Wednesday, March 30, 2022

Ivy Nicole Miles-Armstrong

Memorial Service for Ivy Nicole Miles-Armstrong, 21 of Panama, Oklahoma will be at 2pm on Sunday, April 3, 2022 at Evans & Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Christopher Sumpter  officiating. Services under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home in Poteau, Oklahoma.

Ivy was born on April 13, 2000 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Crystal (Thornley) Sumpter and Jeremy Miles and passed away on March 26, 2022 in Big Cedar, Oklahoma.  She was married to Jeffrey Armstrong on June 9, 2021 in Poteau, Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her infant son Jude Christopher Armstrong; grandma Mary Thornley; great grand parents "Sonny" and Odean Nichols, and Russell and Elvira Thornley; aunt Kim Jenkins; Ivy is the most wonderful mother, a blessing of a wife, a daughter like no other. She has such a passion for nature and everything in it. Ivy is very artistic, there was nothing she couldn't create. She saw life and beauty in everything from here to the stars. She never stopped fighting for what she believes in and she always had kindness in her heart no matter what she faced. There are no words to describe the way you are loved on this earth.   

Survivors include: her husband Jeffrey Dewayne Armstrong JR.; sons Elijah Lee Armstrong, Jeffrey Dewayne Armstrong III; sisters Kylee Miles and Ben Martin, Emmrie Sumpter, Hadly Thornley; sister in-laws Destiny Bays; brother Jeremy Lee Thornley; brother in-laws Nicholas and Bobby Armstrong; parents Crystal and Christopher Sumpter; in-laws Kerri Daggs and Jeff Armstrong; grandparents Michael Thornley, Rocky and Amy Sumpter, Nana Shug, Gma Kristi; aunts Tasha Cooper, Autumn Alzate, Sarah Miles; uncle DeCoty Cooper; our Mrs. Nova, along with a host of family and friends.

Pallbearers will be Jeremy Thornley, Kylee Miles, Ben Martin, Hadly Thornley, Michael Thornley, Emmrie Sumpter, Rocky Sumpter, Crystal Sumpter, Kirk Skinner, 3D.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Christopher Sumpter, Elijah Armstrong, Jeffrey Armstrong III, Tasha Cooper.

 

Tuesday, March 29, 2022

Marvin Leon DeSpain

Memorial Service for Marvin Leon DeSpain,  of Claremore, Oklahoma will be at 3pm on Thursday, March 31, 2022 at Evans Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Phil McGehee, Jim Cook, Brad DeSpain,  officiating. Private Burial at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma will be held at a later date under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.

Marvin Leon DeSpain was born on June 14, 1938 to William Roy and Zela Mae (Blaylock) the youngest of seven children. He graduated from high school in Hinton, OK. He was in the army reserve and complete his six months of service before starting college. He graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma University in Weatherford, Ok with a BA in Education.

He married Janet Kay McSparrin on December 4, 1960. They had two children, Kelley Dawn and Bradley Scott.

Marvin was in the education field for 10 years. The first 5 years he was a math teacher, coach and principal. The last 5 years he was superintendent of schools.

In 1972 they moved to Poteau and he opened a tire store, Tire City. Later he increased his business to include mini storages, rental properties, bottled and vending water businesses as well as a blueberry farm.

Marvin was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Poteau for many years. Due to ill health, they moved to Claremore to be close to Brad and his family.

Marvin proudly served as a firefighter for the Poteau Fire Dept. for 25 years. He enjoyed the close relationship he had with other firefighters and the opportunity to serve his community.  

Marvin is survived by his wife Janet, son Brad and wife Meredith, grandsons Kyle Kinman and wife Tiffany, Wesley, Bailey, Bradey and Andy DeSpain, granddaughters Chloe and Abbey DeSpain, sisters-in-law Glenda DeSpain, Sue DeSpain, Judy Woodard and husband Woody, Former son-in-law Larry Kinman and wife Christy. As well as many nieces, nephews and other loved ones including his long-time friend Wayne Winn and wife Alice and special friends Bill and Mike Woodruff.

He was preceded in death by daughter Kelley, his parents, brothers William Coleman, Melvin and Donnie, sisters Wanda, Gerry and Imogene.

Mary Kay Ritter

Graveside Service for Mary Kay Ritter, will be at 2pm on Friday, April 1, 2022 at Whitesboro Cemetery in  Whitesboro, Oklahoma with Jim Cook  officiating. Services under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home in Poteau, Oklahoma.

Mary Kay Ritter was born June 14, 1946 in Dallas, Tx to Delbert James and Joy Earnestine Wells.
She worked many years at Taylor Publishing Co. where she met the love of her life William (Billy) Nathaniel Ritter. Billy and Mary wed in 1965 and were married for 38 years until he passed in 2003. They relocated to the Poteau area in the early 70’s where she started working for The Poteau Elementary School as the head cook until she retired in 2011. She saw thousands of children pass through her line every day. She made lifelong friends while she worked there.

She was preceded in death by her Husband William Nathaniel Ritter, her son Elliott Cleo Ritter, her parents Delbert and Joy Wells; her brother James Gaylon Wells; brothers in-law, Ozell Ritter, Lonnie Ritter, Dale Ritter, Virgil Flanary and sister in-law Jo Dell Ritter.

She is survived by two daughters Natalie O’Bannion and Paul Sichenzia of Majove, CA, Tonya and her husband Rob Byford of Poteau, OK., grandchildren Declan and Heather Byford, Kolbyn and wife Emily O’Bannion of Cabot, AR, Bryttian O’Bannion of North Little Rock, Ar, Kodee and wife Deanna LeMaster of Wichita Falls, TX., Kaigan LeMaster of Columbus, MS.; great grandchildren Annabella, Clide and Elosie O’Bannion, Martin and Daisa Owens of Cabot, Malaki Stewart, Maddox O’Bannion and Tiana Patterson of North Little Rock, Liam LeMaster of Wichita Falls, TX. Gabriel and Ezra Marriaga of Columbus, MS.; three sisters in law Mary Gayle Flanary of Mansfield, TX., Loretta Morris of Whitesboro, OK., and Betty Sapp of Fort Smith, AR.

Pall Bearers will be Rob Byford, Declan Byford, Greg Duncan, John Duncan, Kevin Ritter, Scott Markward.

Viewing will be Thursday 6-8pm.


Rosemary Blaylock

Funeral Service for Rosemary Blaylock, 67 of Pocola, Oklahoma will be at 2 pm on Saturday, April 2, 2022 at Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Pastor Jerry Blaylock, and Pastor Elmer Bowden officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Spiro, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

She was born on March 7, 1955 in Spiro, Oklahoma to Della May (Napier) and Bill Cornell and passed away on March 27, 2022 in Pocola, Oklahoma.  She was preceded in death by her sister Jane, brothers Henry Cornell, James Cornell, and Johnny Cornell; parents Bill Cornell & Della May Napier; grandparents, Tina Tincher, Diane Cornell; She enjoyed crocheting while drinking coffee, relaxing outside with the blue birds,  listening to  Patsy Cline and The Judds, and spending time with family especially her great grandchildren.

Survivors include: her daughters Mary Mize, Angela Huffman, Mendy Blaylock; sons Darrill and Michelle Mize, Wendell Mize, Timothy Blaylock; sisters Lillian Reed, Betty Sapp, Bernice Dart; sisters in-law Lakresa Cornell, Artie Cornell; brothers Dale Cornell and Joe Cornell; grandchildren Christopher Mize, Anthony Mize, Crashawna Aggers, Seth Marmon, Darrill Irby, Kittake Rexius, Chasity Herrington, Makayla Huffman, Tyler Huffman,Christina Valdez, Tony Valdez, Zevin George, Annabelle Mize; 17 great grandchildren and 1 on the way; numerous nieces, nephews and other loved ones.  

Pallbearers will be Darrill Mize, Wendell Mize, Tyler Huffman, Anthony Valdez, Timothy Blaylock,
Zevin George, Chasity Herrington, Makayla Huffman.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Bobby Mize, William Blaylock, Seth Marmon.

Visitation will be Friday 6-8 pm.

Monday, March 28, 2022

William Jeff Asbury

 

Jeff was born October 9, 1949 to Norma and Bill Asbury in Merced Ca. He was called to his heavenly home on February 21, 2022 in LeFlore,Ok.
Jeff attended local elementary schools and graduated from LeGrand High School and attended Merced College. Jeff proudly joined the Marine Corp and served during the Vietnam war. Throughout his lifetime he carried that Marine pride and was forever quick to help fellow veterans.
After his service he returned home to become a very proficient cement finisher and truck driver for C&R Transit and later Cressey Sand and Gravel. Soon after he became a third generation “Beekeeper” in LeGrand. Jeff created a lifetime of friendships that included a network of fellow beekeepers from many different states and in Jeff’s big-hearted style, he helped several fledgling beekeepers start up as well.
Jeff was always up for the next great hunting or fishing adventure. These always ended competitively and the stories got bigger every year.
Jeff moved his family to Oklahoma and for the past 16 years he has continued to expand his circle of friendships and his passion for hunting, fishing, gardening, and growing a bee business.
Family was Jeff’s greatest love, he adored his grandchildren and always had a story to share about them. He will be long remembered as a mentor to Tyler Ferguson, one of the first “Ranch Hands” he hired in Oklahoma.
Jeff is preceded by parents Norma Jean Davison Asbury and William “Bill” Jefferson Asbury and a sister Jannell Cook.
He will be forever missed by the love of his life, his wife, Ina Asbury of LeFlore Oklahoma. His daughter and biggest fan, Dodie Asbury-Owens (William). Grandchildren Hadassah, Roxanna, Atreyu, Tigerlily, Azarah, and a soon to be born grandson. Stepsons Allen Cloud (Shelley) of Oklahoma City, Greg Cloud of LeFlore, their children and grandchildren. California siblings, Sally Baxter (David), Shireen Slate (Larry) of LeGrand, Desiree Grossman (Dave) of Fresno, Wes Asbury (Lisa) of Merced and his brother-in-law Bobby Cook of LeGrand. As well as a host of nieces and nephews that will smile every time they think of their big-hearted Uncle Jeff.
A celebration of life for Jeff will be held at 2pm April 3, 2022. At 39591 LeFlore Rd, LeFlore, Oklahoma. Contact Evans & Miller Funeral Home in Poteau, Oklahoma for information.

Friday, March 25, 2022

Ronald Shelton

 

Memorial Service for Ronald Shelton, 87 of Shady Point, Oklahoma will be at 10 am on Saturday, April 2, 2022 at Evans and Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Jim Cook officiating. Services under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

Ronald was born on March 2, 1935 in Shady Point to Lula (Winters) Shelton and Noah Shelton and passed away on March 24, 2022 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  He was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother, Ilene Shelton; three sisters, Rosalee Sloan, Doris Marie Shelton, and Marvaline Duck; five brothers, L.B. Shelton, Mitt Shelton, Donald Shelton, Jay P. Shelton, and Jackie Dale Shelton.

Survivors include: his wife Doris Shelton; daughters, Diana Berry, Brenda Shelton, Rhonda Wigg and husband Ken, Dina Covey and husband David; son, Randy Shelton and wife Donna.  11 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, 6 great great grandchildren, numerous nephews, nieces, other relatives and loved ones.



Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Elnora Mae Vineyard

Elnora Mae Vineyard age 85, of Panama, OK went to be with Jesus on March 21, 2022. Elnora was born to Fred and Hazel Lewis in Carr City, OK on November 2, 1936. On July 23, 1954, she married the love of her life Roy Lee Vineyard in Panama, OK. She actively attended church at the Panama First Assembly of God until her health began to decline. She served the Lord with gladness by preparing meals and baking pies for friends and loved ones. Elnora was retired from Panama Public Schools as a cook/supervisor where she was employed for 28 years. She enjoyed serving in the lunch line and visiting with the students. On Saturday nights she could be found watching RFD-TV and listening to Gaither Homecoming with her best friend and husband, Roy. While Elnora enjoyed crappie fishing, shopping, and playing chicken foot with the family, she especially loved watching birds and working in her flower garden.

Elnora is survived by her husband, Roy, of the home; three sons, Freddy and wife Lynette of Lebanon, OR; Steven and wife Nelda of Lake Fork, TX; Kenny and wife Debbie of Panama, OK; one daughter Monica and husband Jeff Suter of Burlington, KS; five grandchildren; Amanda Vineyard, Canton TX; Adam and wife Jenna, Canton TX; Leon and wife Katie, Sweet Home, OR; Kayla and fiancé Josh Mode, Howe, OK; Peyton and husband Parker Wedel, Kechi, KS; Lauren Suter, Burlington, KS; six great grandchildren; Kendall, Truett, Vince, Lexi, and Jaxon.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, March 25, 2022, at Evans Funeral Home in Poteau, OK with burial at Fairview Cemetery in Panama, OK. Elnora requested in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Poteau Valley Humane Society.

 

Friday, March 18, 2022

Ronald "Poppy" Bacon

Funeral Service for Ronald "Poppy" Bacon, 67 of Wister, Oklahoma will be at 2 pm on Tuesday, March 22, 2022 at Ellis Chapel Church in Wister, Oklahoma with Raymond Johnson officiating. Services are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

Ronald was born on October 10, 1954 in Talihina, Oklahoma to Norma (Fisher) Bacon and Everett Bacon and passed away on March 17, 2022 in Wister, Oklahoma.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Christine Bacon; sons, Farron Belone, Mark Glenn; brother, Robert Bacon.

Poppy loved to fish, hunt, watch chiefs football. Everyone knew him as a knife sharpener. He enjoyed singing, playing the harmonica with his son, singing karaoke by himself, and was a bass singer in a quartet. He loved his grandbabies, gathering strawberries, and traveling, He retired from OEH with choctaw nation.

Survivors include: his sons, Allen Bacon & Angie Lynne, David Bacon & Cassandra, Vladamiur Belone; daughter, Shelly Morgan & Cliff; sister, Rebecca Sexton; grandchildren,Dakota Bacon, Joseph Bacon, Shaelena Bacon and Noe Alvarado, Kaydance Bacon, Talina Bacon, Jessica Terry, Kaylee Kerlin, Emma Terry, Windy Bacon, Clayton Morgan, Craig Morgan, Shaylee Morgan, Norman Glenn, Ethan Glenn; Numerous great grandchildren, other relatives , loved ones and many friends.

Pallbearers will be Hoyt Bacon, Darrel Bacon, Robbie Bacon, Jimmy Newby, Bobby Torez, and Bud Morgan.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Eric Rainwater, Joseph Bacon, Kyle Bacon, Ethan Bacon, Clayton Morgan, and Craig Morgan

 

Bill Whiteaker


Bill Whiteaker of Panama, Oklahoma joined Jesus on March 16, 2022.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years Jackie Whiteaker; son Billie; brothers, Carl, David, Clinton, Bob, and sister Melba.

Bill is survived by son Gary Whiteaker and wife Georgia of Enid, Oklahoma; daughter Carol Harrison and husband Jim of Houston, Texas; Susie Bevil of Panama, Oklahoma; Steve Whiteaker of Ozark, Arkansas; and John and wife Kim of Panama, Oklahoma.

Grandchildren: Joey and Macy Whiteaker, Shae and Mike Wilson, Lori Reichardt, Justin Phillips, Ashley Bevil, Andrew and Kagen Bevil, Wylie and Nicole Whiteaker, Luke Whiteaker and Kathleen Moix, Max Whiteaker, Ben and Joanna Whiteaker, Sierra and Isaac Burris, Gabrielle Whiteaker, Maci Whiteaker.

Great Grandchildren: Jaggar and Jett Phillips, Drew, Jaden and McKenzie Bevil, Aubrey, Jack, and Benjamin Wilson, Tyler and Juliet Reichardt, Olive Whiteaker, Hunter Whiteaker, and Bradi Burris.

After retirement Pop and Granny enjoyed hunting for antiques and any other good bargains, cutting whetstones and geodes, and working in the garden.They loved going on adventures in Canton, Hot Springs, Mount Ida, and Huntsville. Pop enjoyed working in "The Shop" but mostly spending his days with Granny.  

Services will be held at 2pm, Monday, March 21, 2022 at Southside Baptist Church with  Ben Whiteaker officiating. Interment will follow a Fairview cemetery in Panama, OK.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 2pm - 4pm at the funeral home.

Buddy Terry Jr. "Bo"

Graveside Service for Buddy Terry Jr. "Bo", 58 of Wister, Oklahoma will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at Ellis Chapel Cemetery in Wister, Oklahoma with Sam Dyer officiating. Services are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.

He was born on March 16, 1963 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Linda Sue (Johnson) and Buddy Leon Terry, Sr. and passed away on March 12, 2022 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  He was married to Marcie Terry on January 23, 1987 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, Buddy Terry Sr. and Linda Fite, grandparents; Claude and Grace Terry, Otto and Mae Johnson; niece, Kasandra Thurman.

Survivors include: his wife, Marcella Terry; daughter, Christy Anderson and Husband Chris; Son, Joseph Terry and Wife Leslie; Bonus Mom, Patsy Lyons, Sisters, Amanda Terry; Brothers, Jimbo Crenshaw and wife Kristen, Bobby Terry and wife April, Jamie Terry;  "Special Mother", Marilyn Pledger; grandchildren, Summer Mae Terry-Lawson, Karlynn Raine Anderson, Kirsten Dawn Anderson; nephews and nieces, Mason, Micah and Morgan Crenshaw, Emily Terry, Sarai Roop, Abby Hancock, Kimberly Brown, Lacie Ann Terry, Kyley and Ashlyn Fowler, Talen and Weston Terry, Logan and Aryan Mathis; great nephews and nieces, Maddisyn Roop, and Cassius Brown; numerous other relatives and loved ones.

Pallbearers include Jesse Ingle, Hank Ingle, Dustin Morrison, and Bubba Morrison.

Honorary Pallbearers include Jamie Lloyd and Eugene Box



You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com.
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.


Wednesday, March 16, 2022

Reverend Billy Gene Covey "Jack"

Funeral services for Reverend Billy Gene Covey (Jack), 91 (formerly of Wister, Ok) will be at 10 AM on Friday, March 18, 2022 at Evans & Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma  with Jim Cook, and Eddie Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at Restland Cemetery in Boswell, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home. He passed away Sat, March 12th 2022 in OKC, Ok.

Jack was born Feb 18, 1931 in Wister, Ok to William David (Bill) & Inez Gertrude (Call) Covey. He drove cross country trucking before joining the US Navy during the Korean War. He returned home to work at Tinker Airforce Base. He became an Ordained Assembly of God minister in 1960. When retiring from full time ministry, he became a Funeral Director Assistant for Evans & Miller.
He married the love of his life Francis Jane Knight in 1954. To their union three daughters.

He is proceeded in death by his parents; wife Frances Jane Covey; Sisters Flora Covey Nichols, Christina Covey Adams, Ellen Covey Whitmore; Brother, Ed (Sonny) Covey; Grandson, Terry Dean “Bud” Osborn, JR.; and sons in law, Mark Holdge and Greg Morris.

Survivors include: children Deborah Lawson & Steven, Billie Jane Osborn & Terry, Annie Covey Holdge; grandchildren, Terrisha Jane Osborn, Billy Ray Bradford, Michael Whimore, Kyler Blake Branin, Brett Taliaferro, Maea Teuhema & Sione Teuhema; 7 great grandchildren; sister EulaMae Covey Nelson; A host of loved nieces & nephews; other realities, loved ones and many friends.

Viewing will be Thursday from 6-8 p.m.

You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK
 

Karen Nobles

Memorial Service for Karen Nobles, 54 of Poteau, Oklahoma will be at 2PM on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at Evans & Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Jim Cook officiating. Service under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

Karen was born on July 19, 1967 in Alamogordo, NM to Ruth (Godsby) May and Jerry Don May and passed away on March 15, 2022 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth May.

Survivors are: spouse Brad Johnson; daughter, Niki Hope; sons, Jerrett Goforth, and Derick Taylor; sister, Teresa Baxter; brother, Brandon May; father, Jerry May; grandchildren, Wyatt Gene Butler, Kayson Goforth, Conner Goforth. And a host of friends and family.


You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK
 

Saturday, March 12, 2022

Roy Donald Carmack, Sr.

 


Graveside Service for Roy Donald Carmack Sr., 93 of Poteau, Oklahoma will be at 10:00 AM on Monday, March 14, 2022 at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma with Reverend Jim Cook, officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

He was born on August 14, 1928 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Bertha (McClure) Carmack  and Rube Carmack and passed away the way he wanted, at home in his sleep on March 12, 2022 in Poteau, Oklahoma. Roy was preceded in death by the love of his life Nona Carmack and a son Roy "Butch" Carmack Jr. Roy was a veteran of 3 wars and was a recipient of the Medal of Valor. He was a Electrician and a avid golfer, but most relished title was dad and "Gpa". The simplest pleasures in life gave him great joy. Roy loved it when any of the kids came over or when his favorite granddog, Peanut ran in the house straight in his lap. Many thanks to the staff of Mays and Heart of Hospice.

Survivors are: his daughters, Carol Drum and husband Vaughn, Susan Group and husband Mike; grandchildren Shay Riley, Adam Carmack, Alesha Gouker, Shawn Tautfest, and Casey Carmack; great grandchildren, Brandon Forrest, Nathan Riley, and Braxton Gouker.

Viewing will be Sunday 12pm - 8pm, the family will greet friends from 4pm - 6pm Sunday at the funeral home. 

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Bill Ray Wilson

Bill Ray Wilson, age 68, died at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith on March 7, 2022. Bill was born November 3, 1953 at Sparks Hospital in Fort Smith, AR to Morris Rex and Mildred Wilson, who preceded him in death. The Wilson family resided in Pocola and Arkoma, Ok. Older brother Wayne R. Wilson, of Searcy, AR survives him.

Bill was graduated from Spiro High School in 1972. He attended WestArk Community College. He worked as a welder at Whirlpool in Fort Smith, AR. until the plant closed. Prior to that he worked at Southwest Rebuilder.

Bill enjoyed flying remote control airplanes, racing remote control cars, shooting pistols and rifles, and watching Razorback sports. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Fort Smith.

A Chapel memorial service will be held March 11, 2022 at 1pm. Interment will be at Oakland Cemetery in Pocola, Ok.


 

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Thomas Wayne Real

Graveside Service for Thomas Wayne Real, 32 of Bokoshe, Oklahoma will be at 2 pm on Thursday, March 10, 2022 at Old Bokoshe Pavilion in Bokoshe, Oklahoma with Nick Hess officiating. Services under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.

Thomas was born on November 20, 1989 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Bessie Lee Tanksley (Real) and John Fuller and passed away on March 3, 2022 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Thomas grew up in Bokoshe, Ok surrounded by a slew of friends and family. He graduated from home and began work as a mechanic, which was also a past time of his. He loved to fish and work on motors. Even when he caught them on fire. Thomas's world revolved around his only son, Kolby Real.  He will be missed by many.

Survivors are: his mother, Bessie Tanksley and husband Jeff; father, John Fuller and bonus mom April; son Kolby Real; brother, James Tanksley and wife Taylor; sister Hayley Miller; grandmother, Maggie Fuller; grandfather, Jim Tanksley, and numerous other relatives, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Pallbearers will be James Tanksley, William Real, Jessy Tanksley, Corey Yandell, Daniel Wheatley, Eric Sowell.

Honorary Pallbearers will be  Randy Smith, and Daniel Pollard.
 

Visitation will be Wednesday 6-8pm.

Josephine Anita Brown

 

Graveside service for Josephine Anita Brown, 92 of Panama will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 12 at Old Bokoshe Memorial Gardens on Indiana Ave in Bokoshe, OK.

Pallbearers will be David Brown, Jeffrey Brown, Michael Brown, Don Baxter, Jackie Harris, and Charles Henderson.

Josephine was born January 2, 1930, to John and Mary Peerson. She passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2022 in Poteau, OK. She was married to R.C. Brown on April 20, 1949. They had two sons together, David and Robert.

She was preceded in death by her husband R.C. Brown, son Robert Brown, father John Peerson, mother Mary Peerson, brothers James, Claude, Orville, Boyd Ray, Floyd Ray, Donald, and Travis, and sisters Bessie and Mary Lou.

Survivors include her brother Jimmie Jr., son David Brown, grandchild Jeffrey Brown and wife Charisse with great grandchildren Liam and Alex, grandchild Michael Brown and wife Kady with great grandchild Keira.

Josephine was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her faith in God was paramount in her life, as she was a devoted attendee of Baptist churches. Her son, David Brown, attended California Baptist University in Riverside, CA. She was an avid reader and was also passionate about staying up to date on current news & events. Her sharp mind, wit, and perspectives impressed countless friends and family members. She became a talented quilter, known for gifting terrific handmade quilts to her family members for holidays and birthdays. Above all, she was a well-respected woman of high integrity and morals.

The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans and Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Monday, March 7, 2022

Judy Alice Moses


 Funeral Service for Judy Alice Moses, 71 of Pocola, Oklahoma will be at 10:00am on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Pocola, Oklahoma with Reverend Darryl Pearcy officiating. Burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery in Pocola, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home.

Judy was born on July 10, 1950 in Alma, Arkansas to Margaret Marie (Akins) Nordin and Seldon Willard Nordin and passed away on March 3, 2022 in Pocola, Oklahoma.  She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Wendy Brown, and son, Mike Huff.

Survivors are: Husband of 48 years, James Moses; son, Kevin Moses and wife Glenda; Grandchildren, Zachary Moses, Tiffany Moses, Dustin Brown, Justin Moses, many great grandchildren,other relatives and loved ones.

Pallbearers will be Ronnie Seymour, Wayne Moses, Zachary Moses, Riffany Moses, Tommy Moses, and Dale Nordin.
 
Viewing and Visitation  Tuesday, March 8, 2022 from 12:00pm - 8:00pm with the family greeting friends from 6pm - 8pm at the funeral home in Pcoola, Oklahoma.


You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Darlene Thomas

Memorial Service for Darlene Thomas, 73 of Poteau, Oklahoma will be at 2PM on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at Oakland Pavilion in Poteau, Oklahoma with Bruce Knoch officiating. Burial will follow at  in  under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

Darlene was born on December 11, 1948 in Chandler, Oklahoma to Linda Lucille(Helm) and Preston Knoch and passed away on March 1, 2022 in Poteau, Oklahoma.  She was married to Jerald Thomas  on March 17, 2008. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Survivors are: her husband Chris Thomas; stepson, Christopher Thomas, stepdaughters, Deidre Thomas, Andrea Ryan and husband Jeff, brothers, Bruce Knoch, Garland Knoch and wife Linda, grandchildren, Jacie and Spencer Perry, Jeffrey and Jude Ryan, Jacob Woodward. Darlene loved her family and enjoyed time spent with them. She was always up for another adventure and ready to move when the job called for it. She was a member of the Elk's lodge, and enjoyed playing golf, even if she wasn't that good at it, just like Chris.


You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.
 

Friday, March 4, 2022

Ronald Lee “RD” Dameron

Memorial Service for Ronald Lee “RD” Dameron will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at Evan’s Chapel of Memories in Poteau.

RD passed from this life on March 4, 2022 at age 73 and stepped over the threshold into his
new life with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

RD is survived by his wife Anna Dameron, daughter Jodie Fox of Poteau, son Justin Dameron
of Pocola, grandaughter Whitney Hopkins of Heavener, his brothers James Dameron of Poteau,
and Bob and Jan Dameron of Hugo, and sister Diane and Robert Wilson of Ashdown Arkansas.
RD was preceded in death by his parents Wesley and Bessie Dameron of Poteau, and sister
Wanda Clift of Ashdown, Arkansas.

RD served honorably in the 4th Infantry Division, US Army during the Vietnam conflict. After leaving the service he was employed by and retired from the KCS Railroad.
Pallbearers will be Brent Thompson, Kelly Cooper, Ryan Moore, Damon Davis, Scott Runyan,
and Jace Runyan. Burial will follow at Vaughn Cemetery in Gilmore, Oklahoma
 

Gearl Dean Fout JR

Memorial Service for Gearl Dean Fout JR, 56 of Shady Point, Oklahoma will be at 2pm on Monday, March 7, 2022 at Evans and Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma with Clyde Hess officiating. Service under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

Gearl was born on June 29, 1965 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Elizabeth Ann (Pierce) Fout and Gearl Dean Fout Sr. and passed away on Wednesday, March 2, 2022.

Survivors are: His Wife Shawnta Fout; Father, Gearl Dean Fout Sr. and wife Sherel; Sister LaDonna Durant and husband Richard; Brother, Robert Fout; Nieces, Brandy Wiles and husband Matt Perry; Nephew, Randy Wiles and Suni Veerkamp; Stepdaughter, Nicole Lively, Stepdaughter, Kayla Carreiro; host of great nieces and nephews.


You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Thursday, March 3, 2022

Joe Thomas

 

Graveside Service for Joe Kenneth Thomas, 66 of Poteau, Oklahoma will be at 2 PM on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma with Jim Perkins officiating. Service under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home

Joe was born on January 28, 1956 in Kansas City, MO to Elaine (Stigler) Thomas and Joe Kenneth Thomas, Sr. and passed away on February 28, 2022 in Poteau, Oklahoma.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sonja McAllister Thomas; sister, Amanda Thomas Cole.

Survivors are: Children, Jessika Everett, Kelly McAllister, Travis McAllister; Grandchildren, Aurora Everett, Kinleigh McAllister; Sister, Susan Mixon. Joe grew up in Poteau First Methodist Church; he later attended Nazarene Church, loved his Parrot, Blue, and playing guitar.  


You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com
The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Clay Bennett

 

Funeral Service for Clay Bennett, 66 of Poteau, Oklahoma will be at 2 PM on Sunday, March 6, 2022 at the Reynolds Center in Poteau, Oklahoma with Mr. Jeff Jenson officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home. Viewing will be Friday from 9:00am – 8:00pm, and Saturday from 9:00am- 8:00pm with the family greeting friends from 6:00pm- 8:00pm at the funeral home.

Clay was born on October 7, 1955 in Mulberry, Arkansas to Laura (Eddy) Bennett and Cecil W. Bennett and passed away on March 1, 2022 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  He was preceded in death by his Parents; Brothers, Gale and Bryan Bennett; and sister, Karen Hessen.  Clay was born in Mulberry, Arkansas. Then resided with six other brothers & sisters in Alma, where he went to school and graduated in 1973. He met the love of his life Pam Sargent in 1972 and they were married in June 1973. Clay worked for AHC motor company in Alma before accepting a job with Green Light Auto store which is what brought him to Poteau. After moving to Poteau, he knew Poteau was the place they wanted to call home. In order to grow professionally and personally and to provide the best life possible for Pam, and his two children Gwen and Matt he accepted a position at Central National Bank, which began his banking career ending with the Community State Bank. During this time he served as Boy Scout leader, coach of little league football and baseball, Ducks Unlimited, National Turkey Federation and volunteering with youth hunts for the Delta Water Fowl Association, and Master Mason at Masonic Lodge 46 Poteau. He was on the City Council for over twenty three years where he served as President of the council. He was chairman of the Leflore Co. Development Coalition, and member and past President of the Poteau Chamber of Commerce. After 40 years of banking he retired and spent most of his time hunting, fishing, camping, spending time at the cabin, mornings at the glass shop, and Baggs Body  Shop, and spoiling grandkids, which was his favorite past time. Children across the community many times would refer to Clay as Santa Claus, as he was Santa's helper  for many many Christmases in the community. Clay Bennett was the meaning of community, love, trust, faith, and comfort, giving, selflessness, graciousness, and forgiveness. His sense of humor was known by many, but understood by few. 

In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made to the Clay Bennett Memorial Scholarship Fund C/O Community State Bank.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years Pam Bennett; Daughter, Gwen Bennett- Bliss; Son, Matt Bennett; Sister, Judy Williamson; Brothers, Joe Bennett, and Donnie Bennett; Grandchildren, Ty Bennett, Beau Bennett, Sophia Bliss, Blake Bliss, Nora  Bliss; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and loved ones.

Pallbearers will be Tommy Robertson, Johnny Baggs, Olen Arnall, Jerry Beale, Jon Pickle, Michael Hesson, Scotty White, and Dan (Hutch) Hutchinson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Harold Nebraski, Connie Shockley, Wimp Webb, Monte Shockley, Jim Sommers, Phillip Zearley, Larry Wright, Jim Holstead, Charlie Covey, Dr. Melinda Scantling N.P., Tami Sprabery, and BJ Noel.

You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com.

The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home.

Patricia Skinner

 

Graveside Service for Patricia Skinner, 70 of Bokoshe, Oklahoma will be at 10:00am on Monday, March 7, 2022 at Fairview Cemetery in Panama, Oklahoma with Reverend Bryan Fouts officiating. Services are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home in Poteau, Oklahoma.

Patricia was born on July 25, 1951 in Panama, Oklahoma to Dorothy Rae (Shaffer) Wagley and Roscoe B. Wagley and passed away on March 2, 2022 in Bokoshe, Oklahoma.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Jodi Bunch and parents.

Survivors included her sisters, Shirley Wagley Pierce and husband Jimmy, Linda Wagley Pittman and husband Rodney; brother, R.D. Wagley numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and loved ones.

Pallbearers will be Sammy Pierce, Kenny Pierce, Joshua Harper, Elliott Pierce, David Billy, and Kendall Sampson.

There will not be any public viewing.

You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com.

The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, Oklahoma.

Tuesday, March 1, 2022

Keith Allen Wright

 

Longtime Poteau resident, Keith Allen Wright, passed February 23, 2022, in Edmond, OK at the age of 80. 

He was born on August 10, 1941, to Cecil and Melba Wright in Tulsa, OK. 

Keith attended Will Rogers High School in Tulsa and graduated from University of Tulsa in 1965 with a major in Marketing and Management. 

He married his wife Patty on April 18, 1964, and they had two children, Todd and Matt.

He retired from the paper distribution industry as a General Manager over Fort Smith and Tulsa for Xpedx, a division of International Paper.

Keith was an avid conservationist, hunter, and fly fisherman.  He loved spending time outdoors with his family in the mountains of Southeastern Oklahoma and at his cabin on Kiamichi Mountain.  Keith spent many years involved in his community by serving on multiple boards for the Poteau First United Methodist Church, Poteau Valley Improvement Authority, and The Nature Conservancy of Oklahoma.

Keith’s conservation efforts were hard fought and were ultimately recognized as he was awarded the “Conservationist of the Year” by the Oklahoma Wildlife Federation and recognized nationally in receiving the “Connie Award” symbolizing the highest award bestowed on an individual for remarkable conservation efforts by the National Wildlife Federation.  

Keith is survived by his wife Patty, two sons: Todd and wife Keiko of Edmond, OK, Matt and wife Erika of Noble, OK; six grandchildren: Katie, Sydney, Garrett, Madelyn, Charlie, and Vivi.   

He was preceded in death by his parents Cecil and Melba Wright as well as his sister Kaye Palmer.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 10 from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at Evans & Miller Funeral Home, 411 Dewey Avenue, Poteau, OK 74953. 

Funeral services will be Friday, March 11 at 10:00AM at the Poteau First United Methodist Church, 109 South Harper, Poteau, OK 74953. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Keith to either: Poteau First United Methodist Church, 109 South Harper, Poteau, OK 74953 or The Nature Conservancy of Oklahoma – Cucumber Creek Endowment, 10425 S 82nd E. Ave, Suite 104, Tulsa, OK 74113.

 

Dorothy Ellen Rogers

Funeral Service for Dorothy Ellen Rogers, 95 of Pocola, Oklahoma will be at 10:00AM on Friday, March 4, 2022 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Pocola, Oklahoma with Reverend Jim Cook officiating. Burial will follow at Macedonia Cemetery in Pocola, Oklahoma under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Pocola, Oklahoma.

Dorothy was born on November 2, 1926 in Susanville, California to Ellen (Bond) Williams and James Henry Williams and passed away on February 24, 2022 in Pocola, Oklahoma.  She was married to T.J. Rogers  on September 22, 1945 in Reno, Nevada. She was preceded in death by her husband, T.J. Rogers; daughter, Terrie Lyons; father, James Henry Williams; mother, Ellen Brown, and sister, Betty Sturken.

Survivors include her sons, Glenn Rogers and wife Margaret, T.J. Rogers and wife Jonna Welch; daughter, Trudie Towler and husband Howard Crawford; grandchildren, Terry Joe Rogers and wife Edye Gantt, Jennifer Vernon and husbanbd Dan, Sheldon Towler and wife Mary Moore, Valerie Migel and husband Josh, Roseanne Lyons, Russell Lyons, Brian Lyons; son-in-law, Russell Lyons; great grandchildren, Ashlynn Swain, Kaylea Nicholson, Jayden Vernon, Ryver Migel, Chris Towler, Tambrah Hewett, Katie Allison, Jeremy Tinsley, Danielle Tinsley, numerous other relatives and loved ones.

Pallbearers will be TJ Rogers, Glen Rogers, Dan Vernon, Joshua Migel, Harold Crawford, and Terry Joe Rogers. Honorary Pallbearers will be Sheldon Towler, Jayden Vernon, and Ryver Migel.

Viewing will be  Thursday March 3, 2022 from 12:00pm- 7:00pm at the funeral home. .  

You may leave an online message at evansandmillerfuneralhomes.com.

The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Pocola, OK.