Victoria M. Lawson

Victoria M. Lawson, 83, of Shady Point, OK passed away on Friday, March 13, 2009 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Victoria was born on June 28, 1925 in Latham, Oklahoma to Elmer R. & Ollie B. (Barnes) Hood. She spent her lifetime living in this wonderful area and was employed by Riverside Furniture until her retirement. Her parents; her 1st husband Norman Monks; her 2nd husband Omer Lawson, a son, Jerry Monks; 2 daughters, Glenda Tubby & Loretha Grigsby; 2 brothers, Ralph Hood & James Hood; 2 sisters Helen Jones & Evelyn Van Meter all preceded Victoria in death. Victoria is survived by a daughter & son in law, Janice & Jim Scroggins of Shady Point, OK; a son & daughter in law, Terry & Sandra Monks of Shady Point, OK; 14 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; special loved ones, Jesse & Beatrice Watts & Roger Watts, numerous other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. Funeral services were held at 10:00 am Monday, March 16, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Shady Point Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Daniel Monks, Leon Laymon, Dearl Laymon, Roy Scroggins, Roger Watts, & Andrew Martinez.

Alene Knight

Alene Knight,76, of Poteau, OK passed away in Ft. Smith, AR on Saturday, March 7, 2009. Mrs. Knight was born March 8, 1932 in Reichert, OK to Jake & Lona (Cogburn) Robinson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jr. Knight; 2 sisters, & her parents. Survivors include her daughter & son-in-law, Mary & George Jack of Poteau, OK; 3 sons & daughters-in-law, Jim & Rosemary Knight of Summerfield, OK, Willis & Mary Jane Knight of Wister, OK, and Sam & Rikki Knight of Summerfield, OK; 9 Grandchildren, 12 Great Grandchildren; 2 brothers, Jesse Robinson of Summerfield, OK, Johny Dewayne Robinson of Reichert, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at Summerfield Cemetery Pavilion, Summerfield, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment following in Summerfield Cemetery, Summerfield, OK.

John David Mize

John David Mize, 55, of Shady Point, OK passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2009 in Wister, Oklahoma. John was born on March 12, 1953 in Whitesboro, OK to JD & Lillian (Long) Mize. He was a member of Poteau Valley Baptist Church and a mechanic. He loved hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and pulling pranks on family and friends. His parents precede him in death. John is survived by 2 daughters & sons in law, Tonya Marie & Daniel Monks & Heather Michelle & Chris Ford; 2 sons, David Shane & Joshua Loyd Mize; 7 grandchildren, Seth Ford, Grant Ford, Taylor Ford, Paige Monks, Cole Monks, Lexi Weaver, & Braxten Mize; 5 brothers, Ted Mize, Bill Mize, Kenneth Mize, Bobby Mize, & Roy Mize; 3 sisters, Joyce Hill, Wanda Perkins, & Wilma Eslick; special loved ones, Deborah Mize & Deborah Stanley; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for John were held at 2:00 pm Friday, March 6, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in LeFlore Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Ethan Hill, Bryan Hancock, Joe Hancock, Jason Mize, Rodney Mize, & Stephen Billy.

Anna "DeLois" Harris

Anna DeLois Hathcoat Harris, 84, of Poteau, OK passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2009 in Poteau. DeLois was born on December 31st 1924 to James Roy & Dessie Hathcoat. DeLois was a member of the House of Hope in Poteau, OK where her son Frankie is the pastor & a homemaker. Her husband, Rufus O. Harris and her parents preceded her in death. DeLois is survived by 3 sons & daughters in law, Larry & Carolyn Harris of Tuttle, OK, John & Carolyn Harris of Arkoma, OK , & Frank and Pam Harris of Howe, OK; 3daughters & sons in law, Stella & Art Drury & Kathy & Terry Carter, all of Poteau, OK; * Lorrie & Dwayne Houck of Tahlequah, OK; 15 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren; & 5 great great grandchildren; sister & brother in law, Bessie “Louise” & Richard “Dick” Searles of Edgewood, KY; a brother in law, Finis Harris, and a sister in law, Thelma Harris; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at The House of Hope in Poteau, OK with her three sons, the Reverend Frankie Harris, the Reverend Larry Harris, & the Reverend John Harris officiating. Interment followed the services at Howe Cemetery in Howe, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Keith Andrews, Brian Harris, Phillip Owen, Barry Ivie, James Easley, & Randy Cagle. Honorary pallbearers were Bobby Cagle, Bobby Bowen, & Daniel Radasinovich.

William H. Whitmore Jr.

William H. Whitmore, Jr., 75, of Bokoshe. OK passed away on Monday, February 23, 2009 at Pocola Nursing Home in Pocola, OK. William was born on September 3, 1933 in Jenny Lind, Arkansas to William H. Sr. & Ada (Pryor) Whitmore. He was a member of the Assembly of God Church and retired from the City of Beverly Hills where he was employed as an Equipment Service Technician. His parents preceded him in death. William is survived by his wife, Thelma Whitmore of the home; 2 stepdaughters & sons in law, Glenda & Dewayne Craig & Sheila & Larry McDaniel, all of Spiro, OK and a stepson & daughter in law, David Jr. & Carol Black of Shady Point, OK; a host of grandchildren; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for William were held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at New Life Church in Bokoshe, OK with the Reverend Joe Pierce officiating. Interment followed the services at Old Bokoshe Cemetery in Bokoshe, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Dewayne Craig, David Black Jr, Larry McDaniel, Tony Craig, Tory Craig, & Tandy Sullivan.

Emma Jean Stella Hanley

Emma Jean Stella Hanley, 86, of Heavener, Oklahoma passed away on Friday, February 20, 2009 at Sparks Regional Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Emma was born on May 11, 1922 in Poteau, OK to Othal & Emma (White) Johnson. Emma was a homemaker. Her husband, William A. Hanley; a son, William E. Hanley; 4 sisters, & 2 brothers precede her in death. Emma is survived by 2 daughters & sons in law, Mary & Bill Martin of Heavener, OK and Patricia & Bruce Hamm; a son, Dennis Hanley of Heavener, Oklahoma; a daughter in law, Troy Faye (Hanley) Hugle of Holson Valley, OK; 6 grandchildren, Don Martin, Dawana Peterson, Trish Payne, Jacob Hamm, Lucas Hamm, & Joe Hamm; 3 brothers, Floyd Johnson, Ernest Johnson, & Orville Johnson; 2 sisters, Johnnie Dorey & Syble Neff; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Emma were held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at House of Hope Church in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Frankie Harris officiating. Interment followed the services in Holson Valley Cemetery in Holson Valley, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Bud Woolsey, Rollie Goff, Petey Jones, Gene Skelton, Kenny Dehart, Jr Sartor, & Jim Dunn. Honorary pallbearers were Jack Holland & Ervin Armstrong.

Arthur Clyde Jones

Arthur Clyde Jones, 80, of Summerfield, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at Sparks Regional Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Arthur was born on July 1, 1928 in Crystal Falls, Texas to Arthur & Stella Faye (Silas) Jones. He was a member of Summerfield Baptist Church, a veteran of the US Navy serving during the Korean Conflict, a member of the American Legion, and a welder and rancher. Arthur is survived by 2 daughters & sons in law, Linda & Herman McGowen of Summerfield, OK & Myrna Faye & Steve Dorsey of Heavener, OK; a son, Jeremy Jones of Poteau, OK; 8 grandchildren, Bryan Dorsey, Michelle Earls, Misti Roath, Brad Dorsey, Brooke Dorsey, Melissa Caldwell, Chelsea Jones, & Jordan Jones; 13 great grandchildren; a special daughter, Candice Frizzell of Wister, OK; 2 sisters, Dorothy Morphew of Fort Worth, TX & Ruby Dickson of Dallas, TX; special friend, Dorothy Davis of Seminole, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, loved ones, & many beloved friends. Funeral services for Arthur were held at 10:00 am, Saturday, February 21, 2009 at Summerfield Baptist Church in Summerfield, OK with the Reverend Charles Caughern & the Reverend Rick Hedrick officiating. Interment was Sunday February 22, 2009 at Doty Cemetery in Gordon, Texas with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Bryan Dorsey, Brad Dorsey, Justin Earls, Jason Roath, & Daniel Caldwell.

Paul Athel Deere

Paul A. Deere, 95, of Wister, OK passed away Tuesday, February 10, 2009 in Poteau, OK. Paul was born November 3, 1913 in Gilmore, OK to Robert & Lila (Barnes) Deere. He was a retired farmer & rancher. He was a member of Summerfield Baptist Church since 1953. He loved to fish & hunt. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo Haskell (Baker) Deere; 3 brothers, Roy L., Ulrus & Haskell; sister, Nellie McAlester & his parents. Survivors include his daughter, Joanne Davis of Ft. Myers, FL; 2 sons & Daughters in law, James & Bobbie Deere, Bobby Paul & Cindy Deere; 2 sisters, Pearl Abernathy & Opal Klinkenburg; 2 grandsons & their wives, Michael & Sherry, Joe Paul & Cindy; granddaughter, Jamie; 4 great granddaughters, Marcie Jo & husband, Jorge, Breanna, Kacie & Heather; great grandson, James Jackson Barnes; special friend, Hodo Wylie; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Monday, February 16, 2009 at Summerfield Baptist Church, Summerfield, OK with Bro. Charles Caughern officiating. Interment will be in Summerfield Cemetery, Summerfield, OK. Pallbearers: John McAlester, J.E. McAlester, Keith McAlester, J.J. McAlester, A.C. Evans, & Davy Owens. Honorary pallbearer, Dean Gray.

Darrelyn Kay Jackson

Darrelyn Kay Jackson, 73, of Panama, OK passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2009 in Muskogee, OK. He was born in Bakersfield, CA on August 15, 1935 to Leonard & Roberta (Phillips) Jackson. Darrelyn was a member of the Assembly of God Church. He was a devoted husband, father, & grandfather who proudly served his country during the Korean War. He was preceded in death by a brother, Daniel Jackson & his parents. Survivors include his wife, Betty of the home; 3 sons & daughters-in-law, Daryl & Nancy Jackson of Wister, OK, Steven Jackson of Shady Point, OK, Scotty Jackson & Courtney Bercher of Barling, AR; 5 daughters & sons-in-law, Kim & Rodney Checkall of San Antonio, TX, Patricia Goodwin & Tim Pope of Greer, SC, Dawn & Shannon Thompson of Panama, OK, Tanya & Lee Timms of Shady Point, OK; Jennifer Jackson of the home; 19 Grandchildren, 2 Great Grandchildren; brother, Cecil Jackson of Modesto, CA; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Monday, February 16, 2009 at the Calvary Assembly of God Church, Poteau, OK with the Rev. Lynn Bullard & Rev. Billy Taylor officiating. Interment followed in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers were Lee Timms, Chad Jackson, Shawn Hogan, Jeremy Taylor, Ryan Taylor, & Josh Martin; Honorary Pallbearers, Shannon Thompson, Ricky Potter, & Norman Green. Arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Lowell Wayne Hicks

Lowell Wayne Hicks, 61, of Poteau, OK passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 in Poteau. Lowell was born on May 8, 1947 in Poteau to Lowell Dee & Atha Belle (Sinclair) Hicks. He was a veteran of the US Army; a teacher, coach, & school administrator for 36 years before his retirement; and a member of the Poteau Masonic Lodge #46. Lowell loved playing golf. He was preceded in death by his parents. Lowell is survived by his wife of 41 years, Joyce Hicks of the home; 2 sons, Joel Hicks of Poteau, OK & Matt Hicks of Sulphur Springs, TX; a granddaughter, Emma Hicks of Poteau, OK: a brother in law & wife, Ray & Jannelle Babb of Tulsa, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Lowell were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, February 14, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK with the Reverend Phil McGehee & the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Wayne Hoffman, Ronnie Riggs, Earl Jobe, Jay Hicks, Larry Hicks, Bill Hicks, Wayne Fry, & Windle Harper.

Clifford A. Smith

Clifford A. Smith, 89, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center in Poteau, Oklahoma. Clifford was born on January 24, 1920 in Blue Mountain, Arkansas to Robert Aaron & Emily (Baysinger) Smith. Clifford was a veteran of the US Army & US Air Force and a Southern Baptist. Before his retirement he was a coal miner and a merchant. His wife, Juanita; a son, Randy Smith; 3 grandsons, Bobby Glen Johnson, Shawn Smith, & Chris Smith; 3 brothers, Thurman Lee, Bud, & Bobby Smith; and 2 sisters, Margie Huckaby and Mildred Sue Kloempken preceded Clifford in death. Clifford is survived by a son & daughter in law, Arnold & Kay Smith of Tucker, OK; 3 daughters & sons in law, Marie & Bob McCroskey of Poteau, OK; Nancy & Lewis Johnson of Amarillo, TX; and Cecelia & Ray Vermillion of Wister, OK; 7 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren; a brother, Jimmy Smith of Albuquerque, NM; a sister, Dorothy Smith of Newton, KS; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Graveside services for Clifford were held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, February 12, 2009 at Oakland Cemetery Pavilion in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Bobby Jack Grissom

Bobby Jack Grissom, 74, of Cameron, OK passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2009 in Pocola, OK. Bobby was born on May 19, 1934 in Mansfield, Arkansas to Riley & Martha J. (Newell) Grissom. He was a farmer and a lifelong resident of the area. Bobby’s parents precede him in death. Bobby is survived by 3 sisters, Alice Morris of Cameron, OK; Pansy Brown of Buhl, Idaho, & Mary Ruth Kell of Boise, Idaho; a brother Jerry Grissom of Rock Springs, WY; numerous other relatives, loved ones, & many beloved friends. Graveside services were held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at Greenhill Cemetery Pavilion in Cameron, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK Pallbearers were Frank, Steven, Tracey, & Phillip Morris, Bill Sweeten, & Keith Morris.

Lloyd James Dukes

Lloyd James Dukes, 60, of Talihina, OK passed away on Friday, February 6, 2009 in Whitesboro, OK. Lloyd was born in Talihina, OK on April 25, 1948 to Lloyd Q. & Dortha D. (Mings) Dukes. He was employed by the Choctaw Nation Indian Hospital for 23 years as a Bio Medical Technician. Lloyd loved hunting, fishing, OU Football, & telling jokes. Lloyd’s parents preceded him in death. Lloyd is survived by 3 daughters, Tammy Melton of Jacksonville, FL, April Dukes of Houston, TX, & Elizabeth Dukes of Whitesboro, OK; a son. Bubba Dukes of Whitesboro, OK; a sister, Pam Dorsey of Ada, OK; 2 grandchildren, Tad Melton & Tara Melton; niece & her husband, Echo & Eric Constable of Ada, OK; nephew & his wife, Harley & Michelle Johnson of Whitesboro, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Lloyd were held at 3:00 pm Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at Whitesboro School Auditorium with the Reverend Alvin Branscum officiating. Interment followed the services at Whitesboro Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Artis Potts, Jess Attaberry, Herve’ Lucier, Harley Johnson, Danny Frazier, & Duane Elrod. Honorary pallbearers were Fred Humphreys, Allen Dukes, Jack Vadnis, & Phillip Humphreys.

Justin J. Williams

Justin J. Williams, 17, of Pocola, OK passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at St. Edward Mercy Medical Center in Fort Smith, AR. Justin was born on December 11, 1991 in Fort Smith, AR to Marvin Williams & Jamie Collier. He was a junior at Pocola High School where he was a member of the Pocola High School Football Team and Pocola High School Weight Lifting Team and FCCLA. His maternal grandfather, Ray Collier; his paternal grandparents, Norman & Wanda Williams, & his maternal great grandmother, Clara Massey all precede Justin in death. Justin is survived by his mother, Jamie Collier of the home; his father & stepmother, Marvin & Tamika Williams of Fort Smith, AR; 3 sisters, Brandy Collier, Chanelle Collier Williams, & Danasha Williams; 2 brothers, Faizon Williams & Martavius Williams; his maternal grandmother, Geniva Collier of Pocola, OK; honorable grandparents, Danny & Sally Tedford; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Justin were held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at Pocola High School Auditorium with Brother Larry Bishop officiating. Interment followed the services at Leard Cemetery in Pocola, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Pocola, OK. Pallbearers will be members of the Pocola High School Football Team.

Jimmie Wade Butler

Jimmie Wade Butler, 83, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2009 in Talihina, OK. Jimmie was born on November 15, 1925 in Williams, OK to Wylie H. & Ida Ella (Victor) Butler. Jimmie was a lifelong Baptist & a proud veteran serving in the US Army, earning the Occupation Ribbon for Japan, the Korean Service Ribbon with 2 bronze stars, and the United Nations ribbon. He very proud of his Choctaw heritage and was a member of Mosholatubbe Lodge #13 of Cameron for over 60 years. Jimmie loved to fish. He married the love of his life, Nancy Coggins on June 7, 1947. They enjoyed 61+ years together. Jimmie was preceded in death by a son, Billy W. Butler; 3 brothers, Billy H. Butler, Arthur Butler, & Fred W. Butler; 2 sisters, Mildred Covey & Muriel Gould; and his parents. Jimmie is survived by his beloved wife of 61+ years, Nancy (Coggins) Butler; a sister & brother in law, Mary & Cloyis Clay of Poteau, OK; 3 brothers in law, Sam & wife Barbara Coggins of Arizona; Bill Coggins of Santa Rosa, CA & Frank Gould of Michigan; 3 sisters in law & their husbands, Bea & Lee Barton of New Mexico, Mattie & Kenny Williams of Texas, & Katie & Bob Ross of California; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. Funeral services for Jimmie were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, February 7, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Phil McGehee & the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services at Greenhill Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Fred Beal, Roy Don Carmack, Cloyis Clay, Sam Coggins, Bill Coggins, Devin Griffith, Jim Norwood, Buddy Pope, Bill Raney, & Pat Searles.

Joy A. Odom

Joy A. Odom, 69, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2009 in Fort Smith, AR. Joy was born on November 14, 1939 in Albion, OK to James & Alta (Wilson) Miller. She was a member of the first graduating class of RN’s at Carl Albert State College. Joy was preceded in death by her husband, Carl D. Odom; her grandson, Carlton Trent Odom; 2 nephews, Earl Miller & Carl Miller, Jr., and her parents. Joy is survived by 2 daughters, Vonda Thedford of Edgewood, NM & Carla Firestine of Liberty, OK; 2 sons Keith Odom of Pocola, OK & Trent Odom of Jonesville, LA; 2 brothers Carl Miller of Albion, OK & Danny Miller of Miami, OK; a sister Diannah Yeager of Fort Smith, AR; 11 grandchildren, Amanda Eilers, Heather Williams, Jessica Means, Heath Odom, Timmy Carl Means, Joy Michelle Burge, Carl Odom, Sancee Odom, Zackary Odom, Wrangler Firestine, & Briley Odom, 11 great grandchildren; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Joy were held at 2:00 pm Thursday, February 5, 2009 at Gospel Tabernacle in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Sonny Daniels & the Reverend Carl Daniels officiating. Interment followed the services in Ellis Chapel Cemetery in Wister, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were R.L. Long, Arvil Nelson, Bob Carter, John Firestine, Mike Rogers, Harold Means, & Heath Cosgrove.

Cleve Eldon Thompson

Cleve Eldon Thompson, 74, of Pryor, OK formerly of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2009 in Claremore, Oklahoma. Cleve was born on September 25, 1934 in Wister, Oklahoma to Grover & Bonnie Thompson. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK and a veteran of the US Army. He worked as a lab technician for Trane Company until his retirement and was the ultimate Fix-It Man. His first wife, Dorothy, his parents, and a sister Merle precede him in death. Cleve is survived by his wife Linda Thompson of Pryor, OK; 3 daughters & son in law, Julie & Larry Coshow of Edmond, OK, Jean Ann Thompson of Tulsa, OK; & Linda Thompson of Los Angeles, CA; a stepson, Shawn Taylor of Adair, OK; a stepdaughter Delana Taylor-McNac of Tulsa, OK; 3 grandsons, Zach, Cale, & Jackson; a granddaughter, Grace; 2 sisters, Wanda Rhodes of Sulphur, LA & Madelon Orms of Fort Smith, AR; many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, loved ones, and friends. Memorial services for Cleve will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, February 6, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK with the Reverend Phil McGehee officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Mary Louise Hamby

Mary Louise Hamby, 84, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, January 26, 2009 at Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center in Poteau, Oklahoma. Mary was born on September 6, 1924 in Bengal, Oklahoma to Hosea & Bessie (Ross) Davis. She was a homemaker. Mary was preceded in death by a sister, Iva Boyd; 2 brothers, Paul Davis & Richard Davis & her parents. Mary is survived by her husband, Wayne Hamby of the home; 2 sons, Ron Pompili of Poteau, OK & Larry Willgues of Ohio; 3 stepdaughters, Sharon Lappert, Anita Maez, & Sandra Hamby all of California; her grandchildren, Arron Maez & Katrina Hamby, both of California; a son, Thaddeus Mitchell of Indiana, Ryan Willgues & Ricky Willgues both of Texas; a great grandson, Tyler Mitchell of Indiana; niece & her husband, Iva & David Sadler of Perry, OK; a great niece, Amie McDaniel of Perry, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Mary were held at 2:00 pm Friday, January 30, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Ron Pompili, Claud Willis, Gerald Willis, Larry Willgues, David Sadler, & Rob Dorey.

Cleo George Luman

Cleo George Luman, 75 of Wister, OK passed away Thursday, January 29, 2009 in Tulsa, OK. Mr. Luman was born July 1, 1934 in Glendale Community, OK. He was a beloved husband, father & brother. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Amos Luman, 3 brothers & 1 sister. Survivors include 3 daughters: Darlene & Bill Martin of Tulsa, OK, Arlene & Kerstan Holmes of Kansas City, MO, & Jacki & Pete Lively of Blackwell, OK; 9 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; 3 sisters, Lorene Jones, Odean Pilgrim, Jewel Earls; 3 brothers, Harril Luman, Theo (Pat) Luman, & Dale Luman; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 2 pm, Saturday, January 31, 2009 graveside at Reichert Cemetery in Reichert, OK with the Rev. Jack Covey officiating. Interment following in Reichert Cemetery. Pallbearers were Charles Evans, James Evans, Michael Hicks, Jeremy Bachelor, Jerry Earls, & John Castaneda

Billy Charles Anderson

Billy Charles Anderson, 53, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2009 in Eufaula, OK. Billy was born on April 8, 1955 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Charles Lum & Dorothy Wilene (Easley) Anderson. He loved restoring and working on old cars. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Woody & Leona Anderson. Billy is survived by his parents, Charles & Dorothy Anderson of Poteau, OK; a sister Sharon Campbell of Calhoun, OK; a sister Sheila Bunch of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and a host of beloved friends. Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Christine C. Brison

Christine C. Brison, 82, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2009 in Van Buren, Arkansas. Christine was born on November 27, 1927 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Encarnacion Casson & Maria "Guadalupe" Garza. Christine was a member of the Pentecostal Church of God in Poteau, Oklahoma. She was a manicurist & a beautician. She is preceded in death by her parent. Christine is survived by 3 sons, Robert Cavazos of California; Richard Cavazos of Huntington Beach, CA, & Charles Brison of California; a daughter, Anna Marie Lowe of Poteau, Oklahoma; 18 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 3 brothers; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Christine were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, January 24, 2008 at the First Assembly of God Church in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Keith Williams officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were her sons & grandsons

Donna Jean Donathan

Donna Jean Donathan, 73, of Fanshawe, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2009 in Poteau, Oklahoma. Donna was born on August 30, 1935 in Ponca City, Oklahoma to Jack Asbury & Bessie Jane (Spurteon) Smith, the first girl & fourth child born into the family. She was a 1953 graduate of Nowata High School. She married her husband Joseph Donathan on April 30, 1974She was retired from Tinker Air Force Base where she worked in the warehouse. Donna and her husband were members of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Fanshawe, OK. Donna is preceded in death by 2 daughters, Linda Elizabeth Wilkerson & Kathy Elaine Wampler; 5 brothers, Jack, John, Jim, Clay, & Steven Smith a grandson, Robert Justin Donathan & her parents. Donna is survived by her husband, Joseph Donathan of the home; 5 sons & daughters in law, Larry Donathan of Calhoun, OK, Neil & Pat Donathan of Panama, OK, Jerry & Barbara Donathan of McAlester, OK, Mike & Liza Donathan of Panama, OK, & Terry Wiggins of Oklahoma City, OK; a daughter, Phyllis Brigance of Eufaula, OK; numerous grandchildren & great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Mary Williams of Corpus Christi, TX, Betty Carroll of Dallas, TX, Nancy Adams of Miami,OK, & Cheryl Hall of Jenks, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Donna were held at 2:00 pm. Saturday, January 24, 2009 at First Free Will Baptist Church of Fanshawe, OK with the Reverend Kenneth Major officiating. Interment followed the services in Fanshawe Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau OK. Pallbearers were her sons & grandsons.

CLARENCE O. EVANS

Clarence O. Evans, 99, of Ft. Smith, AR passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. Mr. Evans was born in Wister, OK on September 14, 1909 to David & Nellie Edna (Baldwin) Evans. He was a turbine operator. He was of the Baptist faith. He was preceded in death by his wife, Susie (Hall) Evans; his parents; 4 brothers, Roy, Otis, Haskell, & Juray Evans; 4 sisters, Neta Madden, Neva Jenson, Margie Humphrey, & Freda Watkins. Survivors include one son, Clarence Evans Jr & wife, Carolyn of Heber Springs, AR; daughters, Janiece Jensen of Conway, AR, Nella Keenom of Ft. Smith, AR; grandsons, Tim Evans of Vicksburg, MS, David Keenom of Clarksville, TN; granddaughters, Toni Truetken, Diane Hagar of Conway, AR; 7 Great Grandchildren; 2 Great Great Grandchldren; numerous nieces, nephews other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Tuesday at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Ok with the Rev. Lloyd Humphrey officiating. Interment followed in Maxey Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers: Tim Evans, Brian Hagar, Steve Pilkington, Neil Brannon, Ronnie Glenn & Gary Humphrey.

D.L. Davis

D. L. Davis, a retired carpenter of Monroe, Oklahoma, born December 27, 1933 at Big Cedar, Oklahoma passed away January 17, 2009 at the age of 75 in his home. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Nancy “Jane” Davis; 2 sons and daughters-in-law David and Patricia Davis of Poteau, Bryan and Melissa Davis of Monroe; 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Sheila and Boyd Wilson of Monroe, Carol and Terry Vise of Howe; 2 daughters in law, Deanna Davis of Gilmore, Darla Davis of Monroe; 10 Grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 1 sister, Lillie Whisenhunt; 2 brothers Vernon Davis, Eugene Davis; And a host of loved ones and friends. Preceded in death by 2 sons Douglas Davis, Timothy Davis; Parents Earl and Novella Davis; 1 sister, 3 brothers. Services will be held 2 pm, Monday, January 19, 2009 at Springhill Baptist Church in Monroe, OK with the Rev. Leroy Billy officiating. Interment will follow in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK. Pallbearers: Lance Smith, Mac Armstrong, Brent Thompson, Ronnie Dill, Jimmy Crouch, and Mark Huie. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Fort, Ray Vermillion, Kenneth Rose & Roger McMillian.

Daniel Keith McCarver

Daniel Keith McCarver, 24, of Poteau, OK passed away January 12, 2009 in Farmington, AR. Daniel was born February 11, 1984 to Bryant "Keith" & Coni [Barney] McCarver. Daniel was an Eagle Scout with Boy Scout Troop 30 at First United Methodist Church, Poteau, OK; a member of the Chancellors Leadership Council @ UAFS; a member of Kappa Psi, SWOSU Chapter; a Pharm D Degree graduate of SWOSU Class of 2008. He was employed at Walgreen's Pharmacy since his graduation. Daniel was a quick-witted, humorous, light-hearted, playful & caring person. He was preceded in death by his father, Ketih McCarver; grandparents, Bryan McCarver, Joyce Ford, & Richard Barney. Survivors include his wife, Lacey [Stottsberry] McCarver of the home; mother, Coni McCarver of Poteau, OK; grandparents, Carolyn McCarver of Poteau, Jerry & Mary Ford of Poteau, Mary Barney of Wellsville, KS; great grandmothers, Edna Highfill of Poteau & Geraldine Inman of Medford, OR; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Saturday, January 17, 2009 at Bob Lee Kidd Civic Center in Poteau, with the Rev. Rick Snyder & Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau. Pallbearers were Chance Graves, Jacob Doyle, Partrick Ford, Jake Thompson, James Ford, & Shawn Standford. Honorary pallbearers were Leo Olivarez, Larry Young, Bill Marvin, Connor Marvin, Colin Marvin, Andrew Taylor, Brandon Tarwater, Brian Pollard & Eddie Lockhart.

David Clark

David Clark, 72, of Poteau, Ok passed away Friday, January 16, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. Mr. Clark was born in Swink, OK on May 3, 1936 to Dave & Eunice [Powers] Clark. He was retired from Pitchford Glass Company in Heavener, OK & a newspaper carrier for Poteau Daily News & Sun for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, & spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather & will be missed by his many friends, route customers, & newspaper family. Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Mary (Scott) Clark; 5 daughters, Melanie Potter & Lisa Taylor of Poteau, OK, Tiffany & DJ Sugg of Cameron, OK, Eunice Ann Clark, Diana Lynn Clark, & Shelia Rene Clark all of California; 3 sons, Jessie Clark & Liz Wood of Cameron, OK, DAniel & Misty Clark of Roland, OK, Richard David Clark of California; 5 sisters, Bennie Jo Middleton of California, Carol Fonstein of Sulphur, OK, Ruth Davis of Little Ax, OK, Jane Scott of Howe, OK, Opal Ellison of Van Buren, AR; 2 brothers, Robert Clark of Purcell, OK and Thomas Clark of Pauls Valley, OK, 3 grandchildren, Brittany Moore, Hailey Treat, & Xavier Sugg all of the home; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at Oakland Cemetery Pavilion - Poteau, OK with Rev. Clyde Hess officiating. Interment following in Oakland Cemetery

Charles Lee Casey

Charles Lee Casey, 68, of Poteau, Ok passed away at his home in Poteau on Wednesday, January 14, 2009. He was born in Wister, OK on October 1, 1940, to Garland & Armilda (Loughridge) Casey. Charles was a welder. He was a veteran of the US Army. Survivors include 2 sisters, Barbara Watts of Edmond, OK & Doris Workman of Portland, OR; 2 brothers, Glenn Casey of Stockton, CA & Bill Casey of Pauls Valley, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Friday, January 16, 2009 graveside at Ellis Chapel Cemetery in Wister, Ok with interment following. Rev. Jim Cook officiated.

Francis Virginia (Jackson) Goforth

Francis Virginia Jackson Goforth, 84, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, January 12, 2009 in Poteau. Francis was born on November 5, 1924 in Bennington, Oklahoma to Ben & May (Beatty) Jackson. She was a homemaker. On March 6th, 1943, Francis married the love of her life, Clifford Goforth in Bennington, OK. The couple were married for 52 years before Clifford preceded her in death. A son, Gary Don Goforth and a grandson, Jr. Goforth also precede her in death. Francis is survived by 2 daughters, Jodi Dacus of Poteau, OK & Mary Dean Goforth of Quinton, OK; 7 sons Douglas Goforth of Portland, OR; Roger Goforth, Dennis Goforth, Ted Goforth, & Kenny Goforth, all of Howe, OK; Ned Goforth of Safford, AZ; and Wayne Goforth of Poteau, OK; 16 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; a sister Mary Lou Rodgers of Desoto, TX, a brother, Marshall Jackson of Sabine Pass, TX; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and a host of beloved friends. Funeral services for Francis were held at 2:00 pm Thursday, January 15, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were her sons & grandsons.

Iva Mae Boyd

Iva Mae Boyd, 87, passed away Friday, January 9, 2009 at her home in Poteau, OK. She was born April 24, 1921 in Poteau to Hosea & Bessie (Ross) Davis. Iva married her best friend, Tom O. Boyd on December 14, 1940. She & Tom lived in California for over 30 years where she was employed with Famous Fashion Wear. After retirement they moved to Mustang, OK where they opened an Otasco store which they operated for several years before moving back to Poteau. Iva loved gardening & yard work, making cookies & pies for other people, & most of all she loved going to church singing & serving God. She was a faithful member of Calvary Assembly of God Church. Tom preceded hder in death on September 16, 1996. Her parents, & 2 brothers, Richard & Paul Davis also preceded her in death. Survivors include her daughter & son in law, Iva Lou & DAvid Sadler of Perry, OK; son, Bill Boyd of Mena, AR; 6 grandchildren, Shannon & J.T. Thompson of San Angelo, TX, Amie McDaniel of Perry, OK, Josie & Brad Miller of POteau, OK, BreAnn Sprayberry & Cody Sprayberry of Poteau, Dylon Chase Boyd of Arkansas; great grandchildren, Adyson Faith McDaniel of Perry, OK & Shelby Rae Sprayberry of Poteau, OK; sister & brother in law, Mary & Wayne Hamby of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Tuesday, January 13, 2009 at Calvary Assembly of God Church, Poteau, OK with Rev. Armon Newburn, Rev. Phil McGehee, & Rev. Lynn Bullard officiating. Interment in Oakland Cemetery- Poteau. Pallbearers: Greg Newburn, Jeff Callaway, Ronnie Pompili, JT Thompson, Larry Williques, Thad Williques, Claud Willis, Gerald Willis, David Sadler, Wayne Hamby, & Jim McNabb

Alice I. Knight

Alice I Knight, 74, of Poteau, Ok passed away Saturday, January 10, 2009 in Fort Smith, AR. Mrs. Knight was born January 16, 1934 in Knot Hole, OK to Jim & Winnie Pearl (Farris) Brown. She was retired from the City of Poteau Water Department. She was a member of Shepherds Heart Pentecostal Church in Poteau. Bro. Carter Rogers officiated at her and Vernard's wedding 53 years ago in Polk Creek Assembly of God Church which is now Calvary Assembly of God Church in Poteau. Mrs. Knight always wanted her home to be a restful place of peace for any and all who would enter. Her heart of hospitality was evident during her hospital stay as well as in her home for many years. Survivors include her husband Vernard of the home; 2 daughters, Donna Billy of Poteau, OK, Cindy Pate of Norman, OK; 6 grandchildren, Andrew & Crystle Billy of Poteau, OK, Allison Billy of Poteau, OK, Amy & Josh Burum of Germany, Anthony Billy of Poteau, OK, Aaron Pate of Mobile, Al, Alan Pate of Norman,OK; great grandchildren, Alina Billy of Midland, TX & Emery Burum of Germany; sister, Bonnie Payne & husband, Tom of Poteau, OK; sons in law, Gerald Billy of Poteau, OK & Kevin Pate of Norman, OK; sister in law, Viola Brown of Cameron, OK; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends and her 'adopted' children, family, and friends who were fortunate to share her love and acceptance. Services: 2 pm, Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at Calvary Assembly of God Church, Poteau, OK with the Rev. Clyde Hess & Rev. Joe Atkinson officiating. Interment in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers: Rick Goodin, Nick Hess, Larry Crossland, Mark Crossland, Josh Bryant, & Dave Yeager. Honorary pallbearers, Andrew, Anthony, Aaron, Alan & Josh. Family visitation; Tuesday Evening 6-8 pm.

Myra Lou Burgess

Myra Lou Burgess, 87, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, January 9, 2009, in Ft. Smith, AR. Mrs. Burgess was born May 22, 1921, in Coaldale, AR to Henry & Millie Fortner. She was a member of the Baptist Church & attended Trinity Baptist Church in Poteau. She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin Theodore Burgess on December 22, 1997. Survivors include her daughters, Onetia Flynn of Iola, KS & Sue Free of Poteau, OK; son, Jerry Burgess of Grand Prairie, TX; 8 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; sisters in law, Margie Adams & Bobbie Burgess; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services held 10 am, Monday, January 12, 2009 at Trinity Baptist Church, Poteau, OK with the Rev Leroy Billy & Randy Burgess officiating. Interment following in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers: Donald Allison, Randy Burgess, Bob Free, Hoot Jackson, Harold Gilbert, & Mike King.

Katherine E. Hayes

Katherine E. Hayes, 76, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, January 9, 2009 in Poteau. Katherine was born February 28, 1932 in Madison, Wisconsin to Fredrick J. & Myrtle (Austin) Schroeder. She was a homemaker. Her parents; brother, Chester; and son, Fred preceded her in death. Survivors include her daughter, Doris A. (Hayes) Sitton; son, Cecil G. Hayes; 3 grandsons, 1 granddaughter; 7 great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services held 2 pm, Monday, January 12, 2009 at Monroe Cemetery Pavilion, Monroe, OK. Interment following. Rev. Jim Cook officiating.

Herbert Gene Collins

Herbert Gene Collins, 80, passed away on Sunday January 4, 2009 at the Okmulgee Memorial Hospital in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. He lived to be 80 years old. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, January 8, 2008 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma. Interment will follow the services at Greenhill Cemetery in Cameron, Oklahoma. Herbert was born in Shady Point, Oklahoma on August 8, 1928 and was the 8th son of Claude A. Collins & Artie Perl Jones Collins. He served in the US Navy for 3 years aboard the USS Charles P. Cecil. He was also awarded the World War II Victory Medal for his services. He married Blanch Geraldine Keeran on September 1, 1952 in Checotah, OK. They stayed married until her passing on May 1, 2003. Survivors included one son Charles Collins, one daughter Judy Lynn McFarland, 3 grandchildren & 4 great grandchildren; He was also survived by 3 brothers, Henry Collins of Oklahoma City, OK, Pat Collins of Advance, NC, & Kenneth Collins of Carson City, NV; numerous other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal & paternal grandparents, his father & his mother; his loving wife & 6 brothers. Herbert will be dearly missed by all.

Matthew Nelson Cooper

Matthew Nelson Cooper, 17, of Poteau, OK, passed away on January 5, 2009 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born October 1, 1991 in Ft. Smith, AR. He was known as Nelson by Mom, Dad, Sister, & family, & known as “Matt by his many friends. Nelson was a JR at Poteau High School & well liked by all who knew him. He was a kind-hearted, compassionate, sensitive to others’ needs, non-judgmentaal, & fun to be around boy who loved all. Nelson had a special gift for connecting with small children whom he showed lots of attention & patience. Nelson always enjoyed family get-togethers & “movie nights”. He loved to “hang out” & spend a lot of time with his friends, play video games & watch T.V. He didn’t take life too seriously; he was laid back & carefree. He strived to make each day a happy one. He always made others laugh & his commentaries will never be forgotten. He believed in organ donation & his contributions will enable others to have life. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Bill & La-Dean Ritter and (Smokey) and Juanita Mae Cooper He is survived by his parents, Joe & Becky Cooper, Sister Crystal Kay Cooper of the home; aunts & uncles, Randy Cooper of Poteau, Gary Cooper of Greenwood, AR, Frances and David Butler, Virginia and Steve Hughes, Lora and Tim Daugherty, all of Poteau, Lawton and Veronica Ritter of Spiro; cousins Michael Cooper of Poteau, John and Jaime Cooper of Fort Worth, Texas, Angela Cooper of Tulsa, Billy Joe Ritter of Poteau, Darrin Baxter of Spiro, Rhonda and Pete Young of Tulsa, Amy and Doug Martinez of Poteau, Brian Hughes of Pryor, Loralee and Bryce Hamman, David Lee and Tabby Eggleston, Kathy and Justin Akins, and Desiray Daugherty all of Poteau; very special friend, Amanda Hall and numerous other relatives & loved ones and a host of beloved friends. A celebration of Nelson’s life will be conducted Saturday, January 10, 2009 at 2:00 pm at Bob Lee Kidd Civic Center in Poteau, OK with Reverend Jim Cook officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau. Pallbearers will be Billy Joe Ritter, David Lee Eggleston, Brian Hughes, Michael Cooper, John Cooper, Justin Akins, and Bryce Hamman. Honorary pallbearers will be Doug Martinez and Pete Young.

Arnol V. Watts

Arnol V. Watts, 68, of Cameron, OK passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2009 in Cameron. Arnol was born on May 23, 1940 in Rosedale, Oklahoma to Rich & Viola Watts. He was a farmer & rancher. He loved spending time with his family & friends. Arnol is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, RV Watts; 4 sisters, Katherine Moore, Virginia Fox, Una Maye Watts, & Ina Doyle; a son Monty Watts; and a granddaughter Jamie Watts. Arnol is survived by his wife of 42 years, Shirley Watts of the home; 3 daughters & sons in law, Becky & Scotty Terry & Denise & Billy Ray Colwell all of Cameron, Oklahoma; & Sabra & Everett Seagraves of Shady Point, OK; 2 sons & daughters in law, Rick & Priscilla Watts of Spiro, OK & Jason & Amanda Watts, of Cameron, OK; a daughter in law, Tammy Watts of Cameron, OK; 12 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, 3 sisters Dollie Underwood of Spiro, OK, Faye & Don Bryant of Dallas, TX, Mary & Leon Mangrum of Tulsa, OK; brother & sister in law, Jesse & Bea Watts of Fort Smith, AR; a brother in law, J.C. Doyle of Tulsa, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Arnol were held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, Oklahoma with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma. Pallbearers were Steve Underwood, David Lee Moore, Billy Don Doyle, Roger Watts, Bradley Bryant, & Brian Long. Honorary pallbearers were his nephews and grandsons.

Mikal D. Morphis

Mikal D. Morphis, 20, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2009 at Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center in Poteau, Oklahoma. Mikal was born on March 18, 1988 in Poteau, OK to Dwain & Kecia (Chandler) Morphis. He worked in the oil fields and loved spending time with his family and friends. Mikal is survived by his fiancé’ and mother of his child, Sammy Joe Perkins of the home; a daughter Kayegen Jean Morphis of the home; his mother Kecia Chandler of Poteau, OK; his father Dwain Morphis of Poteau, OK; 3 sisters Lydia Brown of Gilmore, OK, Callee Parsons of Tulsa, OK & Karissa Morphis of Poteau, OK; a brother, Troy Barnett of Poteau, OK; his paternal grandmother, Imogene Ellis of Poteau, OK; his maternal grandparents, Winford & Carolyn Chandler of Poteau, OK his maternal great grandmother, Lavina Quigg of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Micak held at 2:00 pm Friday, January 9, 2009 at Springhill Baptist Church in Monroe, Oklahoma with the Rev. Frankie Harris officiating. Interment following services in Monroe Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Kevin Gee, Jerry Bailey, Cory Pickle, Louis Ping, Chris Peterson, & Jarrett Goforth.

Anna Lou Capell

Anna Lou Capell, 84, of Poteau, OK passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2008 in Ft. Smith, AR. Mrs. Capell was born November 30, 1924 in Johnson County, AR. She was a homemaker; a member of the Poteau Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Ambrose L. "Al" Capell on June 11, 1995; as well as her parents O.B. & Viola (West) Sisco; brothers & sister, Clyde Sisco, Robert "Bob" Sisco, & Betty Turney. Survivors include 2 sons and their wives, Larry & Loretta Capell, Gary & Viola Capell of Poteau, OK; granddaughter, Tammy Annette Perry of Dallas, TX; 2 grandsons, Cody Louis Capell & Aaron Wayne Capell of Poteau, OK; 2 sisters, Wanda Prater of Oklahoma City, OK and Kathryn Williams of Rock Mart, GA; 2 brothers, Charles Sisco of Panama, OK & Kenneth Sisco of Shady Point, OK; numerous nieces & nephews; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends; and her sweet dogs, Angel & Corky. Services will be Saturday, January 3, 2009 at the Poteau Church of Christ, Poteau, OK with Don Cherry, Rev. Jim Cook & Bob Marchant officiating. Interment will follow in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers will be Larry Turney, Phillip Hudson, Jerry Hudson, Robert Earl Sisco, Leon Prater, Taylor Newby, Glen Turney, Cody Capell, & Aaron Capell.

Betty Joan Whitson

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

Judith Kay "Judy" Richison

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

Shanna Lavon Short

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

Elva Oehlschlager

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

Jack Howard Michael

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

Maudie Geraldine Hudlow

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

Joyce Amanda Smith

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

Kenneth Ray Allen

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

William Floyd "Bill" Ward Jr.

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

E.J. Solomon

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

Eugene V. Dunn

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

Foy Lee Rimer

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

Russell Granville McKenzie

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