A.C. Evans

A.C. Evans, 59, of Summerfield, OK passed away Wednesday, September 8, 2010 in Wilburton, OK.. A.C. was born in Poteau, OK on October 30, 1950 to Arden T. & Evelyn (Wann) Evans. AC waqs know by everybody & never met a stranger. He loved his family & he loved his little buddies, Cordell, Landen & Zane; turkey hunting with his boys, & he loved the outdoors. He always wanted to help with a good days work, advise you if you needed it or just to hear a good huntin' story, he was full of them. AC worked at AmeriGas for 17 years then at the State Highway Department for 6 years. He was preceded in death by his parents and Ana Lois Jackson. Survivors include his beloved wife, Vickie Evans of the home; daughter & son in law, Kari & Wes Collins of Buffalo Valley, OK; son & daughter in law, Daron & Ashley Evans of Corinth, TX; 3 grandchildren, Cordell, Landen & Zane; brother, Hoot Jackson of Poteau, OK; niece & nephew, Pedro & Julie; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Friday, September 10, 2010 at Summerfield Baptist Church in Summerfield, OK with Rev. Charles Caughern & Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Summerfield Cemetery. Pallbearers will be JC Ramsey, Jimmy Booth, Jeff Goad, Frank Wiles, Justin Earls, Jason Roth, Davy Owens, & Dane Evans. Honorary pallbearers will be Cordell Collins, Landen Collins, Zane Collins, Denver Evans, Chuck Evans, Herman McGowen, Nicholas Knowles, Jonathan Collins, James Deere, & Joe Hollan.

Darlene "Rita" Barlow

Rita Barlow, 67, of Eufaula, OK (formerly of Panama, OK) passed away Tuesday, September 7, 2010 in Eufaula. Rita was born September 16, 1942 in Poteau, OK to Edward & Minnie (Lowery) Barlow. She was a homemaker. Rita was preceded in death by her first husband, Cleon Brown; her parents, and brothers, J.D., Jackie, & Ellis Barlow. Survivors include her sons, Michael Brown of Panama, OK, Charles Turner of Panama, OK, & Gary Turner of Panama, OK; daughter, Linda Turner of Poteau, OK; brothers & sisters in law, Bill & Jean Barlow of Buck Creek, OK, Donald & Maxine Barlow of Wagoner, OK, Sharil & Jean Barlow of California; sisters, Lorene Cherry of Muskogee, OK, Wanda Rorie of Shady Point, OK, and Patricia Bell of Buck Creek, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Saturday, September 11, 2010 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers will be Tobey Henderson, Kevin Hanna, Bethel Bates, Trey Upton, Randy Scarberry, Butch Boyd, and Topper Jones.

Billie J "B.J." Harger

BJ Harger, 75, of Pocola, OK passed away Wednesday, September 8, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. BJ was born July 24, 1935 in Hackett, AR to Leffel & Pearl (Williams) Harger. She was a nurse. BJ is survived by 2 sons, Michael Harger of Ft. Smith, AR & David Ray Harger Jr. of California; 3 daughters, Tina Jo Brewer of Hackett, AR, Pamela Harger of Hackett, AR, Leffel Diane Harger of California; 3 sisters, Gerry Martin of Hackett, AR, Barbara Phillips of Booneville, AR, & Dorothy Sweeten of Rock Island, OK; 4 grandchildren & 4 great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Funeral services will be held 1 pm, Friday, September 10, 2010 graveside at Vinita Cemetery in Hackett, AR with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Vinita Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Mike Harger, Bill Johnson, Billy Johnson, Kyle Johnson, Kaylyn Harger & Roger DeMasters.

Johnny Lee Bell Sr.

Johnny Lee Bell, Sr, 71, of Panama, OK, passed away in Panama, OK on Friday, September 3, 2010. Johnny was born on December 29, 1938 in Paris, AR to John Henry & Margaret (Coogan) Bell. John retired from US Forgecraft as a foreman. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents & a brother Danny Bell. Johnny is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia of the home; a son & daughter in law, Johnny Jr. & Tracey Bell of Panama, OK; a daughter & son in law; Melony & Bobby Coker of Panama, OK; a brother & sister in law, Billy Jack & Lisa Bell of Poteau, OK; a sister & brother in law, Tami & Robert Shoup of Panama, OK; 5 grandchildren; Tyler, Trenton, & Alex Bell & Chansley & Logan Coker; his very special friend, Bill Barlow; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; & a host of beloved friends. Funeral services for Johnny were held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, September 7, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Calvin Terry, Reverend Larry Harris, & Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Fairview Cemetery at Panama, OK Pallbearers were Tyler Bell, Trenton Bell, Alex Bell, Ronnie Bell, Terry Bell, & Kevin Bell.

Genevieve Holton

Genevieve Benbrook Holton, 90, of Poteau, OK died peacefully in Tulsa on Friday, September 3, 2010. She was born in Fargo, OK on June 6, 1920 to A.M. & Mayme Benbrook. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, F.L. Holton. She is survived by her three children, Linda Lynch & husband Bob of Tulsa; Steve Holton & his wife Pam of Poteau & Deborah Gentry & her husband Sam of Poteau; eight grandchildren; Randy & Wendy Lynch of New York, NY, David Lynch of Dallas, TX, Kelly & Steve Percifield of Lubbock, TX, Chad & Jennifer Gentry of Denver, CO, Jason & Melissa Holton of Houston, TX, Chris Lynch of Vinita, OK, Keith Gentry of Denver, CO, Michael & Kelly Holton of Edwards, CO; and fourteen great grandchildren; Lillian, Connor & Holton Percifield of Lubbock, TX, Emma & Addison Gentry of Denver, CO, Ella Percifield of Lubbock, TX, Knox Holton of Edwards, CO, Hudson & Jackson Holton of Houston, TX, Lea Gentry of Denver, CO, Georgia Holton of Houston, TX, Kate Holton of Edwards, CO, Lucy Percifield of Lubbock, TX, & Will Lynch of New York, NY. She is also survived by her brother, Douglas Benbrook of Woodward, OK and was preceded in death by her brother Temple Benbrook. Genevieve attended Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State University) where she was president of Alpha Delta Pi sorority, Sigma Alpha Iota music fraternity and the Glee Club. She graduated in 1942 with a bachelor's degree in music and married F.L. that same year. Following F.L.'s discharge from the Army Air Corp in 1946, they moved to Poteau. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Poteau for over 50 years and served as choir director, pianist, Sunday School teacher and deaconess. Active in community affairs, she served as president of several local organizations including the Poteau Musical Arts Society, the 20th Century Study Club, the Poteau Garden Club and ESA Sorority. She was honored as Mother of the Year by the Daily Oklahoman and the Poteau News and Sun. Genevieve was a major donor to the OSU Alumni Center project and the LeFlore County Womens Crisis Services Shelter/Office Complex. In 2007, the family contributed $50,000 to the Carl Albert State College Development Foundation to establish the Genevieve Holton Music Scholarship fund. "Mama G" will long be remembered for her genuine love and concern for others, her serving spirit and her accomplished culinary skills. Services for Genevieve will be held 10:30 am, Wednesday, September 8, 2010 at the First Christian Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Dennis Jones officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau. Memorial gifts may be made to the First Christian Church Memorial Fund, PO Box 160, Poteau, OK 74953 or the Carl Albert State College Development Foundation Scholarship Fund, 1507 S. McKenna, Poteau, OK 74953.

Johnny Shirrell Evans

Johnny Shirrell Evans, 71, of Summerfield, OK passed away Tuesday, August 31, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Shirrell was born December 6, 1938 in Summerfield to Arnold Christopher & Pearl Ann (Wren) Evans. His parents preceded him in death. Shirrell worked in construction. He served in the National Guard. Survivors include his wife, Jean of the home; 2 daughters & their husbands, Gina & Tony Warren of Clarksville, AR, Mary & Lynn Mattox of McAlester, OK; 1 son & his wife, Thomas & Ella Evans of Summerfield, OK; grandchildren, Danny & Sadie Mattox, Clint Mattox, Stephanie & Justin Kirkes, Tiffany Evans, Waylon Goad, Stacey & Michael Gibson; great grandchildren, Mackensie Beason, Tristyn Kirkes, Fox & Leo Mattox; sister, Judy Goad of Summerfield, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Friday, September 3, 2010 at Summerfield Cemetery Pavilion, Summerfield, OK with Rev. Jim Cook & Rev. Frankie Harris officiating. Interment will follow in Summerfield Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Alan Vickers, Randy Vickers, Jeff Goad, Wayne Goad, Mitchell Goad, A.C. Evans, Butch Woolbright & Rick Sanders. Honorary pallbearers will be Denver Evans & Chuck Evans. Anyone wishing to make contributions may do so to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX

David Alejandro Hernandez

David Alejandro Hernandez of Wister, OK passed away Wednesday, August 25, 2010 in Oklahoma City, OK. David was born Wednesday, August 25, 2010 in Oklahoma City to Lucio & Rosemary Jean (Cobb) Hernandez Cruz of Wister, OK. Survivors include his parents; grandparents, David Cobb of Poteau, OK, Linda Cobb of Sayre, OK; great grandparents, Edward & Betty Cobb of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. David was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Alejandro Hernandez & Rosa Cruz Garcia of Mexico. Services will be held 10 am, Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at the Oakland Cemetery Pavilion, Poteau, OK with Father Valentine officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK.

Jacky Lawton Cooper

Jacky Lawton Cooper, 65, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, August 28, 2010, in Fort Smith, AR. Jacky was born October 26, 1944 in Poteau, OK to Lawton R. & Edna (Jenson) Cooper. Jacky was self-employed, retired. He was a veteran of the US Army. He attended Solid Rock Church in Panama, OK. He loved to hunt, fish, being outdoors, and especially anything to do with guns. Survivors include his wife, Cheryl of the home; 2 sons, Jeff & Holly Cooper of Poteau, OK, Chad Cooper of Calhoun, OK; 3 granddaughters, Kaitlin, Skylar, & Kennedi; 1 great granddaughter, Zaidi Grace; 2 sisters, Shirley Cooper of Hodgen, OK, Susie McConnell of Hot Springs, AR; 1 brother, B.T. & Shari Cooper of Shady Point, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Wednesday, September 1, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Johnny Cheek. Pallbearers will be Brad Hall, Ken Foster, Larry Hall, Ronnie Handy, Rodney Shepard.

Robert G. "Bob" Heinrich

Robert G. "Bob" Heinrich, 72, of Shady Point, OK passed away Thursday, August 26, 2010 in Muskogee, OK. Bob was born in Kingston, NY on October 22, 1937 to Carl & Irene (Dailey) Heinrich. Bob was in law enforcement. He retired from the military after 27 plus years serving with the US Army in Korea and Viet Nam. He was a member of Southside Baptist Church in Poteau, OK. Survivors include his wife, Linda of the home; daughter, Janey Barnes of Godley, TX; sons, Shane Johnston of Belleview, FL & Alton Johnston of Palmyra, VA; 8 grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Monday, August 30, 2010 graveside at Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK with Rev. Monty Thompson officiating. Interment will follow in Shady Point Cemetery.

Steven Dale Tackett

Steven Dale Tackett, 47, of Panama, OK passed away Wednesday, August 25, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Steven was born August 6, 1963 in Poteau, OK to Clifford & Patsy Sue (Kilgore) Tackett. He was a well driller/mechanic. He was preceded in death by his father; a brother, Randall Tackett; the mother of his children, Neva Tackett. Survivors include 2 sons, Christopher Ray Tackett of Panama, OK, Jason Leigh Tackett of Heavener, OK; 2 grandchildren, Rumor Nicole Tackett & Avery Langston Tackett; mother, Pat Tackett of Panama, OK; sisters, Vickey Damato of Spiro, OK & Lea Ann Lowry of Panama, OK; brother, Paul Allen Tackett of Bokoshe, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 2:30 pm, Saturday, August 28, 2010 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Brian Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Old Bokoshe Cemetery, Bokoshe, OK. Pallbearers will be Larry Martin, Harvey Geizer, Randall Foster, Roy Stimac, Gerald McRay, David Real. Honorary pallbearers will be all his many friends.

William "Everett" Seagraves

William Everett Seagraves, 47, of Shady Point, OK passed away after a long and courageous battle with leukemia. Everett was born in Talihina, OK on December 27, 1962 to William "Bill" & Mary Seagraves. He was a rancher. He loved life, taking care of the ranch, riding horses, riding his Harley, but most of all he loved playing with his grandchildren. He will be sorely missed. Everett is a member of Calvary Assembly of God Church in Poteau, the Oklahoma Farriers Assoc., & he served as a Ranger in the Army Airborne Division. He as preceded in death by his father; and a sister Helen Newman. Survivors include his wife Sabra, who was always by his side; daughter, Tiffany Seagraves of Siloam Springs, AR; son, William Seagraves of Keota, OK; Stepson, Tony Scyrkels of Shady Point, OK; mother, Mary Kelly of Poteau, OK; brothers & wives, Monroe Seagraves & friend Linda Willhite of Heavener, OK, Lester & Jenise Seagraves of Poteau, OK, Earl & Teresa Seagraves of Spiro, OK; 3 grandchildren, Ethan & Aidan Scyrkels of Shady Point, OK; Keelyn Seagraves of Siloam Springs, AR; several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services for Everett will be 11 am Friday, August 27, 2010 at the Calvary Assembly of God Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Lynn Bullard officiating. Pallbearers will be Monroe, Lester & Earl Seagraves, David Easley, Stan Stone, Stanley Odom, Todd Peters & Max Carver.

Paula J. Graham

Paula J. Graham, 64, of Heavener, OK passed away Tuesday, August 25, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Paula was born June 15, 1946 in Jackson, MS to Henry T. & Elba (Ardis) Rogers. Paula was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Martha Rogers Thorpe. Survivors include her husband, James of the home;3 sons & daughters in law, Roger & Mary Wooten of Lavaca, AR, Greg Wooten of Ft. Smith, AR, Jeremy & Desiree Wooten of Ft. Smith, AR; 1 daughter & son in law, Tracy & Larry Wilburn of Ft. Smith, AR; 4 stepsons & wives, Jeff & Jessica Graham of Grove, OK, Jason & Kim Graham of Poteau, OK, Clifford Graham of Poteau, OK, James & Rachel Graham of Heavener, OK; 2 brothers & sisters in law, Gary & Paula Rogers of Spiro, OK, Val & Janice Rogers of Cameron, OK; 1 sister & brother in law, Glynda & Jeff McDaniel of Poteau, OK; 7 Grandchildren; 1 Great Grandchild; 8 Step Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Friday, August 27, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories - Poteau, OK with Scott Martin & Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Page Cemetery, Page, OK. Pallbearers will be Jason Rogers, Nik McDaniel, Nate McDaniel, Nyles McDaniel, & Jason Tyler Graham. Honorary Pallbearer will be Clifford Graham. The family will be at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 6-8 pm to visit with family and friends.

Lois Louise King

Lois Louise King, 95, of Muldrow, OK passed away Monday, August 16, 2010 in Muldrow, OK. Lois was born August 26, 1914 in Camden, AR. Lois was of the Methodist faith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alec "Raymond" King in 1997; her parents, Robert Fairfield & Dixie Mae (Blaine) Russ; an infant daughter, Patsy Raye King, & a brother, Herbert Russ. Lois was a wife, mother, sister, aunt & friend. She was content and happy being a mother which she always said was her greatest job. One of the family's greatest memories was of her singing "You Are My Sunshine". She was a great cook, especially her okra which was the best ever. Survivors include her 4 daughters, Nancy Justice, Dixie King, Marsha King, & Stephanie Poling; 4 grandchildren, Jordan Harger, Kristi Justice, Carson & Dana McLemurray; 7 great grandchildren, Jessica, Jonathan, Matthew, Robert, Joseph & Kent; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 11 am, Saturday, August 28, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers will be Carson McKlemurray, Danny Poling, Jordan Harger, Larry Roper & Justin Bray.

Terry Joe Traw

Terry Joe Traw, 58, of Poteau, OK passed away Sunday, August 15, 2010 in Poteau. Terry was born in Poteau on April 30, 1952 to John Joe & Cleo Francis (Richardson) Traw. He was preceded in death by his parents, maternal grandparents, Luth & Beulah Richardson; & his paternal grandparents, Alf & Nora Traw. Terry was a factory worker and also worked for the US Postal Service. Survivors include his wife, Donna Traw of the home; 2 sons, Randy Traw & Rick Griffin, both of Poteau, OK; daughter, Chrissy Traw of Howe, OK; sisters & brothers in law, Barbara & Jim Silva of Vincenes, IN, Betty & Bernie Fairchild of Odessa, MO; 2 grandchildren, Faith Griffin & Danny Traw; special friend, Bob Plummer; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 11 am, Thursday, August 19, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers will be Steve Guilbeaux, Jeff Caldwell, Eric Meadors, Joe Powers, & Michael Grier. The family will be at the funeral home from 6-8 pm, Wednesday evening to visit with relatives & friends.

Diana Lynn (Baker) Dameron

Diana Lynn (Baker) Dameron, 59, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, August 16, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Diana was born April 25, 1951, in Poteau, OK to Marlton "Bill" & Naomi Ruth (Thornburg)Baker. She was a Child Development Specialist with the Child Support System. She was preceded in death by her parents and 1 brother, Gary Baker. Survivors include her daughter, Christy Krebbs of Poteau, OK; son & daughter in law, Brian & Misty Dameron of Rogers, AR; 6 grandchildren, Cody Brown, Niklas Rose, Trey Krebbs, Blake Dameron, Keelan Dameron, & Parrish Dameron; sister, Cyndi Baker Burke of Panama, OK; brother & sister in law, Mark & Bonnie Baker of Colorado; nieces & nephews, Candice Padamadan of Ohio, Nathan Burke of Ohio, Josh Baker of California (USMC), Lynsay Baker of Texas; special loved ones, Kara Hammons, Colby Garrett, John Garrett, Jared Garrett, Kathy Garrett, Rob Lambert; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services for Diana will be held 10 am, Friday, August 20, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Honorary pallbearers will be Cody Brown, Niklas Rose, Keelan Dameron, & Trey Krebbs. The family will be at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 5-7pm.

Patsy Raye Gibson

Patsy Raye Gibson, 78, of Howe, OK passed away Saturday, August 14, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Patsy was born January 12, 1932 in Zoe, OK to Albert S. & Anna (Metcalf) Lockhart. She was a store Manager(retired) homemaker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clayton Gibson; daughter, Rhonda Henson; brothers, Travis & Grady Lockhart. Survivors include 2 sons & daughters in law, Gary U. & Lynn Gibson of Poteau, OK, David & Beverly Gibson of Spiro, OK; 5 grandchildren, Christi Lopez, Cheri Radwick, Gary M. Gibson, Johannah Anderson, & Shawnna Gibson; 6 great grandchildren, Makailyn Gibson, Madilyn Lopez, Marc Lopez, George M. Espinel, Lynsey Espinel, Cody Anderson; brothers, Loren Lockhart of Mustang, OK, Lynn Lockhart of Poteau, OK; sister, Geraldine McGee of Clovis, CA; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Roger Mattox & Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment following in Heavener Memorial Park Cemetery, Heavener, OK. Pallbearers will be George M. Espinel, Jacob Anderson, Justin McCullah, Travis "Tab" Lockhart Jr., Mark Lockhart, & Britt Lockhart. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary M. Gibson & Patrick McGee. The family will be at the funeral home from 6-8 pm, Monday evening to visit with relatives & friends.

Ramona M. Billings

Ramona M. Billings, 76 of LeFlore, OK passed away on Monday, August 9, 2010 in LeFlore. Ramona was born on February 13, 1934 in Summerfield, OK to John & Ellen (Smith) Fulks. She was a cook at LeFlore Public Schools until her retirement. Ramona married Raydean Billings on May 28, 1953. Raydean preceded her in death on March 29, 2008. She is also preceded in death by a brother, Johnny Wayne Fulks; sisters, Virginia Tilly, Alta Gwin, Hazel Yandell, & Geneva Davis & her parents. Ramona is survived by 2 sons & daughter in law, Paul Billings, Clyde & Karen Billings all of LeFlore, OK; 5 grandchildren, Shawn & wife Amber Billings, Brent Billings, Andrea & husband Steven Rowton, Linda & husband Lester Stepp; 7 great grandchildren, Ethan Billings, Caden Rowton, Coley Grace Rowton, Greenlee Stepp, Kayleigh Helms, Adriana Billings & Colton Billings; 2 brothers & sisters in law, Jerry & Cheri Fulks of Talihina, OK, Derrall & Editha Fulks of Cashion, OK; 2 sisters & brothers in law, Diane & Clyde Chambers of Annacoco, LA & Edith & Calvin Nelson of Las Vegas, NV; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Thursday, August 12, 2010 at Summerfield Baptist Church in Summerfield, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Summerfield Cemetery. Pallbearers were Shawn & Brent Billings, Steven Rowton, Lester Stepp, Casey WArren & Johnny Warren. Honorary pallbearers were Kenny Monroe, Harvey Walden, Frank Carpenter,John Ward, Mark Warren & J.W. Willard

Carl Ralph Anthony Earls

Carl Ralph Anthony "Buzzard" Earls, 53, formerly of Poteau, passed away August 10, 2010 in San Antonio, TX. He was born October 17, 1956 in Paragould, AR. He is survived by a son; two daughters; a sister and brother in law, Kathy & husband Eric Frey of Howe, OK; 3 brothers, Larry & wife Laurie of Illinois, Jerry & wife Darlene of Missouri and Gary Truelove of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Memorial services were conducted 2 pm, Sunday, August 15, 2010, at Oakland Cemetery Pavilion in Poteau.

Betty Jean Dewitt

Betty Jean Dewitt, 69, 0f Cameron, OK passed away on Sunday, August 8, 2010 in Cameron. Betty was born on March 9, 1941 in Williams, Oklahoma to Lonnie Dave & Myrtle Neoma (Ward) Dewitt. She was a homemaker. Betty is survived by her companion, E.G. Falkner of the home; a daughter & son in law, Paula & Clifford Dewitt; 4 sons & daughters in law, Joe & Christina Edwards, Wendell & Astrid Edwards, Nathan & Cindi Self, & Kelly & Sherry Self; 5 sisters Oleda Helton, Lucille Dees, Doris & husband George Thomas, Nadine Edwards, & Polly Dewitt; brother & sister in law, Donnie & Carol Dewitt; 14 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews; other relatives & loved ones; & many beloved friends. Funeral services for Betty were held at 10:00 am Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Fairview Cemetery in Panama, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Louie Steven Taylor

Louie Steven Taylor, 84, of Poteau, OK passed away on Tuesday, August 10, 2010. Louie was born on July 26, 1926 in Little Kansas, OK to Nathan & Clara (Ridenoure) Taylor. He was a construction Electrician for NECA & IBEW until his retirement. He served and worshipped at Poteau Church of Christ. He had served as the mayor of Howe, OK and loved those in and around the Howe area wholeheartedly. Louie is survived by his beloved wife, Catherine “Ms. Cathy” Taylor of the home; 2 daughters & sons in law Karen & Gary Johnson of Fort Gibson, OK & Shirley & Don Martin of Poteau, OK; the mother of his children, Pauline Forrester of Poteau, OK; 4 grandchildren Steve Martin & his wife Amy of Nixa, MO, Garydon Taylor of Muskogee, OK,, Lauren & her husband Ryan Holderby of Fort Gibson, OK, & Ross Johnson & wife Amber of Muskogee, OK; 5 great grandsons Abe, Gid, & Si Martin & Jaiden & Tyson Johnson; 4 stepchildren, Steve & wife Anita, Candy & husband Dale, Roger & wife Caralene, & Beth & husband Dana; 5 step grandchildren Kamie, Joshua, Julian, Samatha, & Madison; 2 step great grandsons Kolby & Dillon Taylor; 2 sisters in law, Helen Taylor of Shady Point, OK & Oleta Taylor of Arkansas; numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of other friends & loved ones. Graveside services for Louie were held at 10:00 am Thursday, August 12, 2010 at Fairview Cemetery in Panama, OK with Dr. Steve Martin, Brother Don Cherry, Brother Lynn Bullard officiating. Pallbearers were Don Martin, Garydon Taylor, Ross Johnson, Ryan Holderby, Gary Johnson, & Bobby Martin. Honorary pallbearers will be his brothers & sisters of Poteau Church of Christ. Arrangements are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Bobbie Ann (Ross) Mitchell

Bobbie was born to Margertie Ross on February 27, 1957 in Fort Coffee, Oklahoma. She was called home to glory on Tuesday, August 10, 2010. Bobbie turned her life over to Christ at an early age and attended Mt. Triumph Missionary Baptist Church. She graduated high school at Spiro High School in 1975. She was a long time employee of Whirlpool Corporation until her health failed. She enjoyed cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her mother, Margertie Ross & a brother, Nolia White, Jr. Bobbie leaves to cherish her memory 5 children; 4 sons, Keniko, Tamaras, A.D. & Dominique Logan and a daughter Kaniesha Logan, all of Fort Smith, Arkansas; 10 grandchildren; 3 brothers, Theodore Hines of Talihina, Oklahoma, Eddie Ross of Fort Smith, Arkansas, & Ervin Johnson of Spiro, Oklahoma & a sister Janette Hall of Spiro, Oklahoma; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and a host of beloved friends. Homegoing celebration for Bobbie was held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 14, 2010 at House of Restoration in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Interment followed the services in Fort Coffee Cemetery, Fort Coffee, Oklahoma with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Pocola, Oklahoma. Flower bearers were Pam Medlock,Tae Baldwin, & Linda Shropshire. Casket bearers were Vincent Logan; Artez, Lamar Delt, Calvin Edwards, David Smith, & Chris Johnson.

Vernon Carl Mackey

Vernon Carl Mackey, 70, of Cameron, OK passed away Thursday, August 5, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Vernon was born in Monroe, OK on December 17, 1939 to Russell & Cora (Solomon) Mackey. He was disabled. Vernon was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Fatima Stroud; sister, Betty Jo Durant & brother, James Mackey. Survivors include his wife, Barbara of the home; 1 daughter, Judith Ann Swindell of Cameron, OK, 5 Grandchildren, Alisha Berryhill, Ashley Stroud, Rebecca Pearcy, Gary Stroud, Wayne Swindell II; 9 great grandchildren, Dylan, Skyleigh, Autumn, Kaylee, Mara, Charles, Violet, Niklas, Jeremy; 1 brother, Don Mackey of Shady Point, OK; 2 sisters, Bernice Kilpatrick of Tulsa, OK, Agness Kersh of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 10 am, Monday, August 9, 2010 at Liberty Hill Baptist Church in Cameron, OK with Rev. Jackie Edwards & Rev. Travis Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Slaytonville Cemetery, Slaytonville, OK. Pallbearers will be Wayne Swindell, Keith Mackey, Brian Kersh, Kenny Lister, Dirk Gaither, Gary Stroud. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Nichols and Danny Campbell. The family will be at the funeral home on Sunday afternoon from 2-4 pm to visit with friends and relatives.

Dale Debbs Warren

Dale D. Warren, 75, of Shady Point, OK passed away Thursday, August 5, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. Dale was born April 13, 1935 in Broken Bow, OK to Joseph & Vinnie (Goodman) Warren. Dale worked in the saw mill. Dale was a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, a devout Christian who love God & loved his church. He was a veteran of the US Marines. Dale was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include 2 daughters, Abbi Gail Tucker of Battiest, OK, Amy Parsons of Battiest, OK; 1 son, Jonathan Warren of Shady Point, OK; 6 grandchildren, Billy Dale Williams, Dakota Williams, Logan Williams, Andrew Warren, Vallie Parsons, & Tana Parsons; 2 brothers, Big Boy Warren of Eufaula, OK, Roy Fortune of Broken Bow, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Monday, August 9, 2010 at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Bethel, OK with Rev. Lee Storm & Rev. Archie Phillips officiating. Interment will follow in Bethel Cemetery, Bethel, OK. Pallbearers will be Jonathan Warren, Amy Parsons, Mark Richard, Jerry Weeks, Randall Williams, Kent Parsons & Jason Richard. Honorary pallbearers will be Big Boy Warren & Roy Fortune. The family will be at the funeral home on Sunday afternoon from 2-4 pm to visit with relatives & friends.

Arthur "Art" VanVeKoven

"Arthur “Art” VanVekoven, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Poteau, Oklahoma on August 4, 2010, after his courageous battle with lung cancer. Born July 5th, 1926 in Westville, IL, Art was one of six children of Jewish immigrants Jean Francois VanVeKoven and Alice Marie (Laurent) VanVeKoven of Charleroi, Belgium. On January 5, 1945 Art enlisted in the US Army in Chicago, IL. In June of 1945, Art was transferred to Company C of the 640th Tank Destroyer Battalion on Leyte in the Philippine Islands. While awaiting deployment for the invasion of Japan, his unit fought in several skirmishes on the islands of Leyte and Mindanao; the United States dropped the Atomic Bomb on Hiroshima, Japan on August 6, 1945 and on Nagasaki, Japan on August 9, 1945 which resulted in the Japanese unconditional surrender. Although the Japanese had surrendered, the 640th Tank Destroyer Battalion was required to continue fighting in skirmishes against the Japanese who had not heard that the war had ended. After WW-II, Art received an honorable discharge from the Army, obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Saint Leo University, Saint Leo, Florida and his Master of Arts Degree from Central Michigan University, Troy, Michigan. His career with the United States Federal Government spanned thirty-two years and incorporated positions as an Industrial Engineer Branch Chief, Maintenance Manager as well as an Information systems Management and Logistics Engineering Division Chief. After retiring from the Federal Government, he worked as an Information systems design and program manger for the State of Oklahoma Tax Commission, taught Computer Science at Carl Albert Junior College in Poteau, Oklahoma and worked as a case manager for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services in Poteau, OK. Art was a loving husband, father, and loyal friend. He was known for his easy, calm demeanor, quick wit and mischievous sense of humor. He enjoyed his life and lived it to the fullest for his family, not out of obligation, but out of love. He was happiest when he was with his wife and sons and when he was hunting, fishing or camping. He took pleasure in growing a vegetable garden each year. He played the accordion, piano, and harmonica, tinkered with small engines, held an amateur radio license, built several homes, rode ATV’s, boated, hiked, he was a spelunker, past Commander of American Legion Post 288 in Panama, OK, Lead Deacon at the Calvary Baptist Church in Las Cruces, NM and enjoyed researching and studying the Holy Bible. He was unselfish and always willing to help anyone in need. He loved God and Jesus Christ and taught his sons and foster children that God is the answer to all that we encounter in life. There are not enough words to describe how great a man Art was. He will be missed by all of his family and friends who loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Jean, Amiable, and Frank VanVeKoven as well as his sister, Helen (VanVeKoven) Wright, his daughter, Lana Faye (VanVeKoven) Morris, grandson, Jacob Allen VanVekoven and granddaughter, Jennifer Lynn (VanVeKoven) Hamilton. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lula Faye (Green) VanVeKoven of the home, three sons, William “Junior“ of Poteau, Gary of Des Moines, IA and Kenneth of McAlester, OK, brother George VanVeKoven of Wilmington Beach, NC, nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and foster children. Special thanks to Pastor Jackie Edwards and wife Peggy, ladies at Pleasant Valley Free Will Baptist Church, Charlotte LeBouef, Pocola, OK, Glory Young, Wister, OK, EOMC Home Health nurses Wilma, Debra and Gerald and Professional Home Hospice nurse Noreen." Funeral services will be held 11 am, Saturday, August 7, 2010 at Pleasant Valley Free Will Baptist Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jackie Edwards officiating. Interment will follow in Greenhill Cemetery, Cameron, OK. Pallbearers will be Robert VanVeKoven, Timothy VanVeKoven, Aaron VanVeKoven, and A.J. Hanna

Reba Bates Fitzpatrick

Reba Bates Fitzpatrick, 58, of Panama, OK passed away Sunday, August 1, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. Reba was born February 9, 1952 in Poteau, OK to Bethel & Faye (Boyd) Bates. She was a hairdresser. Reba was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Dena Smith. Survivors include her husband, Steven Fitzpatrick of the home; son, Matthew Schmidt of Greenwood, AR; 2 daughters, Kim & husband Shawn Dodson of Greenwood, AR, Veronica Bates of Cameron, OK; 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; 3 sisters, "June" Turner of Spiro, OK, Stella Tayrien of Stillwater, OK, Rachel Bates of Shattuck, OK; 3 brothers, Butch Bates of Panama, OK, Joe Ollar of Cameron, OK, Bethel Bates of Panama, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Thursday, August 5, 2010 at the First Assembly of God Church in Panama, OK with Gary Ridenour officiating. Interment will follow at noon at the Fort Smith National Cemetery, Ft. Smith, AR. Pallbearers will be Randall Pierce, Ryan Dodson, Heath Bates, Jason Horst, Burt Tayrien, Steven Goins, Brian Goins, & the men of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Spiro Chapter. The family will be at the Spiro Fraternal Order of the Eagles hall from 6-8 Wednesday evening.

Garland Gene "Butch" Hicks

Garland Gene Hicks, "Butch", 59 years old of Grants Pass, OR died July 21, 2010 at his home. He was born May 29, 1951 in Hinton, OK to Homer & Robbie Hicks. He was raised along with his siblings in SE Oklahoma until he was out of high school. After a short tour in the Army he worked around the country, until his travels brought him to Southern Oregon. There he me and married Patricia Han, and had three sons, William, Eugene & Larry. He worked at Roseburg Lumber for 15 years while he watched his boys turn into men & enjoyed among other things, hunting, scouting, fishing & good conversations over a fresh pot of coffee. After he was finished raising his sons, he went back to working on the road until he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver a number of years later. His only wish was to return to the land he fell in love with to live out the remainder of his years. Five years and after many medical setbacks and a bad car wreck no one thought he could recover from; Butch beat the odds & not only recovered but lived another whole year. He passed away at his home in Grants Pass among his loving family. May he find peace & tranquility in God's loving arms. He is survived by his sons, William, Eugene, & Larry Hicks; his grandchildren, Marie Russell, Craig Russell, James Hicks, Dwayne Hicks, Lucas Hicks, & Logan Hicks; his siblings, Elton, Paul, Robert, Phillip, Pete, Thomas, Melba, Aileen & Patsy; numerous nieces, nephews, & his dear friend, Clint Williams. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Vivian and daughter, Tina. He was a man of honor with deep family values. The world is a lesser place without him. He will be loved & missed by all who knew him. [Thank you for everything, Dad} Services will be held 10 am, Saturday, July 31, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories with Rev. Larry Free officiating. Interment will follow in Maxey Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers will be Elton Hicks, Paul Hicks, Robert Hicks, Phillip Hicks, Thomas Hicks, & Leroy Atkinson.

Deborah Lynn Peterson

Deborah Lynn Peterson, 52, of Poteau, OK passed away Sunday, July 25, 2010 in Poteau. Deborah was born in Checotah, OK on May 22, 1958 to Henry & Wanda Mae (Park) Peterson. She was disabled. Survivors include her many friends at KiBois; special friend & roommate, Darlene Rea; and the Staff at KiBois; other relatives & friends. Services will be held 10 am, Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at the Oakland Cemetery Pavilion in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery.

Adam Michael Denton

Adam Michael Denton, 8 days old, of Pocola, OK passed away Friday, July 23, 2010 in Little Rock, AR. He was born July 15, in Little Rock to Josephine Still & Brett Denton of Pocola, OK. Adam was preceded in death by his maternal great grandfather, Troy Still Sr., & maternal great grandmother, Paula Huerta. Survivors include his parents; maternal grandparents, Lee & Carol Still of Pocola, OK, Amelia Still of Pocola, OK; paternal grandparents, Laura & Jay Denton of Pocola, OK; maternal great grandparents, Laura Still of Pocola, Gabriel Huerta of Arusa, CA; paternal great grandparents, Aleta Kay Matlock of Pocola, OK & Tim Matlock of Pocola, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many friends. Services will be held 10 am, Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at the Woodlawn Memorial Park Chapel in Fort Smith, AR. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Park.

Clarice Jean Leonard

Clarice Jean Leonard, 74, of Poteau, OK passed away Wednesday, July 21, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Jean was born in Poteau, OK on November 20, 1935 to Wayne & Georgia (Barnes) Sinclair. She was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers; and 5 sisters. Jean & E.T. were married on March 17, 1956. Jean worked in education as an early childhood specialist. Survivors include her husband, E.T. Leonard of the home; daughter, Barbara J. McDaniel of Poteau, OK; son, Euel T. Leonard III of Rapid City, SD; 7 Grandchildren; 11 Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Saturday, July 24, 2010 at Double Branch Baptist Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jerry Williams & Rev. Steven Billy officiating. Interment will follow in Vaughn Cemetery, Gilmore, OK. Pallbearers will be Jeff Callaway, Kelly Hughes, Scotty McMillin, Ken Goins, John Boevers & David Odom. Honorary pallbearers will be Martin Bosco & George Blankenship.

James C. Glasgow Jr.

James Carnell Glasgow Jr. 66, of Poteau, OK passed away Tuesday, July 20, 2010 in Poteau. James was born in Hinton, OK on April 27, 1944 to James C. Sr. & Edith (Bergeron) Glasgow. He was a veteran of the US Air Force. He worked for seismograph - oil company - GEO.SSC. He was preceded in death by his father, James Sr. & brother Joseph. Survivors include 3 daughters, Christina Ann Parker of Glenwood, AR, Kathryn Marie Riley of Swansea, SC, Heather Dawn Glasgow of Ft. Smith, AR; mother, Edith Wash of Poteau, OK; 7 grandchildren; sister & brother in law, Betty & Bill Howse of Wanette, OK; brother & sister in law, Andy & Toni Glasgow of Slidell, LA; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Friday, July 23, 2010 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Bill Howse officiating. Interment will follow at a later date in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK.

Wynema R. Medley

Wynema R. Medley, 68, of McAlester, OK (formerly of Poteau) passed away Tuesday, July 20, 2010 in McAlester, OK. Wynema was born in Poteau, OK on September 2, 1941 to John & Emma Rice. She was a hospital monitor tech. Wynema worked at the Poteau hospital for 36 years. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Johnny Harold Rice; 2sisters & brother in law, Mary Lou Seymore, Donna & Carl Latta; & her husband, Paul Medley. Survivors include he daughter, Deborah Medley of Sapulpa, OK; sons, John Medley of Sapulpa, OK & Eddie Medley of Springfield, MO; 8 grandchildren; 2 step-grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; 1 step-great grandchild; 2 sisters & brother in law, Shirley & Tommy Brannon of Haywood, OK, Molly Harrison of Keystone Heights, FL; 1 brother & sister in law, Bill & Jean Rice of Cameron, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 2 pm, Friday, July 23, 2010 at the Oakland Cemetery Pavilion, Poteau, Ok with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau.

Nan Whitehead-Maxwell

Nan Whitehead-Maxwell, 60, of Bokoshe, OK passed away Monday, July 19, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. Nan was born June 27, 1950 in Dayton, OH to Dallas Lee & Julia Mae (Sexton) Blaylock. She was a registered nurse. Nan was preceded in death by her parents; 2nd husband, Hubert Whitehead; 1st husband, Stanley Dow; son, Johnny Whitehead; and 3 step grandchildren. Special thanks to Sheila Marts & Linda McAlvain. Survivors include her husband, Eldon Maxwell of the home; daughters & sons in law, Sandy Whitehead of Ohio, Tracy & Tim Morrow of Osceola, IN, Kelly Saltsman & Karl Hedberg of Mishawaka, IN, Julie & Rick Phillips of Monterey, TN; son & daughter in law, Hubert & Tammy Whitehead of Niles, MI; 14 grandchildren, Ashley Holmes, Jonathan Holmes, Dayna Curry, Brittany Morrow, Travis Morrow, Adam Saltsman, Aaron Saltsman, Levi Phillips, Alyssa Phillips, Shelby Whitehead, Haley Whitehead, Maranda Whitehead, DAlton Moyer, Triston Whitehead; mother in law, Carol Maxwell of Bokoshe, OK; stepchildren, Pamela Sanders, Larry Maxwell, Jamie Lynn Ducat, Betty Griego, Floyd Lay, Smanatha Lynn Owens, Avis; 12 step grandchildren; 2 step great grandchildren; special friend, Mark Saltsman; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Thursday, July 22, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Lynn Bullard officiating. Graveside services will be held 2 pm, Saturday, July 24, 2010 at Smellage Cemetery in Baxter, TN. Pallbearers will be Adam Saltsman, Aaron Saltsman, Travis Morrow, Hubert Whitehead, Karl Hedberg, & Tim Morrow. The family will be at the funeral home from 6-8 Wednesday evening to visit with friends & family and they will be meeting at Nan's residence after the services on Thursday.

Alice L. Needham

Alice L. Needham, 87, of Pocola, OK passed away Sunday, July 18, 2010 in Pocola. Alice was born in Greenwood, AR on April 6, 1923 to Lemon & Mary Mae (Spradlin) Berry. She was a homemaker. Alice was preceded in death by her parents; husband, C.W. Bill Needham; son, Bobby Needham; and brother, John T. Berry. Survivors include 2 sons & daughters in law, Charles & Linda Needham of Ft. Smith, AR, Bill & Ruby Needham of Pocola, OK, Anna Needham of Pocola, OK; 15 Grandchildren; 23 Great Grandchildren; 2 Great Great Grandchildren; numerous nieces & nephews; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Funeral services will be held 10 am, Wednesday, July 21, 2010 in Evans Memorial Chapel in Pocola, OK with Rev. Richard Maness officiating. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Ft. Smith, AR. Pallbearers will be Billy, Gary, Gregg & Larry Needham, C.J. Dunn & Steven Neal. Honorary pallbearers will be David Joe Needham, Marshall Needham & George Needham. We the family would like to thank Judy Carter of Encompass Home Health & Peachtree Hospice for the care they provided to our mother. She will be greatly missed.

Sandy D. White

Sandy D. White, 61, of Wister, OK passed away Friday, July 16, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Sandy was born in Poteau, OK on September 3, 1948 to Rubin Louis & Mary Alice "Polly" (Hines) White. He was a pipe fitter. He was preceded in death by his parents;and brother, Neal White. Survivors include 2 brothers, Robert C. White of San Marcos, TX and Ronald L. White of Greenbrier, AR; sister, Mary Judith Ann Logan of Pocola, OK; numerous nieces & nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Tuesday, July 20, 2010 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Summerfield Cemetery, Summerfield, OK. The family will be at the funeral home from 5-7 Monday evening to visit with relatives & friends.

Margaret Marie Davidson Mattox

Margaret Marie Davidson Mattox, 66, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, July 16, 2010 in Muskogee, OK. Margaret was born October 5, 1943 in Howe, OK. Margaret was a hairdresser. She loved God and loved fishing. She was a good cook and loved spending time with the grandchildren & great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry D. Davidson Sr; a brother & her parents. Survivors include her sons, Mace Earl (Rick) Davidson & wife Barbara of Poteau, OK, Jerry Denzel Davidson Jr., of Poteau, OK, Calvin Coleman Billy of Poteau, OK, William Albert Billy III of Poteau, OK, Terry Edwin Billy of Tulsa, OK; grandchildren, Destinie & husband Kyle Kitchens, Jessica Hamm, Matthew Davidson, Kara Davison, Jennifer Billy, Carrie Jo Billy, Justin & wife Jessica Montez, Betty Turner, Joshua Turner, Lena & Stephany Billy & Ashley Davidson; 6 great grandchildren, Candalynn, Jillian, Trevor, Courtney, Troy, Hunter, Angelique & Joslyn; sister, Sharon Hano of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Monday, July 19, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook & Aud Balentine officiating. Interment followed in Howe Cemetery, Howe, OK. Pallbearers were Jerry Davidson, Rick Davidson, Billy Billy, Kyle Kitchens, Justin Montez, Calvin Billy & Billy Cook.

A.C. "Buck" Nickles

A.C. "Buck" Nickles, 87, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, July 17, 2010 in Poteau. Buck was born in Rock Island, OK on August 22, 1922 to Jackson & Myrtle (Phillips) Nickles. He did backhoe and dozer work. Buck attended the First church of the Nazarene in Poteau. If there ever was a marriage made in Heaven it was Buck & Elly's. They enjoyed the simple life and each other. A perfect day for them was sitting on their front porch in their rocking chairs visiting with each other, or on the lake running their trot lines. Buck was loved and admired by those who knew him. He was a family man whom by the life he led, set the bar high for his children and grandchildren to follow. A light went out in our world on July 17, 2010 but came on in Heaven. We love and miss you! Buck was preceded in death by one son, Sam Nickles, 1 great granddaughter, Alexis Thornton, 1 great grandson, Hunter Goines, 3 brothers, William, Clarence, & Melvin Nickles and 1 sister, Lois Jenson. Survivors include his loving wife and best friend of 62 years, Elly Nickles of the home; children he adored, Ken & Kay Nickles of Burleson, TX, Suzy & Dexter Haskins of Poteau, OK, Debbie & Robert Goines of Poteau, OK, Tami Summers of Ozark, AR; special daughter in law, Jo Nickles of Shady Point, OK; 13 grandchildren, Samantha Zearley, Brian Nickles, Stefanie Baldwin, Staci Thornton, Krista Porter, Stephen Nickles, Amy Haskins, Melanie Cooper, Ashleigh Haskins, Angie Coker, Scott Goines, Hannah Conner, Ryan Conner; 22 great grandchildren many loving nieces and nephews; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 10 am, Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook & Pastor Ed Hunsaker of First Church of the Nazarene officiating. Interment will follow in Greenhill Cemetery, Cameron, OK. Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Sterling Zearley, Brian Nickles, Scott Goines, Austin Zearley, Ryan Conner & Hunter Zearley.

Linda Gay McKeown

Linda Gay McKeown, 56, of Pocola, OK passed away Wednesday, July 14, 2010 in Pocola. Linda was born in Bokoshe, OK on August 24, 1953 to J.C. & Lawanda (Sinclair) Whitecotton. She was preceded in death by her parents; & brothers, Rudy Rufus, Thomas Joe, Ronnie Charles, Gary Don, Joh Carl & Andy Lee Whitecotton. Linda Gay was a homemaker. Survivors include her husband, Jack of the home; daughter, Cindy McKeown of Kinta, OK; sons, Jack McKeown III of Pocola, OK, Billy McKeown of Ft. Smith, AR; grandchildren, Destine Gene Moore, Jessica Emily McKeown, Kailee Don McKeown, Montana Rain Bishop, Dakota Dawn Bishop, Katlen Gail Bishop; sisters, Brenda & Jerry Conway of Keota, OK, Mona & Hershel Woodside of Spiro, OK, Mary & Randy Collins of Bokoshe, OK; brothers, Tim Whitecotton of McAlester, OK, James Clay Whitecotton of Bokoshe, OK, David Whitecotton of Joplin, MO, Randy Rue & Mary Whitecotton of Bokoshe, OK; numerous nieces & nephews; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 10 am, Saturday, July 17, 2010 at Greenhill Cemetery Pavilion in Cameron, OK with Rev. Jack Covey officiating. Interment following in Greenhill Cemetery, Cameron, OK. Pallbearers will be Gary Satterfield, Johnny Satterfield, Alvin Satterfield, Mike Pipkins, Hershel Woodside, Randy Whitecotton, & Vince O'Connell. The family will be at the funeral home in Pocola on Friday evening from 6-8 pm to visit with friends and relatives.

Tommy Carl Breshears

Tommy Carl Breshears, 61, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, July 12, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Tommy was born June 4, 1949 ub Haskell, OK. He was a truck driver; a veteran of the US Marine Corps serving in Vietnam. He was preceded in death by brother, Michael Breshears & his parents. Survivors include his daughters, Jennifer Breshears of Neola, UT, Amanda & Duane Patchen of Johnstown, OH; brothers, Delain & wife Mandy Breshears of Piedmont, OK, Steven & Misty Breshears of Eufaula, OK; 3 sisters, Kay Davis of Anthem, AZ, Kellie & Jack Lane of Checotah, OK, Sallie Walts of Oklahoma City, OK; best friend, Buck, his horse; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Friday, July 16, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Pallbearers will be Delain Breshears, Mark Breshears, Tom Lannigan, Robert Rector, Bud Breshears, & Ray Scroggins.

Zella Mae Keifer

Zella Mae Keifer, 87, of Wister, OK passed away Monday, July 12, 2010 in Wister. Zella was born in Cameron, OK on September 21, 1922 to Marion Lon & Nora (Shipman) Hilburn. She was a seamstress. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carlton Keifer; her parents; & brothers, Clarence Hilburn & Jess Hilburn. Survivors include her daughters, Shirley Ann Valdivia of Sallisaw, OK, Teresa Carllene Boyer of Wilburton, OK; grandchildren, Lonnie Childers of Poteau, OK, Elecca Maxwell of Sallisaw, OK, Michael Lockaby of Ripley, MS, Sonya Cole of Roland, OK, Timothy Karl of Poteau, OK; great grandchildren, Ashley Lockaby, Jeremiah Lockaby, Katie Lockaby, Brookelan Ables, Zeth Grindle, Ransom May, Addison Cole, & Cadence Cole; sisters, Louise Dolph of Wister, OK, Alice Oldham of Chandler, OK; dear friend, Audra Roe of Wister, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Thursday, July 15, 2010 at Oakland Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Clyde Steelman officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau.

Bud H. Doussett

Bud H. Doussett, 85, of Bokoshe, OK passed away Monday, July 12, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. Bud was born May 11, 1925 in Noble, OK to Clyde & Maude (Humbred) Doussett. He was a veteran of the US Army serving in WWII. He was a member of IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers). He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Gladys Doussett of the home; daughter, Teresa Doussett of Concord, CA; son, Richard Doussett of Vashon Island, WA; 4 grandchildren; sisters, Jean Walker of Grants Pass, OR, Janice Lawson of Yucaipa, CA, Ruth Seccombe of Big Ford, Montana, Margie Crum of Grants Pass, OR, Mae Sparks of Peyson, AZ; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Saturday, July 17, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow at 3 pm in Fairview Cemetery, Maguire, OK (Noble, OK)

Lucille Loveon Dickson Osborn

Lucille Loveon Dickson Osborn, 68, of Ft. Smith, AR (formerly of Poteau, OK) passed away Monday, July 12, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. Lucille was born May 21, 1942 in Brinkley, AR to James Franklin & Eunice (Halpain) Dickson, who preceded her in death. Lucille was a nurse. Survivors include 2 daughters, Carmalisa Leader & husband, Jason of Tahlequah, OK, Regenia Hilton & husband, Zack of Ft. Smith, AR; 1 son, James Ollie Banda & wife, Libby of Poteau, OK; 9 grandchildren, Justin Leader, Chloe Banda, Cody Leader, Forrest Banda, Lake Banda, Tristan Leader, Joey Hilton, Hannah Hilton, Hailey Leader; 2 brothers, Paul Dickson of Poteau, OK, Donald Dickson of Shady Point, OK; sister, Dorothy Helton of Foyil, OK; Beloved Dog, Tico; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Memorial Services will be held 10 am, Friday, July 16, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories - Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will be at Mt. View/Glendale Cemetery, Wister, OK. Visitation will be Monday evening July 12 from 6-8 pm. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Humane Society.

Jasper "Buck" Edward Williams

Jasper "Buck" Edward Williams, 76, of Wister, OK went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 10, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Jasper was born June `10, 1934 in Cheyenne, OK to Noa & Lola Bell (Doster) Williams. He is reunited with his parents, 2 brothers & 1 sister. He was known as "Grandpa" to his grandchildren. He is loved and will be daerly missed by all who knew him. Jasper was a house mover. Survivors include his loving wife of 56 years, Ollie of the home; 4 daughters & their husbands, Rutha Joy & Allen Jones of Bakersfield, CA, Peggy Sue & Steve Ross of Bakersfield, CA, Stephony Morse of Wister, OK, Andora & Jackie Hooser of Lamont, CA; 4 sons & their wives, Clifton & Estey Williams, Joseph & Patty Williams, Jasper Jr. & Sky Williams, all of Wister, OK, Richard & Linda Baker of Hontubbi, OK; 16 Grandchildren; 27 Great Grandchildren; 6 Great Great Grandchildren; 3 sisters, Ethel Turner of Bakersfield, CA, Minnie Bell Edwards of Freemont, NE, Mary Coles of Apple Valley, CA; 1 brother, Clyde Williams of Perryville, AR; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. There will be viewing at the funeral home on Monday and Tuesday, July 12 and 13. The family will have a private service at a later date.

Donald L. West

Donald L. West, 75, of Stapp, OK passed away Saturday, July 10, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Donald was born in Spiro, OK on May 23, 1935 to Sundrae (Dink) & Christeen (Permenter) West. He was an avid hunter & fisherman. He loved playing music. Donald worked in auto body repair and he was a veteran of the US Army. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gerald Wayne Fox & Burness Lee Fox; and sister, Jimmie Lou Holly. Survivors include his daughter, Bridget Evans of Stapp, OK, son, Donald West Jr. of Poteau, OK, grandchildren, Donald West III of Talihina, OK, Laura Suggs of Van Buren, AR, April Richie, Melanie Underwood, & Jason West all of Heavener, OK; 14 Great Grandchildren; brother, R.B. West & Sisters, Connie, Ladonna, & Carolyn; former wife, Patsy West; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Wednesday, July 14, 2010 graveside at Zoe Cemetery, Zoe, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Zoe Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Donald West III, Shannon Suggs, Carl West, & Jason West.

Lola Dean Kimbrell

Lola Dean Kimbrell, 59, of Howe, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, July 7, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Lola was born on March 13, 1951 to Orbra & Alta (Jarvis) Kimbrell. She was a homemaker. Lola’s parents & 2 brothers Jimmy Kimbrell & Johnny Kimbrell preceded her in death. Lola is survived by her brother, Gary Kimbrell of Manor, Texas; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Graveside services for Lola were held at 10:00 am, Saturday, July 10, 2010 at Ellis Chapel Cemetery in Wister, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Ellis Chapel Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Mary Jo Henson

Mary Jo Henson, 88, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, July 9, 2010 in Poteau. Mary Jo was born in Poteau on January 4, 1922 to Joseph Edwin & Helen Keller Connelly. Mary Jo was a long standing member of the First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK & she taught Sunday School for many years. Mary Jo taught school for 38 years; 24 years in Muskogee County and 14 in LeFlore County. She was very respected and admired teacher and was presented the Foundation of Excellence Teacher of the Year Award. She was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, and aunt. She served as a caregiver for many years for her loved ones who preceded her in death. Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Edwin Connelly & Helen Keller (Newman) Connelly Chaffin; her husband, A.J. Henson; stepfather, Perry Chaffin; siblings, Betty, Patricia, & Harrell Connelly, Patsy Branscum, Margaret (Puddin’) Campbell. She will be greatly missed. Survivors include her brother, James (Jake) & wife Reba Connelly of Fayetteville, AR; many loving nieces & nephews; great nieces & great nephews; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 3 pm, Sunday, July 11, 2010 at First Baptist Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Phil McGehee officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Campbell Riggs, John Henson, Brian Henson, Kyle Allison, Jim Connelly, & Clint Blackwood, Joe White, Scotty White,. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Bratton, Scotty Bratton, Haskell “Duke” Dunn, Waylon Groom, Dr. Bert Corr, and Doug Binns, Harrell Bright, & Joe John Harrison.

Hazel Belle Dechow

Hazel Belle Dechow, 97, of Poteau, OK passed away Thursday, July 8, 2010 in Tulsa, OK. Hazel was born December 12, 1912 in Letcher, South Dakota to Frederick & Myrtle (Green) Schley. She was a retired cook at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD. Hazel was preceded in death by her husband, Ruford Dechow; son, Donald Dechow Sr; grandson, Timothy Dechow; son in law, Joe Roberts; 8 sisters & 1 brother; & her parents. Survivors include her daughters, Shirley Hahn & husband Maynard of Howard, SD, Nancy Roberts of New Castle, IN; daughter in law, Joy Dechow of Poteau, OK; 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 9 great great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 1 pm, Monday, July 12, 2010 in Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Eddy Morton officiating. Vocalist will be April Chronister. Interment will follow in Roselawn Cemetery, Fort Smith, AR. Pallbearers will be Donald Dechow Jr., Raymond Hahn, Jerry Chronister, & Duke Rawls. Honorary pallbearers will be Paul Coffey, Darrin Fox & Chad Dechow. The family will be at the funeral home from 5-7 Sunday to visit with relatives & friends.

Wayne Ballew

Wayne Ballew, 84, of Wister, OK passed away Saturday, July 3, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Wayne was born on September 22, 1925 in Caddo, OK to Ray & Bonnie (Howard) Ballew. Wayne was a member of First Baptist Church of Wister for 60 years. He was a veteran of World War II & taught school for 38 ½ years in Wister, OK where he retired as school superintendent. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne Ballew on June 27, 2009 & his parents. Survivors include his sons & daughter in law, Gary Ballew of Ft. Smith, AR, Kendall & Sherry Ballew of Poteau, OK; granddaughter, Brianne Ballew of Midwest City, OK; sisters, Valdean McMichael of Caddo, OK, Oleen Phipps of Caddo, OK; brother, Roy Ballew of Ft. Worth, TX; sister in law, Louise Hornbuckle of Wister, OK; brothers in law, Bob Free of Poteau, OK; Tommy “Buddy” Free of Torrance, CA; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at First Baptist Church, Wister, OK with Rev. Keith Stewart & Rev. Don Taylor officiating. Interment following in Ellis Chapel Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers: Larry Free, Jared DeWitt, Wayne Woodall, Jesse Akins, Sam Walden, Steve Walden. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Rose Mary Carlton

Rose Mary Carlton, 60, of Panama, OK passed away Thursday, July 1, 2010 in Panama, OK. Rose Mary was born November 22, 1949 in Oklahoma City, OK to Forest H. & Mary L. (Conner) Carlton. She was a nurses aide. She was preceded in death by her parents, & husband, Cleve May. Survivors include one son, George H. Blankenship of Ada, OK; sister, Shirley & Randy Anderegg of Tulsa, OK; nieces, Stefanie Butts of Tulsa, OK, Theresa Tinker of Pocahontas, IL; nephew, David Anderegg of Tulsa, OK; special friends, Jerry & Bernice Ammons of Panama, OK; numerous friends and extended family. Services will be held 2 pm, Tuesday, July 6, 2010 with Rev. Tim Painter officiating. Interment will follow in New Hope Cemetery, Spiro, OK. Pallbearers will be Johnny Martin, R.D. Wagley, Tex Williamson, James Martin, Wayne Smith, Mark Walls. Honorary pallbearer will be Ron Eatmon Sr.