Betty Joan Whitson

Betty Joan Whitson, 73, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2008 in Mexia, Texas. Betty was born on December 8, 1935 in Modesto, California to Jason & Devoda (Reed) Carriger. She was a school teacher and a nurse. A son, Phillip Bookout and her parents precede her in death. Betty is survived by her beloved husband, Russell Whitson of the home; 2 sons & and a daughter in law, Darrell Bookout of Altus, OK & Mark & Becky Bookout of Bessie, OK; 3 daughters & sons in law, Jill & Joseph Thompson of Mexia, TX, Sheila Whitson of Mexia, TX, & Zona & Billy Castlow of Kirvin, TX; 7 grandchildren, Billie, Duane, Dakota, Jason, Kayla, Johnny, & Travis; 8 great grandchildren; and a half brother, Paris Carriger of Livingston, TX; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Graveside services for Betty were held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 1, 2009 at Monroe Cemetery in Monroe, OK with Father Valentine officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Judith Kay "Judy" Richison

Judy Richison, 59, of Pocola, OK passed away Friday, December 26, 2008 at Ft. Smith, AR. Judy was born in Pine Bluff, AR on April 5, 1949 to Dolph & Willie (Martindale) Hancock. She was a secretary for Anglen Diesel in Pocola. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, David Hancock; and daughter in law, Donnell Richison. Survivors include her husband, Z.W. Richison of the home; daughter, Kerry Richison of Pocola, OK; 2 sons, Shawn Richison of Spiro, OK and Chris Richison of Ft. Smith, AR; 2 grandchildren; Reed & Ryan Richison; 7 sisters, Billie Schriver of Van Buren, AR, Patsy Davis of Scranton, AR, Joan McBurnett of Conway, AR, Barbara Griffith, Carol Harwood, & Brenda Yusko, all of Ft. Smith, AR, and Janice Owen of Little Rock, AR; 2 brothers, Jerry Hancock and Harold Hancock, both of Van Buren, AR; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at Pocola Heights Free Will Baptist Church in Pocola, OK with Rev. Clifford Myers officiating. Interment will follow in the Ft. Smith National Cemetery, Ft. Smith, AR at Noon. Pallbearers: Keith Richison, Brian Harwood, Greg Harwood, David Harwood, Blake Harwood, & Derek Harwood. Arrangements - EVANS & MILLER FUNERAL HOME - POCOLA, OK

Shanna Lavon Short

Shanna Lavon Short, 41, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, December 27, 2008 at her home in Poteau. She was born in Ft. Smith, AR on February 16, 1967 to Larry Joe & Phyllis Lavon (Howard) Maden. Shanna was a Dental Office Manager. She was a member of the Life-N-Christ Church in Rock Island, OK. Survivors include her husband, Scott of the home; 2 daughters, Paige & future son-in-law, Chris McCoy of Poteau, OK and Chelsea Short of the home; her parents; maternal grandmother, Marie Howard of Pocola, OK; and paternal grandmother, Mary Maden of Pocola, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at Life-N-Christ Church in Rock Island, OK with the Rev. Dan Kennedy officiating. Interment in Macedonia Cemetery, Pocola, OK. Pallbearers: Jeff Jensen, Weylin Groom, Keith Davis, Randy Akins, Mitch Harbour, Dwayne Carter, Colby Martin, & Clinton Reeves. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to KRAV Youth Program at Life-N-Christ Church. The family will visit with friends on Monday evening from 6-8 pm at the funeral home.

Elva Oehlschlager

Elva Oehlschlager, 69, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, December 27, 2008 at her home in Poteau. She was born in Colorado Springs, CO on December 14, 1939, to Fred & Edna Pearl (Phelps) Reed. She was retired after working 32 years at Johnson Control. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Poteau. She loved to help people, especially in the kitchen at the Methodist Church and also helping with kids Logo Program at church. She is survived by her husband, Jack of the home; daughter & son in law, Jackie & Ronnie Schornick of Allen, TX; son & daughter in law, Ronnie & Christy Oehlaschlager of Poteau, OK; 3 grandchildren, Marie Schornick, David & Susan Oehlschlager; brother, Charles Reed of Yoder, CO; parents, Fred & Edna Reed of Rush, CO; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Tuesday, December 30, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church in Poteau, OK with the Rev. Greg Tener officiating. Interment: Vaughn Cemetery, Gilmore, OK. The family will visit with friends on Monday evening Dec. 29, from 6-8 pm.

Jack Howard Michael

Jack Howard Michael, 78, of Pocola, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2008 at St. Edward Mercy Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Jack was born on June 15, 1930 in Slaytonville, Oklahoma to Justin & Lenora (Fields) Michael. He was a truck driver. Jack’s parents precede him in death. Jack is survived by his wife, Pat Michael of the home; a son 7 daughter in law, Jack & Cathy Michael of Poteau, OK; 2 grandsons & their wives, Jessie & Toni Michael of Pocola, OK & Jeremy & Stacy Michael of Bonanza, AR; a great granddaughter, Jacqulynn Michael; his brother, Pete Michael of Slaytonville, AR; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Jack were held at the Life N Christ Church (formerly Solid Rock) in Rock Island, OK at 2:00 pm Friday, December 26, 2008 with the Reverend L.G. Williams, the Reverend Robert Presson, and the Reverend Danny Kennedy officiating. Interment followed the services in Macedonia Cemetery in Pocola, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Pocola, OK. Pallbearers were Jack Michael Jr., Michael Sallys, Jeremy Michael, Jessi Michael, Farrell McCoy, & Ralph Bobbitt.

Maudie Geraldine Hudlow

Maudie Geraldine Hudlow, 68, of LeFlore, OK passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. Mrs. Hudlow was born January 20, 1940 in Fanshawe, OK to Hayden & Nancy (Grissom) Thornburg. She was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son; a grandson Jonathan; a great grandson Tyler; and her grandmother who raised her, Martha Grissom. Survivors include her husband, James Hudlow of the home; daughter & son in law, Brenda & Frankie LeFlore of Wister, OK; sons & daughters & sons in law, Danny & Phyllis Hudlow of LeFlore, OK, Clarence & Felicia Hudlow of LeFlore, OK; 17 Grandchildren, 23 Great Grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mae Wilson of Wilburton, OK, Barbara Newby of Fanshawe, OK; brother, Freddie Thornburg of Wilburton, OK; 20 half brothers & half sisters; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services held 2 pm, Monday, December 22, 2008 at the First Baptist Church in LeFlore, OK with the Rev. Bob E. Cherry officiating. Interment following in LeFlore Cemetery, LeFlore, OK. Pallbearers Adam Hudlow, Tommy Hudlow, Bryan LeFlore, Bobby LeFlore, Robin Fry, Floyd Hudlow, Eugene Ritter, & Kevin Wiley. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Joyce Amanda Smith

Joyce Amanda Smith, 74, of Tulsa, OK passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. She was born December 20, 1933, in Spiro, OK to Ray & Alta Robertson Strain. Joyce worked at Whirlpool. She attended the Assembly of God Church. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Marie Eubank; sister Lois Robbins; brother, Wesley Strain, & her parents. Survivors include her daughters, Ann Dupriest of Greenwood, AR & lisa Way of Oklahoma City, OK; sons, Ricky Eubank and Randy Eubank, both of Tulsa, OK, & Michael Eubank of Mineral Wells, TX; 11 Grandchildren; 5 Great Grandchildren; brother, Lawrence Strain & sisters, Florence Brown, Darlene Way & Hollie Hall; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services are 2:00 pm, Sunday, December 21, 2008 at Evans Memorial Chapel in Pocola, OK with the Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment following in New Hope Cemetery, Spiro, OK. Pallbearers will be her grandsons. Family will visit with friends on Saturday evening December 20 from 6-8 at the funeral home in Pocola.

Kenneth Ray Allen

Kenneth Ray Allen, 61, of Pocola, OK passed away Wednesday, December 17,2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. He was born January 29, 1947 in Hodge, LA to Frank Reese & Maudie Nunn Allen. Kenneth worked in a plant nursery. He was a Baptist. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Joseph Allen. Survivors include 3 sisters, Kathy Western and Frances Hergett, both of Portland, OR; brother, Ronnie Allen of Oregon; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 2pm Sunday, December 21, 2008 graveside at New Hope Cemetery in Spiro, OK with Pete Dobing officiating.

William Floyd "Bill" Ward Jr.

William Floyd “Bill” Ward William Floyd “Bill” Ward Jr., 90, of Pocola, OK passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at his home. Bill was born in Fort Smith, AR on June 5, 1918, to William Floyd & Laura Elizabeth {Durham} Ward Sr. He was a veteran of the US Army. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Mary Laverda Ward on March 4, 2008. He is also preceded by daughter, Mary Severe; brother, Wayne Ward & sister, Carman Doose. Survivors include 3 daughters, Ann Rupp of Redding, CA, Nancy Ward of Fullerton, CA, Cheryl Plant of Pocola, OK; son, Jack Ward of Whittier, CA; 12 Grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; brother, Bill Ward; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services held 2:30 pm, Saturday, December 20, 2008 at Pocola Memorial Chapel in Pocola, OK with Rev. Ricky Huggins & Rev. Gary Severe officiating. Interment following in Macedonia Cemetery, Pocola, OK. Pallbearers: Ron Stanley, Michael Stanley, Jack Ward, Kenneth Plant, Jerry Hobbs, & Steve Hobbs. Arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Pocola, OK.

E.J. Solomon

E.J. Solomon, 61, of Spiro, OK passed away Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at his home in Spiro. Mr. Solomon was born February 26, 1947 in Red Oak, OK to Curtis & Clara Walker Solomon. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Ernie Joe Solomon. He was a veteran of the US Navy. He was an electrician. Survivors include his wife, Joan Solomon of the home; son, Pete Solomon of the home; daughters, Margaret Solomon of Scotland, Kim Dodson of Greenwood, AR, Teresa Deenean Rose Solomon of Boynton Beach, FL; 7 grandchildren, Randall Pierce of Okinawa, Japan, Andrew Solomon of Tulsa, OK, Ryan Dodson of Greenwood, AR, Catrina Solomon of Tulsa, OK, Dara Holland of Greenwood, AR, Taylor Wilson of Scotland, Matthew Wilson of Scotland; 1 great grandson, Ronnie Ray Pierce of Okinawa, Japan; 3 brothers, Curtis Solomon Jr. of Spiro, OK, Harold Solomon of Cameron, OK, Joe Solomon of Spiro, OK; 4 sisters, Edna Aary of Spiro, OK, Mildred Davis of Parkhill, OK, Dorothy James of Cameron, OK, Louise Jordan of Spiro, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services - 11 am, Saturday, December 20, 2008 at Victory Worship Center in Spiro, OK with the Rev. Brian Fout and Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Burial in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers: Wayne Thompson, Ace Waite, Wilber Chance, Andrew Solomon, Ryan Dodson, Shawn Dodson.

Eugene V. Dunn

Eugene V. Dunn, 91, of Fort Smith, AR [formerly of Poteau, OK] passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2008 in Fort Smith, AR. He was born in Monroe, OK on October 17, 1917, to Ed & Leona Price Dunn. Eugene was a longtime member of the First Christian Church of Poteau, OK and served for many years as a deacon; he was a Rotarian; a 32nd Degree Mason; an avid fisherman & bridge player. He was a graduate of Southeastern State College in Durant where he met and married his wife of 65 years, Joan McCarty Dunn. After college he moved to Washington, DC where he became a special agent with the FBI. He served in the US Navy during WWII and then returned to Poteau where they established and operated the Credit Bureau of LeFlore County and Robbers Cave Recreation. Eugene was preceded in death by his grandson, Jay Shadwick. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Joan Dunn; 2 daughters & sons in law, Jackie & August Khilling of Ft. Smith, AR, Jana & Brad Randall of Ft. Smith, AR; son & daughter in law, Dr. Jim & Charlene Dunn of Poteau, OK; granddaughter, Caroline Dunn of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 1 pm, Friday, December 19, 2008 at the First Christian Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Dennis Jones officiating. Interment following in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau. Pallbearers: Steve Holton, Sam Gentry, Ron Hall, Robert C. Thompson, Mark Eidschun, Jerry Kemp. Honorary pallbearers: F.L. Holton, Neville Brehm, Dr. R.L. Winters, Riley Smith, & Wayne Spider Webb. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to the First Christian Church, PO Box 160, Poteau, OK 74953 or Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, 825 NE 13th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73104-9930.

Foy Lee Rimer

Foy Lee RImer, 70, of Wister, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2008 in Wister, OK. Foy was born on May 30, 1938 in Shawnee, Oklahoma to Foy Marion & Mattie Love (Page) Rimer. Foy was a 6 year veteran of the US Air Force; and was a manager for Wall’s in Seminole & Tulsa after working his way up from stock boy. He also was a forestry technician for Arkansas Kraft for many years. At the time of his accident 20 years ago, he and his wife were operators in the trucking industry. Foy’s parents; 2 sisters, Sharon Kinnamon & Marcella Burrows; and a grandson, Stash Wallace preceded him in death. Foy is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Jean Rimer of the home; 2 daughters & sons in law, Shereta & Randy Wallace of Morrilton, Arkansas & Melissa & Larry Loomis of Wister, OK; 2 sons & daughter in law, Randy & Kendra Rimer of Shady Point, OK & Kevin Rimer of Wister, OK; 11 grandchildren, Shauna, Paul, AJ, Hunter, Nick, Kane, Raejean, Randi Sue, Darren, Casey, & Kirsten; 3 brothers, R.C. Rimer, Mark Rimer, & Clayton Rimer, of Shawnee, OK; 3 sisters, Betty Winthrow & Shirley Hayden both of Shawnee, OK & Virginia Guthrie of Seminole, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Foy were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, December 13, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Frankie Harris & Floyd Clement officiating. Interment followed the services in Fanshawe Cemetery, Fanshawe, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma. Pallbearers were AJ Rimer, Nick Rimer, Randy Newby, Jimmy Don Newby, Johnny Means, & Glenn Clements

Russell Granville McKenzie

Russell Granville McKenzie, 81, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2008 at Easter Oklahoma Medical Center in Poteau, Oklahoma. Russell was born on April 23, 1927 in Wetumka, Oklahoma to Granville A. & Allie M. (Davis) McKenzie. He was a member of Calvary Assembly of God Church; a veteran of World War II where he served in the Merchant Marien; and co-owner/ooperator of Feed in a Drum in Poteau, Oklahoma. Rusell is preceded in death by his parents and 2 sons Clifford Earl McKenzie & Russell G. McKenzie. Russell is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mattie Lou McKenzie of the home; a son Steven McKenzie of Long Beach, CA, a daughter Kaye Carter of Poteau, OK; 7 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Marie Rohrig of Santa Anna, CA & Dorothy Castle of Castaic, California; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services wee held at 10:00 am, Saturday, December 13, 2008 at Calvary Assembly of God Church in Poteau, OK with the Reverend C. Lynn Bullard officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, Oklahoma with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Martha Louvenia Gillion

Martha Louvenia Gillion, 91, of Durant, OK (formerly of Bokoshe, OK) passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2008 in Durant. She was born April 19, 1917 in Bokoshe, OK to Brack & Trish McCool. Martha was a member of the Bokoshe United Methodist Church & the American Legion Auxiliary. She was preceded in death by her husband, William H. Gillion; a son, William M. Gillion & her parents. She is survived by 2 daughters & sons in law, Mary & Boyd Converse of Milburn, OK, June & Jim Meek of Poteau, OK; 2 sons & daughters in law, Jay & Patricia Gillion of Sumter, SC, Bob & Jackie Gillion of Cardwell, MO; 3 granddaughters, 3 grandsons, 3 great grandsons, 1 great granddaughter, 2 great great grandchildren; one sister, Wilma Fanning of Bokoshe, OK; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Friday, December 12, 2008 at the United Methodist Church in Bokoshe, OK with the Rev. Benny Waller & Charley Cabaniss officiating. Interment followed in Old Bokoshe Cemetery, Bokoshe, OK . Pallbearers were Jay Gillion, Bob Gillion, Billy Gillion, Greg Gillion, Jeff Meek, & William Hastings. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Maudie Mae Malone

Maudie Mae Malone, 78, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, December 1, 2008 at St. Edwards Mercy Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Maudie was born on September 14, 1930 in LeFlore, OK to Francis Marion & Bertha Rose Cook. She was a devout Christian who devoted her liife to serving God and loving her family very much. She was a homemaker. Maudie is preceded in death by her husband, her parents and a number of brothers & sisters. Maudie is survived by a son & daughter in law, Robert & Sandy Malone of Richardson, Texas, a daughter & son in law Debbie & Tom Terwilliger of Alaska; 4 grandchildren Joel, Rachel, & Becca Terwilliger & Robert W. Malone; a great grandchild Cameron Malone; a sister Bertha Rose of Oklahoma City; numerous other relatives & loved ones and a host of beloved friends. Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm, Monday, December 8, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Rev. Jimmy D. Cook & Rev. Ray Phillips officiating. Interment followed at Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Jimmy D. Akins

Jimmy D. Akins Jimmy D. Akins 84, of Poteau, OK passed away on Monday, December 1, 2008, at Pocola Nursing Home in Pocola, OK. Jimmy was born on April 2, 1924 in Latham, Oklahoma to Henry & Laura (Gregory) Akins. Jimmy was a veteran of the US Army Air Corps serving during World War II; a Mason; and retired from the Oklahoma State Highway Department in Poteau. His wife, Mae Bell Akins; a brother, 2 sisters, & his parents precede him in death. Jimmy is survived by his daughter & son in law, Carol & Davie Spindle of Poteau, OK; a son & daughter in law, Henry & Jeannie Akins of Las Vegas, NV; 5 grandchildren, Kristi Spindle, Audrey & husband Raymond Ritthaler, Stephen & wife Lori Rutledge, Jamie & husband Keith Smith, Jimmy & wife Amanda Akins; 15 great grandchildren; a daughter in law Shirley Thornburg of Fanshawe, OK, a sister Willie Ervin of Poteau, OK, a brother, Dave Akins of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Jimmy were held at 10:00 am Friday, December 5, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook & Jeff Little officiating. Interment followed the services at Iron Bridge Cemetery in Keota, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were his Masonic brothers.

George Phillips

George D. Phillips, 85, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, December 1, 2008 in Poteau. He was born in Big Canyon, OK to Francis M. & Dorie Phillips on December 3, 1922. George was a heavy equipment operator. He liked to fish. George was a veteran of the US Army & served in WWII. He was preceded in death by his parents; 4 brothers & 2 sisters. Survivors include his wife, Juanita of the home son, David Phillips of Poteau, OK; daughter, Wynama Bowman of Poteau, OK; 4 Grandsons; 6 Great Grandkids; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment- Oakland Cemetery.

Tony Cox

Tony Cox, 94, of Cameron, OK passed away Saturday, November 29, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. Tony was born in Rock Island, Ok on February 9, 1914 to John & Bertie Cox. He was a livestock inspector & rancher. He was a member of the Rock Island Free Will Baptist Church. He was a very special person to all he left behind. He was a very devoted Christian; auctioneer, farmer, & cattleman who loved gospel music. He as always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone. He loved gardening & children; loved to watch them at play. He served our country in WWII with the US Navy. Tony was preceded in death by his parent,; 6 sisters, 1 brother & 2 daughters. He is survived by his wife, Jewel of the home; son & daughter-in-law, Gaylon & Georgia Ann Cox of Hackett, AR; 10 Grandchildren, 10 Great Grandchildren; 5 Great Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services 10 am, Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Rock Island Free Will Baptist Church, Rock Island, OK with the Rev. Brad Kuhl & Rev. Jackie Edwards officiating. Interment Greenhill Cemetery, Cameron, OK. Pallbearers: Randy Cox, Dewayne Cox, Greg Butler, Steve Butler, Noble McIntyre, Kevin Burton. Honorary Pallbearers: Freddie Edwards, Jon Edwards, Kevin Edwards, & Tim Edwards.

Esther Beatrice Hargrove

Esther Beatrice Hargrove, 86, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, November 29, 2008 in Poteau. She was born in Bennington, OK on March 28, 1922, to Cullin & Dovie (Anderson) Guin. Esther was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John; daughter, Patsy Ann Hargrove; 3 brothers & 4 sisters. She was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene in Poteau. Survivors include her sons, Donald Wayne Hargrove and Ronnie Dean Hargrove, both of Poteau, OK; 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services 10 am, Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at the First Church of the Nazarene, Poteau, OK with Rev. David Gordon officiating. Burial in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Flora Evelyn Nichols

Flora Evelyn Nichols, 79, of Wister, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2008 at the Oaks Healthcare Center in Poteau, Oklahoma. Flora was born on Aprll 29, 1929 in Wister, Oklahoma to William David & Inez Gertrude (Call) Covey. She was a member of Ellis Chapel Church of Wister, OK and retired from The Oaks Healthcare Center. Flora’s parents; her husband Sidney Nichols; a son Gary Nichols; and a sister Ellen Whitmore precede her in death. Flora is survived by a daughter, Darlene Lyons of Wister, OK; 2 sons, Carroll Covey of Poteau, OK and Phillip Nichols of Wister, Oklahoma. 2 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren, 2 sisters, Christine Adams & Eula Mae Nelson, both of Wister, OK & 2 brothers, Jack & Ed Covey, both of Wister, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Flora were held at 10:00 am, December 2, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jack Covey officiating. Interment followed the services in Ellis Chapel Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Fred Nelson, Eddie Nelson, John Whitmore, Mike Whitmore, Sean Covey, Billy Bradford, Tyler Nelson, & David Adams.

Donnie Ray Riggs I

Donnie Ray Riggs I, of Monroe, OK, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2008 at St. Edward Mercy Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Donnie was born on March 6, 1952 in Clayton, Arizona to Cratus Ray & Cordelia Fern (Wilcox) Riggs. He was a heavy equipment operator Donnie attended schools in Cameron, Tarby, & Poteau. He graduated from Indio High School in 1970 then went to Mechanical School for 2 years at the College of the Desert. He worked as a roofer throughout the United States with his brother Kenneth Riggs. In 1975 he met and married the love of his life, Phyllis Dellamedaglia. They were wed on November 16, 1975 and recently celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary. He is preceded in death by his parents, Cratus Ray & Cordelia Fern (Wilcox) Riggs; a son, Donnie Riggs II; 8 sisters and 1 brother. Donnie is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Phyllis Riggs of the home; 2 daughters, Katrina & husband Ramon Casados of Fayetteville, AR & Danielle Riggs & fiance’ Justin Rhoades of Conneat Lake, PA; 4 grandchildren, David “Spud” Casados of the home, Kruz Casados, Griffen & MahrKi Johnson; a brother & sister in law, Connie & Linda Riggs of Vinita, OK; and a brother in law, Charles Hurley of Spiro, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Fuenral services for Donnie were held at 10:00 am, Monday, December 1, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Marshall Faulkenberry & the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services at Monroe Cemetery in Monroe, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Justin Rhoades, Jeff Burger, Eldon Faulkenberry, Jr., Justin Dill, Dennis Wilson, & Jim Berngen.

Rebecca Elaine Harwell

Rebecca Elaine Harwell, 53, of Broken Arrow, OK, formerly of Poteau, OK passed away on Thursday November 27, 2008 at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Rebecca was born on September 6, 1955 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Jack & Mayme (Taff) Craig. She was a 1973 graduate of Poteau High School and had been a Homemaker for 34 years. Her parents preceded her in death. Rebecca is survived by her beloved husband Joe Harwell of the home; 2 sons & daughter in law, Joseph & Amber Harwell of Tulsa, OK & Jason Harwell of Broken Arrow, OK; 2 daughters & son in law, Heather & Jason Speaks of Tulsa, OK & Kim Hall of Broken Arrow, OK; 5 grandchildren, Jordyn Harwell, Sable Hall, Breandra Hall, Jarrad Speaks, Bridget Harwell, & Chloe Harwell (due January 12, 2009); 5 sisters Gwendolyn Reynolds of Coffeyville, KS, Patricia Ballard & Sharon Hickman, both of Poteau, OK, Susie Hutton of Richland, MO, & Jackie Slone of Poteau, OK; 2 brothers, Bob Craig & Jim Craig, both of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Rebecca were held at 2:00 pm, Monday, December 1, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Joseph Harwell, Jason Harwell, Bob Craig, Chad Craig, Jim Craig, Steve Hickman, Jeff Mode, Brandon Slone, & Jason Speaks.

Elaine Faye Prock

Elaine Faye Prock, 81, of Shady Point, OK passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2008 after an extended illness. She was born in Poker Bend, on June 28, 1927 to her parents, Joe & Iola Kubala and was raised in Poker Bend by Joe & Helen Kubala after her mother’s death. Elaine’s goal in life was to be a good wife and mama and she was. Elaine’s husband, L.D. Prock was well known in the community from his business, the Prock Fence Company of Shady Point, OK. Elaine is preceded in death by her a son, George Eugene Lomon; her husband of 56 years, L.D. Prock; 2 sisters, Omigee Ruddles & Dorothy Christenberry Nixon and her parents preceded Elaine in death. Elaine is survived by 3 daughters & sons in law, Gloria & Jerry Womack of Shady Point, OK, Carolyn & David Anderson of Panama, OK, & Sandy & Gary Mason of Shady Point, OK; a son & daughter in law, Reverend Barry & Barbara Prock of Garber, OK; a sister, Irene Scott of Blommer, AR; 7 grandchildren, Charlotte Daymille of Littleton, CO, Machelle Ward of Elko, NV, Lenny Anderson of Poteau, OK, Teri Leedom of Sallisaw, OK, Dustin Prock of Enid, OK, Justin Greeno of Athens, TN, & Jeni Cloud of Sapulpa, OK; 18 great grandchildren with another one expected in May, 2009; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Elaine were held Sunday, November 30, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services at Shady Point Cemetery in Shady Point, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were her grandsons & great grandsons.

Norma Jean Kuecken

Norma Jean Kuecken, 70, of Spiro, OK passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2008 in Spiro, Oklahoma. Norma was born on June 3, 1938 in Red Oak, OK to Chester Ray & Hazel Lorene (Sloan) Mize. She was a homemaker. Norma’s parents, her husband, George Lloyd Kuecken, and a daughter, Frieda May Gilbreath preceded her in death Norma is survived by a daughter & son in law, Melba Jean & Russell Daniel of Spiro, OK; 4 grandchildren, Georgina Daniel of Spiro, OK, Lloyd E. Kuecken of the home; Elizabeth Ann Daniel of Spiro, OK & Christopher Gilbreath of the home; 2 brothers, Oscar William Mize of Cache, OK & James Edward Mize of Spiro, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Norma were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Leonard Cook officiating. Interment followed the services at Shady Point Cemetery in Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers were Howard Goins, Bill Goins, David Goins, AJ Hanna, Jerry Hensley, & Clayton Goins. Honorary pallbearers were Daniel Lovejoy & Josh Mantooth. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Billy George Davis

Billy George Davis, 52, of Cameron, OK passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 in Cameron. Billy was born on March 14, 1956 in Bokoshe, Oklahoma to Raymond & Anna Lee (Harris) Davis. Billy was an electrician. He loved hunting & fishing. His father, a brother Dewitt Davis; a sister, Goldie Saulsberry, & a daughter, Mary Raylene Davis precedes him in death. Billy is survived by 2 sons, Billy Joe Davis of Theodore, AL & Chris Meeder of Fort Smith, AR; 5 grandchildren, Shelby & Nathan Davis, Bryant, Gage, & Jessie Meeder; his mother, Anna Lee Davis of Spiro, OK; 2 sisters & brothers in law, Sharon & Donald Baxter of Panama, OK & Joyce & Ed Marks of Lockney, TX; 2 brothers & sister in law, Raymond Lee & Fran Davis of Barling, AR & Jessie Davis of Spiro, OK; the mother of his children, Mary Stewart of Cameron, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Billy were held at 10:00 am Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Ed Marks & Raymond Lee Davis officiating. Interment followed the services in Greenhill Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Roger Cody, Jr., David “Dave” Edwards, Daniel Edwards, Fred Plymale, Robbie Tran, & Jessie Davis, Jr.

Terea Millard

Teresa Lynn Millard, 41, of Poteau, OK passed away on Friday, November 21, 2008 in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Teresa was born on November 23, 1966 in Des Moines, IA to Leroy, Jr. & Mary Alice (Tuttle) Millard. She was a homemaker. Her paternal grandparents, Roy & Evelyn Millard, maternal grandfather, James Tuttle; and an aunt Karen Robinson precede Teresa in death. Teresa is survived by 2 daughters, Amber Millard & Heather Millard, both of Poteau, OK; a grandson, Chance Couch of Poteau, OK; her parents, Leroy Jr. & Mary Alice Millard of Poteau; her maternal grandmother, Arlene Tuttle of Poteau, OK; 3 brothers, Tommy Millard of Las Vegas, NV & Leroy Millard III & Tim Millard, both of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Graveside services for Teresa were held at 2:00 pm. Friday, November 28, 2008 at Greenhill Cemetery in Cameron, OK with the Reverend David Gordon officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Amber Millard, Heather, Millard, Tim Millard, Leroy Millard III, Leroy Millard Jr., & Tommy Millard.

John Morsund

John Morsund, 82, of Poteau, OK Passed away Friday - November 21, 2008 in Anahuac, Tx He was born in Newman Grove, NB on June 16, 1926 to Ivar & Tena (Johnson) Morsund. Bro. Morsund was a WWII veteran of the US Army & the US Army Air Corps. He was a Southern Baptist Minister and also a retired auto mechanic. He pastored many churches in LeFlore County some of which were Oak Ridge, Stapp-Zoe, Cowlington, Albion & Liberty Hill. He was also affiliated with the LeFlore County Baptist Association and ministered with them. He pastored in other surrounding communities outside of the county. Survivors include his wife, Lenora Morsund of the home; daughters, Ruth Ann Morsund Millsaps & husband, Jerry of Anahuac, TX, Elizabeth Morsund of Poteau, OK; sons, Arthur Morsund & wife Keva of Clarksville, AR, John Lee Morsund & wife Kim of Duncan, OK; grandchildren, Joshua Millsaps & wife Amy, Jeremy Millsaps of Juneau, Alaska, Kurt Morsund & Charlene Janway of Poteau, OK, Johnathan Morsund & Anthony J. Morsund of Clarksville, AR, Ryan Lewis Morsund & Sierra Morsund of Duncan, OK; Great Grandchildren; Jade Ambert Millsaps, Cody Lynn Millsaps, Jessica Anne Millsaps, Easton Janway; other relatives & loved ones; a host of Beloved friends. Services: 2 pm - Wednesday - November 26, 2008 at Bethel Baptist Church in Wister, OK with Rev. Clyde Steelman officiating. Interment: Knothole/Fairhill Cemetery - Cameron, OK. Pallbearers - Bill Bullard, Ike Caudell, Dennis Shoup, Alton Washburn, Harold Gibson, & Jerry Harmon. The family will visit with friends on Tuesday - November 25 - from 5-8 pm at the funeral home.

Mr. Shirley Dean Weatherford

Shirley Dean Weatherford, 74, of Poteau, OK passed away Thursday, November 20, 2008 in Poteau, OK. Shirley was born in Lone Pine (Summerfield), OK on October 17, 1934 to Clovis & Martha (Rose) Weatherford. He was retired as Water Superintendent for the City of Poteau where he worked for 37 years. HE was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Katie Weatherford; 2 brothers in law, Elmer Yarberry & Justin Spottedbear. Survivors include 2 stepsons, Dixie Wayne Kyle & wife, Deborah of Hot Springs, AR, Charles Robert Kyle of the home; 3 stepdaughters, Aledda Marler of Poteau, OK, Lawanna Kyle of the home; Kay Drury & husband, Lynn of Poteau, OK; 2 brothers, Ronald Weatherford of Fort Windgate, NM, William Weatherford of Castro Valley, CA; 2 sisters, Sue Jane Yarberry of Poteau, OK, Anna Joe Spottedbear of Fort Worth, TX; 9 Step Grandchildren; 18 Step Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services held 2 pm, Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at the First Assembly of God Church in Poteau with Rev. Keith Williams & Rev. Sonny Daniels officiating. Interment in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were members of the Poteau Water Department.

Velma Acord

Velma Acord, 74, of Poteau, OK passed away Thursday, November 20, 2008 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Velma was born September 26, 1934 in Van Buren, AR to Finis Melton & Emma Sylvia (Bernard) Ewing. She was a Real Estate Loan Closer for Adams Abstract Company in Poteau, OK. Velma was preceded in death by 2 sons, Reginald & Robert Acord; 8 brothers, Evan, Glen, E.T. Goodlow, Red, Charles, Doug, & Jack Ewing; and her parents. She is survived by a daughter, Deborah Renneckar of Broken Arrow, OK; son, Greg Acord of Poteau, OK; 6 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Loretta Adams of Wister, OK & Sally Barker of Ft. Smith, AR; 2 brothers, Bill Ewing of Ft. Smith, AR, Thell Ewing of Texas; several nieces & nephews; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services held 10 am, Monday, November 24, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment following in Forest Park Cemetery of Ft. Smith, AR. Pallbearers: Johnie Ray Adams Jr., Robbie Renneckar, Stephen Fruen, Jody Loggains, Bill Maggard, & Danny Hutchison.

Millie Ridenour

Millie Ridenour, 86, of Cameron, OK passed away Thursday, November 20, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. She was born on February 11, 1922 in Spiro, OK to William & Rena (Ford) Romines. Mrs. Ridenour was a cook at Cameron Schools (retired). Mrs. Ridenour was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Cameron, OK. She is preceded in death by her husband, John Henry Ridenour; a son Timothy Dale Ridenour; & brother, W.H. Romines & her parents. She is survived by 2 sons, Johnny Lee Ridenour & Michael Lynn Ridenour, both of Cameron, OK; 3 daughters, Joyce Choate of Spiro, OK, Carolyn Sue Rush of Greenwood, AR, & Rena Minks of Ft. Smith, AR; 2 sisters, Genevia Martin of Spiro, OK & Mary Green of Panama, OK; 9 Grandchildren & 6 Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Sunday, November 23, 2008 at First United Methodist Church in Cameron, OK with the Rev. Barry Hayes & Rev. Gary Withrow officiating. Interment followed in Macedonia Cemetery, Pocola, OK. Pallbearers: Danny Sanford, Billy Sanford, Jeffry Minks, Kendall Ridenour, Jarrod Ridenour, Mike Rush, & Brian Rush. Family visitation at the funeral home from 5-7 pm Saturday Evening. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Cameron, OK in memory of Millie Ridenour.

MARCELLA LEE FARRAR

MARCELLA LEE FARRAR, 79, OF SHADY POINT, OK PASSED AWAY ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2008 IN POCOLA, OK. SHE WAS BORN JANUARY 9, 1929 IN OLNEY, IL TO HOMER R. & MAGDALENA J. (BAEHR) RYDER. MRS. FARRAR WAS A HOMEMAKER. SHE LOVED TO CROCHET AND DO ARTS & CRAFTS. SHE WAS PRECEDED IN DEATH BY HER HUSBAND, T.J. FARRAR; & 3 SISTERS. MAGDALENA BEANBLOSSOM, ISAPHENE KUTZ, & VELMA DOUGLAS. SHE IS SURVIVED BY 2 STEP DAUGHTERS, ANNTOINETTE FARRAR OF SHADY POINT, OK,& THERESA McBRIDE OF CAMERON, OK; 1 STEP SON, TOMMY RAY FARRAR OF PANAMA, OK; 7 STEP GRANDCHILDREN; 5 STEP GREAT GRANDCHILDREN; 3 SISTERS, MAGDALENA BEANBLOSSOM OF LAWRENCEVILLE, IL, ISAPHENE KUTZ OF ALBUQUERQUE, NM & VELMA DOUGLAS OF KILEEN, TX. 1 BROTHER, DIAL RYDER OF DALLAS,TX; OTHER RELATIVES & LOVED ONES; MANY BELOVED FRIENDS. SERVICES: 2 PM, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2008, GRAVESIDE AT FAIRVIEW CEMETERY IN PANAMA, OK WITH REV. TREVOR COOK OFFICIATING. INTERMENT IN FAIRVIEW CEMETERY. IN LIEU OF FLOWERS THE FAMILY ASKS THAT YOU DONATE TO THE SHRINERS OR FULFILL A DREAM; THEY WILL MEET WITH FRIENDS ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON - NOVEMBER 23, FROM 2-4 PM.

Jean Reed

Jean Reed, 81, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, November 17, 2008 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Jean was born on October 26, 1927 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Charles & Ethel (Manus) Stone. Jean was a member of Calvary Assembly of God Church of Poteau and a homemaker. Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Reed on October 9, 2000; a son, Michael on July 5, 2001; and her parents. Jean is survived by 2 sons & daughter in law, Carl Don & Donna Reed of Oklahoma City, OK & David Reed of Jackson, MS; 2 daughters & sons in law, Mary & Dick Mortimer of Oceanside, CA & Linda Gayle & Gary Furr of Poteau, OK; 10 grandchildren, Stephen Pate, Shauna Atchley, Charity Dressler, Gary Wayne Furr, Audra Langston, Christy Gray, Brian Furr, Tony Reed, Kevin Reed, & Mary Neely; 20 great grandchildren; a sister, Wanda Lewis of Carmichael, CA, 2 daughters in law, Janet Reed of Fort Smith, AR & Suzanna Reed of Marietta, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends & church family. Funeral services for Jean were held at 9:00 am, Friday, November 21, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Bobby Minick officiating. Interment followed the services at 11:00 am Friday November 21, 2008 at Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, AR with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Stephen Pate, Gary Wayne Furr, Brian Furr, Tony Reed, Kevin Reed, & Mike Robinson. Honorary pallbearer was Bill Dorey.

Darren Graham

Darren Graham, 43, of Fort Smith, Arkansas passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2008 in Fort Smith. Darren was born on October 20, 1965 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Kenneth & Ida (Lemming) Graham. Darren was a truck driver. His parents precede him in death. Darren is survived by 2 sons, Bryson Graham of Poteau, OK and Zane Graham of Fort Smith, AR; a daughter, Heaven Graham of Pocola, OK; 4 sisters, Vicki of California; Linda of Wister, OK, Catherine & Ranae, both of Heavener, OK; a brother, Kenny of California; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Memorial services for Darren will be held at 1:00 pm. Saturday, November 22, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy Graham officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma.

Myrtle Lucille Angel

Myrtle Lucille Angel, 92, of Wister, OK passed away Tuesday, November 11,2008 in Poteau, Oklahoma. She was born November 30, 1915 in Chelsea, OK to J.W. & Mary (Chiles) Wilson. She was a waitress and a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, John Angel. She is survived by 3 children, Mary Machart of DeKalb, TX, Jerry & Penny Angel of Poteau, OK and Judy & Howard Lee of Wister, OK; 13 Grandchildren and 13 Great Grandchildren; other relatives & Loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Thursday, November 13, 2008 graveside at Ellis Chapel in Wister, OK. Interment following. Rev. Jim Cook officiating.

Mary D. Hughes

Mary D. Hughes, 85, of Spiro, OK passed away Monday, November 10, 2008 in Fort Smith, AR. She was born in Calhoun, Ok on August 1, 1923. Mary was a homemaker and a farmer. She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 brothers, Eagle & Tim Hughes. She is survived by a daughter, Wanda Hughes of Spiro, OK; and one brother, Odell Hughes of St. Louis, MO; numerous cousins and special friends. Services: 2 pm, Saturday, November 15, 2008, graveside at Hughes Cemetery in Latham, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment in Hughes Cemetery.

Gabriel Lee Christiansen

Gabriel Lee Christiansen, 35, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday - November 8, 2008 in Bokoshe, OK. He was born December 2, 1972 to Donnie & Judy (Harland) Christiansen in Ida Grove, Iowa. Gabriel graduated from Poteau High School in 1991. He served in the US Army as a medic & he was recently employed at Federal Coach in Fort Smith, AR. Gabriel brought so much joy to all those who knew him. The family will have a private service later.

Lillian Hunt

Lillian Hunt, 78, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, November 8, 2008 in Fort Smith, AR. She was born March 10, 1930, in Wister, OK to Barry & Hattie (Scrimner) Harmon. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Calvin Harmon. Lillian is survived by her husband, Robert of the home; one daughter, Cheryl Martin of Kansas City; four grandchildren, Barry Haga, Ryan Haga, Morgan Haga, & Ashley Martin Rice; one brother, Warren Harmon of Poteau, OK, one sister, Evelene Harris of Ada, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services 2 pm, Monday – November 10, 2008 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with the Rev. Clyde Steelman officiating. Interment Wister City Cemetery, Wister, OK. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Delmar Riley Turner

Delmar Riley Turner, 82, of Summerfield, OK passed away Friday, November 7, 2008 in Summerfield. He was born in Summerfield on January 25, 1926, to Emit & Florance (Rogers) Turner. Delmar was a rancher and a farmer. He served in WWII with the US Navy. His parents preceded him in death as well as his wife, Aladean; sisters, Ethel & Inona Turner; & brothers, Eugene & Archie Turner. He is survived by his daughter, Wanda Cogburn of Summerfield, OK; grandchildren, Samantha Ann Cogburn Steelman & husband, Mackie Jr. of Summerfield, John Cogburn & Andrew Cogburn of Summerfield. Great grandchildren, Makayla Steelman & Colt Steelman; sister, Rosie Loyd of Summerfield & brother, Tom Turner of Missouri; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services 2 pm, Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at the Pavilion in Summerfield Cemetery with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment Summerfield Cemetery

Mary Edris Overby

Mary Edris Overby, 87, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, November 7, 2008 in Tulsa, OK. She was born October 23, 1921 in Paris, AR to Edward G. & Monie Ella (Goldsworthy) Connaughton. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl: son, Carl Jr; brother Ed "Sonny" Connaughton; and her parents. She loved life; wanted to make certain everyone was fed. She loved her cats and loved to read. She is survived by 2 sons, Stve & wife, Ros Overby of Austin, TX, Bill & wife Becky Overby of Muskogee, OK; 2 daughters, Mary Ellen Grant of Tulsa, OK, Shirley Overby of Poteau, OK; 1 brother, Bill Connaughton of Poteau, OK; 1 sister, Helen Boolos of Greenwood, MS; 1 daughter in law, Linda Overby of Phoenix, AZ; 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Rosary: 7 pm, Sunday, November 9, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK. Services: 2pm, Monday, November 10, 2008 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Poteau with Father Valentine officiating. Interment: Oakland Cemetery. Pallbearers: Steve Overby, Bill Overby, Connor Overby, Kyle Overby, Justin Harland & Josh Grant.

Robbie Gladys Black

Robbie Gladys Black, 90, of Panama, OK passed away Friday, November 7, 2008 in Poteau, OK. She was born in Bokoshe, OK on September 20, 1918, to Williams J & Letha (Coleman) Turner. Mrs. Black was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 47 years, Jesse Black and brothers, William & Harrell Turner. Survivors include her daughter, Nancy Ratto of Lodi, CA; son, Byron F. Black of Panama, OK; 8 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Bertha martin of Grass Valley, CA, Hester Chandonais of Stockton, CA, Lois Nielson of Stockton, CA, Letha Meadows of San Luis Obispo, CA; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Wednesday, November 12, 2008 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau OK with Don Cherry officiating. Interment: Oakland Cemetery- Poteau, OK.

Wilma Marie McKinney Ketchum

Wilma Marie McKinney Ketchum, 79, of Hulbert, OK passed away Thursday, November 6, 2008 in Tahlequah, OK. She was born in Cedarville, OK on September 7, 1929 to Charles N. & Bessie E. (Starr) McKinney. Marie was a school custodian. She was preceded in death by her mother & her father; sisters, Wanda Wilson & Leslie McKinney; brother, Archie McKinney; & husband, Cecil Smith. She is survived by one son Thurlo Smith of Hulbert, OK; daughter-in-law, Brittany Smith; granddaughter, Kayla Smith of Centerville, TX; special grandson, Derek Jones; sister, Kathryn Sue Patterson of Poteau, OK; brother, Wesley James McKinney of Monroe, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Monday, November 10, 2008 at Monroe Baptist Church, Monroe, OK. Interment followed in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK

Bernice Evans

Bernice Evans, 85, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at Specialty Select Hospital in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Bernice was born on March 11, 1923 in Dayton, Ohio to Kenneth & Clara (Meyer) Cook. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Poteau, Oklahoma and retired from Hamlin Manufacturing. Bernice’s husband, Charles Evans, Sr; a son, Charles (Chuck) Evans, Jr.; granddaughters Nancy Stewart & Kimberly Caldwell; and her parents precede her in death. Bernice is survived by 3 daughters & son in law, Gloria Lowe of Poteau, OK; Karen & Lenard Mutz of Tacoma, WA; & Marsha Evans of Poteau, OK; a son, Thomas N. Evans of Poteau, OK; a sister, Dorothy Kaylor of Dayton, Ohio; 7 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; a nephew, Ken Kaylor; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral mass for Bernice was Saturday, November 8, 2008 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Poteau with Father Valentine officiating. Rosary was Friday evening, November 7, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK. Interment followed the funeral mass at Hodgen Cemetery in Hodgen, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers wee Lenard Mutz, Paul Jason Caldwell, David Mutz, & Charles Evans III.

H.G. Armstrong

H.G. Armstrong, 76, of Talihina, OK passed away Monday, November 3, 2008 in Talihina, OK. “H” was born in Meadowview, OK on August 28, 1932 to Richard & Beulah (Perry) Armstrong. He was a heavy equipment operator. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Violet McNutt, Sybil McKosky, & Gladys Scoles; brother, Mack Armstrong; son, Kenneth Armstrong; and daughter, Jaylene Armstrong. Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Wanda Armstrong of the home; son & daughter in law, William & Gerri Armstrong of Hot Springs, AR; daughter, Jolene Armstrong of Warner, OK; grandson, Alexander Armstrong of Warner, OK; sister, Alpha Westerdahl of Federal Way, WA; brothers & sisters in law, Robert & Faye Armstrong, Larry & Judy Armstrong of Talihina, OK, Johnny & Ruby Armstrong of Eufaula, OK, Leonard Armstrong of Tulsa, OK, Jack & Patti Armstrong of Broken Arrow, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Saturday, November 8, 2008 at Springhill Baptist Church in Monroe, OK with the Rev. Cecil Holcomb & Rev. Brian Vandever officiating. Burial followed in Springhill Cemetery, Monroe, OK. Pallbearers were Clay Armstrong, Tony Armstrong, Mack Armstrong, Bobby Shirley, Warren Shirley & Tommy McNutt.

Neva Jean (McBride) Tackett

Neva Jean (McBride) Tackett Neva Jean (McBride) Tackett, 44 of Poteau, OK passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2008 in Bokoshe, Oklahoma. Neva was born on March 23, 1964 in Talihina, OK to Wilmer Odus “Sam” & Drucilla (Ritter) McBride. Neva was a homemaker and a wonderful mother & grandmother. Her parents, a sister, Cynthia Holderfield, & a brother, Harlan Ray McBride precede her in death. Neva is survived by 2 sons, Chris Tackett of Bokoshe, OK & Jason Tackett & wife Jodi of Heavener, OK; a granddaughter, Rumor Tackett of Heavener, OK; 5 sisters, Pat Vinson of Noble, OK, Gail Mayer & Shirley Picklesimer of Poteau, OK, Sammie Thompson of Panama, OK, & Becky Maxell of Poteau, OK; 3 brothers, Samuel McBride of Carlsbad, NM, & Mackey McBride & Tim McBride, both of Poteau, OK; special friend Steven Tackett of Bokoshe, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Neva will be held at 10:00 a m, Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Brian Smith officiating. Interment followed the services at Whitesboro Cemetery in Whitesboro, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers are Mark McBride, Billie Thompson, Randall Foster, Mike Skelton, Kevin Lee Atkins, & Darryl Heatherington. Honorary pallbearers are Bobby Thompson, Tweela Adams, Susie Yates, Heath Cosgrove, & Richard Tackett.

Wanda Dean Brown Benson

Wanda Dean Brown Benson, 63, of Heavener, OK passed away Wednesday, October 29, 2008 in Poteau, OK. She was born February 15, 1945 in Hontubby, OK to Walter Owen & Maggie Delena (Watson) Brown. Wanda was a homemaker. She was a member of Royal Oak Free Will Baptist Church; church pianist for the majority of her adult life and a former member of the Heavener Round Up Club. She was the owner of Sugar Creek Arena where she provided youth equestrian events and a proud member of the Choctaw Nation. She was preceded in death by her parents; 5 sisters, Sarah Morton, Louise Sanders, Alma Brown, Velma Brown & Helen Lovell; 4 brothers, Earl, Floyd, J.D., & William Brown. She is survived by her husband, Eugene Benson of the home; 2 sons & daughters in law, Steven & Marie (Davis) Benson of Heavener, OK, Joe & Joanna Benson of Okemah, OK; daughter, Gina McKinney of Sheridan, AR; grandchildren, Marrissa McKinney of Magnolia, AR, Tiffani McKinney of Sheridan, AR, Andrea Benson, Christy Woodral & Laurie Ray of Heavener, OK, Brian Davis of Moore, OK, Bradly Borges & Laura Borges of Norman, OK; great grandchildren, Tiffany , Krista, Martin & Sammie Taylor Heavener, OK, Kyle Davis of Moore, OK, Tyler Ray of Heavener, OK; brothers & sisters, Jewell Holmes of Sallisaw, OK, Laverne Maxwell of Pocola, OK, Delbert Brown of Pocola, OK, Otis Brown of Heavener, OK, Mildred Carl of Dustin, OK, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Saturday, November 1, 2008 at Royal Oak Free Will Baptist Church - Poker Bend, OK with Rev. Jimmy Waldrop officiating. Interment in Royal Oak {Poker Bend} Cemetery - Poker Bend, OK. Pallbearers: Jim Jones, Dan Taylor, Jimmy Dean Jones, James Barnett, Wayne Armstrong, Curtis Nixon, Junior Ray & Rocky Shupert.

Howard Lee Raines

Howard Lee Raines Howard Lee Raines, 72, of Fanshawe, OK passed away Thursday, October 30, 2008 in Poteau, OK. Howard was born on December 19, 1935 in Wagoner, OK to Herbert Leland & Suvella Pearl (Jackson) Raines, who preceded him in death. Mr. Raines was a member and evangelist of the Community of Christ Church. He was a veteran of the US Army serving during the Korean Conflict. He retired from DHS after 30 years of service. He is survived by his wife of 49 ½ years, Janet Raines of the home; 2 sons & daughters in law, Russell & Danette Raines, Brett & Stefanie Raines of Fanshawe, OK; 9 grandchildren, Brandon & wife Shawna Raines of Panama, OK, Dustin & wife Heather Raines, Dennis & wife Shanna Raines of Poteau, OK; Krystal Raines of Norman, OK, Brittan Raines, Hailey Raines, Kacie Raines & Jordan Barton of Fanshawe, OK; Christopher Barton of Stigler, OK; 5 great grandchildren, Scimber Raines, Kennedee Raines, Preston Raines, Cayton Raines, Gunner Raines; sister & brother in law, Norma & Ed Woods of Tyler, TX; numerous nieces & nephews, cousins, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am Saturday, November 1, 2008 at Fanshawe School Auditorium, Fanshawe, OK with Greg & Sally McGowen officiating. Burial followed in Fanshawe Cemetery with pallbearers being Brandon Raines, Dustin Raines, Dennis Raines, Wes McGowen, Christopher Barton, Bob Graham, & Jordan Barton. Flower girls were Krystal, Kacie, Brittan & Hailey Raines.

James Kenneth "Kenny" WIlliams

James Kenneth “Kenny” Williams, 78, of Grand Prairie, TX passed away Friday, October 24, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. Kenny was born in March 2, 1930 in Poteau (Tarby), OK to Reginald Bell & Nancy Ann (Willis) Williams. Kenny graduated from Goodland Indian School (HS) in Hugo, OK, Eastern State College in Wilburton & Central State College in Ada. He spent many years as a welder & retied after 25 years with the US Postal Service. Kenny was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian; a daughter, Kennetha; brother, Harrell Williams, & his parents. He was a veteran of the Korean War; proud to have served his country in the US Air Force from which he retired. He enjoyed participating in the Tushka Homma (Red Warrior) Choctaw Nation Veteran’s Day Ceremonies. Survivors include his daughter, Regina Georgette & husband, Dr. Tony Black of Tecumseh, OK; 2 granddaughters, Shelley & Whitney; 1 great granddaughter, 2 sisters, Virginia Johnson of Poteau, OK, Ramona & husband, Dr. Bill McCready of Joplin, MO; 4 brothers, Robert F. Williams of Hugo, OK, David B. Williams & wife Sue of Pocola, OK, Neal Williams & wife, Joan of Gilmer, TX, Reggie Williams & wife, Barbara of Idabel, OK; special friend, Billie Klug of Grand Prairie, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held at 11 am, Tuesday, October 28, 2008 in the First Presbyterian Church, Poteau OK with Jan Christiansen Dittmar officiating. Burial followed in the Willis Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Robert Williams, Neal Williams, Reggie Williams, Rich McCready, Ken Braden & Jacky Connelly. Honorary pallbearers were David Williams & Dr. Bill McCready. Arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Bertha Mae Boitel

Bertha Mae Boitel, 91, passed away Friday, October 24, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. She was born in June 25, 1917 in Panama, OK to William “Billy” C. & Laura (Wiles) Thomas. Bertha was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Voyd “V.T.” Boitel; 1 son, Billy W. Boitel; 1 grandchild, Anna Jean Shepard, 1 sister, Pauline Tackett & 1 brother, Gerald Thomas. Survivors include 2 daughters, Norma Hanna & Kathy Shepard both of Panama, OK; 4 sons, Charles Boitel of Cameron, OK, Larry Boitel of Keota, OK, Gary Boitel of Osceola, MO, Mickey Boitel of Panama, OK; 11 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Ocie Brown of McCune, KS, Mary Stubblefield of Lindsay, OK, Barbara Dolph of Tulsa, OK, & Eva Sue Morgan of Poteau, OK; 1 brother, Calvin Thomas of Upland, CA; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held at 2 pm, Monday, October 27 2008 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Burial followed in New Hope Cemetery, Spiro, OK. Pallbearers were Terry Boitel, Randy Boitel, George Vincent, J.T. Boitel, Joe Hanna, Jim Hanna; honorary pallbearers were Darryl Vincent, Jeff Hanna & Harold Morgan.

ERNIE GENE WOOTEN

Ernie Gene Wooten, 74, of Shady Point, OK passed away Friday, October 17, 2008 in Fort Smith, AR. He was born November 11, 1933 in Murry Spur, OK to Ernie L. & Lela (Clark) Wooten. Ernie was a veteran of the US Navy. He retired from the US Postal Service and attended the Pentecostal Church. Ernie is survived by his father, Ernie Wooten of Spiro, OK; 4 brothers, Jim of Spiro, Roy of Spiro, Billy Joe of Roanoke, VA, & Carl of Spiro; a host of nieces & nephews; other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends.

Hunter Garrett Jacobson

Hunter Garrett Jacobson, 4 days old, passed away Friday, October 17, 2008 in Tulsa, OK. He was born in Poteau, OK on Monday, October 13, 2008 to Randi Mead and Michael Jacobson. Though his life was short he touched many hearts. Survivors include his mother and father, Randi Mead of the home and Michael Jacobson of Broken Arrow, OK; one sister, Hailey Nichole Mead of the home; maternal grandparents, Glen & Diane Christenberry of Bokoshe, OK; paternal grandparents, Steve & Cindy Jacobson of Broken Arrow, OK; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at the Assembly of God Church in Shady Point, OK. Rev. Chuck Engles officiated. Burial followed in Old Panther Cemetery, McCurtain, OK under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home in Poteau, OK.

Michael Duane Anderson

Michael Duane Anderson was born on June 30, 1948 in Fort Smith, AR to the late W.C. (Bill Anderson and the late Dorothy Williams Anderson. He passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2008 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Mike was always a hard worker, having learned good work ethics on numerous jobs while in high school and after graduating when working for Duel Drilling Company on gas rigs around Oklahoma & Arkansas while attending Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. He married Darla Tobey in 1971 and worked several years as a maintenance supervisor at Modern Carpets in Poteau before he and Jim Nobles started J & M Carpets at 604 Dewey in Poteau. In 1979, across the street from J & M he and his brother in law, Larry Hamilton, began what was to be a long partnership in a new business called Quality Electric Supply. With their hard work the business grew and they moved in their new building at the present location at 5017 N Broadway in 1982 and are now Rexall Quality Supply. When not working Mike loved being outdoors, riding four-wheelers in the mountains, working in his tomato garden, driving his backhoe, and jet skiing or fishing at the lake were some of the things he liked to do. But; being at the softball fields with his pride and joy, daughter Casey, born in 1981 was probably his greatest enjoyment. Coaching many years of summer league softball with Doug Lockaby, he spent many more hours teaching and helping Casey become a college fast pitch softball player. Mike is survived by his wife of 37 years, Darla Tobey Anderson; a daughter & son in law, Casey & Billy Leaptrot, a brother & sister in law, Rick & Becky Anderson; 3 sisters in law & their husbands, Dana & Larry Hamilton, Debra & David Bradberry, Denise & Steve Wagner; brother in law & sister in law Dearl & Cindy Tobey; mother in law Delores Tobey, nephews, Chris Anderson & family, Terrick Ragan & family, & Trey Tobey; nieces Laney Anderson, Taira Wilson & family, & Kalee Tobey; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services were held at 10:00 am, Saturday, October 18, 2008 at First Assembly of God Church in Panama, OK with the Reverend Brian Smith & the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers will be members of the Panama Fire Department. For 43 years Mike was a fireman with the department and he still wanted to put his name on the book every time he heard the pager go off. Honorary pallbearers will be Donny Gollihare, Bug Williamson, Coy Simpson, Dick Klahn, Hazel Mabry, & Mark Cox.

Gerald Herman Sitton

Gerald Herman Sitton, 60, of Cameron, OK passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2008 at Sparks Regional Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Gerald was born on December 1, 1947 in Ada, Oklahoma to Oscar Herman & Sylvia M (Smith) Sitton. Gerald was a school teacher and a lawn care specialist. He taught at Cameron Public Schools for 19 years and loved to mow grass and do lawn work. His father precedes him in death. Gerald is survived by his wife of 39 years, Doris Ann Sitton of the home; 2 sons & daughter in law, Gerald Herman (Jerry) Sitton II of Winslow, AR & Barry Lee & Crystal Sitton of Poteau, OK; 7 grandchildren, Shyla Gullick, Kaylee Sitton, Araisha Sitton, Tyler Sitton, Alissa Sitton, Marisol Sitton, & Andrah Sitton; his mother, Sylvia M. Sitton of Kansas City, MO; 3 sisters, Maxine Richards, Margaret Nobles, & Charlene Vogel all of Kansas City, MO; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends & church family. Funeral services for Gerald will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at First Church of the Nazarene in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend David L. Gordon II officiating. Interment will be at Fanshawe Cemetery, Fanshawe, Oklahoma. Pallbearers will be Lawrence Erguson, Ellis Sumpter, Steven Fischer, Bruce Fields, Dewayne Clinton, Raymond Brasher, & Brian Nobles. The family will be at the funeral home on Tuesday evening from 6-8 pm to visit with relatives & friends. Arrangements are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Thomas Harrington Taylor

Thomas Harrington Taylor, 73, of Poteau, OK passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2008 in Poteau. He was born on January 8, 1935 in Waco, Texas to James & Nannie Velma (Holt) Taylor. He was retired from the US Army. His wife Cindy Taylor preceded him in death in 2005. His parents; a brother; and a sister also precede him in death. Thomas is survived by 4 daughters & a son in law, Tammy & Bob Yeargan of Benton, AR; Regina Taylor of Fort Smith, AR; Lisa Taylor & Melanie Potter, both of Poteau, OK; a son & daughter in law, Thomas H. Jr. & Kathy Taylor of Buford, GA; 4 grandchildren Ashlea Crane, Matthew Corley, Jennifer Vogel, & Nathan Taylor; 3 great grandchildren, Jayden Thomas Taylor, Claire Taylor, & Nyklos Vogel; 2 brothers, William Taylor & Donnie Taylor both of Waco, Texas; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Thomas were held at 11:00 am Friday, October 10, 2008 at Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Kendall Ballew, Bob Yeargan, Jimmy Garcia, & Matthew Corley. Honorary pallbearer was Jayden Thomas Taylor.

Grady C. Ollie Sr.

Grady C. Ollie Sr, 91, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, October 6, 2008 in Poteau, OK. Grady was born on April 9, 1947 in Calhoun, Oklahoma to George & Jesse Lee (Monks) Ollie. Grady was a member of First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK. He had also served as a deacon Panama First Baptist Church. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the US Army, a Mason, past president of the Mid America Lumber Association; and a partner in Ollie Lumber Company. His beloved wife Doris preceded him in death in 2001. Grady is survived by a daughter & a son in law, Dolores & Larry Brown of Poteau, OK; a son & daughter in law, Grady (Sub) & Judy Ollie of Fort Smith, AR; grandchildren, David F. Ollie of Hot Springs, AR, Brenda Ollie of Fort Smith, AR, Brent Brown Sr. of Cameron, OK & Kendra Haggard of Tahlequah, OK; his great grandchildren, Brent Brown Jr., Zane Chunn, Olivia Ollie, & Elisabeth Haggard. A sister & brother in law, Bernice & Jack Johnson of Stigler, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Grady were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, October 8, 2008 at First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK with the Reverend Phil McGehee officiating. Interment followed the services at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were RL Sockey, Mike Pritchett, Bert Corr, Bob Dorey, John Williamson, Bob Lindstrom & Ovil Brand. Honorary pallbearers were First Baptist Church Deacons.