 7, 1927, in Newkirk, Oklahoma, to Albert Joseph and Martha (Matussak) Nagel and died on June 16, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma.He grew up in Billings and attended Mount Victory School. Bud worked many jobs, including a painter for Cessna and Boeing, a farmer in Billings and later had a dozer business. He then started Nagel & Son Construction and retired as a truck driver.Bud was preceded in death his two wives, Edith Nagel and Freida Nagel; parents; daughter, Lori Carter; son, Donnie Nagel; four sisters; and two brothers.He is survived by two sons and their wives, Darrin and Natalie Nagel and Deven and Angie Nagel, all of Garber; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; fur baby, Lucky; and other relatives and friends.Memorials may be made through Anderson-Burris to Garber Fire Department. Condolences may be made online at www.andersonburris.com.

April 20, 1926 - June 11, 2024Virgil Wayne McCray was born on April 20, 1926, in Grainola, OK.He grew up with 12 siblings and spent much of his time alongside his father, working in mechanics.In 1944, he was drafted for World War II, joining the Navy to battle the invasion of Okinawa. He spent the next 30 years serving his country, including both the Korean and Vietnam wars.In 1960, Virgil married his wife, Clara Chronister. They raised their two children, Rhonda and Travis, in San Diego, CA. After Navy retirement, Clara and Virgil spent the next 10 years traveling the states to visit family and friends in their RV camper. These were some of Virgil's most beloved memories, as he really enjoyed driving their RV and taking their grandkids places with them in it.The later years of his life were lived out in Hunter, OK, Vacaville, CA, and Norwalk, OH, living with different family members. He enjoyed the outdoors, staying active, farming, fishing, but nothing brought him more joy than his family.He leaves behind 2 children, 8 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren and many other family members who love and referred to him as Uncle Wayne, Grandpa, and Mac.

February 27, 1928 - May 26, 2024We regret to inform you that Max passed away while surrounded by his family and loved ones. He passed in Sugar Land, TX, on the 26th of May, 2024, at the age of 96. Max was born in Enid, OK, to Francis and Clayton Nelson.Max was raised on a wheat farm during the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl eras. He lived in Carrier, OK, until he graduated High School and attended the Oklahoma State University and earned a degree in Horticultural Landscaping.While attending he met and fell in love with Billie Carolyn King. His biggest challenge was convincing Billie that he was a worthy match! He did this by taking her on long Motorcycle rides and flying over the plains of Oklahoma in his surplus WW2 Piper Cub airplane. They were married January 28, 1948. After graduation Max and Billie tried their hands at wheat farming but quickly realized that the city life was preferable to the country. They moved to Tulsa and started on their greatest journey, growing and raising a family. They had four children: Michael Clayton (1952) married to Kathy, Timothy John (1953) married to Debra, Christopher Caldwell (1962) married to Joelle and Carolyn Kay (1963). He has four grandchildren: Matthew, Sarah, Katie, and Jocelyn. Max, Billie, and family were members of All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa. In 1976 Max, Billie, Christopher and Carolyn moved to Houston. Max was a successful advertising salesman and Real Estate broker; Billie took care of the home while Christopher and Carolyn went to school. Michael and Kathy moved to the Houston area and raised their family in Missouri City, TX. Timothy and Debra continue to live in Tulsa. Max was preceded in death by his beloved Billie in January 2020. Max was very clear that he missed Billie and was looking forward to seeing her again.In lieu of flower donations, please consider a donation to The American Cancer Society.

December 1, 1953 - May 23, 2024James F. Schallner, Jr., was born on December 1, 1953, in Cherokee, Oklahoma. He passed at home, surrounded by family, on May 23, 2024.James was the oldest of seven children born to Jim and Bessie Schallner. Raised in Helena, Oklahoma, James graduated from Helena Goltry High School in 1972, receiving Valedictorian honors, where he was not only a straight-A student but found time to participate and excel in a variety of sports including — and perhaps especially — football. He carried his memories and love of that experience throughout his life.After high school graduation he attended Oklahoma State University, where he majored in accounting, and there he met fellow OSU student Nancy Robertson, who would become his wife in 1979, the same year James started his accounting career with Deloitte Haskins & Sells in Tulsa. He was later hired by Jack Leming, of Leming Thomas & Co., where his expertise and impact began to extend to people across all of Oklahoma. He later was made managing partner and eventually owner of the company, changing its name to SES Group.An award-winning CPA by the Oklahoma Society of Public Accounting, James continued serving his many clients until a few weeks before his death.James was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Bessie Schallner, and his grandson, Greyson Allen Pitco*ck.He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Nancy; his son and wife, J. Bryan and Christie Schallner, of Richmond, Kentucky; his daughter and her husband, Jana and Colin Pitco*ck, of Prosper, Texas; and four grandchildren who always brought a smile to his face and pleasure in his heart, Cade and Gavan Schallner and Eli and Carys Pitco*ck.Survivors also include his six siblings and their spouses, residing throughout Oklahoma. They are Sue Henderson, of Alva; Jack Schallner, of Cookson; Judy Nelson, of Alva; Jay Schallner, of Oklahoma City; Janette Folger, of Helena; and Joyce Nash, of Ringwood. Also surviving are his sister-in-law, Lisa and and her spouse Vern Stefanic of Tulsa, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Private services were held.

August 21, 1930 - June 10, 2024A Celebration of Life Service for Lillian J. McGee, age 93, of Enid, will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 17, 2024, at Emmanuel Enid, with Rev. Shonn Keels officiating. Burial will follow in the Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. Lillian was born August 21, 1930, in Nash, Oklahoma, to Roy and Vera (Hayes) Kent and passed away June, 10, 2024, in her home.She grew up on a farm near Nash and attended and graduated as Salutatorian from Gore High School in 1947. She graduated from Phillips University in 1951 with a bachelor degree in Education. She taught grade school at Garfield Elementary and Emmanual Christian School.She married Charles Thomas McGee on July 14, 1951, in Nash, OK, and he passed away February 22, 2008. She was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School. She was a member of Garfield Co. Republican Women's Group and Retired Teachers Association. She volunteered teaching English as a second language and volunteered at the front desk at Integris Bass Baptist Hospital. She enjoyed writing short stories, playing the piano, and gardening. Lillian is survived by her children: Deanna Crabb and husband Dale, Steve McGee and wife Linda, and Andrea March-Crabb and husband David; four grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lila Woodrow and Nita Bradford; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Rita Ward and husband Bob Ward, brother-in-law Raymond Woodrow, and grandson-in-law Dean Wooten.Memorials may be made to OMRF Cancer division or Macular Degeneration Research, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds. Condolences may be made online and the service may be viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

May 31, 1945 - May 22, 2024A committal service for the cremains of Judie was held June 12, 2024, in Memorial Park Cemetery in Enid, Garfield County, Oklahoma.Judie was born May 31, 1945, in Vernon, Wilbarger County, Texas, to Eugene P. and Sarah "Lucille" (Boyle) Travis. After a long illness, she passed away May 22, 2024, at the Vitas Hospital in Allen, Collin County, Texas. Having been raised in Tillman and Garfield counties, in Oklahoma, Judie married Charles Olin Stover Dec. 27, 1963, in Enid. They divorced in 1979 in Texas, leaving no issue. She never remarried. Judie had been a long-term resident of Carrollton, Texas. She graduated in 1985 from the University of Texas at Dallas and had worked for many years for Thompson-Reuters Corporation before her retirement. Judie was proceeded in death by her parents, Eugene and Lucille Travis, and all of her eight siblings: Virginia "Louise" (Homer) Umbenhower of Los Angeles, CA, Charles "Bud" Vannoy (Anna) Travis of Enid, OK, Mary Ethel (Guido) Franciamore) of Enfield, CT, Betty Jean (Kelton) Keyes of Davidson, OK, Joan (Floyd) Brewer of Hutchinson, KS, Doris LaJune Travis of Davidson, OK, Ray Allen (Thelma) Travis of Enid, OK, and Ronald Eugene (Gloria) Travis of Oklahoma City, OK. Judie is survived by two in-laws, Thelma and Floyd and many nieces and nephews. Because of her infectious laugh, great smile and many kindnesses, she also leaves a vast host of endeared friends. Judie will be greatly missed!

Keith Baird Green died in Flagstaff, Arizona, on May 25, 2024, at the age of 77. He gained fleeting national attention on May 5, 1970, when, though legally blind, he was arrested by the University of Oklahoma police and the Norman police for the felony crime of "displaying a flag of disloyalty to the United States." Mr. Green, as a student at OU, had silently protested the death of four students at Kent State, Ohio, the day before and the President's direction to send military troops to Cambodia by displaying a "homemade Viet Cong" flag that had been used in a model United Nations, by waving the flag and weaving in and out among ROTC cadets at their weekly drill.When placed in the University police car for transport to the County Courthouse to be booked on a felony charge, somewhere between 800 and 1,000 University of Oklahoma students sat down, surrounding the police car so it could not move. Governor Bartlett called in members of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Law enforcement physically removed each student so the police car could leave the University campus and travel to the Courthouse. Keith did not arrive at the Courthouse to be booked and released on bail until 10:00 p.m.Again, his case attracted national attention when after contacting and speaking with twelve lawyers, he was unable to find a single one willing to represent him. He was told by one of the lawyers to contact a lawyer in Enid, Oklahoma, who had just moved there from Washington, D.C., and was establishing his practice. The Enid lawyer agreed to represent Keith on the felony charge of "displaying a flag of disloyalty." When the lawyer was discharged by his law firm for refusing to drop Keith's case, the firm sent out hundreds of notices that the lawyer had, effectively, been terminated from employment with the firm. Again, national media attention was focused on the case. Ultimately, Judge Elvin Brown, District Judge of Cleveland County, sustained the defense motion to dismiss on the grounds that the statute was unconstitutional as an abridgment of free speech, and the Supreme Court of the United States, more than 30 years before, had ruled similar statutes unconstitutional.Keith attended high school in Oklahoma City and graduated with a master's degree in experimental psychology from the University of Oklahoma, where he was an active member of the anti-Vietnam War movement of the late 1960's. While in college he traveled to family homes in England, Nigeria, Norway, and Venezuela as his father was an engineer at Texaco, Inc.After college, he soon put his degrees into practice as a dishwasher on the rim of the Grand Canyon, but in little time transitioned to the staff at Phantom Ranch where he became the unofficial local historian and long-time employee. He is known for his fierce Cribbage competition, enthralling Phantom Ranch slide shows and newsletter articles, and was currently writing a soon-to-be-published book about life at the bottom of the canyon in the 1970's. In spite of his visual limitations, he was an avid hiker, logging at least 120 treks to the rim and back. For 40 years he experienced much of the Grand Canyon by sound, particularly of the river and rustling trees.He was part of the Phantom Ranch wait/cook/maintenance/cleanup staff from 1975 until he began work for Grand Canyon National Park as an interpretive ranger, breaking another barrier as their first legally blind Ranger. Meanwhile, he met and married the love of his life, Nancy Rivest, and shared life together with her at the South Rim. After retiring in 2008, they built their "dream home" and moved to Parks, AZ, where they had legendary annual Summer Solstice parties on their deck overlooking the sunsets. Keith and Nancy were very active in the community, including Keith's memberships in Unity of Flagstaff and the local Lions Club. In 2021 the Grand Canyon Historical Society presented their "Pioneer Award" to Keith and Nancy honoring their 20 years of service. Keith loved to teach visitors about the wonders of the Grand Canyon.When Nancy's health no longer allowed them to reside in remote Parks, they moved to The Peaks in Flagstaff. After Nancy's passing in 2022, Keith moved to The Bluffs where he was residing at his death.Keith will be greatly missed by his wonderful TLC Caregivers, his Unity community, his sisters, Nancy and Elaine, his niece Erin and nephew Alex, his Grand Canyon "crew," and his Bluffs "Pub Buddies." If you were a friend to Keith, you were a friend for life!When Keith contacted the young Enid, Oklahoma, lawyer, because Keith could not drive as he was legally blind, he took a bus from Norman to Oklahoma City and then Oklahoma City to Enid, arriving at about 3:00 p.m. and walking to the Bass Building. The lawyer agreed to represent him, entered his appearance, and attended the preliminary hearing. When Keith was bound over for trial, he filed a Motion to Quash and Dismiss the charges as being in violation of the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. Judge Brown, as noted, sustained the Motion to Dismiss.Although the case, primarily because of the publicity announcing Mr. Stephen Jones' "resignation" from his law firm, attracted media attention, Mr. Jones remained in Enid and practiced law for the next 55 years, including many cases involving civil liberties and the First Amendment. After the day of the dismissal of the case and the exoneration of Keith's bail, the two men never met again. They only spoke once, when Keith's lawyer was appointed by the United States District Court, with the concurrence, it was reported, of the Chief Justice of the United States, to be the lead defense counsel for Timothy McVeigh. McVeigh was accused of the largest mass murder in American history, the detonation and explosion of a weapon of mass destruction in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Building on April 19, 1995. It was reported at the time that Mr. Jones' representation of Keith 25 years before was a major, though not the exclusive factor, in appointing Jones in this unprecedented murder case. Otherwise, Keith led a normal and obscure life in Arizona and his status of being legally blind did not prevent him from performing honorable work in and around the Grand Canyon.Upon notice of Keith's death, his lawyer of over 50 years ago issued a statement to Keith's family and the mourners, "Though legally blind, Keith and the defense of his case enlarged my vision of the responsibilities of a lawyer to defend the controversial, unpopular, and the condemned of our society. He, his case, and what happened during it changed my professional life and, ultimately, my personal life as no other."A celebration of the life of this "Legend of the Grand Canyon" will be at Shoshone Point at 3:00 on the upcoming Summer Solstice, June 20, 2024.

February 18, 1931 - June 10, 2024Funeral Mass for John E. Simunek will be 12:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Enid, with burial following in Bison Cemetery. A Rosary Service will be 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 13th, at St. Francis Xavier. Viewing will be at Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home beginning at 8:00 a.m. Thursday. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.John was born in Bison, Oklahoma, to Louis and Lillian (Drapela) Simunek on February 18, 1931, and passed away Monday, June 10, 2024.John grew up on the family farm, in Bison, homesteaded by his grandparents. He knew hard work and dedication as a life-long farmer. He attended Bison schools. He served in the U.S. Army in the Korean War from 1952-1954.On April 30, 1960, he married Arlene Long at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Bison, Oklahoma. They lived on the family farm until they retired to Enid in 2014. He loved and was very proud of his family. He was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Bison and later St. Francis Xavier in Enid. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the American Legion.John is survived by his wife of 64 years, Arlene Simunek of the home in Enid, and his three children, Scott (Babby) Simunek, of Bison, Stephanie (Ron) Willis, of Enid, and James (Carri) Simunek, of Bison. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Fr. Alexander Kroll of Edmond, Haylie (Troy) Wilczek of Waukomis, Andi (Reese) Ralls of Edmond, Colton Simunek of Bison; two great-granddaughters, Hudsyn and Hayden Wilczek; sister-in-law, Ann Simunek; brother-in-law Jerry (Shari) Long; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Tonie Janky, and brothers Ernest, Frank and Albert Simunek.Memorial contributions in John's name may be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church or Our Daily Bread, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

June 5, 1926 - June 9, 2024The Services for Norma Ruth Miller (Carl) will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, at Zion Lutheran Church in Fairmont, Oklahoma. Arrangements will be under the direction of Henninger-Hinson Funeral Home. A private family burial will precede the service.Norma Ruth was born June 5, 1926, in Douglas, Oklahoma, to Lloyd and Lala Carl and passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024. She spent many happy years growing up on the farm with her brother, Martin, who predeceased her in September 2023. She attended Fairview School then Douglas High School — graduating in 1944 — where she met her future husband, Alden Miller. After finishing business school, she began working at Champlin. On August 5, 1945, she married Alden when he returned from World War ll. They made their farm home in the Douglas area where she worked several years at the Douglas Co-Op Elevator while helping A.C farm.After raising their two daughters, Cheryl and Claudia, Norma Ruth and Alden joyously entertained their grandsons on their farm. Many happy memories are engrained in the boys' minds: like throwing rocks in the pond, learning to hit a baseball, riding four wheelers, and all the fun things farm kids do. They later retired in Enid and had happy times with Martin and Kay Carl as well as Deanna and Ronnie Miller, their brothers and sisters-in-law.She is survived by her daughters, Cheryl (Don) Dennis and Claudia Finnegan; grandchildren, Ryan (Cicily) Staerkel, Chad (Ramee) Staerkel, Hayden (Lindsay) Staerkel, Riley (Courtney) Dennis, Donna Cipaldi (Ben), Phil Finnegan, Mike (Krista) Finnegan, Doug (Amy) Finnegan; 13 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Kay Carl, Deanna Miller, and Yvonne Miller.She is preceded in death by her husband of 61 years Alden, grandson Brent Hunter, brother Martin Carl, infant brother Bruce Carl, and parents Lloyd and Lala Carl.The family suggest if anyone wishes to make memorials they be made to the church or Enid SPCA.

The Home-going service celebrating and honoring the life of Mark Gracey, 65, of Enid, will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, in the First Missionary Baptist Church, with Reverend Chuck Kearney officiating. Services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home. Mark Anthony Gracey was born September 19, 1958, to John H. Gracey and Zora Nadean Bell in Enid, Oklahoma. He was raised and educated in Enid, graduating from Enid High School with the class of 1976. He began his career working at Safeway, then transitioned to a career of 20 years at Vance Air Force Base as a flight line mechanic, while also working part-time in the electronic department at Kmart until he was medically unable in 2007. He met and married Stephanie Lennox, and from this union came two children, Alison and Brittany. Mark enjoyed watching NASCAR, traveling, working, and tinkering on cars. He also loved spending time with family and friends and going to the casino. Mark was a very kindhearted, caring person, who loved to help. He is survived by his daughters, Alison Gracey, of Moore, and Brittany Gracey, of Enid; four grandchildren, Londyn, Legend, LeVian, and Izabela; three brothers, Vincent, Theo, and Julian Gracey, and one sister, Erma Leak, all of Enid OK; and numerous other family members and friends.He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Nadean Gracey, and four siblings, John Jr., Richard, Phil, and Patricia. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

August 6, 1931 - June 9, 2024After almost 93 years of experience Rosalie Mirkes earned her heavenly wings in Stillwater, Oklahoma, on June 9th 2024. She was a devoted farmer's wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.She was born August 6th, 1931, to Raymond Iven and Agnes "Vaverka" Iven in the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Vaverka Sr., of Bison, Oklahoma. Rosalie Iven married Nick Mirkes in Hennessey, Oklahoma, on June 1, 1949. They farmed and ranched in the Lovell, Marshall, Douglas, and Hennessey areas for many years.Rosalie is survived by two sons, Jim Mirkes and wife Kay of Frisco, Texas, and Keith Mirkes and wife Rita Veal of Stillwater, Oklahoma; two daughters, Brenda Tripp and husband Gary of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Diana Schutte and husband John, "AKA Butch," of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; three sisters-in-law, Lucy Turner of Huntsville, Alabama., Rita O'Hern of McComb, Illinois, and Phylis Mirkes of Hennessey, Oklahoma; ten grandchildren, Rayna Crain, Justin Mirkes, Chris Mirkes, Curtis Mirkes, Craig Mirkes, Brian Vogel, Mark Vogel, Kevin Vogel, Brad Schutte, Katie Schutte; and twenty-three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Nick, son-in-law Sammie Vogel, and great-grandchild Ashley Vogel.Rosary will be 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2024, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Hennessey. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday June 14, 2024, at St. Josephs, with Rev. Edward Menasco officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery under the direction of Cordry-Gritz Funeral Home.Donations may be made in her name to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Autism Speaks, or The Alzheimer's Association, with the funeral home serving as custodian of the fund.

Services celebrating and honoring the life of Wesley Andrew Allen, 62, of Enid, will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024, at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, with the Rev. Dr. John Toles officiating. Interment will be at the columbarium at St. Matthew's church. Services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home. Andrew was born March 10, 1962, to Wayne and Owanna Allen in Springfield, Illinois, and passed from this life June 2, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma.He was raised and educated in Springfield, graduating high school in 1980 from the Center for Alternative Education. He then worked as a musician and bartender. In 1987 he married Elizabeth Ann Hilligoss in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, after which the couple moved to Flint, Michigan, while his wife completed her internship. They moved to Enid, in 1988, where Andrew worked as a bartender at various establishments, including Frisco Bar, where he met many people who would become longtime friends. Andrew was passionate about ensuring justice for Native Americans and was a videographer with the Native American Network, covering the Leonard Peltier case and the religious freedom case for Native Americans at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. An avid reader and lifelong learner, particularly in the subjects of religion and philosophy, in 2010 he completed the Education for Ministry (EFM) from the School of Theology, University of the South.Family and friends will remember Andrew for his wit and irreverent sense of humor, and his ability to laugh at both the world's foibles and his own, in all situations, good and bad. He loved the outdoors, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping.Andrew's pride and joy was his family, and he found the greatest meaning in his role as a loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather. Gregarious, outgoing, and quick to take an interest in and help others, he was also blessed with many dear friends and "bonus sons" whom he loved deeply.He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Allen of Enid; his sons, Milo Allen (Shaney and Lyric), of Tonkawa, and Noah Allen (Kelsey), of Guthrie; sisters Christina Danielle Allen and Kelly Allen; the light of his life, granddaughter Lucy Allen; nephews, Moses, Clovis, and Solomon Allen; mother-in-law, Margaret Moss; father-in-law, Dr. David Hilligoss; brothers-in-law, George and Matthew Hilligoss; and best friend, David Kuner.Andrew was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law John Paul Hilligoss.Memorial gifts may be made in honor of Andrew Allen to the National Foundation for Transplant or St. Matthew's Episcopal Church (funds for St. Crispin's Church Camp scholarships) with Brown-Cummings. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

September 7, 1924 - June 9, 2024A Celebration of Life service for Orval Nichols, age 99, of Enid, will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Crosspoint Church, with Rev. Mike Sommerfeld officiating. Burial will follow in the Enid Mennonite Brethren Cemetery, under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. Orval was born September 7, 1924, in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, to Ernst and Cora (Morris) Nichols and went to our Lord and Savior on June 9, 2024.He grew up in Enid and lived here all his life. He served in the U.S. Army and served in Germany and France. He and Ruth Pennick were married January 27, 1945. He had many different jobs, including farming, railroad and City of Enid. He joined the Enid Police Department in March 1960, and retired August of 1989 at the rank of Captain. He had a great sense of humor and loved to tell his many stories. Horses were a huge interest. Orval's life was eternally changed on a dirt road near Dover, when he accepted Christ as his savior. As a result, he is now rejoicing in Heaven, and he leaves a legacy of Christian influence. Orval and Ruth were married 57 years before her death on July 17, 2001. They had five children: Sherryl Perry of Tampa, FL, the late Barbara Post (David) of Austin, TX, Tim (Vanita) Nichols of Houston, TX, Tom (Lori) Nichols of Enid, Amy (Archie) Siebert of Enid; 8 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and several more family and many friends. Orval was preceded in death by his wife Ruth, a daughter Barbara, and five siblings. Memorials may be made to Crosspoint Church or Grace Mennonite Church, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory serving as custodian of the funds. Condolences may be made, memories shared, and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

November 2, 1965 - June 2, 2024Robert Blythe Mick III passed away June 2nd, 2024. Robert (Bob) was born on November 2nd, 1965 in Newton, New Jersey, to the late Robert Blythe Mick Jr. and Patricia Young.He is survived by his wife Laurie Mick, of Enid Oklahoma; daughter Kayla Dawn Mick and Richard of Oklahoma City; Grandchildren Abigail Gwendolyn Heraldez and Antonio Blythe Heraldez of Oklahoma City; Mother Patricia Young of Oklahoma City; Step-Mother Lorna Mick of Colorado; Siblings Jeff Mick and fiancé Amy of Las Vegas, Nevada, Shannon Mick of Oklahoma City, Melanie Mick of Colorado, Megan and Kyle Williams of Oklahoma City, and Chelsi Young of Oklahoma City; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.Loved by everyone he met, Bobby was always there for family and friends when needed. He had a great love for the Oklahoma Sooners and enjoyed all sports. He loved spending time with his grandkids, doing art and famously building amazing Lego structures with and for them. His love for his wife Laurie was always evident as they built a life together full of family get-togethers, camping trips, road trips, OU football games with dear friends Seth and LeeAnn, and always being present for his daughter Kayla in big ways and small. He loved Kayla infinitely and was immensely proud of her. With his gentle spirit, he was a renowned baby and dog whisperer, gave the very best bear hugs, and was a wiz at anything music related. Hum a few bars of any song and he could tell you the song title and the band name. Bobby was generous soul and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

September 29, 1939 - June 3, 2024Celebration of Life for Helga Hardin, 84, of Enid, OK, will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Wilson Funeral Home, Pond Creek, OK, with the Rev. Randy Kiel officiating.Helga was born September 29, 1939, in Mannheim, Germany, the daughter of George and Ella Bolldorf. She passed on June 3, 2024, in Enid, OK.She grew up in Germany and attended school there. She met Ray Crow while he was in the service there and married September 2, 1959, in Mannheim, Germany. In January 1960 they arrived stateside and lived in Fort Polk, LA, then later transferred back to Germany. In 1968 they moved to Pond Creek to make their home. Helga was a homemaker until the summer of 1975 when she began working for the Medford Nursing Home. In the fall of 1975, she began working for the Pond Creek-Hunter School as a cook in the cafeteria, where she later became manager.On April 4, 1977, Helga became a U.S. citizen, which was one of the proudest days of her life. On June 27, 1980, she married Bill Hardin. She retired from the school system in May 1997. She enjoyed painting, gardening, dancing, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Helga will be remembered for her loving heart and giving manner.Surviving Helga are Daughter, Patty Lorenz (Monty); Son, Robert Crow (Lisa); Stepdaughter, Sharon Mitchell; 8 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.Helga is preceded in death by her Spouse, Bill Hardin; Spouse, Ray Crow; Son, Ronnie Crow; parents; sisters, Sonya and Rosemarie; brothers, Andreas and Christian.Memorials can be made to the Pond Creek-Hunter school, memo Cafeteria fund.

July 28, 1952 - May 26, 2024Ben Franklin Cooper, 71, was born on July 28, 1952 in Gainesville, MO, and passed away May 26, 2024.He grew up surrounded by his family and many friends. He graduated High School from Ames, Oklahoma, before spending time in the Navy, He worked in the Oilfield, Farming and as a Carpenter. Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Ola Ray and Virginia Cooper, and Brothers Charles Cooper and Terry Cooper.He is survived by his Daughter, Rachael Cooper; granddaughter, Evian Cooper; Brothers, Clifford Cooper (wife Juanita) and Danny Woodruff (Wife Linda); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.Ben had a big heart, was a strong believer in God and would help anyone in need. He will be deeply missed. A Private service for Ben will be Friday, June 7, 2024.

February 5, 1952 - May 22, 2024Harry M. Rector III, "Rick" to all who knew him, died May 22, 2024, at Albany Medical Center, N.Y. He was 72. Rick was born in Enid, OK, the son of Harry M. Rector, Jr., and Jeane Rector. Inspired by the birth of "Little Ricky" on "I Love Lucy," his mother started calling him "Little Ricky," and the name stuck.Rick graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1974. He began his career in fashion at Harold's, in Norman, OK, then Nieman Marcus, in Dallas, TX, where he became the company's youngest-ever vice president. In 1985, he moved to New York, N.Y., where he held, consecutively, several executive positions: senior vice president at Bergdorf Goodman, corporate president for retail and retail development for Calvin Klein, and president of Isaac Mizrahi. He was the rare human with a great deal to brag about who never bothered to brag.In 2010, Rick settled in Hudson, N.Y., where he devoted his energy and expertise to public service. In 2011, he was appointed to the city's Historic Preservation Commission. He chaired the commission from 2013 until 2015, when he became a member of the Common Council, the city's legislative body. In 2017, he was elected mayor of Hudson, an office he held for one term. He currently served on the Columbia County Industrial Development Agency and was vice chair of the Columbia Economic Development Corporation.Rick was predeceased by his father, Harry Rector; his mother, Jeane Branen; his stepfather, Basil Branen; and his beloved dog, Lucy. He is survived by his three sisters: Susan Scarberry, of Orange Park, FL; Roslyn Wilken, of Enid, OK; and Marilyn Pearce, of Cape Canaveral, FL; nieces and nephews; and a community that mourns his loss.A celebration of his life will be at Hudson Hall at the historic Hudson Opera House, 327 Warren Street, in Hudson, N.Y., on Friday, June 7, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HistoricHudson.org.

March 14, 1990 - June 2, 2024Funeral services for Heather Marie Patton, 34, of Enid, will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Oakwood Christian Church, with Pastor Alan Seibel officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 7th, at Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home. Heather was born in Enid, Oklahoma, on March 14, 1990, and passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, in Enid. Heather was a free spirit and was born to run. She loved chasing her dreams and excelled in being a hard worker. While in high school, she shined on the softball field and basketball court. She was ornery and loved to joke around and laugh. Heather never met a stranger. She loved her people and enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and dogs. Heather fought hard her entire life. She had a big heart and enjoyed living life to the fullest. The love of her life was her son, Nikolai. He was her world. She was an amazing mom.Heather is preceded in death by paternal grandfather, Richard Patton; maternal grandmother, Dana Swiggett; step-grandmother, Kim Swiggett; and cousin, Derek Burnett. She is survived by parents, Rick and Emily Patton, of the home in Enid; son, Nikolai Patton; four brothers, Dustin and Bryce Patton, Riley Thompson, and Justin La Presta; paternal grandmother, Jalene Patton; maternal grandfather, Vernon Swiggett; maternal grandparents, Ron and June Hoffman; as well as uncles, aunts, cousins, and many friends.Memorial contributions in Heather's name may be made to the Nikolai Arthur Patton Education Fund, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

October 3, 1950 - June 2, 2024A Celebration of Life for Janet Sue Coats, 73, of Fairmont, will be 10 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church of Enid, with Pastor Devon Krause officiating. Burial will follow in Paradise Cemetery, Breckenridge, Oklahoma, under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 9th, at the funeral home. Janet passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on June 2, 2024. Janet Sue Young was born on October 3, 1950, in Russell, KS, to Altha A. (John) Young and Valeta Ruth Barton Burris. She had eight siblings. She met her soulmate/husband at A&W Drive Inn in June 1969 in Enid, OK. Their romance blossomed quickly. Terry and Janet were wed on August 22, 1970, in Enid, OK. They had a humble beginning and learned to survive on their love alone, a quality that remained throughout their entire marriage.Janet and Terry made their home on a farm near Fairmont, OK. Janet worked primarily as a Health Information Management Clerk for St. Mary's Regional Medical Center for over 30 years. She was a valued employee and was recognized as "Employee of the Month" multiple times during her tenure. She also made great friendships while working at St. Mary's, many that would last a lifetime. In addition, she held several part-time jobs over the years to help make ends meet for her family.Janet was involved in several social clubs and organizations where she often donated her free time. Janet and Terry also operated a fireworks stand in Garber, OK, for 32 years, becoming a summertime staple for residents of Garber and the surrounding communities. She was also a vital part of her Mother and Father-in-law's farming operation, where she spent time on the road with the Coats Custom Cutting harvest crew, and helping where she could on the farms near Breckinridge, OK.Janet's life-long dream came true in 1979 when she became a mother. Her four children were her everything, and she always went above and beyond to ensure they were happy and healthy. She was persistent in teaching her children the importance of their faith, treating people with kindness and respect, doing the very best you can, helping those in need, doing the right thing — even when no one is watching and working hard to accomplish your goals. When her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were born, her love for her family grew even more. She took her role as "Grammy" very seriously, and she did everything in her power to show up, encourage and cheer on her grandchildren, no matter the sport or activity they were involved in. Outside of family, Janet enjoyed traveling. In recent years, Janet and Terry took multiple trips with their friends and kids, creating precious memories that will last forever. She was survived by her husband of 53 years, Terry Lee Coats, of the home, and four children, Katrina Sue Coats of Vallejo, CA, Kristina Lee Coats of El Reno, OK, Kourtney David Coats and wife, Sarah, of Enid, OK, and Kendra Elizabeth Coats of Edmond, OK; Siblings, Terrell Young and wife Christine, John Young and wife Janet, Stacey Briggs and husband Danny, Jennifer Glynn and husband Robert, Lisa Moeder and husband Bennett, Lori Werth and husband Harland; Grandchildren, Brandon and Makaylah Morgan, Justin, Alexandria and Victoriana Jackson, Keagan and Jennings Schnebel, and Wesely and Wyatt Coats; 7 great-grandchildren; 2 aunts; 1 uncle; many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.She was proceeded in death by her parents, Altha A. (John) Young and Valeta Ruth Barton Burris; Stepmother, Patricia Young; In-laws, Gary and Mary Jean Coats; Brother, Gary Doty; Niece, Danielle Briggs; and Nephew, Dylan Young.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can made in her honor to The Gospel of Life Association, Moore, OK, and Paradise Cemetery, Breckinridge, OK, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

The memorial service celebrating and honoring the life of Samantha Kay Morgaridge, 43, of Enid, will be held 6:00 p.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home.Samantha Kay Morgaridge was born October 14, 1980, in Enid, OK, to Harry Morgaridge and Diane Morgaridge, and left this earth May 29, 2024.She attended Enid Public Schools and graduated from Enid High School in 2000. She was active in band and as a youngster she played softball. After she got her first gun she enjoyed going target practicing with her mom.She had a giving heart, even when hers was failing. She would help her friends in any way she could. Although it was not our earthly plan for her to leave, God has a better plan for her. And God knows best.Her greatest love was her four-legged buddy Stache. He will miss her dearly. Her late dogs Prince, Reece and Ruby and her late ferret Rascal she loved so much.She is survived by her mother, Diane Morgaridge; her sister, Kristy Sturgeon and her husband Tim; nephew, Kuyler Sturgeon; her dad, Harry Morgaridge; step-sister, Betty Kliewer; step-brother, Link Setser; her best friends, Mandy Damon, Tamika Hudgens, Kesha Morgan; and numerous other friends and relatives.In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the American Heart Association, with Brown-Cummings Funeral Home acting as custodian of the funds.Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

October 1, 1935 - May 22, 2024Leroy M. Milton, M.D., a beloved physician and community leader, passed away peacefully at the age of 88. Born in 1935 near Shawnee, Oklahoma, he graduated from Bethel High School in 1952 and continued his education at Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine. Dr. Milton served as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force Medical Corps from 1963 to 1965 before beginning a distinguished 60-year career in private practice in McAlester, Oklahoma. He played a key role in developing McAlester Regional Hospital, serving as Chief of Staff and holding various leadership positions.Married to his beloved wife, Kathryn, since 1957, Leroy was a devoted family man, raising four children: Susan, John, James (Robin), and Mark (Nicole). He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Austin, Lauren, Alex, Emily, Alice, and Sam.Dr. Milton also served on the Oklahoma Council on Judicial Complaints and had passions for landscape photography, history, classic jeeps, and music. His legacy of compassion, dedication, and service will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.Friends may honor Leroy's memory with contributions to the Saint Simeon's Foundation, saintsimeons.org, or the OSU Foundation, osugiving.com.Memorial Service will be held 3:00 p.m. Sunday, June 9th, at Fitzgerald Ivy Chapel 1402 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa, OK.

April 25, 1957 - May 22, 2024Nancy was born April 25, 1957, in Electra, TX, to Bill and Nelda Fowler. She passed from this life Wednesday afternoon, May 22, 2024, in Wakita, OK, at the Community Health Center. She was receiving hospice care for an aggressive and metastatic lung cancer. She moved to Medford, just prior to entering grade school, with her family. She completed both grade school and high school in Medford and has been a resident of the community the majority of her adult life. Nancy married George Williams on December 22, 1994, in Medford, where they continued to live. She attended the Medford Church of Christ and was a longtime employee of Margie's, the Jiffy Trip, and Crossroads Country Market.Nancy loved her family and friends deeply, including her cats! She enjoyed an ice cold Pepsi or Vanilla co*ke, along with a wicked sense of humor!Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Nelda Fowler; her sister, Carolyn Reith; and her husband, George. She is survived by her sister, Marilyn Hasler, along with many nieces and nephews.There will be no memorial service at Nancy's request. Memorial donations may be made to the Community Health Center of Wakita in her name.

The services celebrating and honoring the life of Linda F. Pendland Bair, 74, of Enid, will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, in the University Place Christian Church, with Reverend Porter officiating. Burial will follow in the Waukomis Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home. Linda, the first of nine children, was born July 7, 1949, to Charles Ray Pendland and Elsie Hayes in Fairview, Oklahoma, and passed from this life May 23, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma.She was raised and educated in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and later moved with her family to Enid, where she graduated from Enid High School.She married Alonzo Bair February 23, 1967, in Enid, and from this union came one daughter, Connie. She worked at Young Blood Motel for seventeen years as a housekeeper and elevator operator until its closing. She then worked in home health as a nurse's aide for many years, retiring in 2014. She was a faithful member of University Place Christian Church; she loved the Lord and enjoyed crocheting and spending time with her daughter. She is survived by her daughter, Connie Payne and husband Bennie, of Enid; one sister; and one brother. She was preceded in death by her husband A.J. Bair, three sisters, and three brothers. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

February 22, 1933 - May 29, 2024A Mass of Christian Burial for Jo Ann Palovik, age 91, of Enid, will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 7, 2024, at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, with Father Mark Mason officiating. Burial will be 3:00 p.m. Friday, June 7, 2024 at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery in Perry, OK. A Rosary will take place Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home, under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. Jo Ann was fond of saying, "This too shall pass;" well she was correct. Our sweet mom, memaw, great-memaw left her earthly body and met our Heavenly father on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.Jo Ann was born February 22, 1933, in Fairview, OK, to Veva Mae and Joe Howerton. She was educated in rural schools, and graduated from Longdale High School, followed by graduating from the Blackwell General Hospital School of Nursing. Jo Ann began her 40+ year nursing career at Perry Memorial Hospital, the ultimate nurse, (teasingly called Nurse Nancy); Jo Ann was always mending her kids, neighbors, and patients, and at times the family pets. After retirement, she volunteered with senior citizens centers and nutrition centers. At the age of 81, she "needed to take care of these old people", which where her neighbors at her assisted living complex, most younger than her. Even up to her last days, she would try to join in on the shift change debriefs at her care center.Jo Ann and Duane E. Palovik where married on April 17, 1955, and they started their married life in Newkirk, OK, where they had four children and lived for 24 years. In 1979, they moved back to Perry. Even with a busy career and raising children, Jo Ann had a deep commitment to her church and community. She served as a member of the St. Francis of Assisi and St. Rose of Lima, along with decorating the church during the holidays. Her community involvement included being on the Board of the Pioneer Vo-Tech and serving a term as president. She was also a member of the Perry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Perry Noon Lions Club, and the Perry Elks Lodge Elkeets. From 1996 to 2006, Jo Ann was the volunteer manager of the Perry Memorial Hospital Gift Shop. She was the Beta Sigma Phi Woman of the year in 2005.Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, husband Duane, friend Ferguson Hussey, and sister Della Huckleberry. She is survived by four children, Michael Palovik and wife Jan of Marlow, OK, Stephen Palovik and significant other Sheri Donaldson of Wichita, KS, Dana McDaniel and husband Barry of Enid, OK, Dee Niles of Edmond, OK; five grandchildren, Michelle Franks and husband Joe of Duncan, OK, John M. Palovik and wife Jessie of Edmond, OK, Chad McDaniel and wife Betsy of Enid, OK, Krista Dixon and husband Ben of Moore, OK, Erik McDaniel of Tulsa, OK; ten great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions in Jo Ann's name may be made to American Cancer Society, St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, or St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

April 19, 1962 - December 28, 2023A memorial service celebrating and honoring the life of Valarie Galbraith will be held privately. Complete cremation care was under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home. Valarie Galbraith was born in Long Beach, California, April 19, 1962, to Thomas and Janet Galusha Ramsey. She slipped away December 28, 2023.She is survived by her two sons, Jason Miller and Richard Galbraith; her mother, Janet Ramsey; sisters, Leslie Reynolds and Kellie Barney; half-brother, Jason Ramsey; stepbrother, Tim Ramsey; and many cousins.Valarie attended Chisholm School system from elementary through high school. After graduating high school, she attended Enid Beauty College. She owned her own beauty salon for over thirty years, Tangles Too and Val's Hair Care Salon. Valarie enjoyed many lifelong friendships with Janet Barney, Sharon Preston, fiancé Peter Porter, and her dog Tigger. Valarie fought cancer for five years courageously with a smile.In lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity, love your family and friends, and enjoy life. Support someone with cancer and their caregivers.We love and miss you Valarie. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

August 25, 2004 - May 26, 2024Funeral services for Alissa Grace Harding, age 19, of Jet, will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at the Faith Center in Meno, Oklahoma, with Pastor Cody Anderson officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 30th, at Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.Alissa was born August 25, 2004, in Enid, Oklahoma, to Chris and Codi (Hornberger) Harding, and passed away Sunday, May 26, 2024, in Salt Plains Park, Jet, Oklahoma.She attended Pioneer-Pleasant Vale Schools until her senior year, and then graduated from Timberlake High School in 2023. While attending school, she participated in softball, winning many conference championships as a team, as well as three District Championships from 2019-2021; Skeltur Conference Champs 2019-2021; HWY 81 Classic Champs, 2021. She was named to the Skeltur All Conference Team, 2020-2021; Tri-County All Conference Team, 2021; and Cherokee Strip All Conference Team, 2022. She was also a four-year starter between her time at Pioneer and Timberlake Schools. Alissa loved animals and being outdoors, spending time with her friends and her family. She is preceded in death by her maternal great-grandmother, Joan Bohannan; paternal great-grandfather, Edgar Harding; and paternal great-grandparents, Robert and Anita Stebbins. She is survived by her parents, Chris and Codi Harding, of the home in Jet; two brothers, Clayton and Carson Harding; maternal grandparents, Dale and Susan Hornberger, of Waukomis; paternal grandparents, Steve and Tammy Harding, of Salisaw, OK; paternal grandparents, Carl and Sheryl Mootz, of Enid; paternal great-grandmother, Jean Harding, of Bennington, NE; uncle, Mason Hornberger and wife Shelly and their son Aaron, of Waukomis; aunt, Ashley and Dakota Harding, Oklahoma City; aunt, Chelsi Mootz, of Enid; as well as numerous great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins and numerous friends.We as a family would like to thank our 'village' that has played a part in raising such a wonderful child. You provided an integral role in helping to mold Alissa into the person she is. Everyone from coaches, teachers, school administrators, friends, family and co-workers; we cannot take all the credit!In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in Alissa's name are made to the Alissa Grace Memorial Fund, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

December 31, 1925 - May 27, 2024Marie Woodbury was welcomed Home and into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Monday, May 27, 2024. A celebration of her life will be held at the Anderson Burris Funeral Home Chapel on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Anderson Burris Funeral Home and Crematory.Marie was born in Carmen, OK, on December 31, 1925, to Ernie and Stella Jamison.She graduated from Enid High School, Class of 1944. In 1946, Marie met and fell in love with a handsome young soldier, Earl Woodbury. Earl's cousin Leota introduced them through the church. Their first date was going to a basketball game that neither of them were really interested in, but it was a great way to spend some time together.Earl and Marie married August 23, 1947. They were blessed with two daughters, Linda and Jane. They raised their family in The Wesleyan Methodist Church.In her early married years, Marie wrote for the social column and obituaries for the Enid Publishing Co. Marie later became a dedicated homemaker and accomplished seamstress. Marie considered it an honor to work for the election board for many years. Earl and Marie were married 61 years before Earl's passing in 2009. Marie has been reunited in Heaven with her husband, Earl; beloved mother whom she lost far too young; her father; an infant half-brother; as well as numerous, cherished friends. Those left to celebrate the life of their beloved family matriarch is her daughter and caregiver, Jane Grooms; daughter, Linda Fillwock and husband Dennis; grandchildren, Amy Popham and her family James and Marossie, Kelly Merrill and his family Kristin and Kambry, Andrew Merrill and his family Jessica and Lincoln, Chris Fillwock and wife Tenille, Beth Maitz and her family Charlie, Cadence, Gabby and Sloane. Marie's family will miss her deeply but are rejoicing her arrival into The Kingdom of Heaven. She lived her entire life with her eyes faithfully set on The Lord. Knowing that she's been welcomed home and heard the words, "Well done my good and faithful servant" is all that her family could ever want for her. Online guestbook and condolences at www.andersonburris.com.

January 13, 1955 - May 22, 2024A Celebration of Life for Barbara Ann Stonehocker, age 69, of Drummond, will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Vernon Lee officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home & Crematory.Barbara was born January 13, 1955, in Vinita, Oklahoma, to Robert and Alice (Wilson) Meeks, and passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.Barbara's life was defined by her ability to overcome adversity, her caring nature, her profound love for her family, the beauty of roses. Raised in Vinita, she enjoyed both riding and teaching her horse to square dance on her family's farm. She also cherished the time spent tending to the cows and chickens with her grandparents.Barbara was quick with a smile and always putting the needs of others before her own. Her compassionate spirit was felt by all who knew her, and she touched countless lives with her generosity and warmth. She later moved to and graduated high school in Fairview, Oklahoma.She then married David Stonehocker and raised two sons in Fairview. As a devoted mother, Barbara's children were her pride and joy, and she dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting them in every way. In her words, "Those two boys were the one thing I did right."Whether it come to nursing, working as a cook, or working as a driver, Barbara had the uncanny ability to mentor people and bring out the best in everyone. Barbara believed in treating people like family, listening to and providing guidance, and making everyone's day better, even after retirement. Many people stayed in contact with her and were grateful for her guidance, love, and support.Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Robert, and Alice Meeks; brother, Billy Joe Meeks; and sister, Norma Koehn-Brown. She is survived by her sons, Justin Stonehocker and wife, Mandy, of Coweta, OK, and Robert Stonehocker of Drummond; three grandchildren, Caelen Hendrix of Coweta, Josiah Stonehocker of Colorado Springs, CO, Prestin Stonehocker of Coweta; two brothers, Jimmy Wilson of Mount Vernon, MO, and Bobby Meeks, of Meno, OK; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends.Memorial contributions in Barbara's name may be made to Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Women's Resource Center, in Barbara's honor, to continue spreading the kindness and love she so effortlessly gave to the world, with Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home serving as the custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made, memories shared, and services viewed online at www.ladusauevans.com.

Memorial services honoring the life of Butch Bledsoe, 85, of Enid, will be 11:00 a.m. Friday May 31, 2024, in the Brown-Cummings Funeral Home Chapel. Services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home.Condolences may be shared at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

March 22, 1946 - May 5, 2024Dennis William Myers was born March 22, 1946, to John and Isabelle Myers. He was raised on a farm in Shippensburg, PA, with his brothers Bob and Greg and sister Beverly.After high school he joined the Air Force, became an aircraft mechanic, working on fighter jets, and found a love for all things mechanical. He travelled extensively and enjoyed sharing stories of his adventures.In 1971, he married Sandi McMichael and together they raised four children, Scott Aebersold of Washington, Julie Miller, Shelley Singleton and John Myers of Oklahoma. He retired from his civilian career at Vance AFB after 29 years.He is preceded in death by his wife, Sandi, after 40 years of marriage; his parents and brother Bob.He passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family on May 5, 2024. He left behind 4 kids, 14 grands and 11 greats to join Sandi, the love of his life, in the world beyond. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to Tunnel to Towers or the charity of your choice.

February 2, 1935 - May 19, 2024The services celebrating and honoring the life of Wayne Leon Cornish, 89, of Enid, formerly of Waukomis, will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday May 29, 2024, in Waukomis Christian Church, with Pastor David Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Waukomis Cemetery. A visitation will be held 5:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday May 28, 2024, in the Brown-Cummings Celebration home. Services are under the direction of Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home. Wayne was born February 2, 1935, to Cecil E. and Juanita (Dick) Cornish, on the family farm in Waukomis, Oklahoma, where he lived most his life, and passed from this life May 19, 2024, in Enid, Oklahoma. He was raised and educated in Waukomis, graduating from Waukomis High School. At the age of thirteen, alongside his father, he began working as a contract rodeo performer, rodeo clown, and bull fighter. In 1953 he began to work professionally. He joined the PRCA and began The Roman team, a two-horse team, that he stood upon, with one foot on each of their backs, while they performed tricks.He enjoyed performing for more than twenty-two years; through good times and not so good times he remained a "Real Cowboy". In 1971 he and his father found that "rodeo had changed"; it was then that they decided to retire. A barrel that he used in his act is located today in the Rodeo Hall of Fame along with his picture. He then worked driving cattle and horses, hauling some of the greatest in history.He was a member of the PRCA and Waukomis Christian Church. He received the Andy Womack Memorial Award and has been nominated for the Rodeo Hall of Fame. He enjoyed spending time with his rodeo clown friends at rodeo clown reunions around the country, attending rodeos, fishing, listening to country music, tinkering in his woodworking shop, and spending time with his family: Always wearing a pressed shirt, creased jeans, and a clean cowboy hat. He is survived by two daughters, Shawna Pitman and husband Dean, of Drummond, Jacquetta Perry and husband Brett, of Waukomis; grandchildren, Madison Roads and Cody Perry, of Waukomis; one great-granddaughter, Kinsley; and numerous other loved ones and family friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Juanita Cornish; one daughter, Donna Kay; his wife, Jackie Cornish. Memorials may be made in his honor to Hospice Circle of Love, Waukomis Christian Church or Rodeo Historical Society at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, with Brown-Cummings, a life celebration home, serving as custodian of the funds. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.

October 30, 1976 - May 23, 2024Jennifer Marie Murray Jones was born in Weatherford, OK, on October 30, 1976. The center of attention for 5 years, she proudly became big sister to Stephen, Amy, and Seth, rounding out the family for Teresa Burchett Murray and Michael Murray.She attended Weatherford schools K-10 and Enid H.S. 11th and 12th. Her activities included Girl Scouts, Band, Constitution Team (and its trip to D.C.), and Falls Creek church camp.Jen's two SWOSU Bachelors were in English, evidenced by her part in the faculty roast, and History, shown in love of ancient history, especially Egypt. She later visited London twice, once with her childhood friend, Erin, whose dad loves history and was a role model.Her interest in soil wasn't farming like Grandad Bud, but in archaeology. In OSU grad school she toured Egypt and participated in an arch dig in Jordan. She also earned her Master's in Applied History. She followed with a Master's in Archaeology from the University of Leicester.Jen ran her own business aiding communities with National Historic Preservation projects, including some in Enid. She was an adjunct instructor in history for Northern Oklahoma College at the Enid campus, sharing teaching in common with Mom, Aunt Cheryl, and brother Seth. She worked briefly for a firm in Colorado but returned to her home.In The Chronicles of Oklahoma Jen published articles on the history and adaptive reuse of Enid Masonic Temple by the Enid Symphony, history of the Enid's Youngblood Hotel, and the birth of Route 66.She relocated to OKC/Norman, working for ODOT on OU's campus, tramping around bridges and such to verify how changes would affect cultural impact of areas. She fell ill with a very rare autoimmune disease in 2017, leaving her bedridden. But her quick wit, like Grandad Bud's, was still there to use on her family.Jen loved books like librarian Mom, Dad, Aunt Cheryl, and grandad Bud, and crocheting like Great-Grandma Armstrong. While immobile, she watched a variety of TV, especially Victorian movies and anything historical. She was proud of her siblings and their children and loved classical art, music, museums, and fashion.Jen accepted the Lord as a preteen and was baptized in Trinity Baptist Church of Weatherford. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 tells us: "But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who have died, so that you may not grieve as others do who have not hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with Him those who have died." We mourn, yet know we will see her again!Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the Redinger Funeral Home Chapel in Seiling, OK. Burial will follow at Brumfield Cemetery.Memorial Donations in Jennifer's honor may be made to the Oklahoma Historical Society in c/o Redinger Funeral Home (Box 236, Seiling, OK 73663).

November 17, 2003 - May 19, 2024Graveside services for Brendan Jace Arrington, 20, will be at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Enid Cemetery, with Phillip Kennedy officiating. Arrangements are by Cordry-Gritz Funeral Home, Hennessey.Brendan was born in Enid on November 17, 2003, to Adam Faulkenberry and Jessica Arrington and died Sunday, May 19, 2024.Brendan is survived by his mother Jessica Combs and husband Joshua, sister Marisa and brother Blake, all of the home; maternal grandfather Randy Arrington; and many close friends.

May 24, 2024Dr. Byron W. Behring, 88, passed peacefully in his sleep after a hard battle with dementia. He is now at peace with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Byron was born to Loran and Pauline Behring in Garber, Oklahoma. He grew up working on the family farm with his father, participated in FFA activities and graduated from Garber High School in 1954.Byron earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1959 from Oklahoma State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. During his time at OSU, Byron was a member of the Farmhouse Fraternity, served as President of the Student Union Activities Board and was an active member of the Student American Veterinary Medical Association.Immediately after completing his State Board Examination in June 1959, Byron married the love of his life, Betty Sue Rooker, of McLoud, Oklahoma. Together, they moved to Memphis, TN, while Byron completed his Veterinary Residency. They moved back to Oklahoma City where Byron started his professional journey as a small animal veterinarian. Soon after, his career path shifted as he joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture APHIS Veterinary Services as a field veterinarian working with large animals. Byron and Betty moved to Enid in 1966 to raise their family and plant roots in the community. Throughout his career, Dr. Behring continued working on his family farm and was a well-respected member of the Garfield County farming community. His friends and neighbors affectionately referred to Byron as "Doc" and he wore that name with pride. Byron was a member of the Shriners in Enid, Oklahoma, contributing his time and efforts to their charitable causes. He served as president of the local chapter for two years during his time with the Shriners. Byron's favorite hobbies included creating stained glass art pieces and woodworking. He became a skilled artist in both areas and enjoyed sharing his work with friends and family. Byron looked forward to passing on his knowledge of both crafts to anyone who wanted to learn from him. When Byron retired, he and Betty traveled throughout the U.S. collecting art pieces and making memories along the way. They found a wonderful retirement community in Mesa, Arizona, and traveled there each year to escape the cold Oklahoma winters. Byron had a deep love for classic cars, particularly Ford Thunderbirds and Mustangs. Byron enjoyed spending time and making many friends through the Sooner Thunderbird Car Club (STCC) and Vintage Thunderbird Club International (VTCI). He and Betty traveled across the country to many classic car shows to showcase the cars he meticulously restored to their original condition. Over the years, Byron won several awards, most notably "Best in Show" for each of his restorations. His final trip was in 2022 when his son Mark helped him transport and show his favorite car, a Rose Beige '63 M Convertible Thunderbird, in Denver, CO.Byron's life was marked by his dedication to his family, his profession, and his passions. He will be deeply missed by all who know him. Byron is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Betty Behring of Enid, OK; daughter Robin Reid and her husband Bill Reid of Houston, TX; son Mark Behring and his wife Cate Behring and daughter Kendal Behring of Edmond, OK; and his younger brother Darrel Behring of Euless, TX.Funeral services celebrating and honoring the life of Dr. Byron Behring will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2024, at The Brown-Cummings Chapel in Enid, Oklahoma. A burial will follow at the Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations are made to the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medicine Authority (OVMA), The First Methodist Church Endowment Fund or the YWCA Crisis Center of Enid.

October 29, 1930 - 2024Trudy left this earth to go be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, early Friday morning, May 10, 2024. Born October 29, 1930, the 3rd of 9 children to Denver and Grace (Schwinn) Swiggart in Ringwood, Oklahoma, Trudy chose to follow Jesus at a young age and followed Him throughout the remainder of her 93 years on earth.She attended school at Glenwood, Carrier, Ringwood and Enid High School and was a starter on the girls' basketball team at Enid High. She met Lloyd Gragert on a blind date, quite by accident (but set up by God). When Trudy walked out on the porch that evening Lloyd thought, "That is the girl I'm going to marry!" Lloyd had returned from WWII and was working in Enid and Trudy was in her senior year at Enid High. Within days after Trudy graduated from Enid High School Lloyd and Trudy got married at her grandfather's home by Rev. Swiggart (her grandfather) on May 29, 1948. After getting married they immediately drove out to the Gragert farm near Douglas, where they both helped put up hay, with Trudy raking the hay and Lloyd picking up the bales. That is how they spent their "honeymoon!" They lived in Douglas, Oklahoma, until 1952, when Continental Oil Company moved them to Wyoming where Lloyd would work until April 1959.Lloyd and Trudy became a family in July 1949, when Susan became the oldest of three daughters. Nancy was added to the family on Thanksgiving day, November 1950. Both girls were born in Enid. And three years later Pamela rounded out the family in October 1953, the only child born in Wyoming.Trudy worked as a telephone operator in Thermopolis, Wyoming, for 3 years before the family moved back to Oklahoma so Lloyd could take over the family farm after his father died. Over the years, Trudy worked at Penney's and then Sears, finally settling in as the administrative secretary for the managers, where she worked for approximately 30 years.Trudy was a very devoted mother and wife. She loved her family dearly and made sure that her girls were fashionable, even sewing clothes for them. She attended most-if-not-all of Nancy's basketball games, cheering wildly, and went to all of her girls' extra-curricular activities/shows. Although a classy, elegant beauty, she could instantly turn into a protective Mama Grizzly Bear if anyone would dare to belittle or hurt one of her family. Those times she would have to ask Jesus for forgiveness, wanting to be more patient and represent Him more!After being involved in her children's lives she moved on to become a Mother-in-law, BUT NOT the dreaded kind. Susan married Joe Smith in April 1969. Trudy had asked Nancy when she was a sophom*ore, "Why don't you date that nice Tom Nelson?" She did, and Nancy married her high school sweetheart in May 1971. Pamela and Stanley Loesch (a neighbor boy who had pestered Pamela on the bus years earlier) married in August 1973. She then became a devoted grandmother in May 1970, when Gary Joe Smith, Jr., was born to Susan and Joe Smith in Florida. Kevin Smith was her next grandchild (also by Susan and Joe), born in June 1973, in California, with Joe serving in the U.S. Navy and moving wherever they sent him. Nancy and Tom moved into good graces with Trudy and Lloyd when Nathan, their third grandson, was born in Enid, in July 1975. After 3 grandsons that were such blessings for Lloyd and Trudy they were given a granddaughter, Karrah, in June 1978. She was the little darling of the family, but when she was about 2 she could hold her own with both her brother and her 2 male cousins. Needless to say, she received many cute clothes and "Granny" had a fun time shopping for little girl's clothes. Trudy was reminiscing with Lloyd when Karrah, their youngest grandchild was 12, and she was a little sad because her grandchildren were growing up and there would be no more babies. But, God had heard her heart and just a few days later Nancy broke the news they were going to have another grandbaby. Hannah showed up in Enid in May 1991, rounding out the 5 grandchildren of Trudy and Lloyd Gragert's.February 1981, Trudy and Lloyd's life was shaken. Pamela and Stanley Loesch went to Red River, New Mexico, to go skiing when a pyromaniac set fire to the motel on the stairwell by Pam and Stan's room. Being unable to get out of the long hall that led to their room and was on fire, Pam and Stan climbed into the tub and turned on the shower but ultimately died in the fire. Everyone else at the motel got out because their rooms were on a balcony with doors and windows. Trudy HAD to rely on the God of her salvation, and He got her through the grief with Job 19:25, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand on the earth." She would repeat that verse many times to remind herself she WILL see Pamela and Stanley.Trudy retired from Sears in 1990 and she and Lloyd kept Hannah during school days until Hannah started Kindergarten. They loved having their grandchildren around and had kept Joe, Jr., and Kevin during the summers when their parents were working. After the marriages and grandbabies, Trudy was content being Lloyd's wife and co-pilot. She would keep grandkids and go with Lloyd to their farm at Glencoe to check cattle, going with him almost everywhere he went to check cattle. Then in July 1998, Susan suffered a devastating stroke in Tennessee, and Trudy went to stay with her for weeks and weeks. She loved taking care of her, but missed her Lloyd so much and was so happy when Susan and Joe moved back to Oklahoma on Christmas. She loved helping Susan and doing anything she could for her. By the grace of God, Susan lived 16 years after her stroke, but went home to see Pam and Stan in September 2017! Trudy's great faith in her loving Father God, got her and others through this trying time.During the time of helping Susan because of her stroke, Jett Smith, Joe and Christe Smith's son, and Susan and Joe's grandson, passed away suddenly of an asthma attack in December 2012. Once again, Trudy's heart was broken, BUT, once again, Jesus's love and care brought her through this and she came out spiritually stronger. 2 Samuel 12:23 was a verse for family faith, "I shall go to him one day, but he shall not return to me."After helping and caring for Lloyd for over the last 2 years of his life, during which time he was still keeping/feeding cattle, the love of her life and husband of 71½ years passed away in September 2019, and she was lost. She had no one to take care of. She had been taking care of him during his surgeries, rehabilitations and at home. She spent most of the time when he was in the hospital with him. When he was rehabilitating in The Commons, she spent all but 3 or 4 nights with him, (going home just to sleep in her own bed and get some rest). Sometimes she would climb in bed with him so they could snuggle and reminisce. Even at the hospital, he would want her to lay down beside him, and she would climb in bed with him and visit with family from his bed. The entire family was SHOCKED when she decided to stay on the farm after Lloyd passed away, but she did as well as she could there. The family guessed she would only live possibly 6 months after Lloyd's death because the two were so deeply in love, but she surprised them all and lived 4½ years!!! Trudy Gragert is survived by one daughter, Nancy and husband Tom Nelson, of Douglas; son-in-law Joe Smith Sr. of Covington; 5 grandchildren and their spouses: Joe and Christe Smith, Jr., of Lucien, Kevin and Machelle Smith of Covington, Nathan and Venessa Nelson of Glenpool, Karrah and James Cronister of Kellyville, and Hannah and Colby O'Donnell of Ponca City. She leaves the following Great-Grandchildren: Cole Smith of Canton, Houston Smith of College Station, Texas, Landry Cronister of Kellyville, and Asher and Lynly O'Donnell of Ponca City AND one Great-great-grandchild, Corbin Smith. One sister, Deanna Starr, survives her, along with a multitude of nieces and nephews!She is NOW in heaven, probably dancing with Jesus, visiting and loving on Lloyd and talking a mile-a-minute with Susan, Pamela and all her family and friends who went before her!A graveside service will be held at Memorial Park, Enid, OK.

January 16, 1932 - May 23, 2024Bryan Lee Kugel, 92, was born January 16, 1932, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, to Harry and Helen Kugel. He passed away peacefully at his home in Lamont, May 23, 2024.Bryan graduated from Lamont High School, attended 2 years at N.O.C. Tonkawa, and attended A&M College in Stillwater.Bryan was a member of the Methodist Church, Lamont. Bryan was a farmer and aircraft mechanic and his hobby was as an antique car collector.Bryan is survived by two stepdaughters, Evelyn Grimley and Linda Coatney; several grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.Bryan was preceded in death by his parents; his two wives, Eva Raye and Nancy; his three children, John, Robert and Murph.Funeral services for Bryan Lee Kugel will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the United Methodist Church in Lamont, Oklahoma, with Rev. Davidson Fields officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Vernon Cemetery, Salt Fork, Oklahoma. Arrangements are by Wilson Funeral Home, Pond Creek, Oklahoma. Memorials may be made to Canyon Camp through State Exchange Bank, Lamont, Oklahoma.

July 1, 1931 - May 22, 2024Glen Ellison Payne was born on July 1, 1931, in Enid to Charles William and May O'Brate Payne. Glen passed away peacefully on May 22, 2024. Family visitation will be Monday, May 27, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Anderson Burris Funeral Home at 3002 N. Van Buren, Enid, with a graveside service on May 28, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery, 6405 Memorial Park Dr., Enid.Glen was raised Northwest of Enid and attended Carrier schools before joining the Army and being stationed in Washington at Fort Lawton. Glen married Anna Marie Hutcheson on July 26, 1957, and they raised their family Northwest of Breckinridge. Glen was a hard-working custom harvester as well as owner and operator of Payne Construction. Glen is survived by daughters Peggy Jeter, Barbara Bennett, Karen Payne and son Billy Payne, all of Enid; grandkids Nicholas, Lynsey Payne and Hannah Williams, all of Enid, Jeff Payne and wife Jessica, of Edmond, David Sweet, of Francis, Ora Bennett, of Coweta; and several great-grandkids. Glen is preceded in death by wife Anna Marie, son Larry, daughter Paula and granddaughter Miranda.

August 13, 1937 - May 18, 2024Marilyn Ruth Bass, elementary teacher, was born in 1937, in Oklahoma, the eldest child of Velma and Harold Poore. Brothers Wesley, Vernon and Ronnie followed. She lived the majority of her 86 years in Oklahoma but lived and taught in other states.Graduating in 1955 from Northeast High School in Oklahoma City, she first enrolled at Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma. She began her teaching career in Attica, Kansas, at the early age of 19. Earning her BS at Central State University, she went on to complete her MS.Following her marriage to Carol David Honeycutt, she moved to Colorado and gave birth to her only daughter (and mother of her granddaughter, Sara) Carolyn Rae Honeycutt, in 1961. Married in 1981 to Jim Bass, she formed a relationship with his children, including Jimmy and Ruby. In the mid-1960's she moved to Trona, California, and taught in the elementary school there. She also taught one year in Oklahoma City. She returned to Oklahoma in 1967 and began her career at Hoover Elementary. She joked that she never got beyond the third grade.Marilyn had been in a student club at Phillips and had association with a number of professional and academic organizations, including the Association of University Women. Following her retirement in the 1990's, she worked in a local Enid insurance office and briefly served as a volunteer for the Midgly Museum. Marilyn was proud of her association with Leonardo's Discovery Museum in Enid. Early in her life in Enid, she was active with Central Christian Church and a number of social groups, including PWP. Art and gardening were among her favorite hobbies. She repeatedly nursed her star magnolia through the harsh Oklahoma winters and kept many plants to decorate her yard and gardens. Marilyn loved pets and birds. Her last companion Chihuahua, Scotch, is being cared for by Brenda Lester. At the end of her life she found witnessing with her JW sisters and brothers to be fulfilling.Marilyn is survived by her brother, Ronald R. Poore; her grandchild Sam (nee Sara) Smith; his father, Mark Lester; and many cousins, nieces and nephews in Oklahoma, Texas, California, and Arizona.Cremation services are provided by Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory. Inurnment will be privately done on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. A Memorial service will be Monday, May 27, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. at The Kingdom Hall, 829 W. Moore. The memorial service will be viewable on Zoom: Zoom#9852465945, and the password is #505144. Marilyn asked for little ceremony following her passing. A guest book will be provided at the Memorial Service and at the repast following, which will be held at the Marriott Springhill Suites on W. Owen K. Garriott in Enid.Condolences may be made and memories shared at www.ladusauevans.com.

September 21, 1938 - May 17, 2024Dellas Gene "Hotshot" Fluman, was born in Enid, Oklahoma, on September 21, 1938, and passed from this life on May 17, 2024, at Hennessey Care Center, Hennessey, Oklahoma. It was his wishes to be cremated, and Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory were trusted with his arrangements.At the age of 17, Dellas joined the Navy, where he served one tour before leaving the Navy to join the Air Force. After his service, Dellas returned to Enid to work at Fluman Body Shop with his dad. Later he moved to Oregon for a short time before returning to Enid where he operated Gene's Auto Sales until his retirement.Dellas loved to camp, hunt and fish. He would make trips to the Gulf where he would fish with his life-time friends. He was also an avid bowler and played on the Fluman Bowling Team. Survivors include: sister, Glenna Roder, of Hennessey; nephews, Glenn Roder and wife Treva, of Hennessey, Paul Lynn Roder, of Houston, TX, Ken Roder and wife Teresa, of Bulverde, TX, John Roder and wife Pam, of Waxahachie, TX, Phillip Roder, of Hennessey; niece, Teresa Semrad and Wyatt Smith, of Oklahoma City; and his Uncle Frank and Martha Gene Clark of Lebanon, OR.Condolences may be made and memories shared at www.ladusauevans.com.