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Mary H. Herron, 1926 - 2007

      Mary H. Herron, 81, passed away quietly on Sunday, April 22, 2007. Mary Jane Hinkel was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to Florence and John W. Hinkel. She was the granddaughter of Oklahoma Land Rush pioneers, Nell and John P. Hinkel, who published the Stillwater Daily Press.
     Mary was a graduate of Oklahoma A & M College, with a degree in Fine Arts. She and Quintus Herron were married in 1946 in Stillwater. They have been residents of Idabel for over 60 years.
     She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Quintus, son and daughter-in-law, Donald and Mary Etta Herron of Idabel, daughter and son-in-law, Janet Herron and Gamaliel Leyva of Tucson, Arizona, sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Ray Boileau of Seattle, Washington, brother and sister-in-law, John and Sue Hinkel of Pacific, Missouri. Her loving grandchildren include: Suzannah, Julia and Pete Herron, Caty Clowers, Cole and Logan Chapman and one great-granddaughter, Kassidy Clowers.
     Her professional life included work as County Bookmobile Librarian for the SE region, and Women’s Page Editor for the McCurtain Gazette. She and Quintus were founding members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Idabel.
     She is best remembered for her work in Idabel’s Museum of the Red River, which she and Quintus founded in 1974. Opening to the public in 1975, the Museum quickly became the focus of Mary’s passion. One of her true joys was working there every day with her museum friends. It has since become one of the major tourist attractions to southeast Oklahoma, and enjoys a national reputation for its extensive collections, its diverse exhibits and its innovative programs.
     Mary actively supported the programs of the Idabel Regional Arts Council. In addition to the council’s performing arts program, she personally supported visual arts programs, and assumed personal responsibility for developing purchase funds for art to enhance the public area of ET Dunlap Higher Leaning Center. She was instrumental in establishing the Oklahoma Museums Association endowment fund.
     In addition to her work at the Museum of the Red River, she was active with state and regional organizations. She served on boards, presented papers, participated in various museum symposia and served as a mentor to many young professionals. In 1998, she was recognized for her work with the Laura McDonagh Streich Award for professional service by the Oklahoma Museums Association, its highest honor. Along with her husband, she had also received the Kiamichi Country Heritage Award, Distinguished Historian Award from the McCurtain County Historical Society, Idabel Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the year award, the Stanley Draper Distinguished Service Award of the Oklahoma Heritage Association and the Governors Arts Award. In 2006, they were listed in Art and Antiques magazine as one of the 100 Top Art Collectors Who Made a Difference. Recently, they were awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Antique and Tribal Art Dealers Association.
     A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 27, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church, 302 S.E. Jefferson, Idabel, with the Reverend Donna Dodson, officiating. After services, family and friends are welcome to gather at the Museum of the Red River to celebrate Mary’s life.
     Mary will be greatly missed by her family, museum family, many friends and associates. In her memory, donations may be made to the Museum of the Red River, 812 S.E. Lincoln Road, Idabel, Oklahoma 74745, (580)286-3616.

Joe Clardy, 1915 - 2007

      Joe Clardy, 91, of Idabel, passed away Monday, April 23, 2007 at Idabel. He was born October 25, 1915 in Waxahachie, Texas the son of Bob and Lucy Ann Crow Clardy.
     Joe was a Church of Christ Preacher for over 45 years. He ministered at many of the area Churches. Joe was a talented carpenter, a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Navy. Joe touched many lives during his lifetime and was great friend to many.
     He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Geraldine; a daughter, Norma Ausmus; sisters, Viola Woods and Ruby Woods; and a brother, Jessie B. Clardy.
     Joe is survived by a son, Danny Clardy of Idabel; a son-in-law, Bill Ausmus of Idabel; grandchildren and spouses, Brent Clardy, and Bryan Clardy both of Idabel, Jeff and Kenda Ausmus of Owasso, Jerri Thomas of Springfield, Missouri, Kyle Ausmus of West Virginia, and Kim and Wes Nichols of Springfield, Missouri; 8 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends..
     Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 26, 2007 at the By-Pass Church of Christ in Idabel with Dick Logan and Steve Ensley officiating. Interment will follow in the Forest Hill Cemetery.
     The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, 2007 at the funeral home.
     Memorial tributes can be sent to the family at www.conley-whitefuneralhome.com.

Bob Bender, 1932 - 2007

     Bob Bender, 75, of Broken Bow, OK, passed away Wednesday, April 25, 2007, at Broken Bow. He was born February 16, 1932, in Broken Bow, OK, the son of Paul and Mary Bender.
     Bob was a veteran of the U.S. Army and affiliated with the Eastside Baptist Church, Broken Bow. He loved hunting, fishing, gardening, tractor work and spending time with his family and friends.
     He was preceded in death by his mother and father; one brother, Burt Bender and two sisters, Mary Woods and Betty Jo Jordon.
     Bob leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Margaret Bender, of the home; one son, Danny Ray Bender, Oklahoma City; two daughters, Brenda Gay, Broken Bow and Bobbie Tabor, Oklahoma City; four step-sons, Allen Cobb, Phoenix, AZ, Phillip Cobb, Idabel, Rick Penningotn, Wright City and Terry Grams, Broken Bow; one step-daughter, Rita Pennington, Oklahoma City; three brothers, Jerry Bender, Oklalhoma City, Charles Bender and Paul Bender Jr. both of Broken Bow; two sisters, Josephine Murry, Dequeen, AR and Pauline Dailey, TX; several grandchildren, step-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and friends.
     Graveside Services were held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, April 26, 2007, at Broken Bow Cemetery. Bro. Dean Smith officiating.

Ed Burns, 1937 - 2007

     Ed Burns, 69, Idabel, passed away Thursday, April 19, 2007 at Wadley Regional Medical Center in Texarkana, Texas. He was born September 14, 1937 at Cisco community, the son of George and Emma (Brumley) Burns. Ed and Sue Ellen Taylor were married on February 14, 1957 at DeQueen, AR. and to there home were born three children, Tim, Cheryl, and Susan.
     Ed was primarily a self-employed businessman in the wholesale auto market. He loved working with horses and spending time with his children and grandchildren. Ed was affiliated with the Baptist church. He and Sue had lived in Idabel for the past four years, moving from Wylie, TX.
     Ed was preceded in death by his father and mother, George and Emma Burns.
     He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Sue Burns, of the home; a son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Shannon Burns, Celina, TX; two daughters and a son-in-law, Cheryl and Bobby Attaway, Hollycreek community, and Susan Burns, Rowlett, TX; four brothers and sisters-in-law, George and Margaret Burns, Idabel, Doyle and Joyce Burns, Blanchard, OK, Jerry and Glenda Milligan, Idabel, and Nolan and Nancy Burns, Quinlan, TX; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Barbara Bean, Broken Bow, Bonnie and Regnal Snow, Yukon, OK, and Nora and Ted Bishop, McKinney, TX; eight grandchildren, Julie Foster and husband, Keith, Caddo Mills, TX, Ashley Harris and husband, Kevin, Idabel, Garret Attaway, Idabel, Stephanie McCartney, Taylor Burns, Parker Burns, and McKenna Burns, all of Celina, TX, and Morgan Burns, Rowlett, TX; four great-children, Kelton Foster, Wade Foster, Jaeden Foster, and Paige Harris; several uncles and aunts; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; many friends.
     Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, April 23, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Idabel, with Bro. Joey Taylor officiating. Interment will follow in Canfield Cemetery.
     Family received friends from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 22, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home, Idabel.

Orin C. Harris, 1948 - 2007

     Orin C. Harris, 58, of Idabel passed away Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at McCurtain Memorial Hospital. He was born July 17, 1948 at Topeka, Kansas the son of Vida (Winkler) and Orin Lester Harris. He was of the Pentecostal Faith.
     Orin moved to Idabel 9 years ago, coming from Topeka, Kansas. He was a talented musician, playing the clarinet and the piano. He enjoyed writing, as well as reading his Bible. On June 27, 1991 he married Barbara Rogers at El Reno, OK.
     He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 brother, Noel Harris.
     Orin is survived his wife of 15 years, Barbara Harris of the home; step-son and daughter-in-law, Kerry and Donna Richardson of Idabel; step-daughter, Lisa Smith of New York; step-grandchildren, Kerri Dawn Richardson, Kenny Richardson, Sunny and Cran Pollock, and Cody Smith; 4 step-great-grandchildren; other relatives and a host of friends.
     Memorial services for Orin will be held at a later date.

Gladys Dagenhart Shrawder, 1931 - 2007

     Gladys Dagenhart Shrawder, 75, of Broken Bow, passed away Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at Broken Bow. She was born November 20, 1931, in Lynn, OK, the daughter of Tom and Agie (Clay) Rudisill.
     Gladys loved her children and grandchildren and enjoyed spending special moments with each one. She was a member of the First Assembly of God in Broken Bow and enjoyed going to church events. Gladys attended the Broken Bow Senior Citizens Center when she was able.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Agie Rudisill; first husband, Doris C. “D.C.” Dagenhart, her second husband, Clarence “Jim” Shrawder. She was also preceded in death by a grandson, Jeremy Woodrum.
     Gladys leaves to cherish her memory four sons and three daughters-in-law, Randy and Jan Dagenhart, Abilene, TX, Roger Dagenhart, Broken Bow, Ronnie and Genia Dagenhart, Dequeen, AR, Ricky and Katrina Dagenhart, Broken Bow; two daughters and sons-in-law, Cindy and Danny Stovall, Bethel, OK, and Sherry and Greg Gulich, Broken Bow; one stepson and his wife Robert and Diane Shrawder, Round Rock, TX; one brother, Tommy Rudisill, Broken Bow; one sister, Bobbie Jo James, Broken Bow; thirteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren; three special friends, Charles, Judy and Pat and many other relatives and friends.
     Services will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 20, 2007, at the First Assembly of God, Broken Bow, OK. Interment will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery, Broken Bow, OK.

Kaydence Elizabeth Martin

     Jesus said “Let the little children come unto Me, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.”
     On April 14, 2007, the angels brought Kaydence Elizabeth Martin unto Jesus and her heavenly home. Kaydence was born on April 11, 2007, at Idabel, the daughter of William Charles and Kaitlyn Paige (McGinnis) Martin.
     She was preceded in death by her maternal great-great grandparents, Hubert Umphress and Juanita and paternal great-great-grandmother, Eula Mae “GG” Martin.
     She leaves to cherish her memory her parents, Billy and Kaitlyn Martin of the home in Idabel; paternal grandparents, Buster Martin, Millerton and Donna Martin, Valliant; paternal great-grandparent, Sue Wooten; maternal grandparents, Winona Hill, Valliant and Colin McGinnis, Charlotte, NC; maternal great-grandparents, Edwin and Kathleen Umphress, Valliant and Phillip and Yvonne McGinnis, Marietta, OK; papa Mike, uncle Phil, great-aunt Deb, three uncles, B.J. Parson, Matthew McGinnis and Josh McGinnis; several great aunts and uncles.
     Graveside services were at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, 2007, at Moran Cemetery, Valliant with Tracy Mussett officiating.
     Family received friends from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home, Idabel.

Willma Hopper, 1919 - 2007

     Willma Hopper, of Broken Bow, passed away Saturday, April 14, 2007, four days before her 88th birthday, at Texarkana, Texas. She was born on April 18, 1919 in a sawmill camp at Watson Oklahoma to Maude Brooks and Charlie Veazey.
     Willma’s family moved to Pinehurst, Idaho when she was 6 years old. By taking 2 grades at a time she graduated from Pinehurst High School when she was 12 years old. She then attended Kinman Business College in Spokane, Washington. She was so much younger than the other students that she studied instead of socializing and by some accounts graduated from college at age 14. She worked at the college for a while and then went to work keeping books at her dad’s sawmill. It was there she met her future husband, Odell Hopper. They started dating in the fall of 1941 and were married on Valentines Day in 1942 at Missoula, Montana.
     Her dad loaned them the money to buy a 40 acre ranch. They continued to work at the sawmill as well as the ranch for the next 6 years. In 1950 they bought a ranch near Smithville, Oklahoma and moved there. In 1951 she gave birth to her only child, Charlie Hopper. In 1954 they returned to Idaho where they built and ran a convenience store and again worked in the sawmill. In 1957 they sold the store and traded the ranch in Oklahoma for a convenience store and motel in Goldthwaite, Texas. They ran these and a ranch near Goldthwaite until 1965 when Odell got into the telephone contracting business. She continued to run the store and motel, and later just the store until the early 70s. At this time they sold the store and she worked as an administrator at a nursing home in Goldthwaite for the next 5 years. After this she returned to being a homemaker. In 1974 she moved her parents from Idaho to Texas and took care of them for the next 5 years.
     Willma was an avid reader and had a 12’ by 12’ library that was completely full of books. She was a musician and played piano, harmonica and guitar. She painted and also did embroidery. People gladly paid for her embroidery work.
     In 1997 they sold their place in Goldthwaite and returned to Broken Bow to spend their remaining years.
     Willma was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, Ralph and Floyd Veazey.
     She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Odell, of the home: son, Charlie, of Dale, Texas; other relatives and a host of friends.
     Services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at the Conley-White Chapel in Broken Bow with Rev. Oscar Wilkie officiating. Interment followed in the Smithville Cemetery.

Don Butler , 1940 - 2007

     Don Butler, 67, of Idabel passed away Thursday, April 12, 2007 at Texarkana. He was born January 21, 1940 in Clebit, the son of Floyd M. and Willie Wyrick Butler.
      Don had lived in Idabel since 1968 moving here from Hugo. He owned and operated Abco Printing and Office Supply and Butler Real Estate. Don enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was affiliated with the Baptist Faith. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
      He was preceded in death by his parents; and his son, Gregg Butler.
      Don leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Phyllis of Idabel; a son and daughter-in-law, John and Modesty Butler of Durant; a daughter and son-in-law, Fonda and Bob Proctor of Broken Bow; a daughter-in-law, Dana Butler of Idabel; a step-daughter and her husband, Cynthia and Darrin Rodriguez of Boise, Idaho; brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenneth and Vickie Butler of Hugo, Clinton and Nina Butler of Alabama, and Clellen and Melita Butler of Georgia; sisters and brother-in-law, Marie Walker of Antlers, and Elaine and Jorge Mitchelina of Florida; 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.
      Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Sunday, April 16, 2007 at the Conley-White Chapel in Idabel with Bro. Blake Gideon officiating. Interment will follow in Canfield Cemetery.
      The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 Saturday, April 15, 2007 at the funeral home.
      In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the First Baptist Church in Idabel to help support their mission trips to Bangladesh.

Ed Stewart, 1961 - 2007

      Ed Stewart, 46, of Idabel, passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at Tulsa, OK. He was born January 2, 1961 at Talihina, the son of Eunice Collins and Steven Stewart.
       Ed was an avid reader and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. He loved to garden and make flower arrangements. He also loved fishing. Ed was a food inspector and enjoyed his job very much. He loved spending time with his family and friends.
       He was preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Eunice Stewart, brother, Steven Stewart, Jr., sisters, Imogene Belvin and Patricia McDaniel.
       Ed is survived by 2 sisters and a brother-in-law, Sue and Benjamin Tom and Clara J. Dan all of Idabel, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
       Funeral services will be 2:00 Saturday, April 14, 2007 at the Kulli Tuklo Methodist Church with Rev. Rosa Baker officiating. Interment will follow at the Kulli Tuklo Cemetery.
       A wake service will be 6:00 p.m. Friday evening, April 13, 2007 at the Conley-White Chapel.

Michael Shawn Carrell, 1993 - 2007

     Michael Shawn Carrell, 13, of Haworth passed away Tuesday, April 10, 2007 at his home. He was born November 8, 1993 in Idabel, the son of Carol Jean (Davis) and Michael Andrew Carrell.
     Michael Shawn loved animals especially his dog, Oscar and his birds Woody and Polly. He always met people with a smile and will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. Michael Shawn was a member of the Haworth First Assembly of God Church and a lifetime resident of Haworth.
     Michael leaves to cherish his memory, his parents, Michael and Carol Carrell of Haworth; brother, Bradley Ferrell of Haworth; sister, Brandy Rasberry of Haworth; maternal grandparents, Yates and Shirley Davis of Haworth; paternal grandparents, James and Vicky Carrell of the Pleasant Hill Community, and Mildred and Kenneth Carrell of Eufaula, OK; numerous other relative and a host of friends.
     Services are set for 2:00 pm Friday, April 13th at First Assembly of God in Haworth.
     The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 12, 2007 at the funeral home.

 Cora M. Byrum, 1915 - 2007

      Cora M. Byrum, 91, of Broken Bow, passed away April 8, 2007 at McCurtain Manor Nursing Home, Broken Bow. She was born August 31, 1915, in Birthright, TX to Frank and Oda (Rushing) Turner.
      She enjoyed gardening, sewing, reading her bible and spending time with her family. She was of the Apostolic faith.
      She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Oda Turner; husband, Henry “Lee” Byrum; two sons, Willis C. Haley and James W. Haley; one grandson, Ricky Haley; one sister, Lillie Davis; two brothers, Ovis Henson and Earnest Turner.
      Cora leaves to cherish her memory, one son, Leon Byrum, Broken Bow, OK; one daughter, Evelyn Tidmore and husband Jasper, Wright City, OK; one sister, Rosa Duckworth, Sulphur Springs, TX; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; ten great, great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
      Services will be 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 12, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow. Bro Jerry Autrey will officiate. Interment will follow at Holly Creek Cemetery.
      Family will be receiving friends from 6-8 pm Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home.

Olivia Westbrook, 2007 - 2007

      Jesus said “Let the little children come unto Me, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.”

      On Saturday, April 7, 2007 the angels brought Olivia Westbrook unto Jesus and her Heavenly Home.
      She was preceded in death by her sister, Amy Gene Westbrook; maternal grandfather, Hiram Miller.
      Olivia is survived by parents, Clarence and LaDonna (Miller) Westbrook, Broken Bow, OK.; paternal grandmother, Betty Jean Saunderfer, Sandusky, OH..; maternal grandmother, Linda Miller, Broken Bow, OK.; three sisters, Christine Whitaker, Idabel, OK., Sheraca Westbrook, Texarkana, TX., Catherine Owens, Broken Bow, OK.; numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.
      Services will be held 10:00 am, Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow, Pastor Andra Burton will officiate.

 Sandy Bozarth, 1945 - 2007

     Sandy Bozarth, 61, Idabel, OK, passed away Saturday, March 31, 2007 at Christus St. Michael, Texarkana, TX. She was born December 12, 1945, at Idabel, OK, the daughter of Earsel and Ruth (Cooke) Stinebaugh.
     She married C.B. Bozarth on June 9, 1962 at Idabel. She was a member of the Redland United Methodist Church. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Sandy enjoyed gardening, reading and working with children.
     Sandy was preceded in death by her parents.
     She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, C.B. Bozarth of the home; two daughters and their families, Kerry and John Webb and their son, Jay, all of Dallas, TX, Shelly and Jamie Stevenson and their daughter, Morgan, all of Moyers, OK, one son, Michael Bozarth and his son, Bradley, Idabel; two sisters, Gail Mills, Broken Bow and Melia Bivings, Valliant; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
     Funeral Services will be at 2:00 Monday, April 2, 2007 at Redland United Methodist Church, Redland Community with John Netherton officiating. Interment will follow in Redland Cemetery.

 Alma Ruth Altom, 1926 - 2007

     Alma Ruth Altom, 80, Broken Bow, passed away Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at St. Michael Hospital in Texarkana, TX. She was born September 20, 1926 at Perry, OK, the daughter of Marie and Ira Strotman.
     She was the beloved wife of David A. Altom, decorated WWII veteran. They just celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on March 5. Alma was an active member in the First United Methodist Church as children’s Sunday School Teacher and choir member for 50 plus years.
     She was preceded in death by two sisters, Anita Embry and Junia Trowbridge.
     She leaves to cherish her memory her husband David A. Altom, Broken Bow; one son, Dennis Keith Altom and daughter-in-law Mollie Lou, and one grandson, Dustin Keith all of The Woodlands, TX. She is also survived by her loving nephews Rex Jones, Ray Trowbridge, Dick Embry and nieces Marie Bray, Ann Muir, Gail Foster, and Sue Embry and numerous other nieces and nephews.
     Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m., Monday, April 2, 2007 at First United Methodist Church, Broken Bow, with Rev. Margo Vestal officiating.
     Alma will be buried at Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City with her parents Marie and Ira Strotman.
     Visitation will be Sunday April 1, from 1- 6 p.m. at Brumley Funeral Home, Broken Bow.

Buster Cade Stuart, 2007 - 2007

     But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.

     Buster Cade Stuart, infant son of Jamey and Julie Stuart, of Valliant, OK was born March 28, 2007 in Paris, Texas and passed away March 29, 2007 in Dallas, Texas.
     He leaves to morn his passing, his maternal grandmother, Paula Stuart, Okmulgee, OK; paternal grandfather, Floyd Stuart, Valliant, OK; maternal grandparents, John and Jennie Parrish, Elk City, OK and maternal great-grandparents, Lou and Jack Parrish, Chickasha, OK ; Gene Crabtree, Quanah, TX and his paternal great-grandmother, Sue Stuart, Valliant, OK.
     He was preceded in death by his grandparents, James Hamrick, Wilma Hamrick, Buster Stuart, Melba Crabtree and Bill Tigert.
     Graveside services will he held at 10:00 am, Monday, April 2, 2007 with the Reverend Bobby Thornburgh officiating. Interment will follow in the Moran Cemetery.
     If the weather is inclement on Monday, services will be at the Watermill Baptist Church.

Mary Evelyn Hibben, 1922 - 2007

     Mary Evelyn Hibben, age 84, passed away Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at Colbert, Oklahoma. She was born August 27, 1922 in Hugo, Oklahoma, the daughter of Richard Lee Latta and Annie Mae (Caldwell) Latta. Mary and Hubert Hibben were united in marriage on September 2, 1939 in Hugo, Oklahoma. He preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents and two sisters.
     Mary lived in Idabel most all her life, moving in 1957. She was a public school secretary and a member of the First Baptist Church in Idabel.
     She is survived by one son, Sam Hibben of Grapevine, Texas; one daughter, Beth Meek of Colbert, Oklahoma; five grandchildren, Sammy Hibben of North Richland, TX, Sherry Hibben of Bedford, TX; Crystal Perry and husband, Trent of Bokchito, OK OK; Amanda Reynolds and husband Jeff of Idabel, and Kelsie Pollard and husband Justin of Stillwater, OK; four great-grandchildren, Jessica Cestare, of Bedford, TX, Savannah Perry and Jolie Perry of Bokchito, OK and Jagger Hibben, of Bedford, TX.
     Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2007 at the First Baptist Church in Idabel with Bro. Blake Gideon officiating. Interment will follow in Denison Cemetery, Idabel.
     At the request of the Hibben family, contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church-Idabel, OK. in lieu of flowers.

Sandra Irene Wurtz, 1941 - 2007

     Sandra Irene Wurtz, 65, of Idabel, Oklahoma, passed away, Saturday, March 24, 2007 in Idabel.
     She was born August 15, 1941, the daughter of Don and Mary Jo Dale Chaney.
     Sandra moved to Idabel 2 ½ years ago from Tulsa, OK. She was a homemaker and a devoted wife and mother. She was loved by all who knew her. Sandra was of the Methodist faith.
     She was preceded in death by her father Don Chaney, her Husband David Wurtz, and her grandfather and grandmother, Homer and Monty Chaney.
     Sandra is survived by her daughter Tracey Chandler Moore and husband Rodger Moore, of Holly Creek, OK; her son Brad Chandler and wife Christie, of Mena, AR; her grandsons Chad Chandler, of Sawyer, OK and James Moore of Holly Creek, OK; her granddaughters Ashton Shores and Courtney Gee of Mena, AR; her mother Mary Jo Chaney, of Tulsa, OK; her brother, Mike Chaney and wife Ruby, of Enid, OK; her sisters Dianna O’Connor, of Tulsa, OK, Debbie Hicks and husband Richard, of Broken Arrow, OK, a special niece, Becky Swift of California and her extra special caregiver, Beverly Schaffer.
     Services will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, March 29, 2007 at Jim Norwood Chapel with Bro. Neil Jackson officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. Arrangements are with Jim Norwood Funeral Home, Idabel. OK.

 Delia McCurry, 1922 - 2007

      Delia McCurry, 84, passed away Saturday, March 24, 2007 at Hills Nursing Home in Idabel. She was born August 9, 1922 at Garvin, OK, the daughter of Albert and Ader (Sellers) Summerland.
     Delia was a member of the First Baptist Church, Wright City. She was formerly a co-owner of Terry’s restaurant in Wright City. She enjoyed waitressing, cooking, quilting, playing piano, singing in church and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and great, great- grandchildren.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Ader Summerland; husband, Harvey McCurry; son, Sammy Joe McCurry; grandson, Baby McCurry; two brothers; five sisters.
     She leaves to cherish her memory, four daughters and four sons-in-law, Sandy and Skeet Montgomery, Golden, OK., Mary and Odell McCary, Wright City, OK., Gayla and Sherman Allensworth, Wright City, OK., Barbara and Gale Andrew, Stillwater, OK.; two sisters-in law, Juanita Keeling, Enid, OK., Cathy Milam and husband Jr., Idabel, OK.; sixteen grandchildren; twenty-eight great-grandchildren; three great, great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews cousins and friends.
     Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 27, 2007 at First Baptist Church, Wright City, with Bro. Charles Duvall and Bro. Aaron Strange officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Hill cemetery, Forest Grove community.

 Opal Lee Davis, 1917 - 2007

     Opal Lee Davis, 89, Battiest, passed away Saturday, March 24, 2007 at her home. She was born December 3, 1917 at Pickens, OK., the daughter of Millard and Frances (Shields) Whisenhunt.
     Opal was a member of the Silver Creek Church of Christ. In 1968 she started poultry farming and had one of the first poultry farms in the area. She also enjoyed raising cattle, growing flowers, gardening, fishing and spending time with her family and friends.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, Millard and Frances Whisenhunt; husband, Robert Davis; grandson, Kirk Davis; four brothers and three sisters.
     She leaves to cherish her memory, one son and daughter-in-law, Donny and Geovonna Davis, Battiest, OK.; one daughter and son-in-law, Charlotte and Billy Parson, Battiest, OK.; two sisters, Hazel Martin and husband Leo, Pickens, OK., Zazel Meek, Santa Barbara, CA.; seven grandchildren, Kim Parson, Tonya Igleheart and husband Scott, Tony Parson and wife Sherri, Andy Parson and wife Michelle, Kent Parson and wife Amy, Kevin Davis and wife Diannia, Adam Williams and wife Miranda; eight great-granddaughters, Vallie Parson, Tana Parson, Ayla Parson, Kyla Parson, Presley Davis, Hannah Igleheart, Kayla Igleheart, Marissa Williams; one great-grandson, Newt Davis and numerous friends.
     Graveside Services were at 10:00 a.m., Monday, March 26, 2007 at County Line Cemetery, Pickens, OK., with Wayne Talbot officiating..

 Rachel Metcalf, 1919 - 2007

     Rachel Metcalf, 88, Broken Bow, passed away Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at Memorial Heights Nursing Home. She was born January 26, 1919 at Sevier County, AR, the daughter of Frank and Maggie (Wood) Humphrey.
     Rachel was a member of the First Baptist Church, Broken Bow. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Rachel also enjoyed working and visiting with people.
     She was preceded in death by her husband, Bryon Metcalf, son Donal Metcalf, grandson Michael Bret Metcalf, one brother James Humphrey and four sisters, Ressie Gibson, Annie Manning, Lorene Phillips and Alene Bartlett.
     She leaves to cherish her memory, one son and daughter-in-law, Branson and Karen Metcalf, Broken Bow; one daughter-in-law, Patsy Metcalf, Tyler, TX; grandchildren, Todd Metcalf, Jody and Tina Metcalf, Greg and Chrissy Metcalf all of Broken Bow, Brandon and Kimberly Metcalf, Wimberly, TX, Vance and Jamie Metcalf, Whitehouse, TX, Lynn and Brad Glover, Brownwood, TX; eleven great-grandsons, eight-great granddaughters, three sisters, Ruby Stinnett, DeQueen, AR, Acie Blankenship, DeQueen, AR, Pearlie Miles, Texarkana, TX; one sister-in-law, Vondal Tucker and a host of nieces and nephews.
     Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 26, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow, with Bro. Neil Jackson officiating. Interment will follow at Denison Cemetery, Idabel, OK.

Leon Curtis Bowen, 1928 - 2007

     Leon Curtis Bowen, 78 of Bethel, passed from this life to his heavenly home on Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at Broken Bow, OK. He was born October 15, 1928 in Bethel, OK to Maudie Epsie (Smith) and Leonard Edward Bowen.

     Leon had been a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church for many years. He loved reading his Bible, attending church and visiting with family and friends. In his earlier years he enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling the rodeo circuit in Arkansas in which he preformed as a Bronc Rider.

     At the age of 16, during World War II, he joined the United States Army. He proudly served our county for 3 months until it was discovered that he was only 16 years old, which resulted in an honorable discharge. Later, when he became of age he was involved in the Korean Conflict where he earned several stripes, stars and medals for his bravery. He was very proud of his service in the United States Army.

     Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Maudie Epsie (Smith) Bowen and Leonard Edward Bowen.

     Survivors include one daughter, Beverly (Jeanie) Nichols of Broken Bow; one brother, Nelson Bowen of Bethel; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Fern and Leo DuMilieu of Lakeview, OR, Wanda and RV McKinney of Bethel, OK and Joyce and James Belk of Lincoln, CA; 2 aunts, Opal Kenney of Burney, CA and Vida Bowen of Bethel, OK; 4 grandchildren, Jesse Nichols of Holly Creek, Angela Harder of Battiest, Brad Nichols of Farmersville, LA, John Nichols of Broken Bow; eight great-grandchildren, Wren and Bethany Harder, Edge and Wyatt Nichols, Cathleen, Jesse, Victoria, and Colten Nichols; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

     Services are scheduled for 2:00 Thursday, March 22, 2007 at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Bethel, OK with Bro. Ron Kellum presiding. Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery

 Susan “Madge” Patterson, 1922 - 2007

     Susan “Madge” Patterson, 84, Broken Bow, passed away Monday, March 19, 2007 at Broken Bow. She was born November 15, 1922 at Bowling Green, KY., the daughter of Robert Oliver Gann and Mable Fern (LaRosh) Rohl.
     Susan was a resident of the community for thirty-two years moving here from Anderson, IN. She was affiliated with the Episcopal faith. She retired from McCurtain Memorial Hospital as a Switchboard Operator. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
     She leaves to cherish her memory, five sons and daughters-in-law, Robert and Jean Sanders, Santantonio, FL., Bill and Drenda Sanders, Anderson, IN., Russ and Alice Sanders, Penrose, CO., Mick and Judy Richardson, Anderson, IN., Mark and Kara Richardson, Broken Bow, OK.; one daughter and son-in-law, Joey and Paul Hensley, Anderson, IN.; twelve grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
     Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 22, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow, with Dr. Doug Deramus officiating. Interment will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery, Broken Bow, OK. Family visitation will be from 8-9 am, Thursday, March 22, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home, Broken Bow.

Mickey David Thomas Sr., 1955 - 2007

     Mickey David Thomas Sr., 51, of Broken Bow, passed away Thursday, March 15, 2007 at Choctaw Memorial Hospital, Hugo, OK. He was born March 21, 1955 in Fulbright, TX., to Alice LuVenia (Thomas) Frazier.
     Mickey married Hazel Mae (Marshall) Thomas on January 2, 1974. He was best known as “Mike” to family and friends. He loved cooking, working on cars, fishing and just spending time with family and friends.
     He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Lizzie (Smith) Thomas; paternal grandfather, Willie Thomas; mother, Alice LuVenia “Lula” (Thomas) Frazier; stepfather, Henry Frazier, one brother and two sisters.
     Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Hazel Mae (Marshall) Thomas, Broken Bow, OK.; three sons, Mickey David Thomas Jr., Broken Bow, OK., Tyrone Davis Thomas, Broken Bow, OK., LaMicha DeShawn Thomas, Paris, TX.; one stepson, Calvin Marshall, Broken Bow, OK.; one daughter, Shaquanda (Cotton) Thomas, Paris, TX.; two stepdaughters, Samritha Thomas, Edmond, OK., ZonZurea Thomas, Durant, OK.; five sisters and two brothers-in-law, Linda and Frank Wooten, Clarksville, TX., Lula and Anthony Owens, Avery, TX., Roby Wiseman, Dallas, TX., Earnestine Thomas, Broken Bow, OK., Helentine Frazier, Broken Bow, OK.; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
     Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 22, 2007, at the Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow.

Leon C. Bowen rites pending

     Leon C. Bowen, 78 of Broken Bow, passed away this morning March 20 at Broken Bow. Services are pending with Conley-White Funeral Home, Broken Bow.

Catherine Ouida Carroll, 1924 - 2007

     Catherine Ouida Carroll took off on her heavenly journey on Friday, March 16, 2007. We know there is a great celebration going on in heaven at this moment. See in your minds that bright smile as she was led by her Saviour into her heavenly home. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” Rejoice and be exceedingly glad that she is freed from her earthly body and sees the glories of heaven with eyes that are no longer dim and ears that can hear the heavenly anthems! Remember, she is more alive today than she has ever been since we have known her. Praise God for the life she has lived before us.
     Ouida was born January 15, 1924, the daughter of Oliver Clinton and Ida May Merry Whitfield. She was a retired postmaster having served for 22 years at the post office in Golden, Ok. She was a member of NAPUS, and the National League of Postmasters. She was a nursery worker, Children’s and Senior Ladies’ Teacher at Southwest Friendship Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, OK and Golden Baptist Church in Golden, Ok. She was a member of the Women’s Missionary Union at both churches for over 57 years. Since retiring in 1990, she volunteered at the Golden Community Center, Golden Senior Citizens Center and Golden Baptist Church.
     She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Eugene Carroll Sr; and brothers, Omagene Clinton Whitfield and Oliver Lewis Whitfield.
     Survivors include sons, Eugene Carroll Jr. and wife, Glenna, of Golden and Athony (Tony) Douglas Carroll of Buffalo, N.Y.; daughter, Ora Idanell Carroll Clouse and husband, Jessie, of Golden; grandchildren, Ernie and Rachel Harcrow, Jason and Beth Pike, Chad and Kristen Clouse, Ben and Shyla Carroll, Joseph Carroll and Catherine J. Carroll; great-grandchildren, Kala, Heather, and Alyssa Clouse, Rieley and Emma Carroll, Zels and Evie Pike, Hannah, Braiden, and Gracie Harcrow; a loving sister, Elma Mae Severn of Valliant; and a host of nieces and nephews who loved and appreciated her very much and was blessed with lots of other relatives and friends.
     Services will be Tuesday, March 20, 2:00 p.m., at the Golden Baptist Church with Bro. Mark McGeehee, Bro. Otis Cayton, and Bro. Mike Mings officiating. Interment will follow at the Glover Cemetery.
     The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, March 19, at the funeral home.

Flora McDonald, 1918 - 2007

     Flora McDonald, 89, former Broken Bow resident, passed away Thursday, March 15, 2007 at Golden Valley, AZ. She was born March 11, 1918 at Gillham, AR, the daughter of Joshua and Laura Elizabeth Cole Hogan. She was affiliated with the Oak Grove Baptist Church. She was of the Baptist faith.
     Flora was a homemaker and enjoyed spending time with her family. She was an active reader. She also enjoyed carpentry work.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Hershal Howard McDonald, son, Howard Wayne McDonald and 11 brothers and sisters.
     Flora leaves to cherish her memory a son, John Clark McDonald of Covington, TX; daughters, Bobbie Wood of Golden Valley, AZ and Judith Ann McDonald of Broken Bow; 3 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
     Funeral services will be 2:00 Monday, March 19, 2007 at the Oak Grove Baptist Church in Broken Bow. Interment will follow at the Oak Grove Cemetery.
     The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, March 18 at the funeral home.

Juanita Sparkman, 1919 - 2007

     Juanita Sparkman, 87, of Holly Creek, passed away Friday, March 16, 2007 at her residence. She was born November 17, 1919 in Idabel, Oklahoma, the daughter of John David Strahan and Vettie Sanford Strayhan.
     Juanita lived in the Holly Creek Community most all her life. She worked as a cook in several restaurants in the county. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed cooking for her family and others. Juanita and was a member of the Lukfata Baptist Church.
     Juanita was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Henry James “Buddy” Sparkman, three sisters and a grandson.
     She leaves to cherish her memory one son, James D. Sparkman and his wife, Shelia Sparkman of Texarkana, Texas; one daughter, Gladys Sparkman of the Holly Creek Community; a special niece, Lorene Helms of Idabel ; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
     Graveside services are at 2:00 pm, Monday March 19, 2007 at the Rock Hill Cemetery in Holly Creek with the Reverend Cletus Hawkins officiating. Interment followed in the Rock Hill Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Jim Norwood Funeral Home.

Jewell Punneo, 1918 - 2007

     Jewell Punneo, 88, Broken Bow, passed away Saturday, March 17, 2007. She was born May 15, 1918 at Pine Bluff, AR the daughter of Cleveland and Loyce Scruggs.
     Jewell married Louis Punneo on September 8, 1938 at Duncan, OK. She was a member of the Eastside Baptist Church in Broken Bow. Jewell enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Her hobbies were fishing, camping and deer hunting.
     She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Louis Punneo and one brother, Grover Scruggs.
     Jewell is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law; Joe and Linda Punneo, John and Johna Punneo of Broken Bow; daughters and sons-in-law, Edna and David Clouse, Betty Turnage of Broken Bow, Zola and Danny Talley of Sherwood, and Louise Brown of Muldrow, Ok; ten grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one great great grandchild, several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.
     Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 19, 2007 at Brumley Chapel, Broken Bow. Interment will follow in Broken Bow Cemetery.

Newt Lambert, 1929 - 2007

     Newt Lambert, 77, Broken Bow, passed away Friday, March 16, 2007, at his residence in Broken Bow. He was born December 24, 1929, at Broken Bow, the son of Richard and Mary (Phillips) Lambert.
      Newt lived all his life in Broken Bow and was a member of the Oak Hill Independent Assembly of God. Newt married Etoy Ryle on horseback by the Mountain Fork River on February 14, 1987. He retired in March, 1992 from the Weyehauser Company in Wright City. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, horseback riding, riding his donkey and homemade cart and spending time with family and great-granddaughter.
      He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Richard and Mary Lambert; four sisters, Wanda Lambert, Tiny Jones, Liney Jones and Ted Barnett; four brothers, Jim Lambert, Ra Lambert, Tom Jones and Gilbert Lambert.
      Newt leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Etoy Lambert of the home; one daughter and son-in-law, Deborah (Lambert) Barnes and Jerry B. Barnes, Idabel; one granddaughter, Toni Lambert and her husband Corey Ambrose, Dayton, TX; one great granddaughter Alexis Lambert, Dayton, TX; one stepdaughter Kay Eden and husband Dub Brown, Ft. Worth, TX; two stepsons Tim Eden and Henry F. Swaim both of Broken Bow; two brothers Doyle Lambert, Eagletown and Bill Lambert, Idabel; two sisters, Gerldine Voss, Idabel and Anna Marie Vargas, CA; several nieces and nephews; special friends, Rose Trammell, Neil Jackson, Terry Pratt, Travis Lawhon, Lyndal Pratt, John Garland, Don Jarvis and his church family.
     Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 19, 2007 at Oak Hill Independent Assembly of God, Oak Hill Community, with Rev. Neil Jackson and Rev. Larry Morris officiating. Interment will follow in Slater Cemetery, Wright City, OK.
      The family will receive friends Sunday, March 18, 2007, Brumley Chapel from 2-4 p.m.

Earnest L. Fulfer, 1935 - 2007

     Earnest L. Fulfer, 72, of Haworth, passed away Monday, March 12, 2007 at Texarkana, TX. He was born February 11, 1935 at Bokhoma, OK the son of Willie and Ora Cupps Fulfer. He was of the Baptist Faith.
     On June 30, 1961 Earnest married Shirley Moore at Redland. Earnest loved his family and spending time with them. He was always doing odd and end jobs piddling around the house. Woodworking was a favorite hobby of his, along with fishing and 4 wheeler riding.
     Earnest was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Shirley Fulfer; his parents; sons, William Fulfer and Billy Fulfer; and daughter LaDonna Fulfer.
     He is survived by his sons and daughter-in-law, Johnny and Viola Fulfer of Coalgate, OK and Roger Fulfer of Tom; daughters and sons-in-law, Sarrah and James Barber of Haworth and Connie and Eric Moreland of Winthrop, AR; brother, Jim Fulfer of Broken Bow; sisters, Dorotha Fulfer of Redland, Carrie Spillman of Broken Bow, Mae Hearing of Redland, Ruby Thurman of Broken Bow, Nancy Wilkerson of Redland; 10 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
     Funeral services will be 2:00 Friday, March 16, 2007 at the Conley-White Chapel with Louise Haney officiating. Interment will follow at the Bokhoma Cemetery.
     The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday evening at the funeral home.

Jannie Woodrum, 1912 - 2007

     Jannie Woodrum, 94, of Idabel, passed away Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at Idabel. She was born July 7, 1912 in Emory, Texas, the daughter of E.F. Ogburn and Lillian Slider Ogburn.
     Jannie was a homemaker, and worked as an aide at Memorial Heights Nursing Home for several years where she loved caring for her patients. She was a Christian and was affiliated with the Baptist Faith. Jannie loved spending time with her family especially her many grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, sewing, and was a lifetime resident of McCurtain County.
     She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alton Woodrum; great-grandson, Jeremy Woodrum; sisters, Lola Mae Harris, Ledra Ogburn, and Carol Gean Ogburn; brothers, E.F. Ogburn Jr., and 2 infants.
     Jannie is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Don and Dorothy Woodrum, and Phil and Alice Woodrum all of Idabel; daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Jim Garrett of Garvin; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
     Graveside services will be at 3:00 p.m. Thursday, March 15, 2007 at Denison Cemetery in Idabel with Bro. Cecil Ferguson officiating.

Florence Cherry, 1929 - 2007

     Florence Cherry, 77, resident of Idabel, passed away Monday, March 13, 2007 at Oklahoma City, OK. She was born April 9, 1929 in Valliant, OK the daughter of William and Valzo Briley Cherry.
     Ms. Cherry had lived in McCurtain County most of her lifetime, moving back from Missouri in 1960.
     She loved to cook. She enjoyed it so much, she often danced while she cooked. Florence worshiped Jehovah and was affiliated with the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Idabel.
     Honesty was a strong quality that Florence possessed. She will always be remembered as a wonderful mother and grandmother to her family.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 sons, John Doss and Darryl Cherry, 5 sisters and 2 brothers.
     Florence leaves to cherish her memory her sons and daughter-in-law, Franklin Cherry of Idabel and James Louis and Vicky Kelly of Missouri; daughters and son-in-law, Patricia Cherry of Muskogee, Jeana Cherry of Idabel, Esther and Ray Baker of Idabel, Cheryl Cherry of Oklahoma City; brother Harold Cherry of Durant; sisters, Melinda Polk of Broken Bow and Doris Whitaker of Idabel; a number of very loved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
      Services will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 17, 2007 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Interment will follow in Williamston Cemetery.
      The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 16, 2007 at the funeral home.

Joyce Lynn Jessie, 1973 - 2007

     Joyce Lynn Jessie, 33, of Broken Bow passed away Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at her residence. She was born July 9, 1973 at Sevier, Arkansas to Lola Cook.
      Joyce was a lifetime resident of McCurtain County and was affiliated with the Pentecostal faith. She graduated from Valliant High School.
     She was preceded in death by her mother; brother; grandmother and great-grand parents.
     Joyce is survived by her adopted mother, Ethel Helms of Broken Bow; City; four sisters, Jo Ann Wilkins, Barbara Vance, Tina Brewer and Michelle Mason, all of Broken Bow; aunt, Linda Miller of Broken Bow; great aunt, Lottie Birge of Oklahoma City; very special friends, Bobby and Georgia Black; 4 nieces and 9 nephews.
     Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, March 16, 2007 at the Broken Bow Cemetery.
     Family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, March 15 at the funeral home.

Marilyn Sue Norwood Kitchen, 1948 - 2007

     Marilyn Norwood Kitchen was born November 16, 1948 in Fayetteville, Arkansas and died March 12, 2007 in Oklahoma City.
     She was preceded in death by her father, William 'Bill' Norwood, her brother Joe Norwood, and twin sisters Sharon Kay & Karen Sue Norwood.
     She is survived by her adoring husband Rod Kitchen, daughter Christan Adams and husband Mason, mother Haroldine 'Hunky' Norwood, stepson Todd Kitchen, her brother Jim Norwood and wife Roseanne, nephew Brant Norwood and wife Jenny, and niece Reagan Norwood and son Braxton, and many loving family members and friends.
     Marilyn graduated in 1967 from Idabel High School, where she was a majorette and played clarinet in the high school band. She attended Oklahoma State University-OKC from 2004 through 2007, and was nearing her associate's degree in business. Marilyn worked with Liberty National Bank for almost 30 years, and then with Spirit Bank until she retired from the banking industry. She was involved with Arbonne International as an Area Manager. She also participated in the Girl's & Boy's Club in Oklahoma City, as well as Junior Hospitality.
     Marilyn may best be described as 'classy, sassy and full of life.' She never met a stranger, and was very outgoing, funny, generous, loving and easy to talk to. She loved shopping, especially for shoes, decorating, gardening, and dancing. Her favorite dance was 'the Hitchhiker,' which she made famous among her friends & family. Her favorite TV shows were Survivor and The Apprentice. Her favorite movie, which is also appropriate for the person she was, is 'It's a Wonderful Life.'
     She was an adoring daughter, wife, and mother, a genuine, vivacious and caring friend, and an amazing person who touched others' lives in so many ways. Marilyn was loved and appreciated by all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by her family and a host of friends.
     Her family asks that friends and loved ones join them in a celebration of her life at 2 PM, Friday, March 16, 2007 at Crossings Community Church in Oklahoma City.
     A memorial fund has been established in Marilyn's honor to raise awareness about lung cancer, called 'Flowers for Life.' In lieu of or in addition to flowers, you may make memorial donations to Flowers for Life, in care of The Family Health Foundation of Oklahoma, 1900 NW Expressway, Suite 501, Okla. City, OK 73118.
     

Venia Webster, 1912 - 2007

     Venia Webster, age 94, of the Cisco Community, went to be with God on Saturday, March 10, 2007 at Hill’s Nursing Home where she had been a resident for the last three months. She was born June 1, 1912 at Plum Bayou, Arkansas, the daughter of Charlie and Laura Cotton.
     Venia was a homemaker, and had a great love for the outdoors. Before her health failed Venia enjoyed gardening and fishing. Her favorite hobby earlier in life was quilting. Venia was known as a gracious hostess and always welcomed family and friends. She was a member of the By-Pass Church of Christ and had lived most of her life in the Cisco Community.
     She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Joe Webster; a son, Rex Webster; 3 brothers and 1 sister.
     Venia is survived by daughters and sons-in-law, Ozeda Bushers of the Cisco Community, Shirley and Bill Johnson of Claremore, and Nan and Phil Berglan of Houston; a daughter-in-law, Janie Webster of the Cisco Community; 8 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
     Services will be on Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the Conley-White Chapel in Idabel with Jim Mashburn officiating. Interment will follow at the Forest Hill Cemetery in the Forest Grove community.
     The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at the funeral home.

Billy Lee Morris, 1976 - 2007

     Billy Lee Morris, 30, Wright City, passed away Sunday, March 11, 2007, at Valliant. He was born December 14, 1976, at Ruston, LA, the son of Marion L. and Billie (Jackson) Morris
     Lee lived all his life in Wright City and was a member of the Wright City First Assembly of God. Lee enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends.
     He was preceded in death by his father, Marion L. Morris; grandfathers, Pete Morris and John Jackson.
      Lee leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Billie Morris of the home; one sister, Brandy Morris, Saltillo, MS; grandmothers, Louise Morris, Wright City and Elnora Jackson, Gibson, LA, two nieces Brittany and Sierra Harrison and a host of extended family and friends.
      Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at Brumley Chapel, Broken Bow, with Rev. Scott Stuart and Rev. Sam Bates officiating. Interment will follow in Valliant Cemetery, Valliant, OK.
      The family will receive friends Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at Brumley Chapel from 6 – 7 p.m.

Patrick “Pat” Henry Gallagher, 1918 - 2007

     Patrick “Pat” Henry Gallagher, 89, Winthrop, Ark., passed away Sunday, March 11, 2007 at Winthrop. He was born February 14, 1918, at Arkinda, Ark., the son of John and Katherine (Stovall) Gallagher.
     He married Mattie Mae Sanders on January 8, 1941 at Winthrop. He was a farmer, rancher and timber worker and had lived in Arkinda and Winthrop community all of his life.
     Pat was preceded in death by his wife, Mattie Mae Gallagher; his parents; two sons, Henry Gallagher and Charles Gallagher; two brothers, Jack Gallagher, Bill Gallagher; three sisters, Maggie Gallagher, Vesti Lou Nunn Taylor and Ruthie Averitt.
     He leaves to cherish his memory two sons, Edward “Pete” Gallagher and wife Sue and Ray Gallagher all of Foreman, Ark; three daughters, Patsy Farley and husband Joe of Antlers, Ruthie Bartling of San Antonio, TX and Dorothy Cook and husband James of Broken Bow; two daughters-in-law, Sandra Gallagher and Faye Gallagher; two brothers, Dan Gallagher of Winthrop, Ark and Robert Gallagher of Broken Bow; three sisters, Elsie Scott of Winthrop, Ark, Opal Robinson of New Boston, TX and Bertha Mae Vandenburg of Las Vegas, NV; 17 grandchildren, Jeff Gallagher, Terry Gallagher, Twana Smith, Joey Farley, Michelle Hernandez, Todd Gallagher, Jason Gallagher, Kelly Gallagher, Patrick Bartling, Darren Bartling, Debbie Bernal, Renee Deihl, Christy Cook, Jamie Phillips, Cody Gallagher, Chad Gallagher and Katherine Pineda; 40 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews and many many friends.
     Services will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, March 15, 2007 at Crossroads Baptist Church, Crossroad Community with Bro. Martin Maynard officiating. Interment will follow in Pauley Cemetery, Winthrop, Ark.
     Family visitation will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home, Idabel.

Harold Davis, 1931 - 2007

     Harold Davis, 75, Broken Bow, passed away Friday, March 9, 2007, at St. Michael Health Care System, Texarkana, TX. He was born September 5, 1931, at Bethel, OK, the son of Roy and Ethel (Henson) Davis.
     Harold had an outgoing personality. He loved to visit with friends, tell stories and make people laugh. Harold was very proud of the contributions he made to the Feed the Children Foundation. He loved his family and the time he shared with them.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ethel Davis; son, Richard Dale Davis; sister, Helen Marie Clark.
     He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Mary Davis, of the home; two sons, Eddie Davis and wife Junell, Broken Bow, OK., Doug Davis and wife Bonnie, Waterville, WA.; three daughters, Vickie Polley, Hot Springs, AR., Angie Nickich and husband John, McAlester, OK., Sherrie Baker and husband Calvin, Broken Bow, OK.; two brothers, Joe Davis and wife Norma, Holly Creek Community, James Davis and wife Tilda, Bethel, OK.; ten grandchildren, Michelle Gibson, Tiffani Davis, Sabrina Hodge, Jason Sossamon, Micheal Basford, Chris Sorrell, Patrick Bell, Aston Bell, Timothy Bell, Amber Bell; fifteen great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many dear friends.
     Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 12, 2007 at Eastside Baptist Church, Broken Bow, with Bro. Dean Smith and Bro. Billy Dale officiating. Interment will follow in Bethel Cemetery, Bethel, OK.
     The family will be receiving friends at the home of Harold and Mary Davis in Broken Bow.

Donald Lee Bitler 1929 - 2007

     Donald Lee Bitler,78 was born on February 2, 1929 in Emporia, Kansas. After a long illness, he passed away at home on Wednesday, March 7, 2007. Don was a former truck driver, driving from coast to coast. He enjoyed playing dominoes, bowling and coon hunting. He loved animals especially, dogs.
     One of Don’s most important accomplishments came late in life, when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He attended Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.
     He is survived by his wife, Bonnie of the home, a special step granddaughter, Bethany Grimes of Idabel and his loveable dog, Rosie.
     Services will be at 2:00 pm, Saturday, March 10, 2007 at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church with Brother Doug Clements officiating. Interment will follow at Denison Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Jim Norwood Funeral Home.

Gregg Butler 1962 - 2007

     Gregg Butler, 44, Idabel, passed away Thursday, March 1, 2007 at Christus St Michael Health System in Texarkana, Texas. He was born August 1, 1962 at Winnsboro, Texas, the son of Don and DeAnna (Burns) Butler.
     Gregg and Dana Peccio were married July 10, 1999 in Broken Bow. He was a truck driver for Rolloffs Trucking Co. in Durant and had lived in this community all of his life. He loved hunting, camping, working with cattle and spending time with friends and family.
     He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Floyd and Willie Butler; and uncle, Lloyd Walker.
     Gregg leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Dana Butler of the home; his parents, Don & Phyllis Butler, Idabel and DeAnna and Smith Saunders, Morristown, TN; sons and daughters, Greggory Don Butler Jr., Oklahoma City, OK., Danielle Butler, Bakersfield, CA, Misty Rachal and Brad Peccio both of Idabel; brother, John Butler and wife Modesty, Durant; one sister, Fonda Kay Proctor and husband Bob, Broken Bow; four grandchildren, Dalton Blane Rachal, London Butler, Cyncere Butler and Chloe Butler; two nieces, Kandi Dickerson and Jerika Butler; three nephews, Clayton Proctor, Jorden Butler and Siren Butler; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins and many, many friends.
     Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Idabel, with Bro. Blake Gideon officiating. Interment will follow in Canfield Cemetery.
     Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, March 5, 2007 at Brumley Funeral Home, Idabel.

Esther Lila Morris, 1910 - 2007

     Esther Lila Morris, 96, of Broken Bow, passed away Friday, March 2, 2007 at McCurtain Memorial Hospital. She was born October 24, 1910, in Wickes, AR., the daughter of Tom and Jessie Chambers.
     Esther married Dewey Morris December 23, 1927 and had lived most of her life in the Pickens, Oklahoma area. Since 1993 she had been a resident of McCurtain Manor Nursing Home. She was of the Assembly of God faith. She was a loving and wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to all who knew her.
      She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Dewey Morris; daughter, Lauzette Morris; son-in-law, Don Hadley; grandsons, Tony Hadley and Ray Morris; sisters, Cory Morris and Susie(Morris)Treat.
      Esther leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Luquella Hadley, Eugene, OR.; four sons and daughters-in-law, Jay and Doris Morris, Springfield, OR., Frazier Dee and Molly Morris, Chandler, TX., Ken and Beth Morris, Bryan, TX., Jackie and Mary Morris, Eagletown, OK.; sixteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; four great,great-grandchildren; special nieces, nephews, her McCurtain Manor circle of friends, past and present staff and a host of life long friends.
      Services will be at 10:00 a.m., Monday, March 5, 2007, at the Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow. Interment will follow at the Battiest Cemetery. Rev. Jimmy Townsend and Bro. Larry Morris will officiate.

Samara Rain Wallace, 2005 - 2007

     Then were there brought unto him little children that he should put His hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Matt. 19: 13 &14. On Tuesday, February 27, 2007 the angels brought Samara Rain Wallace unto Jesus and her heavenly home. Samara was born on June 3, 2005, the daughter of Coty Wallace and Jessica Wells.
     Samara was preceded in death by paternal great-grandparents, Gene Wallace and Ginger Munnerlynn; maternal great-grandparents, Albert Wells Jr., Chester and Ester Jackson and a cousin, Amber Wells.
     Samara is survived by parents, Coty Wallace, Redland Community; mother, Jessica Wells, Idabel, OK.; paternal grandparents, Terry and Lesia Wallace, Haworth, OK; paternal great-grandmother, Ann Wallace, Portland, OR.; paternal great, great-grandmother, Beatrice Brock, Holly Creek Community; maternal grandparents, Ronnie and Gerri Wells, Broken Bow, OK., Holly Henry, Idabel, OK.; maternal great-grandparents, Mildred Wells, Broken Bow, OK., Jack and Beverly Henry, Portland, OR.; uncles and aunts, Cody Wells, Kyle and Jennifer Wells, Brandy Wells and Raymond Burden, Shane Wallace, Tommie Wallace; cousins, Braydon Wells, Ruvie Patel, Joshua Patel and Ashley Patel.
     Services will be Saturday, March 3, 2007, at the Brumley Funeral Home Chapel, Broken Bow. Johnny Caldwell will officiate. Interment will follow in Hochatown Cemetery . Hochatown , OK . Family will receive friends at the Wallace residence at Goodwater and at 304 N. Costilow, Broken Bow, OK.

Lola Mae Baum, 1924 - 2007

      Lola Mae Baum, 82, of Eagletown, passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at DeQueen, Arkansas. She was born March 26, 1924 at Alma, Arkansas to Amos Riley and Elsie Thomas Kerlin.
     Lola moved to Eagletown when she was 8 years old. She graduated from Eagletown High School as valedictorian of her class in 1940. She married Henry Ferman Lee in 1940 and moved to California where she lived for the next 30 years. In 1964 she married Glen Baum. They made their home in Eagletown in 1971. She enjoyed reading, playing cards, puzzles, gardening and spending time with her family. She was affiliated with the pentecostal faith.
      She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Glen Baum in 1988; brother, Vernard Kerlin; sister, Norma Hadley; and 2 step brothers, R. C. and Delbert Couch.
     Lola is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Karen Lee of California; twin daughters and sons-in-law, Mary and Top Chandler of Eagletown and Mickey and Greg Hicks of Upland, California; one sister, Jean Cromer of Longview, Texas; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; other relatives and a host of friends.
     Services will be 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 5, 2007 at Conley-White Chapel in Broken Bow with Bro. Kent House officiating. Interment will follow in Eagletown Cemetery.

Lisa Marie Dickey, 1962 - 2007

      Lisa Marie Dickey, 44, of Broken Bow, passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at her residence. She was born December 12, 1962 to David and Sylvia Boston LaPanne at Dover, New Hampshire. She married Perry Dickey on April 14, 1982 at Broken Bow.
     Lisa was a talented musician and directed the music department at New Life Tabernacle in Broken Bow. She worked as a secretary / agent for several local insurance companies. She was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. She loved the Lord and inspired many people and touched many hearts. She loved spending time in her flower garden.
     Those left to mourn her passing and to celebrate her life include her husband, Perry of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Chris Harris of Edmond; sons, SPC. Brian Dickey of Edmond and Kelly Dickey of the home; father, David LaPanne of Lake Wales, Florida; mother, Sylvia Mailhoit of Bow, New Hampshire; brothers, Major David LaPanne Jr. of Willmington, Delaware and SPC. Christopher LaPanne currently deployed to Iraq; sisters, Michelle Harnois of Exeter, NH, Jennifer Haunn of Newark, DE and Melissa LaPanne of Alabama; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
      Services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 3, 2007 at the New Life Tabernacle with Rev. Johnny Cheek officiating. Interment will follow in Crown Hill Cemetery at Broken Bow.
     Family will receive friends Friday, March 2 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Chadrick Ethan Gibson, 1978 - 2007

     Chadrick Ethan Gibson, 28, Broken Bow, went to Heaven at 5:45 A.M. on February 27, 2007. He was born March 13, 1978, at DeQueen, AR., the son of Melvin and Teresa (Chapman) Gibson. The name Chadrick Ethan meaning “Mighty Warrior” exemplified his life as he fought a twenty-eight year battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Against all odds he lived a life of happiness. He was a cowboy and he enjoyed his horses, camping and family get togethers. Chad touched the hearts and lives of all who met him and gained many, many friends along the way. He was affiliated with the Assemblies of God.
     Chad leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Melvin and Teresa Gibson, of the home; maternal grandparents, Grover and Louise Chapman, Broken Bow, OK.; paternal grandparents, Elton and Vallie Gibson, Broken Bow, OK.; two aunts, Judy Evans and husband Rodney, Broken Bow, OK., Cindy Maness and husband David, Broken Bow, OK.; cousins, Lee Evans and wife Shawna and son Koty, Broken Bow, OK., Lisa Williams and husband Luke, Cleburne, TX., Jennifer Emery and husband Jarrod and son Jayden, Broken Bow, OK.; special friends, Cole Harper, Kelly Donaldson, Shonda and Brett Fears and a host of other friends.
     Services will be held 10:00 p.m., Saturday, March 3, 2007, at First Assembly of God Church, Broken Bow. Bro. Melvin Gibson and Bro. Forest Gibbs will officiate. Interment will follow at Glover Cemetery, Glover, OK.
     Family will be receiving friends Friday, March 2, 2007, 6 to 8 p.m. at Brumley Funeral Home, Broken Bow.

Bud McBrayer, 1942 - 2007

     Bud McBrayer, 64, of Idabel, passed away Monday, February 26, 2007 at Paris, Texas. He was born April 3, 1942 at Haworth, the son of Edgar Newton and Gussie Violet Bryant McBrayer. On August 4, 1961 he married Sue Finley at Haworth.
     Bud owned and operated Bud’s Saw Repair for over 40 years. He was a faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church, serving as a Deacon for many years. Bud loved teaching his Sunday School Class. He enjoyed woodworking and fishing and was a lifetime resident of McCurtain County.
     He was preceded in death by his parents.
      Bud is survived by his wife Sue of the home; sons and daughters-in-law, Jonathan and Kittie McBrayer of Ponca City, and Chris and GiGi McBrayer of Idabel; a daughter, Renae Boston of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; a sister and brother-in-law, Mary Francis and Harold Axton of Oklahoma City; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carmen and Marvin Taylor of Coalgate; nine grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, many other relatives, and many, many friends.
     Services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, March 2, 2007 at Trinity Baptist Church in Idabel with Bro. Kent House and Bro. Britt Lesley officiating. Interment will follow in Denison Cemetery.
     The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, March 1, 2007 at the funeral home.

Kareen “Kay” Marie Dale, 1942 - 2007

     Kareen “Kay” Marie Dale, 64, of Ringold passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2007 at Antlers. She was born June 13, 1942 in Palestine, Texas, the daughter of David and Marie Moore Turpin. She married Billy Dale on October 24, 1958 in Nowata, OK.
     Kay attended school in Idabel. After her husband was discharged from the Army, her family moved to the Dallas area in 1969. Kay and her family returned to McCurtain County sometime around 1974. She had lived in Ringold since 1991.
     Kay enjoyed painting landscapes. She was a member of NAPUS and was employed by the Ringold Post Office as Postmaster. She attended the Old Burwell Church of Christ in Ringold.
     She was preceded in death by her parents; 2 year old son, Mark Paul Dale in 1965; son-in-law, Gary Nolan Gross, brother-in-law, Dewayne Penner; and mother-in-law, Lorene Penner.
     Kay leaves to cherish her memory her husband Billy Paul Dale of the home; sons, David Dee Dale and Billy Paul Dale II; daughters and sons-in-law, Lisa Marie Gross, Sharon Kay and Patrick D. Gray, Wanda Jo and Balbino Paredes; brothers and sisters-in-law, Wimpford and Phyllis Jo Vice, Glen “Red” and Mary Dale, and Wanda Webb; grandchildren, Russell Dale Pinckard, Ryan Patrick Pinckard, Brianna Marie Wood, Elyse Dennell Pinckard, Randall Mark Paul Wright, Veronica Kay Nicole Wright, Dewayne “Hank” Ray Smith, Corbin Fletcher Dale, Shalyse Wryn Tuttle, Ruth Mackenna Dale, Toni Michelle Lambert, Ashley Gray, Cord Gray, Brice Gray; great-granchildren, Mikayia Marie Wood, Cortlyn Augustus Cravins, Kaitlyn Makenzie Cravins, Caleb Wayne Anderson, Calen Malachi Wright, Alexus Danielle Lambert; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
     Services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 1, 2007 at the Old Burwell Church of Christ, Ringold with Dick Logan and Bro. James Campbell officiating. Interment will follow in the Denison Cemetery at Idabel.
     The family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 28, 2007 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Charles McGuire, 1914 - 2007

     Charles Edgar McGuire, Jr. went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 25, 2007. He was born September 17, 1914 in Plano, Texas to C.E. McGuire and Annie Morton McGuire.
     He was preceded in death by his first wife, Martha Jean Grimley, of Belfast, Ireland and his second wife, Viola Gafford; his parents; three brothers, Bill, Roy, and Frank; and a sister, Celeste.
     Charles moved to Idabel in 1919 and started school at Shultz Grade School under the direction of Lambert Barkman and Mrs Barkman. He graduated from Haworth High School in 1933.
     He served four years in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was stationed in Belfast, Ireland and Bremmerhaven, Germany. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service in Idabel for thirty years. He began this career as one of the first city mail carriers and later served as a rural carrier at Garvin.
     Charles was a longtime and faithful member of the First United Methodist church in Idabel.
     He enjoyed learning new things and taught himself to play the piano and the accordion. He learned to speak Spanish through study and first hand practice with Spanish speaking people. He was a ham radio operator at one time. He learned to use a computer in his later years and developed good technology skills.
     Charles enjoyed helping others. He sang in a group at various nursing homes and he worked with the Idabel Christmas Counsel delivering food baskets. He donated many hours to the activities of the American Legion. He was a loyal friend to many.
     He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Wanda and John Blackburn of Ehrenburg, AZ; granddaughter and her husband, Sherry and Chuck Williford of Prescott, AZ; grandson and wife, John and Kim Blackburn of Ehrenburg, AZ; great-grandchildren, Christopher Miller of Prescott, AZ, John Blackburn III and Erica Blackburn of Ehrenburg, AZ; nephew, Charles McGuire and his wife Pam of San Antonio, TX; niece, Susan McGuire Livengood and her husband Gregg of Clyde, NC; nephew, Larry McGuire of Arlington, TX; first cousins, Ella Bess McGuire Shields of Howe, TX, Mills McGuire of St. Louis, IL, Kenneth McGuire of Wheeling, WV, Bobby McGuire Saba of Huntsville, AL, Lavern McGuire Hamilton of Pittsville, IL, and Marilyn Keagy of Pampa, TX; a special second cousin, Dennis Jones of Dallas, TX; and a special sister-in-law, Fran Cobb of Arlington, TX; special caregivers, Brenda Farley, Sylvia Walls, Lahoma Long Whithead, Rainbow Home Health, and Mays Hospice.
     Funeral services will be held Friday, March 2, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Idabel with Rev. Donna Dodson officiating. Immediately following the service there will be a reception with refreshments in the new church building and everyone is encouraged to attend. There will be a private interment service at Denison Cemetery.
     In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church in Idabel.