Edna Barnes

Edna Barnes, 73, of Poteau, OK passed away Thursday, March 18, 2010 in Fort Smith, AR. Edna was born in Poteau on October 1, 1936. She was a caregiver/homemaker. Survivors include her granddaughter, Misty Ballard of Poteau, OK; grandson, Aaron Smith of Fort Smith, AR; great grandchildren, August Raelene House & Layton Christian Smith; sister, Eva Maye Zahner; brothers, Pete Irvin and Charles Irvin; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am Monday at Evans Chapel of Memories with Rev. Roger Mattox officiating. Interment followed in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Tim Gullick, Mike Ballard, BJ Barnes, Jeff Pivison, Marion Dixon and Alonso Jiminez. Honorary pallbearer was Tony Stacy.

Delbert Lonzo Kirk

Delbert Lonzo Kirk, 78, of Spiro, OK passed away Wednesday, March 17, 2010 in Little Rock, AR. Mr. Kirk was born May 31, 1931 in Summerfield, OK to Lonzo & Opal (Clark) Kirk. He was a veteran of the US Navy. He taught school for 30 years and was an insurance agent for 31 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Panama, OK; a 32nd Degree Mason, member of the Masonic Lodge in Spiro; and a member of the Bedouin Shrine Temple of McAlester, OK. Survivors include his wife, Naomi Kirk of the home; daughter and son in law, Charlotte & Patton Cagle of Panama, OK; son, Gary Kirk of Panama, OK; grandchildren, Ashley Cardenas of Poteau, OK, Heath & Brittany Gregory of Panama, OK, Kyle Kirk of Panama, OK; 4 great grandchildren, Madison & Jacob Gregory, Hayley & Maddox Cardenas; stepmother, Isabel Kirk of Poteau, OK; sisters & brothers in law, Lois & Kent Ricks of Grove, OK, Shirley & George Smith of Mesa, AZ, Linda Ramer of Oklahoma City, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Monday, March 22, 2010 at First Baptist Church in Panama, OK with Rev. Larry Harris & Timmy Painter officiating. Interment will be at 2 pm Monday in Fort Smith National Cemetery, Fort Smith, AR. Pallbearers will be Ryan Plemmons, Donnie Gollihare, Brian Fout, Brett Fout, Tony Fout & Lee Fout. The family will be at the funeral home from 2-4 Sunday afternoon to visit with relatives & friends.

Tommy S. McDaniel

Tommy S. McDaniel, 68, of Oklahoma City, OK passed away Tuesday, March 16, 2010 in Oklahoma City. Tommy was born in Poteau, OK on June 10, 1941 to Thomas & Lucy (Underwood) McDaniel. He was preceded in death by his wife, Glenda; his parents; brothers, Jerry, Don, Joe & Thomas; and sisters, Jill & Pat. He was an electrician. Survivors include his daughters, Delores Corley of Eufaula, OK, Dina & husband Sam Sohrabmanesh of Oklahoma City, OK; grandson, Aaron & wife Kandace Corley; granddaughter, Tonya Corley; 3 great grandchildren, C.J. Hendricks, Taryn Corley, & Aaron Corley Jr.; sister, Delores Harrison of Nacogdoches, TX; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Saturday, March 20, 2010 at Ellis Chapel Church in Wister, OK with Rev. Jack Covey officiating. Interment followed in Ellis Chapel Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers were Sam Sohrabmanesh, Aaron Corley, David Vore, Allen McDaniel, Buddy Vore, & Jim Harrison

Crystal DeAnn Dance

Crystal DeAnn Dance, 31, of Arkoma, Oklahoma passed away on Friday, March 12, 2010 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Crystal was born on December 28, 1978 in Poteau, Oklahoma to William L. & Leola (Smith) Adams. Crystal was a manager in the fast food industry. She graduated from Stigler High School in 1997 where she resided with her loving family, Jon, Dana, JC, George, & Allen Blankenship. She married Michael Dance on August 10, 2001. She is preceded in death by her father; a sister, Debbie Bohanon & a brother Tim Bohanon. Crystal is survived by her husband Michael Dance of Oklahoma City, OK; a son, Tommy Dance of Oklahoma City, OK; her mother, Leola Cloud of LeQuire, OK; 5 sisters & brothers in law Tina & Charles Karich of Arkoma, OK; Rachel Adcock of LeQuire, OK; Linda & Micheal Pickle of Keota, OK; Denetha Haas of Elk City, OK; Mona Price of Fort Worth, TX; 2 brothers & sister in law, Abel Adams of Bridgville, CA, & Rick & Regina Bohanon of Arnold, MO; parents in law Linda & Joseph Dance of Oklahoma City, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Crystal were held at 11:00 am, Thursday, March 18, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Les Scroggins officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma. Pallbearers were Raymond Cox, Scott Cox, Anthony Cox, Chris Parsley, Bob McCann, & Timothy Cox. Honorary pallbearers were J.J. Adams & Terry Adams.

Wanda Louise Combs

Wanda Louise Combs, 75, of Heavener, OK passed away Friday, March 12, 2010 in Heavener. Wanda was born in Hartford, AR on November 15, 1934 to Chalres & Velta Vay(Wilson) McAdoo. She loved sewing, crocheting, swimming, cooking, music, reading, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, David Combs; grandsons, Daniel Spargo & Jerod Wilson; brothers, Thurman & Larry McAdoo; and sisters, Mildred Newman & LaVern Combs. Survivors include her daughters, Janice Spargo of Wister, OK, Deborah Goldsmith of Mechanicsville, MD; Nancy Combs of Caraway, AR, Cynthia Harris of Sallisaw, OK; sons, Vincent Combs of Kingsport, TN and Barry Combs of Sallisaw, OK; 11 Grandchildren; 14 Great Grandchildren; sister, Jean Riggs of Monroe, OK; brother, Charles McAdoo of Carbon, TX; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Monday, March 15, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK. Pallbearers were her grandsons.

Lester Levoy Martin

Lester Levoy Martin, 89, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, March 6, 2010 in Poteau. Lester was born on May 22, 1920 in Isabella, Oklahoma to Edward Riley & Rebecca (Bierig) Martin. He was a farmer & rancher, a member of the NRA & the Kansas Hunting Association. Lester is survived by his wife of 45 years, Caral (Craft) Martin of the home; 3 daughters & sons in law, Carrie & David Carberry of Poteau & their daughters, Caitlin, Blake, Leslie & Jamie & their grandson Carson, all of Poteau, OK; Susanne & John Johnston of League City, Texas; Dena & T.W. Wilson of Checotah, OK; 2 sons & daughter in law, Dion & Debbie Wilkens & Dale Wilkens, all of Independence, KS; 2 sisters, Irene Sharpe of Tulsa, OK & Wanda Bisel of Ashland, KS; 4 brothers C.A. Martin, Larry Martin, & Jack Martin, all of Wichita, KS & Lonnie Martin of Halstead, KS; numerous other grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Graveside services for Lester were held at 2:00 pm Thursday, March 11, 2010 at Bierig Cemetery in Okeene, OK with the Reverend Ed Cunningham officiating. Interment followed the services with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Earl G. "Skip" Mayer

Earl G. “Skip” Mayer, 59, of Poteau, OK passed away on March 3, 2010 in Talihina, Oklahoma. Skip was born on December 30, 1950 in New Orleans, LA to Roy & Carmelite (Zundel) Dyer. Skip was a decorated Vietnam veteran & a press operator for Kenco Plastics until his retirement. He was of the Catholic faith. Skip loved playing the guitar and singing. Skip is survived by his wife, Gail Mayer of the home; his parents, Roy & Carmelite Dyer of Houston, TX; 2 brothers & sisters in law, Craig & Keely Dyer of Franklin, LA & Fred & Diane Dyer of Lake Charles, LA; 4 sisters & brothers inlaw, Kim & Brian Jayroe of Montgomery, TX, Caroline & Dave Morgan of Spring, TX; Regina & Dill Seidle & Theresa & Kevin Couch all of Cypress, TX; brothers in law & their wives Sam & Susie McBride of Carlsbad, NM; Mackey & Billie McBride of Poteau, OK.Tim & Twyla McBride of Hackett, AR; sisters in law & their husbands, Pat & Doyle Vinson of Noble, OK; Shirley & Tom Pickle of Poteau, OK; Sammie & Doyle Thompson of Panama, OK; &Becky Maxell of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Memorial services for Skip were held at 2:00 pm Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating.

Kenneth James Hughie

Kenneth James Hughie, 73, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, March 1, 2010 in Poteau. Kenneth was born in Brenham, TX on March 28, 1936 to Thomas & Betty (Clister) Hughie. Kenneth was a general laborer. He was preceded in death by 2 sons, Michael Keith Hughie & Buddy James Hughie; brother, Thomas Hughie & his parents. Survivors include his wife, Deloris Hughie of the home; daughters & son in law, Julie Hicks of Poteau, OK, Jenny & Greg Claiborn of Belton, TX; grandsons, Dennis Hicks Jr. of Poteau, OK, Sister & brother in law, Betty & George Dawson of Oregon; brothers & sister in law, Floyd & Ellna Hughie of Indianapolis, IN & Rod Hughie of Poteau, OK; 3 great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Thursday, March 4, 2010 at the Poteau Valley Baptist Church in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Parsley officiating. Interment followed in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau. Pallbearers were Dennis Hicks Jr., Greg Claiborn, George Martin, George Martin Jr., and Nick Moore. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Jimmie Doyle Byous

Jimmie Doyle Byous, 77, of Wister, OK passed away Sunday, February 28, 2010 in Wister. He was born in Wister, OK on September 29, 1932 to Luther & Elsie (Cope) Byous. Jimmie was preceded in death by a sister, Bernice King & his parents. He was a rancher. Survivors include a special nephew, Bob and wife, Denise King of Livermore, CA; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Friday, March 5, 2010 at Ellis Chapel Church in Wister, OK with Rev. Jack Covey & Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Ellis Chapel Cemetery, Wister. Pallbearers will be Rick Crane, Rocky Crane, Donnie Shadwick, Gene Ward, Wayne Meeks & Johnny Martin. Honorary pallbearers will be Podie Meeks, Mack Smith, Peanut Newman, Clyde Byous, & Scott Shadwick.

Elizabeth "Jane" Caldwell

Elizabeth “Jane” Caldwell, 64, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, March 1, 2010 in Poteau. Jane was born January 31, 1946 in Poteau, OK to Frank & Claircy (Haney) Clark. Jane loved to garden & to cook. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Paul Caldwell; a sister, Patsy Wolfe; and her parents. Survivors include son, Tony Caldwell; daughter & son in law, Jolene & Dale Langwell of Poteau, OK; grandsons, Shawn Langwell of Poteau, OK, Shannon & wife Cynthia Langwell of Poteau, OK;; 3 sisters & brothers in law, Mary & JC Jones of Greenwood, AR, Frankie & Jerry Humphries of Rock Island, OK, Sherry & Donnie Ford of Poteau, OK, brother, James Clark of Twilight, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories-Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Witteville Cemetery, Poteau, OK under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Josephine "Jo" McClure

Josephine "Jo" McClure, 73, of Wister, OK passed away Sunday, February 28, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. Jo was born September 29, 1936 in Olive Branch, MS. She was preceded in death by her parents, Isaac & Bertie McInvale. She is survived by her husband Calvin McClure of the home; 3 daughters, Pamela Haywood of Lanagan, MO, Carla Warren of North Platte, NE, Karen Tart of Hope Mills, NC; 2 sons, Randy McClure of Chadron, NE, Dale McClure of Wister, OK; sister, Sadie Pierce of Shady Point, OK; 2 brothers, Andrew Munns of Crossville, TN, Raymond McInvale of Vian, OK; 19 Grandchildren, 19 Great Grandchildren, 20 plus foster children. Services will be held 2 pm, Thursday, March 4, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories- Poteau, OK with Samuel L. Tart officiating. Interment will follow in Ellis Chapel Cemetery, Wister, OK. Pallbearers will be Andrew Haywood, John Haywood, Edward McClure, William McClure, Thomas McClure, Timothy McClure, James McClure, Danny Barhite, Jacob McClure, & Dylan Tart. Honorary pallbearers will be Eric & David Pierce. The family will be at the funeral home from 5-7 pm Wednesday evening to visit with relatives & friends.

Nora Ruth Johnson

Nora Ruth Johnson, 91, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 in Poteau. Ruth was born on December 30, 1918 in Boswell, OK to Walter & Ora Radford. Ruth was a hard worker, working in hospitals & restaurants in California until her retirement then working at the Care & Share in Poteau. Ruth’s husband, Albert “Cleve” Johnson; 4 brothers, 1 sister, 3 grandchildren, Darren & Tina Robison & Jay Pyle & her parents preceded her in death. Nora is survived by a son & daughter in law, James & Margie Robison of Texas, 3 daughters & a son in law, Wanda Allen, Nancy Olson, & Janet & Howard Pyle, all of Poteau; 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends.. Funeral services for Ruth were held at 2:00 pm, Monday, March 1, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Jimmy D. Cook officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were her grandsons.

Leo Joe Rose

Leo Joe Rose, 55, of Wister, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2010 in Wister. He was born on January 22, 1955 in Denver Colorado to A.J. & Mae (Pitman) Rose. He was a welder. Joe is survived by his mother, Mae Rose of Wister, OK; a son, Joe Lynn Rose of Cedarville, AR; 2 daughters, Jamie Dawn Rose and Jackie Dion Rose, both of Van Buren, AR; a sister, Donna Matthews of Wister, OK; 2 brothers, Johnny Rose of Emory, Texas & Jack Rose of Howe, OK; 6 grandchildren, a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Memorial services for Joe were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at the home of his sister, Donna Matthews, 501 Wigginton, Wister, OK. Cremation arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma.

Thomas W. Greene

Thomas W. Greene, 70, of Poteau, OK passed away on Monday, February 15, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Tommy was born on January 4, 1940 in Tulsa, OK to John M. & Lura G. (Robertson) Greene. Tommy was the LeFlore County Tax Assessor for many years until his retirement in 1992 and a member of Southside Baptist Church of Poteau. Shortly after Tommy’s retirement he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and his health problems kept him homebound for the past several years. Tommy was preceded in death by his mother, Lura; brothers, John, Ewing, Joe, Charles, & Daniel; and sisters Helen & Hazel. Tommy is survived by his wife, Sue Greene of the home; a daughter Renee Greene of Van Buren, AR; a son & daughter in law, Tim & Sam Greene of Spiro, OK; grandchildren Richard, Kris, & Suzie McGehee and Kelcie Greene; brothers Bill & Leonard Greene of Poteau, OK & Ed Greene of Oakley, Kansas; sisters Lois Whitney of Tulsa, OK, Jean Potts of Poteau, OK & Cathy Baker of Halton City, TX; very special friend, Jacquie Gaither of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Tommy were held at 10:00 am Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Southside Baptist Church in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Garry Haskins officiating. Interment followed the services at Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, OK with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Thomas W. Greene

Thomas W. Greene, 70 of Poteau, OK passed awsy Monday, February 15, 2010 in Poteau. He was born in Tulsa, OK on January 4, 1940. Tommy began working at a young age and spent several years in sales before working in the LeFlore County Tax Assessor's Office and retiring from there in 1992. Shortly after retirement he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Health problems kept him homebound for the past several years. Tommy was preceded in death by his mother, Lura; brothers, John, Ewing, Joe, Charles, and Daniel; and sisters, Helen and Hazel. Survivors include his wife, Sue of the home; daughter, Renee of Van Buren, AR; son and daughter in law, Tim and Sam Greene of Spiro, OK; grandchildren, Richard, Kris and Sizie McGehee and Kelcie Greene; brothers, Bill Greene and Leonard Greene of Poteau, OK, Ed Greene of Oakley, KS; sisters, Lois Whitney of Tulsa, OK, Jean Potts of Poteau, OK, Cathy Baker of Halton City, TX; special friend, Jacquie Gaither of Poteau, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 10 am, Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Southside Baptist Church with Rev. Garry Haskins officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK The family will be at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 6-8 to visit with relatives & friends.

Jerry Dean Townley

Jerry Dean Townley, 72, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away Saturday, February 13, 2010. He was born May 26, 1937 in Deering, MO to Albert & Zelma Townley. He was a feed store manager. Jerry was a veteran of the US Navy. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Betty, Martha & Brenda Townley; and brothers, Albert Jr. & Jacky Townley. Survivors include his wife, Carol Townley of Panama, OK; sons, Dannie G. Townley Sr. of Poteau, OK, Dennis J. Townley of Van Buren, AR, Jerry R. Townley of Panama, OK; sisters, Shirley Armstrong of Poteau, OK, Linda Ryan of Fairfield, TX; brother, Marlin "Sonny" Townley of Fairfield, TX; 4 grandchildren, Deana Oakes, Dannie G. Townley Jr., Sarah Townley, Jonathan Townley; 5 great grandchildren, Matthew Townley, Madison oakes, Micah Oakes, Lacey Oakes, Mya Townley; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jerry Townley and Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Burial followed in Fort Smith National Cemetery, Fort Smith, AR. Pallbearers were Jack Armstrong 2nd, Dannie G. Townley Jr., Jonathan Townley, Jeremy Oakes, Jack Armstrong, and Dennis Townley. The family will be at the funeral home from 6-8 Tuesday evening to visit with relatives and friends.

Patrick Jay Shankle

Patrick Jay Shankle, 35 of Poteau, OK passed away on Thursday, February 11, 2010 in Poteau. Jay was born on October 2, 1974 in Fort Smith, AR to Forrest Lynn & Katherine June (Hayes) Shankle. He was a carpenter. Jay’s father; his grandparents, Paul & Derotha Shankle; Troy & Rosa Pyland, & Clarence Hayes; and an uncle Gary Shankle precede him in death. Jay is survived by his wife, Jennifer of the home; a daughter Jadyn Shankle of the home; a son, Jaxyn Shankle of the home; his mother & stepfather, Kathy & Terry Tolbert of Broken Arrow, OK; sister & brother in law, Devin & Sean Covey of Monroe, OK; 2 nieces, Brooklyn & McKenna; a nephew, Andruw; uncles & aunt, Robert & Connie Shankle of Monroe, OK & Dennis Shankle of Monroe, OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Memorial services for Jay were held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Frankie Harris officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Honorary pallbearers were Jimmy Meisenheimer, Bryant Weaver, Sean Covey, Micah Webb, Cliff Ryburn, Wayne Hall, Gary Morris, Bill Pate, Scott Griffis, & Cliff Neland.

Mary Ellen Berry

Mary Ellen Berry, 92, of Wister, OK passed away Saturday, February 13, 2010 in Wister. She was born in Edmond, OK on March 8, 1917 to Morman V. & Helen Mable (York) Goodrich. Mary was a homemaker. She was a charter member of Ellis Chapel Church in Wister. She loved to cook and sew. She was a great mother, raising all the kids, grandkids, great and great great grandkids. She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar Eual Berry Sr.; son Oscar Berry Jr.; her parents; and brothers, Alpheus Goodrich, Norman 'Vic' Goodrich and George Goodrich. Survivors include her sons, Orville Lee & Joann Berry of Paden, OK, Norman Joe Berry of Wister, OK; 7 grandchildren, Leslie Covey of Wister, OK, Eddie Berry of Shawnee, OK, Mary L. Mendoza of Harrah, OK, Joe Wayne Berry of Wister, OK, Traci Harmon of Sallisaw, OK, Kelly White of Arcadia, OK, Dana Miller of Tecumseh, OK; 12 great grandchildren; 8 great great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mable Craun of Edmond, OK and Shirley Anderson of Harrah, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at Ellis Chapel Church in Wister, OK with Rev. Jack Covey officiating. Interment will follow in Ellis Chapel Cemetery, Wister, OK

Margaret Jeanita (Nixon) Knapp

Margaret Jeanita (Nixon) Knapp, 82, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, February 12, 2010 in Wagoner, OK. Margaret was born in Calhoun, OK on September 26, 1927 to Luther & Grace (Painter) Nixon. She was a business owner; beautician, grocery and restuarant. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Knapp; her parents; and brothers, Robert, Vernon, Jody and Jimmy Nixon. Survivors include her son, Mark Knapp of Tulsa, OK; sisters & brothers in law, Hazel Partain of Spiro, OK, Dimple & Andrew (Buddy) Rogers of Poteau, OK, Oteka & R.D. Bryant of Milton, OK, and Thelma Mae Whitmore of Bokoshe, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories with Rev. Jim Cook & Rev. Joe Pierce officiating. Interment will follow in Old Bokoshe Cemetery, Bokoshe, OK. Pallbearers will be Rodney Bryant, David Black, Randy McKinney Josh Lovett, Jeremy Oliver, D.J. Hicks. Honorary Pallbearers will be Joe Henderson, Randy Wayne Bryant, Ronald Rogers, and Dud Henderson.

Lawrence Loton Dickerson

Lawrence Loton Dickerson, 73, of Poteau, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, February 3, 2010 in Tulsa, OK. Lawrence was born on May 30, 1936 in Poteau, OK to Lawrence Elmer & Euna (Pickel) Dickerson. Lawrence served for 22 years on the Poteau Fire Department, was a charter member of the Poteau Lions Club, a former member of the Poteau Board of Education and Poteau Junior College which during his tenure was instrumental in separating the college into its own entity. Lawrence was of the Baptist faith and was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church of Poteau. He and his wife, Nan owned and operated Dickerson/Poteau Flower Shops for approximately 50 years. He is preceded in death by his only son, the late Senator Larry Dickerson; his only sibling, Doris Miller & his parents. Lawrence is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Nan (Deaton) Dickerson of the home; a daughter & son in law, Nan Lea Dickerson & Walt Haskins of Tulsa, OK; a daughter in law, Dee Ann Dickerson of Poteau, OK; 4 grandchildren, John Lawrence Dickerson of Poteau, OK; Emily, Zachary, & Amy Caroline Haskins, all of Tulsa, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and a few friends. Memorial services for Lawrence were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday February 6, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Phil McGehee officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

W.C. Kitchens

W.C. Kitchens, 78, of LeFlore, OK passed away Friday, February 5, 2010 in LeFlore. W.C. was born November 17, 1931 in LeFLore, OK to Jesse & Ellen (Ferguson) Kitchens. He was a veteran of the US Navy and the Army. He served in both Korea and Vietnam. He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters and 4 brothers. Survivors include his stepdaughter, Patty Scott of Bentonville, AR; granddaughter, Alexis; brother, James Marion Kitchens of Rushford, MN; 3 nieces, Marjorie Powers-Shoup of Cameron, OK, Mary Chronister of Poteau, OK, Wanda Roden of Wister, OK; 4 nephews, Tony Matney of LeFlore, OK, Michael Morrow of Houston, TX, James M.Kitchens of Rushford, MN and Joe Powers of Wister, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm Monday, February 8, 2010 at LeFlore Baptist Church in LeFlore, OK with Rev. Jeff Little officiating. Interment followed in LeFlore Cemetery.

Edna Faye Scyrkels

Edna Faye (Pettigrew) Scyrkels, 83, of Cameron, OK passed away Tuesday, February 9, 2010 in Cameron. Edna was born July 21, 1926 in Plunkettville, OK to James & Jenny (Dixon) Pettigrew. She was a homemaker. Edna was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey Scyrkels and her parents. Survivors include her daughters, Janette & Marion Haynes of Heavener, OK, Marsha Scyrkels & Bill McMurry of Cameron, OK; son, Lou Gary Scyrkels and Pam Hanna of Spiro, OK; grandchildren, Tony & Misty Scyrkels of Shady Point, OK, Amanda Scyrkels of Greenwood, AR; great grandchildren, Ethan Scyrkels, Aidan Scyrkels, and Logan Bryan; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Oakland Cemetery Pavilion in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow.

Christie Janeen (Cook) McCaslin

Christie Janeen (Cook) McCaslin, 35, of Poteau, OK passed away Saturday, February 6, 2010 in Poteau. Christie was born June 29, 1974 in Fort Smith, AR to Jimmy D. & Janice Rae (Worley) Cook. She was a member of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Poteau. She was a loving precious daughter that if you needed her she would always be there. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Dean Worley & her paternal grandparents. Survivors include her husband, Lee McCaslin of the home; daughter, Whittney Way of the home; parents, Jim & Jan Cook of Poteau, 2 brothers & their wives, JD Cook & Morgan, Dave "Zac" Cook & Chrissy all of Poteau; mother in law & father in law, Roy & Kathleen McCaslin of Muskogee, OK; maternal grandparents, Steve & Gloe Worley of Houston, TX; nephews, Kodi, Dillon, Jake, Ben & Cedar; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Poteau with Revs. Jack Covey, Jr. Phillips, & Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers will be JD Cook, Zac Cook, TJ Holt, Rusty Griffis, Mack Armstrong, & Jay Sommers. Honorary pallbearers will be John Locke & Jim Sommers.

George Montgomery

George Montgomery, 58 of Heavener, Oklahoma formerly of Poteau, OK passed away on Sunday, January 31, 2010 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on May 16, 1951 in Shady Point, Oklahoma to JF & Gracie (McClain) Montgomery. He worked for the candy factory in Spiro, OK. George’s father & a sister Betty Ann Montgomery precede him in death. George is survived by his mother Gracie Montgomery of Heavener, OK; 4 brothers, Charles Montgomery, Tommy Montgomery, Jerry Montgomery, & Bill Montgomery all of Poteau, OK; 3 sisters, Mary Ellen Amos of Shady Point, OK, Mary Jane Montgomery of Henryetta, OK & Helen Sterling of Poteau, OK; 4 nieces, 4 nephews, 2 great nephews & 4 great nieces; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Graveside memorial services for George were held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at Shady Point Cemetery in Shady Point, Oklahoma with the Reverend Brad Sumpter officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma.

Dale Ray Baxter Jr.

Dale Ray Baxter, Jr., 44, of Spiro, OK passed away on January 17, 2010 in Spiro. Dale was born on July 23, 1965 to Delmer Granville “Dale” Baxter & Nadine Smith Painter. He was a landscaper. Dale’s parents; a sister, Anita Kay Baxter; and his father in law, Eddie Smith precedes Dale in death. Dale is survived by a stepdaughter, Marie Smith of Nacogdoches, TX; a stepson Dale Dean Baxter Jr. of Nacogdoches, TX; 3 sisters, Veronica Ritter of Spiro, OK; Sherrie Lynn Coker of Mulberry, AR, & Angela Dawn Baxter of Spiro, OK; 3 brothers in law, Lawton Ritter & Tommy Coker, both of Spiro, OK; & Wayman Dearing of Oklahoma City, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. Graveside memorial services for Dale were held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, February 2, 2010 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. Honorary pallbearers were “Stoney”, Lawton Ritter, “Bear”, Tommy Coker, Lloyd Grogan, & Steve.

Margaret Ann Drake

Margaret Ann Drake, 70, of Poteau, OK passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2010 in Pocola, Oklahoma. Margaret was born on June 5, 1939 in Monroe, Oklahoma to Troy & Flora Bell (Barnes) Mahorney. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, & homemaker. Her husband, Leon Drake; her parents, & 2 brothers, Troy & Chad Mahorney precede her in death. Margaret is survived by a son & daughter in law, Charles & Missy Drake of Howe, OK; 3 daughters & sons in law, Susie & Charlie McCoy of Poteau, OK, Donna Carden Eller & Sandy & Tim Crase all of Panama, OK; a brother, John Henry Mahorney of Helena, OK; 3 sisters, Sue Dildine of Owasso, OK, Sallie Bush of Bentonville, AR, Barbara Alusi of Atlanta, GA; 10 grandchildren, Hayley, Torey, Jeff, Aaron, Chris, Jon, Jordan, Jason, Tyler, & Kali; 5 great grandchildren, Brett, Trinity, Colton, Cassie, & Avery; 1 great granddaughter on the way; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Margaret were held at 10:00 am, Saturday, January 23, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK 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 Jeff, Chris, & Aaron McCoy, Brad Royston, Jon & Jordan Carden. Honorary pallbearers were Jason & Tyler Crase.

James Park Kidd

James Park Kidd, 92, longtime resident of Poteau, OK passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2010 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. James was born on January 19, 1917 in Poteau, Oklahoma to Robert Lee Sr. & Ruby Park Kidd. He graduated from Poteau High School in 1935. He attended Arkansas University for one year, then transferred and graduated from Oklahoma University in 1940, after which he worked at Lockheed Aircraft in Burbank, California. After Pearl Harbor, he was drafted in the Army as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Field Artillery. From North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany was the job and he served honorably until the War was over. He achieved the rank of Captain, and after 16 years in the Army Reserve; he received the rank of Major. After the war he returned to California and after a year and a half moved back to Poteau to go in business with his brother. He and his brother had the Poteau News & LeFlore County Sun from 1947-1979. He lived in Poteau until his health forced him and Martha to move to Broken Arrow in 2003 and he has missed Poteau every single day. Jim is preceded in death by his parents; a son William Lewis Kidd; & 2 brothers, Robert Lee Kidd Jr. & Edward Burton Kidd. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Kidd of the home; 2 sons & daughters in law, Jim II & Karen Kidd of Tulsa, OK & Vic & Teresa Kidd of Houston, TX; a daughter & son in law, Martha Anne & Randy Blakestad of Lufkin, TX; 9 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; numerous other relatives & loved ones & many beloved friends. Funeral services for Jim were held at 1:00 pm Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at First United Methodist Church of Poteau, OK with the Reverend Greg Tener officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Alfred Barnes

Alfred C. Barnes, 84, of Hartford, Arkansas passed away Saturday, January 16, 2010 in Hartford. Alfred was born on May 13, 1925 in Howe, OK to Clyde M. & Eurania (Kiefer) Barnes. Alfred was a construction worker. He was a veteran of the US Army. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Charles & Monroe Barnes. Survivors include his sisters, Florence Seely of Mansfield, AR, Juanita Buckman of Plainview, AR, & Edith Burrows of Mansfield, AR; brothers, A.C. Barnes of Hartford, AR, Clarence Barnes of Wichita, KS and Dean Barnes of Hartford, AR; numerous nieces & nephews, other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Monday, January 18, 2010 at James Fork Baptist Church in Hartford, AR with Rev. Charles Whedbee officiating. Interment followed in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hartford, Arkansas, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

William Dan " Bill" Minor

Bill Minor, 63, of Poteau, OK passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2010 in Poteau. He was born in Poteau on March 14, 1946 to Muriel A. & Gertrude (Shamblin) Minor. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Bob & Buford Collier. Bill is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; and many beloved friends. Graveside services will be held 2 pm, Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at Oakland Cemetery with Rev. Clyde Hess officiating.

Teresa Ann (Sanders) Gober

Teresa Ann Gober, 55, of Monroe, OK passed away Friday, January 15, 2010 in Monroe. Teresa was born April 10, 1954 to Roy & Mary Sanders in Poteau, OK. She was a homemaker. She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Poteau. Teresa was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry D. Gober on May 1, 2007. She loved music and singing. Survivors include 2 daughters & son in law, Tina Shepard of Shady Point, OK, Tammy & Darin Giesler of Monroe, OK; parents, Roy & Mary Sanders of Monroe, OK, 6 Grandchildren, Zachary, Kyle, Blake, Alyssa, Caleb & Jenna; sisters & brother in law, Beverly & Charles Courtade of Comstock Park,MI, Mary Merkling of Wister, OK; brothers & sisters in law, Roy Jr. & Cherry Sanders of Maumalle, AR, Ray & Joanna Sanders of Seattle, WA, John & Leigh Sanders of Spiro, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 2 pm, Monday, January 18, 2010 at Trinity Baptist Church, Poteau, OK with Rev. Leroy Billy officiating. Interment will follow in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK.

Richard Goines

Richard Goines, 88, of Panama, OK passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2010 in Poteau, OK. Richard was born on January 25, 1921 in Panama, OK to Stirl & Claudie (Kilgore) Goines. He was of the Assembly of God faith & was a farmer & factory worker. Richard’s wife, Doyce Goines; sisters Mildred Grissom, Opal Starr, & Jewel Phelps; brothers, Jessie, Freddie, Andrew, Johnny, & Leroy Goines preceded him in death. Richard is survived by 4 sisters & brothers in law, Rachel & Bill Holstead of Shady Point, OK, Lou Cravens, Phyllis & J.P. Moody, & Shirley & Jerry Bunch, all of Spiro, OK; 4 brothers & sisters in law, Doyle Goines of Spiro, OK; Edward & Trudy Goines of Quinnland, TX, Luther Goines of Mesquite, TX, & Amos & Pat Goines of Bridgeport, TX; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Richard were held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, January 16, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with the Reverend Frankie Harris officiating. Interment followed the services in Fairview Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Troy Rowland, Ernest Smalley, Jimmy Bunch, Charles Bunch, Charles Loomis, Kenny Dehart, Gene Skelton, & John Harris

Evelyn Grace White

Evelyn Grace White, 98, of Poteau, OK passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2010 in Poteau. Evelyn was born on June 21, 1911 in Killen, AL to Frank C. & Anna (Heinrick) Peck. She was the 14th of 14 children born to her parents. Evelyn was a member of First United Methodist Church of Poteau & a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents, 9 brothers, 4 sisters, and her beloved husband of 47 years, Grady Otis White. Evelyn married Otis White on December 25, 1937. They lived in Tennessee until 1943 when they moved to Cleveland, Ohio. Evelyn worked for Fisher Body in air ducts of the B-29 bombers. Later, they moved to California and got jobs working in the shipyards. Evelyn was hired as a drill press operator (Rosie the Riveter). In 1945 they returned to Poteau where they operated a farm/cattle operation until Otis passed away in 1984. Evelyn continued to live on the farm until 2007 when ill health forced her to move into an assisted living center in Poteau. At the age of 93, Evelyn flew to Richmond, CA where she received a certificate of appreciation from the Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Society. Music was always a very important part of Evelyn’s life. She was a faithful member of her church choir until December 20, 2009. At the age of 95, an anthem was written in her honor with her years of service to God through her ministry of music in mind by Dallas composer, Gregory Ayers. Evelyn was known to say, “I do not regret anything I’ve done and I am glad that I got to experience everything I did. I’m fortunate and God has blessed me tremendously.” Evelyn is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones; her friends & church family. Funeral services for Evelyn were held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 14, 2010 at First United Methodist Church of Poteau, OK with the Reverend Greg Tener officiating. Interment followed the services in Oakland Cemetery with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Kyle Hardaway, Jeff Mixon, Steve Clark, Richard Peck, Johnny Baker, & Toby Culver.

Faye Essman

Faye Essman, 85, of Tulsa, Oklahoma (formerly of Poteau, OK) passed away Thursday, January 7, 2010 in Tulsa. Faye was born in Page, OK on February 14, 1924 to Tom & Ethel (Glaze) Graham. Faye was a member of Southside Baptist Church in Poteau, OK. She was a good Christian lady who lived a good life and was very active in helping her neighbors in ways such as serving them meals and looking after them. She helped win many to the Lord. Survivors include her son, Earl Kinas of Tulsa, OK; sister, Reba Skinner of Seattle, WA; brother, Dale Graham of Tulsa, OK; 9 Grandchildren; 19 Great Grandchildren; 2 Great Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Saturday, January 9, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, Ok with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK.

Kenny Dean Hebert

Kenny Dean Hebert, 66, of Poteau, OK passed away January 5, 2010 in Ft. Smith, AR. He was born October 23, 1954 in Poteau to Harold & Geraldine (Flanagan) Hebert. Kenny was a member of Victory Worship Center of Spiro, OK. He was a beloved husband & an excellent & caring father who raised his children with love & knowledge. He was a generous son & brother & a greatly anticipated grandpa. He opened many young minds at Carl Albert State College as an educator. He opened many hearts to the Lord through his work at the church & as a Sunday School teacher. Kenny was a Sooner fan in the best & worst of times. Kenny was a Good Shepherd to his flock in more ways than one. He was active in the Eagle Scouts & 4H members; an avid FFA supporter; had received several professorship awards at CASC; & was a Deacon of Assemblies of God for many years. He went home to be with his Lord & Savior & family members. He was preceded in death by his father & a brother in law, Phillip McDonald. Survivors include his beloved wife of 35 years & 11 months, Priscilla Hebert of the home; son, Andy Hebert of the home; daughter & son in law, Tracy Hebert Lamb & Jeremy Lamb of Poteau, OK; mother, Geraldine Hebert of the home; sister, Carol St. John of Arlington, VA; brothers & sister in law, Jim Hebert of Poteau, OK, Phillip & Brenda Hebert of Poteau, OK; father in law & mother in law, Arthur E. & Juanita McDonald of Ft. Smith, AR ; brothers in law & sisters in law, Gary & Jeanne McDonald of Barling, AR, Tanya & Gene Young of Ft. Smith, AR, Clyde & Barbara McDonald of Sugarloaf, AR, Danny & Karen McDonald of Alma, AR; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Friday, January 8, 2010 at Victory Worship Center, Spiro, OK with Rev. Brian Fout, Rev. Steve Hughes, & Rev. Clyde McDonald officiating. Interment followed in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Jerry Holton, Steve Hughes, Rob Wylie, Danny Wann, Jeremy Lamb & Eric Lamb. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Elizabeth A. Heavener

Elizabeth A. Heavener, 66, of Shady Point, OK passed away Sunday, January 3, 2010 in Poteau, OK. She was born March 30, 1943 in Booneville, AR to Robert & Addie (Beshears) Anderson. Liz was a retail clerk. Survivors include her daughter & son in law, Chantay & Hoss Deleplank of Shady Point, OK; son, Roy Heavener of Shady Point, OK; 4 grandsons, Beau, Jason, Wyatt & Spud; 1 great grandson, Nathion; 2 sisters, Betty Wade and Merle Smith, both of Shady Point, OK; brother, Bob Anderson of Owasso, OK; special niece, Tammie Hetherington; special friends at Tote-A-Poke; other relatives & Loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Thursday, January 7, 2010 at the First Assembly of God Church in Shady Point, OK with Rev. Mike Bunch & Rev. Joe Owen officiating. Interment followed in Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK. Pallbearers were Michael Jackson, Mark Jiminez, Rick Etmire, Donnie Williams, Robert Wright, & Matthew White. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Charles Bruce Smith, Jr.

Charles Bruce Smith, Jr. 62 of Muldrow, OK passed away on Friday, January 1, 2010 in Muldrow. Charles was born on August 21, 1947 in Helena, AR to Charles B. Smith Jr. & Edna Earl (Sanders) Smith. Charles was a Baptist & a veteran of the US Army serving in Vietnam where he earned 2 Purple Heart Medals, the Bronze Star, & the Medal of Valor. Charles was a war hero. He served as Chief of Police at Howe, OK Charles’s wife Dina Smith; his mother Edna Smith, & a brother Earl Smith all preceded him in death. Charles is survived by his 2 daughters Joanie Roberts of Van Buren, AR & Carol Bell of Poteau, OK; 3 sons, Jeremy Smith of Lavaca, AR, Joseph Smith of Hackett, AR, & Charlie Hewett of Pocola, OK; 2 stepsons Steven Goins of Fort Smith, AR & Bryan Goins of Roland, OK; a stepdaughter Tina Muise of Muldrow, OK; 19 grandchildren; a sister Brenda Wagley of Poteau, OK; his father, Charles B. Smith Sr. of Shady Point, OK; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services for Charles were held at 12:30 pm, Thursday, January 7, 2010 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Brother Terry Hurt officiating. Interment followed the services at 2:00 pm at Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, AR with arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Jay Muise, Bryan & Steven Goins, Bobby Whitaker, John Hallman, Ron Wagley, James Villegas, Craig Olienyk. Honorary pallbearers were Jeremy & Joseph Smith.

Steven L. Tomblinson

Steven L. Tomblinson, 58, of Poteau, OK passed away January 1, 2010 in Wichita, KS. Steven was born in Oklahoma City, OK on February 18, 1951. He was a general laborer. He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances Ruby Tomblinson; brother, Dewayne Tomblinson; and sister, Susan Coffey. Survivors include his daughter & son in law, Stephanie & Roy Lowe of Poteau, OK; 5 sons & daughters in law, Phillip & Nancy Tomblinson of Muskogee, OK, Robert & Lisa Tomblinson of Poteau, OK, Steven & Shelly Tomblinson of Muskogee, OK, Jesse Tomblinson of Muskogee, OK, Michael Tomblinson of Muskogee, OK; 19 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; mother Wanda McIntyre of Poteau, OK; brothers, Tommy & wife Dawn Tomblinson of Poteau, OK, David & wife Michelle Fredrickson of Hodgen, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be 1 pm, Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at the First Church of the Nazarene in Wister, OK with Rev. Jack Covey officiating. Interment will follow in Ellis Chapel Cemetery - Wister, OK. Pallbearers will be Phillip, Robert, Steven, Mike & Tommy Tomblinson and Roy Lowe.

Sarah Jane Pope

Sarah Jane Pope, 95, of Bokoshe, Oklahoma passed away on Sunday, December 20, 2009 in Spiro, Oklahoma. Sarah was born on September 26, 1914 in Sparta, Tennessee to Beecher & Maridan (Selby) Kinnard. Sarah was a Free Will Baptist & a cook. She was a loving caregiver who loved cooking and going to auctions. Sarah is survived by a son & daughter in law Wesley & Shannon Pope; her grandchildren, Lisa & Standly Casey, Chase & Megan Pope, Royce & Sharla Bilyeu, Brian & Brandy Bilyeu, & Kevin Bilyeu; 8 great grandchildren; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Memorial services for Sarah were held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, December 31, 2009 at Vineyard Community Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas with Kevin Beck officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Matthew Llane Slone

Matthew Llane Slone, 36 of Cushing, OK formerly of Wister, OK passed away on Sunday December 20, 2009 in Oklahoma City, OK. Matthew was an oilfield worker. Matthew is survived by a daughter Casey Llane Slone of Sayre, OK; a son Trevor James Slone of Slater, MO; his parents, Arnold & Betty Slone of Talihina, OK; 2 sisters Paula Mize of Springdale, AR & Amanda Akins of Poteau, OK; 3 brothers Thomas Slone of Red Oak, OK, Randy Slone of Albany, OR, & Paul Slone of Poteau,OK; numerous other relatives & loved ones and many beloved friends. Funeral services are pending under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, OK.

Earl W. Crowder

Earl W. Crowder, 82, of Red Oak, OK passed away Friday, December 25, 2009 in Talihina, OK. Earl was born in Hughes, OK on August 20, 1927 to Robert & Fannie (Hardin) Crowder. Earl attended school in Hughes & Fanshawe, He married Bertha Herrington on January 26, 1979 in Reno, NV. He was a veteran of the US Air Force attaining the rank of Staff Sgt. during WW II before his discharge on August 12, 1949. He joined the Sailor’s Union of the Pacific on December 2, 1975. He loved reading, ballgames, & helping his family & friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Bruce Crowder; and brothers Herbert & Derl (twin). Survivors include his wife Bertha Crowder of the home; daughter & son in law, Belinda & Randy Lame of Ceres, CA; son & daughter in law, Warren & Brooke Crowder of Fanshawe, OK, sister & brother in law, Martha & Sam Valdez of San Leondro, CA; brother & sister in law, Jim & Helen Noah of Tracy, CA; grandchildren & great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories, Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Red Oak Cemetery, Red Oak, OK, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Rosie Lee Thomas

Rosie Lee Thomas, 79, of Poteau, OK passed away Friday, December 25, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. Rosie was born July 31, 1930 in Kinta, OK to Walter & Lula (Canida) Upton. She was a dietician. Rosie was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Sylvester & Franklin Upton; 2 great grandsons, Zach Kincaid & Payden Grayson; and a son in law, James Grayson. Survivors include her daughters & son in law, Linda Grayson of Pocola, OK, Melissa & Stan Stone of Poteau, OK; grandchildren, Carl & Joanie Grayson, Tina & Chris Blevins, Jerry Grayson, Michael Grayson, Brandon Stone, Justin Stone; great grandchildren, Dustin Dollar, Kayla Dollar, Layne Blevins, Keelyn Grayson, Jordyn Kennison; great great grandson, Dalton Dollar; 4 sisters, Hazel Daniels & Edna Valentine of CA, Rachel Leivas & Frankie Sittner of OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at Maxey Cemetery Pavilion, Wister, OK with Rev. Jim Cook & Rev. Junior Phillips officiating. Interment followed in Maxey Cemetery with her grandsons serving as pallbearers. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK The family will be at the funeral home from 6-8 on Monday evening to visit with relatives & friends.

Ellen Crawford Tiffee

Ellen Crawford Tiffee, 87, of Poteau, OK (recently of Fayetteville, AR) passed away December 24, 2009 in Springdale, AR. She was born June 4, 1922 in Monroe, OK to Hubert B. & Elva Lou (Lowrance) Crawford. Ellen was a charter member of Friendship Baptist Fellowship in Rock Island, OK. She was a secretary for LeFlore County Farm Bureau for years. She married Harlan Tiffee Sr. on March 1, 1944. Ellen’s husband of 65 years, Harlan Tiffee Sr. & her parents preceded her in death. Survivors include her son & daughter in law, Harlan Jr. & Lucille Tiffee of Fayetteville, AR; grandsons and their wives, Kelly & Pam Tiffee, Kevin & Hillaree Tiffee of Ft. Smith, AR; 5 precious great granddaughters, Chanley, Kaylee, Andee, Ellie & Toree; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services will be held 10 am, Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at Friendship Baptist Fellowship in Rock Island, OK. Burial following in Springhill Cemetery, Monroe, OK. Pallbearers will be Truman Hill, Brad Hill, Charles Johnson, Bob McGough, Rex Ragon, & Kenneth Self. Arrangements under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made in Ellen's honor to the Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Rd., Springdale, AR 72762 or to the Friendship Baptist Fellowship, PO Box 583, Pocola, OK 74902

Robert W. Sisson

Robert W. Sisson, 63, of Wister, OK passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2009 in Poteau, OK. He was born September 10, 1946 in New Orleans, LA to Robert & Margie Sisson Robert was a foster parent for 12 years. He fostered 72 children; one special foster child Gena Jones & her daughter Glenda of Tulsa. He was married to Glenda M. Sisson for 32 years. He had a very special friend, Rev. Lee Vaughn. Robert was an oil field worker. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert & Margie Sisson; father & mother in law, O.C. & Mildred Sampson; brothers in law, Virgil & James Sampson; brother Chance West & daughters in law, Sherry Langston & Errica Sisson. Survivors include his wife, Glenda W. Sisson of the home; daughters & sons in law, Tammy & Wally Lambert of Oklahoma City, OK, Teresa & Earl Seagraves of Spiro, OK, Diane & Kevin Yarbrough of Greenbriar, AR; sons & daughters in law, David & Mary Langston of Madill, OK, Russell Broussard of Howe, OK, Bobby Sisson and Brian Sisson of S. Carolina; Glenn Sisson of Wister, OK, Cody Shipman & Jessica Whitlow of Oklahoma City, OK; Godson, Mitch Sampson of Poteau, OK, Sister & brother in law, Candy & Dickie Welch of Oklahoma City, OK, Brother, Dennis Johnon of Ardmore, OK; 36 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; special sister & her husband, Elaine & Cliff Midgley; special grandson, Heith Sulivant; special friend, Trish Hildebrant; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Monday, December 28, 2009 at Mt. View Baptist Church in Glendale, OK with Rev. P.J. Atkinson & Rev. Tim Trent officiating. Special Speaker, Pat Gowdy. Interment followed in Mt. View Cemetery. Pallbearers were George Midgley, Lance Midgley, Jason Sampson, John Sampson, Ronnie Vance, Danny Sampson, Phil Migues Jr. & Matt Sanders.

Donald Ray Moore

Donald R. Moore Donald Ray Moore, 72, of Poteau, OK passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. Donald was born November 25, 1937 in Paris, AR to Jessie & Rosie Lucille (Scrivener) Moore. He was a set up man at Whirlpool. He was a veteran of the US Air Force and the Air National Guard. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, David Moore. Survivors include his wife, Doris Moore, of the home; daughters & sons in law, Debra & Kenneth Taylor, Leisha & Jerry Beale of Poteau, OK; Son & daughter in law, Donald R. Jr. & Ruth Moore of Ft. Smith, AR; Grandchildren, Jerry Dale Beale Jr., Sheri & James Pinkston, Raymond Plant, John Beale, & Dakota Moore; great grandchild, Jason Pinkston; brothers & sisters in law, Kenneth Moore, Phillip & Pam Moore, Ronnie & Dorothy Moore; sisters & brothers in law, Martha & Junior Hilliard, Mary Jean Owens, Marilyn & Raymond Palmer, Donna Kay Green; 26 nieces & nephews; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 10 am, Monday, December 28, 2009 with Rev. Howard Cox officiating. Interment followed in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. Pallbearers were Jerry Beale Jr., John Paul Beale, Raymond Plant, James Pinkston, Jerry Beale and Kenneth Taylor. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Joe Paul Hemphill

Joe Paul Hemphill, 83, of Poteau, OK passed away Monday, December 21, 2009. He was born in Monroe, OK September 6, 1926 to Joseph Braxton & Bertha (Cagle) Hemphill. Joe Paul was a member of Southside Baptist Church of Poteau, OK. He was a veteran of the US Navy and a longtime administrator until his retirement. Hemphill's list of accomplishments, memberships and awards is quite extensive. They include: Served 19 years on the Board of Directors of KI BOIS Community Action Foundation; Served 10 years on KEDDO (Kiamichi Economic Development District of Oklahoma) Board of Directors; Served 20 years as a member of the Oklahoma Education Association; Served 10 years on Higher Education Alumni Council; Member Howe Masonic Lodge - Master Mason; 32nd Degree Mason - McAlester Consistory Served 37 years as member of Poteau Chamber of Commerce. During that time he served on the Board of Directors, served as Board President and was Executive Director for two years; Received Poteau Chamber of Commerce President's Award in 1983. Named 1984 Poteau Man of the Year; First building at CASC was named Hemphill Hall after his retirement in 1988 following 20 years of service to the college; while as CASC he served as a teacher, first Dean, Athletic Director, Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice President for Academic Affairs; Served 20 years as member of Poteau Rotary Club. Served on Board of Directors and President. Received the Paul Harris Fellow Award in 1987; Served 22 years as Poteau City Councilman; Served as Chairman of the LeFlore County Democrat Party from 1965 until 1967; Served as campaign chairman in LeFlore County for Governor Raymond Gary, Governor David Hall and Governor David Walters; Served 10 years as board member of Poteau Summer Youth program; Managed Poteau Summer Youth Program for two years; Member LeFlore County Historical Society; Served 20 years as chairman of the LeFlore County Heart Fund Drive; Served 20 years as Poteau Community Chest Board Chairman; Inducted into Oklahoma Girls Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1992; Received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 1998 Received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Carl Albert State College in 2000; Received Alumni Award from Monroe School in 2002 Appointed by Governor David Walters to a nine year term on the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges in 1991 Received Poteau Daily News Lifetime Contribution Award 2003; Received CASC Development Foundation Board of Trustees Award Also listed among his accomplishments was having his picture taken with First Lady Hillary Clinton with she and President Bill Clinton visited with the Murrah Building bombing victim families on April 4, 1996;Although he lived and served in Poteau, Monroe was always home to Hemphill Survivors include his wife, Wilma of the home; daughter & son in law, Suanna & Charlie Rust of Poteau, OK, sons & daughters in law, Joe & Kaye Hemphill of Durant, OK, Rodney & Kim Hemphill of Poteau, OK, Roger & Toni Hemphill of Clayton, OK; 13 Grandchildren; 13 Great Grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at Bob Lee Kidd Civic Center, Poteau, OK with Rev. Monty Thompson & Rev. Garry Haskins. Interment followed in Monroe Cemetery, Monroe, OK Pallbearers were his grandchildren. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

John Manen

John Manen, 92, of Poteau, OK passed away Thursday, December 17, 2009 in Poteau. John was born February 15, 1917 in Crockett, TX to Agustis & Lula (Slaughter) Manen. John was a merchant seaman. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruby. Survivors include his daughter, Robin Lynch of Heavener, OK; sons, William C. Easttom of Oklahoma City, OK, Mike Manen of San Diego, CA, David Manen of Okemah, OK, Don Manen and Scott Manen, both of Texas; brother, Glen Manen of Rockport, TX; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends Services were held 2 pm, Monday, December 21, 2009 graveside at Ellis Chapel Cemetery in Wister, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.

Margaret B. Rowley

Margaret B. Rowley, 91, of Panama, OK passed away Friday, December 18, 2009 in Poteau, OK. Margaret was born in Panama on November 6, 1918 to B.F. & Myrtle (Lipsey) Brashears. She was a retired industrial worker and sales clerk. She was a member of the Methodist church. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Millard Rowley, her parents; and a grandson, Max "Butch" Rowley. Survivors include her son and daughter in law, Max & Lynn Rowley of Poteau, OK; granddaughter and her husband, Christy and Michael Cunningham of Wister, OK; great grandson, Isaac Cunningham; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services 2 pm, Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at the Assembly of God Church in Panama, OK with Rev. Brian Smith and Rev. Pete Butler officiating. Interment following in Fairview Cemetery, Panama, OK. The family will be at the funeral home on Monday evening from 6-8 pm to visit with relatives & friends.

Mary Ellen Norris

Mary Ellen Norris, 72, of Spiro, OK passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2009 in Ft. Smith, AR. Mary was born October 17, 1937 to Clyde Rolland Sr. & Vera Mae (Hudson) Bell. Mary loved reading, being outside, gardening and flowers. She was a great mother, grandmother, wife, & sister. She was always doing for others and was a good neighbor. He was preceded in death by her husband, Tommy Lee Norris; 4 brothers, Clyde Bell, Claude Bell, Bill Cheshire, & Tommy Cheshire; and her parents, Clyde Bell Sr. & Vera Mae (Hudson)(Bell) Cheshire. Survivors include her son & daughter in law, Michael & Marisa Norris of Muskogee, OK; daughter & son in law, Penny & Lane Hetherington of Panama, OK; grandsons, Landon & wife Lisa Hetherington of Panama, OK, Cory Hetherington of Panama, OK; great grandchildren, Logan & Leyton Hetherington; brother & sister in law, Charley & Lu Jayne Bell of Cold Spring, TX; 4 sisters & brothers in law, Shirley Hood of Jenks, OK, Sherry & Louis Helms of Okmulgee, OK, Vera & Floyd Counts of Henryetta, OK, Susan & Roger Wyrick of Okmulgee, OK; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services were held 2 pm, Saturday, December 19, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed in Fairview Cemetery in Panama, OK. Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK

Oscar Kineth Worley

Oscar Kineth Worley, 98, of Vian, OK passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2009 in Vian. Oscar was born October 1, 1911 in Whitley, AR to James Hawkins & Cecilia Ann (Baldwin) Worley. He was a minister. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Jay, Earl, Marvin & Dave; 3 sisters, Minnie, Velma & an infant sister; & 3 grandchildren. Survivors include daughters & sons in law, Anna Gearlene & Vernon Hall of Vian, OK, Miriam & A.T. Jett of Vian, OK; sons & daughter in law, Ernest Dale & Juanita Worley of Blanchard, OK, James A. Worley of Vian, OK; 13 grandchildren; 41 great grandchildren; 24 great great grandchildren; other relatives & loved ones; many beloved friends. Services: 10 am, Saturday, December 19, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories with Bro.Roger Alexander officiating. Interment following in Oakland Cemetery - Poteau, OK. Pallbearers: Alton Davis, Arba Jett, Dwayne Jett, Aaron Stewart, Robert Parks, & Atlee Stewart.

Norla Elizabeth Pierce

Norla Elizabeth Pierce, 67, of Spiro, OK passed away Sunday, December 13, 2009 in Pocola, OK. She was born September 16, 1942 in Chilco, Idaho to Wilburn & Jessie (Law) McDonald. Norla was a minister for 40 years in the Assembly of God Church. She was preceded in death by a son, Scottie Pierce, her parents; brother, Charles McDonald; sister, Katherine Riley; and granddaughter, Shay Lynn Pierce. Survivors include her husband, Edward "Joe" Pierce of the home; daughter, Tammy Parker & husband Skip of Cowlington, OK; son, Edward L. Pierce Jr. & wife Melinda of Wister, OK; 5 sisters, Mary Wilson of Oregon, Juanita Davenport of Bokchito, OK, Dorothy Crowder of Soper, OK, Paula Spriggs of Holdenville, OK, Mildred Felice of Dayton, FL; 8 grandchildren, Heath Pierce, Bobby Pierce, Dawna Parker, Precious Restine, Dustin Parker, Whitney Parker, Andrea Pierce, Scottie Pierce Jr.; 9 great grandchildren, Judge Pierce, Keelyn Moore, McKenna Pierce, Cade Siler, Brittney Restine, Adison Parker, Brayson Parker, Kecher Bustos, Kolby Reel Services will be 2 pm, Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, OK with Rev. Garry Cline & Rev. John Beckman officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. View Cemetery in Glendale, OK. Pallbearers will be Mike Clark, Harold Statham, Aaron Clark, Delton Eastep, Jerry Shropshire, & Clifton Cline. The family will be at the funeral home from 6-8 pm Tuesday evening to visit with relatives & friends.

Patricia Ann (Wilson) Butler

Patricia Ann (Wilson) Butler, 68, of Poteau, OK passed away Thursday, December 10, 2009 in Poteau, OK. She was born in Poteau on July 6, 1941 to Woodrow Dillard & Martha Rella (Irvin) Wilson. Pat retired from Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center after 27 years service; she was preceded in death by her daughter, Victoria Delassus, a great grandson, Dylan Ritter, a brother, Harold Wilson Sr., & her parents, Woodrow & Martha Wilson. Survivors include 3 daughters & sons in law, Tammy & Butch Phelan of Levelland, TX, Penny & Greg Smith of Poteau, OK, Marty Holman of Ft. Smith, AR; 10 grandchildren, Chris Ritter, Vickey Ramirez, Summer Spencer, Nikki Fields, Alex Harp Gabrea & Gergory Smith, April Remy, Duston & Ashley Green; 11 great grandchildren, Bailey Coffey, Maraya Ritter, Cesar, Alex and Florentino Ramirez Jr., Alexis Spencer, Kadence & Trevor Fields, Ayden Aplara, Cierh Carey, and a great granddaughter due in March. brothers & sisters in law, Dillard & Darlene Wilson of Montana, Tommy & Virginia Wilson of Poteau, OK, & Mary Wilson of Sand Springs, OK; best friend, Betty Black; other relatives & loved ones; a host of beloved friends. Services 2 pm, Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at Evans Chapel of Memories - Poteau, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, OK. The family will be at the funeral home on Monday evening from 6-8 pm to visit with relatives & friends.

Marie "Riki" Walker

Marie “Riki” Walker, 92, of Bethany, OK passed away Monday, December 7, 2009. She was born in Nacogdoches, TX on February 26, 1917, to Clebourn & Emma (Howard) Alders. Riki was a retired state employee. Riki and 12 siblings were raised by her parents on a 160 acre farm. Riki was an advocate of education, attending Stephen F. Foster College where she was her cheerleading squad captain. She took delight in her accomplishments winning many tennis titles with other countries while in college. She later attended Texas University where she earned her Masters Degree in Sociology and up to her Psychology Degree at Tahlequah State. Riki was known for her wit and vivacious personality. She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Freeman Walker. Riki was a member of the Crossroads Cathedral and took pride in the fact that she read the Bible through four times. She will be dearly missed and completely lovingly missed by all who knew her. Survivors include her son, Ron Walker of Bethany, OK; daughter & son in law, Mona & Don Brown of Oklahoma City, OK; grandchildren & their spouse, Polo & Dawnie, Jennifer & Billy, Tammye & David, Michelle & John; great grandchildren, Mikia, Caleb, John, Rynn, Mikala, Johna Michelle; many devoted, extended family members and friends. Services were held 2 pm Friday, December 11, 2009 graveside at Shady Point Cemetery, Shady Point, OK with Rev. Jim Cook officiating. Interment followed under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home, Poteau, OK.