Katherine Stephens

Katherine Stephens, 78, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, May 11, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. She was born in Florence, Arizona on September 11, 1930 to Arthur & Mattie (Journeay) Langford. Mrs. Stephens was a homemaker. Survivors include her husband, John C. Stephens of the home; 4 daughters, Bonnie Ellis of Poteau, OK, Carol Ann Benamor of Monroe, OK, Bobbie Jean Frankhouser of Florence, OR, Yvonne Lynnette Wickup of Isleton, CA; 2 sons, James Arthur Mack Joe "Jimmy" Stephens of Manteca, CA Johnny P. "Johnny Boy" Stephens of Milpitas, CA; 13 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; 2 brothers, A.C. Langford of Anchorage, AK, Smokey Langford of Spokane, WA; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services 2 pm, Saturday, May 16, 2009 at Sugarloaf Christian Fellowship, Monroe, OK; Rev. Les Scroggins officiating. Interment in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK

Taylor N. Rolen

Taylor N. Rolen, 11, of Poteau, OK passed away on Friday, May 8, 2009 in Tulsa, OK. Taylor was born on January 12, 1998 in Okmulgee, OK to Stacey & Lori Aud Rolen. She was a Baptist and a 4th grade student at Poteau Public Schools. Taylor is survived by her parents, Lori & Billy Shropshire of Wister, OK; her father, Stacey Rolen of Okmulgee, OK; 3 sisters, Destiny Rolen of Wister, OK & Misty Shropshire & Lori Cooper both of Ft. Campbell, KY; 2 brothers, Blake Shropshire of Wister, OK & Tommy Shropshire of Tulsa, OK; her maternal grandmother, Debbie Aud of Midwest City, OK; her paternal grandparents, Linda Rolen of Okmulgee, OK, Calvin Rolen of Kansas City, KS, & Leonard Shropshire of Poteau, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Taylor were held Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Tracy Loyd officiating Interment followed the services in Summerfield Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Mike Aud & Mark Aud.

W. Steve "Buck" Garrett

Steve “Buck” Garrett, 86, of Poteau, OK passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2009 in Tulsa. Steve was born on February 26, 1923 in Poteau to Hillard Steve & Letha (Robbins) Garrett. He was a DX gasoline distributor and managed the LeFlore Nursing Home in the late 1960’s. Buck was a member of First Baptist Church of Poteau, the Rotary Club, Poteau Alumni Association, the Quarterback Club (he ran the football clock for over 35 years) a school board member for 25+ years, a 50 year Mason; & was a member & former assistant fire chief for the Poteau Fire department, serving for 44+ years. He was an avid Poteau Pirate & OU Sooner fan. Buck is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ella Lee Garrett; his parents, Hillard Steve & Letha (Robbins) Garrett; a sister, Alma Garrett Taylor; and a nephew Jack Henson. Steve is survived by his daughter, Lynda Lea Garrett of Tulsa, OK; a sister, Anna “Tootie” Alfred of Tulsa, OK; a nephew, James R. Alfred of Tulsa, OK; 4 nieces, Kathy Taylor Harris of Inola, OK, Emma Lou Cox of Bartlesville, OK, Claranne Hayes of Miami, OK & Mary Beth Retherford of Owasso, OK; a number of great nieces & great nephews; other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Steve were held at 2:00 pm Thursday, May 7, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Poteau, OK with the Reverend Phil McGehee officiating. Interment followed the services at Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Harrell Bright, Lance Smith, Bob Free, Bert Corr, Scottie Bratton, Dewey Shoup, Dewayne Fussell, & Charles “Chuck” Hollingsworth. Honorary pallbearers were the members of the Poteau Fire Department, retired Poteau Fire Fighters, Phillip Zearley, Cloyis Clay, & Sherman Floyd.

Paul Edward Jones

Paul Edward Jones,88, of Heavener, OK passed away on Monday, May 4, 2009 in Wister, OK. Paul was born on April 28, 1921 in Winfield, AR to JC & Ola (Brothers) Jones. Paul was raised in Blackfork, AR. He married the former Reba Scott on May 6, 1942. He served in the US Army from 1942-1945, Paul worked in timber and the oilfields, and sold cars for a number of years in Mena, AR. He spent his last productive years bailing hay and ranching at Big Creek. Paul was a member of Big Creek Baptist Church. His beloved wife; a son, Donnie Jones; a sister Clara Bowen; 2 brothers, Floyd “Bob” & Lloyd “Bill” Jones, and his parents precede him in death. Paul is survived by his 3 daughters, Jean Meeks of Wister, OK; Jackie Steelman & Linda Duncan both of Heavener, OK; 2 sons, Ronnie Jones of Terrebonne, OR & Cary “Fred” Jones of Caddo, OK: 20 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, 5 great great grandchildren; a sister Helen Nulick of Enid, OK; a brother, JK Jones of Midland, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, loved ones, & friends. Funeral services for Paul were held at 10:00 am, Friday, May 8, 2009 at Big Creek Baptist Church in the Haw Creek Community with the Reverend Bob E Cherry officiating. Interment followed the services in Hontubby Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Brother Meeks, John Steelman, Jacob Duncan, Mason Jones, Rylan Miller, Brandon Hemphill, & Lane Titsworth.

J Craig Smith

J Craig Smith, 46, of Wister, OK passed away on Monday, May 4, 2009 in Wister. Craig was born on May 26, 1962 in Larned, KS to Martin James & Iva Mae Kershner Smith. Craig married Teresa Byrd, the daughter of Ray & LaQuita Byrd on February 21, 1987 in Larned, KS & they have resided in Wister, OK for the last 22 years. Craig was a member of Bethel Baptist Church. He loved all sports especially grade & high school events and cheering on his daughter in all that she did. Craig was employed by Breeden Dodge in Fort Smith, AR. He was an avid hunter & loved golf & the outdoor life. Craig is survived by his wife Teresa Smith of the home; a daughter Jagan Smith of the home; his parents, Martin & Iva Smith, his grandmother Elma Kershner of Oklahoma City, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Craig were held at 2:00 pm Friday, May 8, 2009 at Bethel Baptist Church in Wister, OK with Reverend Clyde Steelman officiating. Interment followed the services in Maxey Cemetery in Wister with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Brian Barham, Ed Navarro, Jerry Henderson, Ricky Crane, Rocky Crane, Jason Kidd, Jason Adams, & Chris Hamm.

Bobby Ellen Adams

Bobby Ellen Adams, 64, of Wister,OK passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 in Poteau. Bobby was born on February 10, 1945 in Bengal, OK to Bill & Willie Mae (Dorris) Phillips. She was a daycare owner operator. Bobby was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Jewel Holson; 3 sisters, Marie Martin, Ruby Pass, & Sue Phillips 2 brothers, Billy Martin & Bud Martin; and a grandson, Tyler Brown Bobby is survived by her husband, Jay Adams of the home; a son, “Red” Roberts of Yellville, AR; a daughter, Lorry Brown of Arkansas; a stepson, Darrell Adams of Wister, OK; 2 stepdaughters, Carolyn Gutierrez of Belton, TX & Reah Maynor of Wister, OK; grandchildren, Nathan Roberts, Jonathan Brown, Chase Brown, & Trey Brown; great grandchildren, Jewel Roberts & Colista Roberts; 2 sisters, Dorothy Bollinger & Betty Ann Smith; 2 brothers, Kenneth Martin & Charles Phillips; numerous other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends Memorial services for Bobby were held at 2:00 pm Saturday, May 9, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook & the Reverend Brian Maynor officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

DORIS JEAN POPE

DORIS JEAN (SASNETT) POPE, AGE 67, PASSED FROM THIS LIFE AND WAS WELCOMED INTO HEAVEN ON SATURDAY, MAY 2, 2009 AT HER HOME IN LEFLORE, SURROUNDED BY FAMILY AFTER A LONG HARD FOUGHT BATTLE WITH CANCER. DORIS WAS BORN TO ED AND SCOTTIE SASNETT, ON JULY 12, 1941, IN THE GREEN VALLEY AREA JUST WEST OF THE TOWN OF LEFLORE. SHE ATTENDED LEFLORE PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND WAS A GRADUATE OF LEFLORE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1959. SHE RECEIVED HER COSMETOLOGY LICENSE THROUGH THE TALIHINA BEAUTY COLLEGE AND OPENED DORIS’ BEAUTY SHOP IN THE EARLY 70’S IN LEFLORE. DORIS WORKED FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS AT THE LATIMER COUNTY HOSPITAL IN WILBURTON AND COUNTRY BOY FURNITURE IN POTEAU. DORIS AND JOHNNY RAY ALSO OWNED POPE’S FEED STORE AND RANCH SUPPLY IN TALIHINA FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS. IN 1990 SHE BUILT DJ’S HANDY STOP IN LEFLORE AND ENJOYED WORKING IN HER STORE AND BEAUTY SHOP. LATER DORIS AND HER HUSBAND BUILT POPE’S FARM AND RANCH SUPPLY ACROSS THE STREET FROM DJ’S HANDY STOP. IN THE LEFLORE COMMUNITY DORIS’ STORE WAS THE PLACE TO GET A COLD POP, EAT A SANDWICH AND CATCH UP ON ALL THE NEWS AROUND LEFLORE. DORIS ALSO WORKED HARD TO HELP JOHNNY RAY ON THEIR RANCH WEST OF LEFLORE. AUNT DORIS LOVED ERIC AND RONNIE WHO LIVED WITH HER AND UNCLE JOHNNY IN LEFLORE AND THEY GRADUATED FROM LEFLORE HIGH SCHOOL DORIS MARRIED JOHNNY RAY POPE ON DECEMBER 20, 1959 IN LEFLORE. THEY HAD CELEBRATED THEIR 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY THIS PAST DECEMBER 20, 2008. THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY WAS HOSTED BY HER CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN. A DAY THAT DORIS ENJOYED SEEING AND VISITING WITH MANY FRIENDS AND FAMILY. DORIS ENJOYED HAVING FAMILY GET-TOGETHERS AT HER HOME AND COOKING FOR HER FAMILY. FISH FRYS, BBQ COOKOUTS, AND QUAIL BREAKFASTS WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS WERE JUST SOME OF THE EVENTS AT HER HOME. SHE MADE THE BEST JAR PICKLES IN THE SUMMER AND WOULD DIVIDE THEM OUT BECAUSE SO MANY FRIENDS AND FAMILY WANTED JARS OF THOSE PICKLES. DORIS WAS FAMOUS FOR HER CHICKEN-N-DUMPLINGS, CORNBREAD DRESSING AND HOMEMADE BUTTERMILK BISCUITS. DORIS ENJOYED TAKING HER FAMILY OUT TO EAT ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS, BUT WE KNEW IT WOULD ONLY BE CATFISH COVE IN FORT SMITH OR GIA COMO’S IN MCALESTER. SHE ENJOYED ATTENDING LEFLORE SAVAGE AND LADY SAVAGE BASKETBALL GAMES. AND HAD BEEN KNOWN TO YELL OUT TO ADVISE THE REFEREE HE HAD MADE A BAD CALL AGAINST ERIC, RONNIE, CODY OR MISTY. SHE WOULD BE DELIGHTED WHEN PEOPLE WOULD TELL HER WHAT A GOOD BASKETBALL PLAYER SHE WAS WHEN SHE WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL. SHE ENJOYED GOING TO BRANSON AT CHRISTMAS TO SHOP AND SEE THE LIGHTS, GOING TO ROBBERS CAVE FALL FESTIVAL AND THE AFFAIR OF THE HEART ART AND CRAFT SHOW IN TULSA. DORIS SERVED ON THE BOARD OF THE KIAMICHI AREA NUTRITION PROGRAM AND SERVED AS TRUSTEE OF THE FULL GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP CHURCH OF LEFLORE, WHICH WAS FOUNDED BY HER MOTHER SCOTTIE SASNETT. DORIS ENJOYED HELPING SUE MINGS AT THE ANNUAL ALUMNI BANQUET EVERY MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND AT LEFLORE SCHOOL. DORIS WAS PRECEDED IN DEATH BY HER PARENTS AND A BROTHER, JAMES “DUB” SASNETT; HER HUSBAND’S PARENTS, JOHN VERNON AND RUTH POPE. PALLBEARERS WILL BE JAMES SASNETT & EDDY WAYNE SASNETT OF OKLAHOMA CITY, OK ; MICHAEL KERWIN OF WOODBRIDGE, VA, JIM WAITS, SAM WARD, AND LARRY MCALESTER, ALL OF LEFLORE, OK ; HONORARY PALLBEARERS WILL BE THE LEFLORE GRADUATING CLASS OF 1959 AND COACH/CLASS SPONSOR, NADINE CARPENTER. DORIS IS SURVIVED BY HER HUSBAND, JOHNNY RAY: DAUGHTER, RENEE AND HUSBAND LES JOHNSON OF LEFLORE, OK; SON, WAYNE & WIFE REGINA POPE OF LEFLORE, OK, GRANDCHILDREN, JOSH POPE, CODY JOHNSON, KAYLA POPE, MISTY JOHNSON, JOHNNY PAUL JOHNSON & MAKENZIE POPE ALL OF LEFLORE, OK; GREAT GRANDCHILD, LEXIE JOHNSON; SISTERS, MELBA “LOIS” McFERRAN OF TULSA, OK, JANE CARTER & HUSBAND KENNY OF CONCORD, CA GENEVA BELL OF OKLAHOMA CITY, OK; BROTHER, MARVIN SASNETT AND WIFE JOYCE OF OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, HALF BROTHERS, EDDY WAYNE SASNETT & HARLEY SASNETT OF OKLAHOMA CITY,OK; DALE SASNETT OF McALESTER, OK; AUNTS, LAVADA HAMNER OF TULSA, OK BETTY DIXON, LEFLORE, OK, SPECIAL GREAT NEPHEWS ERIC JERNIGAN AND WIFE CYNDI OF BROKEN ARROW, OK, RONNIE HENDERSON & WIFE CATHLEEN OF JENKS, OK; SPECIAL BEST FRIEND AND SISTER IN HEART, JEWEL LEFLORE OF LEFLORE; BEST FRIEND, SUE MINGS OF LEFLORE Other COUSINS, SPECIAL NIECES & NEPHEWS; OTHER Relatives & Loved Ones; A Host of Beloved Friends Services 10 am Tuesday, May 5, 2009 at LeFlore Baptist Church in LeFlore, OK with Rev. Ron Bss & Rev. Ed Sasnett officiating. Interment following in LeFlore Cemetery.

Ronnie Joe Goodman

Ronnie Joe Goodman, 67, of Pocola, OK passed away Saturday, May 2, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. He was born in Slayton, TX on April 8, 1942, to Joe Harvey & Lilla Mae (Kline) Goodman. Ronnie was a truck driver; a veteran of the US Army having served in Korea. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Rhonda Goodman Langley; 2 brotheres, Kenneth & Harold; 2 sisters, Gracie Harp & Barbara Lusk; and his parents. Survivors include his daughters & sons in law; Lucia & Bill Brasher of Blue Mountain, AR, Nettie & Carlos Gonzalez of Pocola, OK; son & daughter in law, Ronnie & Amanda Goodman of Pocola, OK; wife, Elva Goodman of Pocola, OK; 8 grandchildren, Nicholas Brasher, Amber Warnock, Krystyn Francis, Chelsea Francis, Houston Francis, James T. Goodman, Taylor Goodman & Sierra Goodman; grandson in law, Matthew Warnock; 3 sisters, Elizabeth Cook of Ennis, TX, Sue Goodman of Texas & Kimberly Goodman of Houston, TX; 4 brothers, Clinton Goodman of Ennis, TX, STanley & wife Marie Goodman of Ennis, TX, Wesley Goodman of Houston, TX & Bradley Goodman of Florida; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 9:30 am, Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at Evans Memorial Chapel in Pocola, with Rev. John Cockerham & Stanley Goodman officiating. Interment will follow at 11 am at Ft. Smith National Cemetery, Ft. Smith, AR. Pallbearers: William "Bill" Brasher, Nicholas Brasher, James T. Goodman, Matt Warnock, Kevin Goodman, & James H. Goodman. The family will visit with friends on Tuesday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home in Pocola.

Patricia Ann Bolin

Patricia Ann Bolin, 64, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, May 1, 2009 in Poteau. Patricia was born in Danville, Kentucky on June 6, 1944 to Luther & Ollie (Lair) Bolin. She was a homemaker & of the Baptist faith. Patricia is survived by her husband, James Lewallen of Poteau, OK; 2 daughters, Lisa Opsahl of Cedar Rapids, IA & Theresa Bolin of Orlando, FL; 2 sons, Larry Anderson of Cedar Rapids, IA & James Anderson of Little Rock, AR; numerous grandchildren; 3 sisters, Edna Miller of Danville, KY, Edie Lane of Nocholsville, KY, & Betty Dean of Lancaster, KY; 1 brother, Ralph Bolin of Eureka, MO; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Thursday, May 7, 2009 at the Oakland Cemetery Pavilion in Poteau, OK with the Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment following in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK.

Luther Wayne Helton

Luther Wayne Helton, 62, of Poteau, OK passed away in Poteau on Friday, May 1, 2009. Wayne was born August 17, 1946 in Tulare CA. to Luther Paul & Vera (Huggins) Helton. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War; a maintenance welder and mechanic. He is survived by his mother, Vera Helton of Poteau, OK; 2 daughters, Lori Diaz of Omaha, NE & Tonya Andrews of Modesto, CA; brothers, Bill Helton of Claremore, OK and James Helton of Tyler, TX, sisters, Kay Romine of Van Buren,AR & Cleo "Cookie" Crawford of Caddo, OK; 9 Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Monday, May 4, 2009 at Southside Baptist Church in Poteau, OK with the Rev. Monty Thompson officiating. Interment following in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK.

John Harrison Remy

John Harrison Remy, 52, of Howe, OK passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 in Howe. John was born on October 18, 1956 in Poteau, OK. John served in the US Army and was a heavy equipment operator. His mother & stepfather, Darkasha “Shea” & L.H. Smith; his father, H.M. Remy; a sister, Gail Holt; and a daughter, Charlotte Remy precede John in death. John is survived by 5 sons, Fred Remy , Jeremy Remy, Joshua Remy, Justin Routen, & Timothy Corley, all of Poteau, OK; 2 daughters, Jennifer Strickland & April Remy, both of Howe, OK; 15 grandchildren; 4 sisters, Beverly, Susie, Lori Ann, & Nan; 5 brothers, Sluggo, Terry, Greg, James, & Stan; a special nephew, Alex Harp of Poteau, OK; his stepmother, Darlene Remy; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; & many beloved friends. Funeral services for John were held at 2:00 pm, Friday, April 3, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating Interment followed the services at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK

Floys Otto Barnes

Floys Otto Barnes, 84, of Poteau, OK passed away on Monday, April 20, 2009 in Poteau, Floys was born on March 4, 1925 in Heavener, Oklahoma to Roy Otto & Thera Ann (Young) Barnes. Floys was a member of Southside Baptist Church here he had served as custodian and church assistant treasurer as well as teaching the Senior Men’s Sunday School Class. He had attended school in Hontubby, Heavener, & Poteau Junior College. He served 4 years in the US Navy during World War II. He married the former Rita Shelton in 1950 and moved to Poteau where he worked as an electrician, establishing & running Barnes Electric Company for a number of years before closing the business and going to work for Johnson Controls where he worked for 21 years until his retirement. Floys was dedicated to his family. His hobbies were working with the church youth and he loved his bass fishing. Floys was preceded in death by his wife, Rita Shelton Barnes; his parents; & 2 brothers, James Barnes & Milburn Barnes . Floys is survived by 2 sons & daughters in law, Ronney & Janice Barnes of Pocola, OK & Reggie & Deanna Barnes of Hemphill, TX; 2 brothers, Horace Barnes of Searcy, AR & Herman Barnes of Poteau, OK; 2 grandchildren Heather Barnes of Pocola, OK & Chad Neal of LeMoore, CA; 3 great grandchildren; his best friend and companion, Bobbie Rowland of Shady Point, OK; his best fishing buddy & friend that a man could have, Jim Welton of Poteau, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Floys were held at 10:00 am, Thursday, April 23, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Dale Rogers officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau.

Harold Lavon Petefish

Harold Lavon Petefish, 75, of Shady Point, OK passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2009 in Spiro, Oklahoma. Harold was born on January 8, 1934 in Jacksonville, IL to Harold & Vera (Freeman)Petefish. He was of the Baptist faith; a veteran of the US Air Force and a security guard. He had lived in the Shady Point area since June of 2008. Harold is survived by his wife, Betty Petefish of the home; 3 daughters, Janet McDuffie of Shady Point,, OK; Kimberly Harris of Richland, MS & Gina Turek of Missouri; a son Aaron Petefish of Gautier, MS; 10 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; a sister, Donna Velten of Virginia, IL; numerous other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. Graveside services were held for Harold at 10:00 am, Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, AR with the Reverend Jim Parsley officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Bobby Joe “Bob” McCroskey

Bobby Joe “Bob” McCroskey, 69, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 in Poteau. Bob was born on January 10, 1940 in Muldrow, OK to Orville & Wilma (McConnell) McCroskey. Bob was of the Southern Baptist faith and an auto mechanic. He served 8 years in the Oklahoma Army National Guard. Bob married the former Marie Alena Smith on July 30, 1960. He was an avid fisherman and loved spending time with his family. Bob’s parents and a sister Anna Marie precede him in death. Bob is survived by his wife, Marie Alena McCroskey of the home; a daughter & son in law, Kerri Jolena & Brian Barnard of Poteau, OK; a granddaughter, Leah Gail Barnard of Poteau, OK; 2 sisters & a brother in law, Emma & AV Skinner of Poteau, OK & Margaret Kafka of Grove, OK; 4 brothers & sisters in law, Orville “Dinger” & Phyllis McCroskey of Shady Point, OK, Eddie & Ann McCroskey of Poteau, OK, Charles & Leta McCroskey of Poteau, OK & Fred & Mary McCroskey of Oklahoma City, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Bob were held at 10:00 am, Saturday, April 18, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were his nephews.

Dennis Michael Aldridge

Dennis Michael Aldridge, 45, of Heavener, OK passed away on Saturday, April, 2009 in Heavener. Dennis was born on August 1, 1963 in Harvey, IL to William “Bill” & Margo Aldridge. He was a refrigeration tech for OK Foods. Dennis loved watching NASCAR, fishing, working on old cars & cooking every chance he got. His mother preceded Dennis in death. Dennis is survived by 2 daughters, Deanna Aldridge of Fort Smith, AR & Ashley Aldridge of Haskell, OK; 2 grandchildren, Elania Ford & Christopher Loomis, both of Fort Smith, AR; his father, Bill Aldridge of Champagne, IL; 3 brothers, Harry Aldridge of Champagne, IL, Jimmy Aldridge of Florida, & Ricky Aldridge of Indiana; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Dennis were held at 2:00 pm Thursday, April 16, 2009 at First Step of Faith Church in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Bill Sanders 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 Michael Stewart, Steve Turner, Wayne Kersh, Frank Mode, David Brinlee, & Billy Poston.

Gaylord B Wann

Gaylord B. Wann Gaylord B. Wann, 81, of Pocola, OK passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2009 in Pocola. Gaylord was born on February 7, 1928 in Lucas, Arkansas to Ben & Luella (Farmer) Wann. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church of Pocola. He was a Jr. High School Principal and Boys Coach for 34 years until his retirement. Gaylord is preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Reathel Andrews & Rotha Balentine; a brother, Coolidge Wann; and special nephew, Wayne Andrews. Gaylord is survived by his beloved wife, Patsy Wayne Wann of the home; 2 daughters & sons in law, Sandra & Neal Wilson of Pocola, OK & Gaylene & Bob Wurlzbacher of Bentonville, AR; granddaughter & her husband, Mindy & Shea Ellis of Greenwood, AR; 2 grandsons & their wives, Tim & Stefanie Damato of Pocola, OK & Brandon & Sarah Wilson of Centerton, AR; 2 step granddaughters & their husbands, Jessica & George Crawford & Jennifer & Will Hicks, all of Dallas, Texas; 9 great grandchildren, Madison Lomon, Blaise Lomon, Taren Ellis, Gage Ellis, Chloe Damato, Emma Damato, Ily Crawford, Audrey Crawford, & Darby Hicks; a brother, Farmer J. Wann of Pocola, OK; 2 sisters, Ruth Gatlin of El Centro, CA & Mental Balentine of Wister, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Gaylord were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Trinity Baptist Church of Pocola, OK with the Reverend Paul Walker & the Reverend Richard Maness officiating. Interment followed the services in Old Bokoshe Cemetery in Bokoshe, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Pocola, OK. Pallbearers were Neal Wilson, Bob Wurtzbacher, Tim Damato, Brandon Wilson, Shea Ellis, & Ron Wann. Special honorary pallbearers were members of his ball teams who have kept in close contact throughout the years, Dale Haskins, Ken Gordon, Ron Hall, Roger Wilcox, George Reaves, & Jess Womack. Honorary pallbearers were Bob Strack, Paul Statham, JB James, Keith Patton, Logan Howard, Brian Patton, Henry Trimble, Joe Yates, & Doug Statham.

Bob Crandell

Bob Crandell, 74, of Poteau, OK, went to be with his Lord on Friday, April 10, 2009, from Muskogee, OK. Bob was born January 5, in Poteau, OK, to Charles Alva & Clara (Barnes) Crandell. He was a veteran of the US Army and he served in Korea. He was an avid outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman, who loved guns. Bob was very conservative and a strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jerry, Phillip, Roger & Tom; sister, Patricia Moore. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Shirley; 3 sons, Kenneth Wayne Crandell of Broken Arrow, OK, Michael Eugene Crandell of Poteau, OK & David Forrest Crandell of Tulsa, OK; 6 Grandchildren, Angela, Rebecca, Sarah, Danielle, Joshua & Christina Crandell; 1 Great Grandchild, Ryan Kenneth Turner; 2 sisters, Emma Burch of Ft. Worth, TX, & Judy Tackett of Albion, Michigan; 2 brothers, Don Crandell of Moore, OK & Larry Crandell of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be at 2 pm, Tuesday, April 14, 2009, at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK, with Rev. Bill Donaldson officiating. Interment will follow in Ellis Chapel Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers will be Kenneth, Michael, David, Larry & Don Crandell and Jim Guinn.

Irene Marie (Hagenson) Pope

Irene Marie (Hagenson) Pope, 64, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2009 in Poteau, OK. Irene was born on February 5, 1945 in Clinton, Iowa to Ernest William & Lillian Irene (Dowson) Hagenson. Irene was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses and a homemaker. Her parents & 2 brothers preceded Irene in death. Irene is survived by her husband, Teddy Pope of the home; a brother, Paul Dent of Bellevue, IA, a sister, Sarah Heath of Clinton, IA; special friend & caregiver, Brenda Luman of Wister, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Memorial services for Irene were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Wilbern Lee Jones

Wilbern Lee Jones, of LeFlore, OK passed away Saturday, April 4, 2009 at his home in LeFlore. He was born in Clayton, OK on July 14, 1924 to Robert L. & Vernie (Hawkins) Jones. Wilbern attended school in Waldron, AR. He was a veteran of the US Army Air Corps and served in WWII. He married Arma Lee Sandlin on February 12, 1946. They moved to Arizona in 1948 where he worked on the railroad until his retirement in 1986. They returned to LeFlore; enjoying raising cattle, gardening, hunting, and fishing. Wilburn was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Clovis Freeman & one great grandchild, Margarette White. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Arma Lee; daughter & son in law, Sandra L. & Kenneth Huens of Poteau, OK; son & daughter in law, James R. & Pamela Jones of Mammoth, AZ; grandchildren, Johnny & wife Laurie Cobb, Annette & husband, Denver Turner, Janet M & Husband John White, Deanna D. & husband Gregg Fode, Robert & wife Cecy Jones; 13 Great Grandchildren; 18 Great Great Grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 2 pm, Thursday, April 9, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK

Gertrude Dixon

Gertrude Dixon, 87, of Pocola, OK went to be with the Lord on April 1, 2009 from her home in Pocola. She was born in Cedars, OK on April 21, 1921 to Francis & Nettie [Anderson] Montgomery. She was a homemaker and a member of Union Missionary Baptist Church in Pocola, OK. Mrs. Dixon is survived by one son, Willie Joe Dixon of Pocola, OK; 5 daughters, Betty Bunch of Spiro, OK, Lucille Wilson of Ft. Smith, AR, Birta Dixon of Pocola, OK, V. Ann Dixon-Reid of Richmond, TX, Darlene Dixon-Carter of Pocola, OK, Rosie Rawlins of Pocola, OK; 20 Grandchildren, 19 Great Grandchildren, 6 Great Great Grandchildren; 2 sistesr, Thelma Clark and Francis Whitmore of Pocola, OK; and brother, Robert Montgomery of Ft. Smith, AR. Services will be held 11 am, Monday, April 6, 2009 at Union Missionary Baptist Church in Pocola, OK with interment following in Leard Cemetery, Pocola, OK.

GERALD CURTIS NEFF

Gerald Curtis Neff, 73, of Poteau, OK went to his heavenly home March 28, 2009. He was born in Poteau, OK to Lucille (Frank) & Curtis Neff February 20, 1936. He was a Farmer's Insurance Agent in Poteau for 31 years. In his younger years he was a professional truck driver for Johnson Controls. He was past Lions International District 3K Governor & he received the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, the highest honor of the Lions Club Int'l Foundation. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Poteau. He and Elizabeth Eck were married on October 19, 1956. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, mother & father in law, Chloia & Fred Eck; and daughter, Jann Neff Ethen. Survivors include his wife Elizabeth; daughters, Lisa Leming of OKC, Christy & Kenneth Jones of Haskell, OK; son in law, Mark Ethen of OKC; 7 grandchildren, Jake & Jaime Leming, Leah Leming of Poteau, OK, Luke & Dusty Leming of Gilbert, AZ, Katie & Stephen Ethen of OKC, Sarah & Aaron Jones of Haskell; 2 great grandchildren, Rebekah & Kylie Leming; 2 great grandchildren expected in August; mom, Vivian Frank Tullis & brother, Howard Frank & Lynda of Broken Arrow, OK; sisters in law, Freda & husband John Reed of Poteau, Donna Mitchell of Owasso, Darline & husband Bill Best of Tulsa; devoted employees & friends, Tonia Johnson & Stacee Midgley; special friends, Jim & Anita Estes family. Services: 2 pm, Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at First Christian Church, Poteau. Dennis Jones & Tracy Ellis officiating. Interment Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK - Pallbearers, Jake & Luke Leming, Johnny Reed, Denny Casey, Kenney Casey, Doug Casey, Mike Reif; honorary pallbearers, Jim Estes, John Reed, Veachel Davis, Charlie Been, F.L. HOlton, Dick Winters, Stephen Ethen, Aaron Jones. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church, PO Box 160 Poteau, OK 74953; or Indian Nations Ministries, H.C. 68, Box 106, Nashoba,OK 74558

BRADLEY MORRIS

Bradley Morris, 76, of Wister, Ok passed away Saturday, March 28, 2009 in Fort Smith, AR. He was born in Wister on January 4, 1934 to Wilbert & Monnie (Curtis) Morris. Bradley was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He was married to Sue Humphreville on August 27, 1960. Bradley was a retired teacher; a member of the First United Methodist Church in Wister and a member of the Gideon's International. He is survived by his wife, Sue of the home; 2 sons, Mark Bradley Morris of McAlester, OK & Scott Dewitt Morris of Norman, OK and 3 Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at First United Methodist Church in Wister, OK with Rev. Don Whitman. Interment in Maxey Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers: D.B. Lampkin, Mark Morris, Leroy Pittman, Harmon Robinson, Sammy Joe Bennett & Terry Morris. Family Visitation: 6-8 pm Tuesday Evening at the funeral home

Brian Earl Dailey

Brian Earl Dailey, 21, of Howe, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2009 in Howe, OK. Brian was born on November 17, 1987 in Poteau, OK to Clyde & Linda (Shrum) Dailey. He was a graduate of Howe High School. Brian played basketball during school. He enjoyed music, video games and hanging out with his friends. He loved his fiancé’ and his family with all his heart and he showed it in every way possible. Brian is survived by his mother Linda Dailey of Poteau, OK; his father, Clyde Dailey of Howe, OK; his fiancé’, Alexandria Rolf of Poteau, OK; 2 sisters, Holly Gabrielle Dailey of Poteau, OK & Linda Renae Dailey of Tulsa, OK; a brother, Jayson Clyde Dailey of Fort Smith, AR; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Brian were held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Heavener, OK with the Reverend Bryan Vandever officiating. Interment followed the services at Shady Point Cemetery in Shady Point, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Ethel Paulene "Polly" Cox

Ethel Paulene “Polly” Cox, 75, of Cameron, OK passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2009 in Cameron. Polly was born on August 4, 1933 in Cameron, OK to Otto & Ola Mae Goins. She was a homemaker. Her husband, Harold Cox, Sr; a sister Levenia Newell; a brother Orville Goins; a great granddaughter, Summer Dawn Cox; her parents; and her very best friend Sarah Wilson preceded her in death. Polly is survived by 2 daughters, Wanda D. Frazier of Odessa, TX & Alice I. Slater of Pocola, OK; 2 sons, Harold R. Cox Jr. of Cameron, OK & Charley W. Cox of Howe, OK; a special son Dennie Cox of Olney, TX; 5 sisters, Linda Goins & Sue Hensley, both of Panama, OK; Evelyn Hanna of Cameron, OK; Ethelene Covey of Shady Point, OK & Lola Seaton of Cameron, OK; 4 brothers, Arnold Goins & Howard Goins both of Panama, OK, Bill Goins of Shady Point, OK, & David Goins of Cameron, OK; 14 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; numerous other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. Funeral services for Polly were held at 2:00 pm, Monday, March 30, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Greenhill Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Kevin Hanna, Terry Moss, Shane Cox, Eric Helms, Cliff Tankersley, James Brown, Mike Cox & James Bise.

Lindsey Brooke Morrison

Lindsey Brooke Morrison, 11 months, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2009 in Howe, OK. Lindsey was born April 21, 2008 in Poteau, Ok to Nicholas Morrison & Jaime Rachel (Collins) Benson. Lindsey was preceded in death by her mother, Jaime Benson & sister, Andrea Benson. Survivors include her father, Nicholas Morrison of Heavener, OK; grandparents, Bobby & Diana Morrison of Heavener, OK, Joan & Randy McDaniel of Monroe, OK, Thomas & Tess Collins of Alvin, TX; half brother, Cordale Morrison; half sister, Maria Morrison; sister, Baylee Morrison of thehome; aunts & uncles, Rachel & Mike Petty of Heavener, OK, Robin & Casey Covey, Artela & Joseph Blair of Wister, OK, Julie & Shadd Stover of Poteau, OK, Christine Collins of Alvin, TX, Jacob Collins of Monroe, OK, Charles McDaniel of Howe, OK, Robert Collins of Alvin, TX; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with the Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK. Pallbearers were Daniel Key, Charles McDaniel, Nicholas Covey, Michael Terry, Joseph Blair, Casey Covey, Mike Petty & Kevin Terry. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau,

Jaime Rachel Benson

Jaime Rachel Benson, 32, of Heavener, OK passed away Thursday, March 26, 2009 in Howe, OK. She was born August 7, 1976 in Honolulu, Hawaii to Thomas Roger & Joan Collins. Jaime was preceded in death by her daughters, Andrea & Lindsey; twin brothers, Matthew & Jason Collins; grandparents, Ernest & Lilly Mae Terry. She was a homemaker & a CNA. Survivors include her daughter Baylee Morrison of the home; fiance’, Nicholas Morrison of Heavener, OK; stepchildren, Cordale Morrison & Maria Morrison; mother & stepfather, Joan & Randy McDaniel of Monroe, OK; father & stepmother, Thomas & Tess Collins of Alvin, TX; 4 sisters, Robin Covey & Artela Blair of Wister, OK, Julie Stover of Poteau, OK & Christine Collins of Alvin, TX; 3 brothers, Jacob Collins of Monroe, OK, Charles McDaniel of Howe, OK, & Robert Collins of Alvin, TX; brother in law, Mike Petty of Heavener, OK; special Meemaw, Peggy White of Poteau, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with the Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK. Pallbearers were Daniel Key, Charles McDaniel, Nicolas Covey, Michael Terry, Joseph Blair, Casey Covey, Mike Petty & Kevin Terry. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, Oklahoma

Andrea Lily Benson

Andrea Lily Benson, 10, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2009 in Howe, OK. She was born December 15, 1998 in Tulsa, OK to Joe Edwin Benson & Jaime Rachel Benson. She was preceded in death by her mother, Jaime Benson & half sister, Lindsey Morrison; and grandmother, Wanda Benson. Survivors include her father & step mother, Joe & Jo Anna Benson of Okemah, OK; half sister, Baylee Morrison of the home; step brtohers, Cordale Morrison & Bradly Borges; step sisters, Maria Morrison & Laura Borges; grandparents, Gene Benson of Heavener, OK, Joan & RAndy McDaniel of Monroe, OK, Thomas & Tess Collins of Alvin, TX; step grandparents, Wendell & Lou Anna Fuller of Okemah, OK; aunts & uncles, Gina McKinney, Jerri & Greg Parker, Steve & Wanda (Marie) Benson, Rachel & Mike Petty, Robin & Casey Covey, Artela & Joseph Blair, Julie & Shadd Stover, Charistine Collins, Jacob Collins, Charles McDaniel, Robert Collins; special MeMaw, Peggy White; special first cousins, Marrissa McKinney, Tiffani McKinney, Allison Guenther. Services 3 pm, Saturday, March 28, 2009 at Royal Oak Free Will Baptist Church in Cameron, OK with the Rev. Gene Benson & Rev. Jimmy Waldrop officiating. Burial followin in Royal Oak Cemetery.

Deanne Anthony

Deanne Louise Anthony, 64, of Poteau, Ok passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2009 in Fayetteville, AR. Deanne was born October 16, 1944, in Ft. Smith, AR to Robert Wesley & Louise (Daack) Wilber. She was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church; Belle Point Quilters & 20th Century Federated Womens Club. She was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox. Her husband, John “Bill” Anthony preceded her in death November 14, 2006; her parents also preceded her. Survivors include her daughter & son in law, Lara & Kevin Clark of Bentonville, AR; son & daughter in law, John & Amanda Anthony of Poteau, OK; 6 Grandchildren, Jacob, Nathan, Brandon, Aaron, Rachel, & Isabella; her beloved dog, Auggie;; other relatives & loved ones, a host of beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Saturday, March 28, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Fairhill/Knothole Cemetery, Cameron, OK. Pallbearers were Thomas Sullivan, Chris Fenton, Rodney Evans, Brad Hall, Kevin Clark, Ryan Adams, & Brian Shore.

Frances Ruby Tomblinson

Frances Ruby Tomblinson, 59, of Muskogee, OK passed away on Monday, March 23, 2009 at Muskogee Regional Medical Center in Muskogee. Frances was born on July 20, 1949 in Lawrenceville, Virginia to John Henry & Mary Sue (Pritchett) Conner. She was a nurse. Her parents; a nephew, Marvin Husky; a sister in law, Susan Coffey; and a brother in law, Dwain Tomblinson all precede Frances in death. Frances is survived by her husband, Steven Tomblinson of the home; a daughter & son in law, Stephanie & Roy Lowe of Talihina, OK; 5 sons & daughters in law, Jesse & Martha Tomblinson, of Muskogee, OK; Robert & Peggy Tomblinson of Fort Smith, AR; Steven & Shelly Tomblinson, Michael Tomblinson, & Phillip & Nancy Tomblinson, all of Muskogee, OK; 14 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; sisters Fannie Husky & Elizabeth Conner both of Muskogee, OK; brothers, James Conner & Ottwell “Jr.” Conner, both of Iowa; and Frankie Conner of Virginia; other relatives; loved ones, & many beloved friends. Funeral services for Frances were held at 12 noon Saturday, March 28, 2009 at First Church of the Nazarene in Wister, OK with the Reverend Brent Smith officiating. Interment followed the services in Ellis Chapel Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Austin Tomblinson, Derek Tomblinson, Tommy Tomblinson, Roy Lowe, Matt Newberry & Noah Hargrove.

Billie Beatrice Wood "Grandma Wood"

Billie Beatrice Wood (“Grandma Wood”), 94, of Spiro, OK passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2009 in Spiro, OK. She was born on April 24, 1914 in Shady Point, OK to William Henry & Olla (Henderson) Coleman. Beatrice taught school during the war and worked at Hamlin Manufacturing Company. She was a member of the Spiro Church of Christ. She was a wonderful homemaker who loved sewing, gardening, & painting pictures. Her husband, Waymon Wood; a son, Bobby Wood; 2 brothers; 1 sister; and her parents preceded her in death. Beatrice is survived by 2 daughters & son-in-law, Joella & Odell Clark, Sue & Bill Marler of Spiro, OK; son & daughter-in-law, James & Jan Wood of Spiro, OK; 10 grandchildren, Larry Clark of Tahlequah, OK, Teri & Scott Wyatt of Edmond, OK, Ron & Kathy Clark of Castle Rock, CO, Jill & Lou Garcia of St. Louis, MO, Jamie & Sabrina Wood of Stillwater, OK, Julie Wood of Oklahoma City, OK, Dena & Chris Brickey of Durango, CO, Pat & Heather Garner of Spiro, OK, Buffy & Greg Kephart of Harrison, AR, Kerrie Wood of Odessa, TX; 15 Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Thursday, March 19, 2009 graveside at Nubbin Ridge Cemetery, Bokoshe, OK. Interment followed

Ada Lee Nester

Ada Lee Nester, 78, of Arkoma, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2009 in Arkoma. Ada was born on September 17, 1930 in Pittsburg, Kansas to David & Ada (Williams) Long. She was a cook. Ada raised all her kids and loved her family very deeply. Her husband, Jacob Nester; a son, Jacob Nester, Jr.; a granddaughter, Laura Cailett; and her parents preceded Ada in death. Ada is survived by 4 daughters, Laura Cailett of California; & Betty Smith, Shirley Bennett, & Brenda Scott, all of Arkoma, OK; 2 sons, Joe Nester of Mulberry, AR & Larry Nester of Arkoma, OK; 14 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; a sister, Clara Nester of Muldrow, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Graveside services were held at 11:00 am Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at Woodlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas with the Reverend John Burns officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Pocola, OK. Pallbearers were Joseph Nester, Michael Smith, Danny Smith, Bobby Smith, Richard Bennett, Clay Bennett, & Matthew Hesson. Honorary pallbearers will be her grandsons.

Parilee Nelson Tidenberg

Parilee Nelson Tidenberg, 73, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away March 13, 2009, at her home. She was born September 5, 1935 in Brownfield, Texas. She was a member of the Southside Baptist Church in Poteau. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Garland Tidenberg of Poteau, her parents, Polly and Homer Nelson of Brownfield, Texas, and a brother, Homer Irwin Nelson of Waco, Texas. Survivors include her daughter, Pal (Mark) Jordan, of Richmond, VA; her son, Jim (Tina) Tidenberg of Clovis, NM; her son, Tim (Annie) Tidenberg of Nairobi, Kenya; her daughter Trisa (Joe) DuBois of Poteau; her grandchildren Amy (Wes) Rickards; Johnathon (Bettina) Tidenberg, Josh (Sammy Jo) Tidenberg; Laura Tidenberg; James Jordan; Jamie Tidenberg; Jared Tidenberg; John Mark Jordan; Hannah Tidenberg; Julia DuBois; and Joanna DuBois. She celebrated the birth of Jacob DuBois on Wednesday, March 11, 2009. She also is survived by two great grandchildren; a brother, Walter Graves (Effie) Nelson; and a sister, Sue (Jim) Sprague; numerous other loved ones and many friends. Pallbearers are Johnathon Tidenberg, Josh Tidenberg, James Jordan, Jared Tidenberg, Ed Abernathy, Dennis Carter, Toby Tilley, and Dennis Yochum. Services will be held at 2 pm Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at the Southside Baptist Church of Poteau with Rev. Tim Tidenberg and Dr. Mark Jordan officiating assisted by Pastor Monty Thompson of Southside Baptist Church. Internment will follow in Oakland Cemetery at Poteau under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau. Parilee’s life was committed to the God she served and loved. She graduated from Hardin Simmons University in 1956. Her husband, James, was her dearest friend, and she served beside him as a Pastor’s wife in Burleson, Texas, Parkland Baptist Church in Clovis, NM, First Baptist Church in Farmington, NM; and First Baptist Church, Poteau, OK. In 1962, Parilee went to East Africa, where she served with her husband as a missionary appointed by the Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Board. She was born Parilee Nelson, named after her mother and great grandmother. To her grandchildren, she became known as Bibi (grandmother in Swahili). Bibi was “home” to her children and their families and took great joy in being with her family. Her love for Africa and missions continued through the years. She served God faithfully at her local church. Parilee was a devoted wife, mother, friend, and a gifted teacher whose love and devotion has enriched the lives of many people. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Southside Baptist Church, Poteau, OK, designated for the Maasai Ministries Fund to be used for ministry to African women. The address is Southside Baptist Church, 505 Holsen, Poteau OK 74953.

Bonnie Evelyn Edens

Bonnie Evelyn Edens, 87, of Panama, OK passed away on Monday, March 9, 2009 at Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center in Poteau, OK. Bonnie was born on October 12, 1921 in Nubbin Ridge, OK to Will & Iva (Sanders) Regan. She was a homemaker. She loved cooking, sewing, making clothes, gardening, and taking care of her pets. Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, Leland W. Edens, a daughter, Bonnie Edens, a brother, Charles Regan, and her parents. Bonnie is survived by 3 sons & daughters in law Jerry & Peggy Edens of Panama, OK; Charles & Paula Edens of Silver City, NM, & Bobby Edens of Tulsa, OK; 11 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; a sister, Jewel Sisco of Panama, OK; a brother, Rex Regan f Shady Point, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Bonnie were held at 2:00 pm. Thursday, March 12, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Tommy Perez officiating. Interment followed the services in Old Cache Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Tommy Wagner, Robert Edens, Matthew Abeyta, Rex Regan, Charley Horsley, Harold Magee, Jeff Wilson, & Jerimiha Barras.

Janetta Sue Burlew

Janetta Sue Burlew, 65, of Poteau, OK passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2009 in Poteau, OK. Sue was born on April 21, 1943 in Poteau, OK to Willie R. “Bill” & Hazel (Crenshaw) Irvin. She was a homemaker. Sue loved spending time with her family & friends. Sue is survived by her beloved husband, Wade Burlew of the home; a son Jarroll Burlew of Tulsa, OK; a daughter Velvet Lynn Nighting of Grayson, LA; 3 grandchildren’ 2 great grandchildren a brother, Bobby Irvin of Poteau, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Sue were held at 10:00 am Thursday, March 12, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Dennis Lee Fowler

Dennis Lee Fowler, 56, of Panama, Oklahoma passed away on Friday, March 13, 2009 in Panama, OK. Dennis was born on July 23, 1952 in Bokoshe, OK to Floyd Eugene & Evelyn Marie (Ford) Fowler. He was a veteran of the US Army & a mechanic. Dennis is survived by 3 daughters, Sondra Mills of Poteau, OK, and Becky Mills & Stacia Mills both of Panama, OK; 11 grandchildren; 2 sisters, Wilma Permenter of Arkoma, OK & Diane Sutton of Spiro, OK; a brother, Rick Fowler of Greenwood, AR, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Dennis were held at 2:00 pm Monday, March 16, 2009 at the Solid Rock Church in Panama, OK with the Reverend Everett Morris officiating. Interment followed the services in Nubbin Ridge Cemetery in Bokoshe, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Keith Self, Dale White, Brenden Pazbra, David Carson, Pete Jones, Deane Hall, Mikel Irvin, & Shannon Johnson. Honorary pallbearer was Jake Bailey.

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.