July 2003

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Funeral services for Chris BETANCOURT, 18, of Roland, are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Fentress Mortuary Chapel in Fort Smith, Ark., with burial in Woodlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of Fentress Mortuary of Fort Smith. He died Saturday, June 28, 2003, in Fort Smith. Survivors include his mother, Kim BETANCOURT; father Barry BETANCOURT; paternal grandmother, Barbara BETANCOURT; maternal grandparents, Carolyn and Johnny FREEMAN; and his step-father, David TEAGUE.

Graveside services for Claude Franklin GRAY, 81, of Sallisaw, were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 26, at the Blanchard Cemetery, under the direction of Eisenhour Funeral Home of Blanchard. He was born April 25, 1922, in Blanchard to Thomas M. and Rachel E. (COPELAND) GRAY. He died Sunday, June 22, 2003. Survivors include two daughter and sons-in-law, Paula and her husband Stanley, and Caroline and her husband Gregory; seven grandchildren; one sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie Gray and her husband C.T.; two brothers, Roy and Ben; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers; two sisters; and one step-daughter.

Funeral services for Charles HOPSON, 35, of Fort Smith, Ark., were held at 11 a.m. Monday at the Muldrow First Baptist Church, with burial in Muldrow Memory Gardens Cemetery in Muldrow, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith. Mr. HOPSON died Thursday, June 26, 2003, in Fort Smith. Survivors include his wife, DeAnn HOPSON of Fort Smith; one son, Christopher; his father, Adrian HOPSON Sr.; his mother, Brenda GARRETT; three sisters, RoseAnne, Alisa and Kathy; five brothers, Adrian Jr., Larry, Hoss, Gary and Jason.

Funeral services for Sharon Sue JONES, 52, of Muldrow were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Nicut, with burial in Gill Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark., under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith. She was born Sept 1, 1950, in Crawford County in Arkansas. She died Sunday, June 27, 2003, in her home. Survivors include her husband, Bobby JONES of the home; one daughter, Amber; one son, Joshua; her mother Lora PETERS; one sister, Alta; three brothers, Fay, Archie and Curtis, several grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; 11 step-children and other relatives and friends, including Craig.

Memorial services for Tina L. KELLERMAN, 40, of Muldrow, were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Moffett Mission Baptist Church in Moffett, with Rev. Harold Yates officiating. She was born March 11, 1963, in St Louis, Mo. to Eugene SIMMONS. She died Friday, June 27, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. Survivors include her husband, Ronnie WARREN of the home; three sons, Allen Keith, Kevin Wayne and Ronnie Lee Jr.; several brothers and sisters and other relatives and friends.

Graveside services for James Bert LOVETT Sr., 54, of Holdenville, formerly of Sallisaw, are being held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Blue Cemetery west of McAlester, with Rev. Tom Brooks officiating, under the direction of Fisher Funeral Home of Holdenville. He was born on April 29, 1949, in Las Cruces N.M. to Howard Franklin LOVETT and Lenora (FRY) LOVETT. He died Monday, June 20, 2003, in his home. He married Diana FOSTER on April 21, 1985, in Sherman,Texas. Survivors include his wife, Diana LOVETT of the home; one son, James Bert Jr.; three daughters, Sherry Elaine, Lori Lynn and Lisa Louise; several grandchildren; one sister, Mildred; one brother, Tommy; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, including Billy and Jimmy and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for James A. SMITH Jr., 47, of Tulsa, formerly of Muskogee, are being held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the millsap Funeral Chapel in Webbers Falls, with Rev. Charlie Thompson officiating. Burial is in Vaught Cemetery in Webbers Falls, under the direction of Millsap Funeral Service of Webbers Falls. He was born on March 27, 1956, in Muskogee to James A. SMITH Sr. and Emily "Jo" (HARRIS) SMITH. He died Sunday, June 29, 2003, in Duchess Creek Acres west of Porum. Survivors include his parents of Duchess Creek Acres; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Charles E. "Chuck" and Janece, Frank Tod and Debbie, and Rodney T. and Annie; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Willi May HARRIS and Richard and Correne May SMITH.

Graveside services for Edith B. THORNTON, 72, of Fort Smith, Ark., were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Belfonte Cemetery north of Muldrow, with Dr. Lee Woodard officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born May 20, 1931, in Lamar, Ark. to Earl Zachary CHRONISTER and Susie Jane WARREN CHRONISTER. She died Sunday, June 29, 2003, in Miami. Mrs. THORNTON was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith. She married Duil J. THORNTON on July 7, 1948, in Marked Tree, Ark. He preceded her in death on June 6, 1986. Survivors include one daughter June; two sons, Michael C. and Duil Anthony; seven grandchildren; one si``ster, Geraldine; one brother, Harry; several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. She was also preceded in death by three brothers; and one sister.

Jane Lillian HAMRICK, 59, of Roland, died Sunday, June 29, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. Cremation was under the direction of Fentress Mortuary of Fort Smith. Mrs. HAMRICK is survived by her husband, Michael HAMRICK of Roland; three daughters, Laura, Kelly and Christina; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and her father, Fredrick FAAS.

Funeral services for Robert E. HARRIS, Sr., 70, of Sallisaw, are being held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Agent Chapel in Sallisaw. Burial of Cremains will be at a later date in Fleetwood Cemetery east of Sallisaw, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born on Sept 11, 1932, in Sand Springs to Ray HARRIS and Martha (HART) HARRIS. He died Monday, June 30, 2003, in Tulsa. Survivors include one daughter, Erica; one son, Robert E. Jr.; two grandchildren; two sisters, Geneva and Vicki; and four brothers, Chuck, Bill, R.E. and Jerry. He was preceded in death by one brother, Lynn; and two sisters, Elizabeth and JoAnn.

Funeral services for Flora W. BOLDEN , 88, of Bristow, formerly of Sallisaw were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Freedom Hill Baptist Church near Mannford, with Pastor Greg Haisley officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Hutchins-Maples Funeral Home of Bristow. She was born Aug 2, 1914, in Akins to Jeff HAMBY and Lillian Marvin (EZELL) DYSART. She died Sunday, July 6, 2003, in Bristow. Survivors include one daughter, Virginia; two sons and daughters-in-law, Edward and his wife Laurie; Dale and his wife Lindalyn; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one great -(great)-grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband for over 57 years, Clarence BOLDEN; one son-in-law, Raymond HETZER, one grandson, Allen BOLDEN; and one brother, Grady DYSART.

Funeral services for Edith Mary Lee DREW , 85, of Tulsa will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Vian Baptist Church, with Rev. Robert Drew officiating. Burial will be in Rose Lawn Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Millsap Funeral Service of Webbers Falls. She was born Oct 15, 1917, in Van Buren, Ark. to Lee Edgar WILLIAMS and Dora (CAMPBELL) WILLIAMS. She died Thursday, July 3, 2003, in Tulsa. Survivors include three daughters, Lillie, Dora Mae and Savanah; two sons, David and Robert; two sisters, Earnestine and Alena; five brothers, Otha James, Carol Anderson, Lee Edgar, Roy Gene and Matthew; and four children that she raised, Marva Jean, Barbara Ann, Jerry and Charles. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles J. DREW; one daughter, Elsenia Marie RIGGINS; one sister; two brothers; two grandsons; and three great-grandchildren.

Memorial services for Johnny J. D. HOLMES, 78, of Gans, are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark., under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith. He was born May 2, 1925, in Dardanelle, Ark. He died Saturday, July 5, 21003, in an area hospital. Survivors include his wife Anita HOLMES of the home; two sons, James and Michael; four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; four sisters, Virginia, Emmalois, Paula and Sharon; and two brothers, James and Dewayne.

Funeral services for Donald W. HUMPHREY, 76, of Barling, Ark., were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Oak Cliff Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Ark., with burial in Akins Cemetery northeast of Sallisaw, under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith. He was born April 25, 1927, in Akins. He died Saturday, July 5, 2003, in an area hospital. Survivors include his wife, Betty HUMPHREY of the home; two daughters, Connie and Rosemary; two sons, Danie and Phillip; seven grandchildren; one sister, Isie; and one brother, Bobby Joe.

David William JORDAN, 88, of Delano, Calif., formerly of Vian died Sept 2, 1992, in Delano. Mr. JORDAN was originally buried in North Kern Cemetery in Delano. His body was moved to the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, July 11, 2003, with Rev. William Armstrong officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born on June 22, 1904, in Akins community to James Jim JORDAN and Samantha Intha (WICKETT) JORDAN. He married Amanda Ruby WARREN on Aug 12, 1931, in Gore. She preceded him in death on April 28, 2003. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Charleen and Richard; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Graveside services for Susie Lee KEITH, 76, of Muldrow, were held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Lee's Chapel Cemetery south of Muldrow, with Rev. Wayne I. Hall officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born on May 26, 1927, in Drumwright to William Harvey KEITH and Edna Mae (FAULKNER) KEITH. Survivors include one sister, Alice E.; and one brother, James W.

Funeral services for Barbara LAWSON, 54, of Greenwood, Ark., were held at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Mt Olive Regular Church in Elkins, Ark., with burial in Mt Olive Cemetery in Elkins, under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith, Ark. She was born on Dec. 8, 1948, in Fort Smith. She died Tuesday, July 1, 2003, in Houston. Survivors include her husband Rex LAWSON of the home; two sons, David and Dale; four grandchildren; parents, Laverne and Evelyn SANDERS; and three sisters, Judy, Margie and Anita.

Graveside services for Willie Mae LUTTRELL, 87, of Muskogee, formerly of Sequoyah County, are being held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Alanreed Cemetery in Alanreed, Texas, with Rev. Jim Bible officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born on March 19, 1916, in Decatur, Texas to James Newt SMITH and Rosa (JOHNSON) SMITH. She died Thursday, July 3, 2003, in Muskogee. She married Ansil Laurel LUTTRELL on Aug 14, 1933, in Hollis. Survivors include one son, Troy; 14 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; one sister, Edith; and one brother, Richard. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1984; and two sons, Ray LUTTRELL of Sallisaw and Winford Joe LUTTRELL.

Funeral services for Wayne NIPP, 84, of Sallisaw, were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Mallory Chapel in Sallisaw, with Brother Jay Lloyd officiating. Burial was in Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. He was born on Nov 3, 1918, in Stevensville, Texas to Leslie Foy NIPP and Carrie Adeline NIPP. He died Wednesday, July 2, 2003, in Sallisaw. Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Maxine Lee NIPP of the home; three daughters and sons-in-law, Sharon, Barbara and her husband David, and Alesia and her husband Michael; eight grandsons; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Valta and Jarene; and three brothers, William, Eldon and Vernon. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Judson and J.T. NIPP; and one sister, Nelda LEE.

Memorial services for Blanche ZIGLER, 80. of Vian, are being held at 2 p.m Thursday at the Vian Baptist Church , with Chaplain Suzanne Alberts officiating. Burial is in Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born June 16, 1923, in Kusa, to Sylvester WALTERS and Mary (HEDRICK) WALTERS. She died Monday, July 7, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married lEslie Leroy ZIGLER on July 6, 1944, in Reno, Nev. He preceded her in death on Oct 24, 1985. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Dewey; four granddaughters; 11 great-grandchild; one half-sister, Louise; one brother, J.S.; one half-brother, Jerry; several cousins, nieces and nephews, including Susan and Dale, and other relatives and friends. She was also preceded in death by one son, Leslie Leroy ZIGLER, her mother; one sister, Aline KECK; one brother, W.T. WALTERS; and one half-brother, Lonnie WALTERS.

Funeral services for Robert L. "Bob" JONES, 80, of Muldrow, were held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith, Ark., with burial in U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith. Mr. JONES died Monday, July 7, 2003, in Roland. Survivors include two daughters, Susan and Roberta.; two grandsons; and two sisters, Elizabeth and Frances.

Funeral services for Robert Mayes "Bob" KIRK, 72, of Muskogee, will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Vian Assembly of God Church in Vian, with burial in the Marble City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born Sept 17, 1930, in Marble City, to Esta KIRK and Diana (MAYES) KIRK. He died Thursday, July 10, 2003, in Muskogee. He married Charlene Ann GILBERT on Oct. 23, 1955, in Evansville, Ind. Survivors include his wife Charlene Ann KIRK of the home; one daughter, Norma Shawn; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one son, Robert Nolton KIRK on March 7, 2001; and his parents.

Funeral services for Gary RUCKMAN, 56, of Muldrow, were held at 10 a.m. Friday at the Victory Temple Pentecostal Church in Roland, with Rev. Andy O'Neal and Earl "Buddy" Brown officiating. Burial was in Upper Camp Creek Cemetery northeast of Muldrow, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Muldrow. Mr. RUCKMAN was born March 3, 1947, in Oakland, Calif. He died Wednesday, July 9, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. Mr. RUCKMAN married Louise GILBERT on Dec. 18, 1967, in Cottonwood community. Survivors include his wife, Louise RUCKMAN of the home; two sons and daughter-in-law, Gary Wesley and Sarah Dawn, and Rickey Tyler; his parents; mother-in-law, Bessie GILBERT; one sister, Darla; one brother, Al; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Rev. Harold BOYD, 76, of Fort Smith, Ark., were held at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Baptist Church in Fort Smith, with Revs. Tom Pullen and Jerry McDonald officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Muldrow. Mr. BOYD was born July 24, 1926, in Blue Mouse community to Joseph "Jody" BOYD and Maud (CZARNIKOW) BOYD. He died Friday, July 11, 2003, in Fort Smith. Mr. BOYD married Dolores DYER on Oct 28, 1944, in Van Buren, Ark. Survivors include his wife Dolores BOYD of the home; one daughter, Donna; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother, Marcus; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by one brother, Gene BOYD; and one sister, Mildred McALESTER.

Graveside services for Lenetha Mae CASTEEL, 70, of Muldrow, were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Akins Cemetery northeast of Sallisaw, with Dr. Lee Woodard officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Muldrow. She was born on April 8, 1933, in Boswell to Otha Lee TANKSLEY and Ruth (LOVE) TANKSLEY. She died Saturday, July 12, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married Alvin Edwin CASTEEL on Nov 9, 1972, in Amarillo, Texas. He preceded her in death on Feb. 4, 2002. Survivors include one daughter, Rita; one son, Gary; four grandchildren; six grandchildren; one sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Gerald; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Clara WELLS COTNER, 83, of Vian, were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 15, at the Vian Baptist Church, with the Rev. Tommy Ballard officiating. Burial was in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born Sept 17, 1919, in Gore to Eliza Charity (LEDBETTER) WELLS and William Randolph WELLS. She died at her home on Saturday, July 12, 2003. Survivors include her five children, Joe Bill, Linda, Brenda, Carolyn and Sally; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren.

Graveside services for Robert "Hank" DEAREN Jr., 86, of Lavaca, Ark., were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark., under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith. He died Thursday, July 10, 2003, in Lavaca. Survivors include six daughters, Teresa, Zorana, Paula, Pamela, Lolanda and Diane; 17 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Floy Mae JOHNSON, 81, of Charleston, Ark., were held at 10 a.m Wednesday at the Smith Mortuary Chapel in Charleston, with Revs. Darrell Johnson and Client Reddell officiating. Burial was in Garden of Memories Cemetery in Charleston, under the direction of Smith Mortuary of Charleston. She was born on Oct 14, 1921, in Logan County to Robert E. HALL and Nora (HARLESS) HALL. She died Saturday, July 12, 2003, in an area nursing home. Survivors include one daughter, Anna Vee; five sons, Alfred , Arian, Bob, Bill and Claude; 24 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild;three sisters, Betty, Rosie and Patsy; and four brothers, Carl, Leroy, Lendal and Harold. She was also preceded in death by her husband Delbert JOHNSON; two sons, Albert and Amel JOHNSON; and her parents.

Funeral services for Roy Elmer KELLY, 97, of Tucker community, were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with Rev. Lewis Hale officiating. Burial was in Cowlington Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born on July 10, 1906, in Oden, Ark. to Ernest Miles KELLY and Tupsy Cora (CARTER) KELLY. He died Sunday, July 13, 2003, in Sallisaw. He married Callie Zona DAVIS on Dec 24, 1930, in Cowlington community. She preceded him in death on March 3, 2000. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Roma Lee and James; one son and daughter, Davis and Anne; three granddaughters; five great-granddaughters; one great-grandson; one sister, Ina; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Edna Bertha Darlene MACKEY, 82, of Muldrow, formerly of Spiro, were held at the Eastside Full Gospel Church in Spiro, with Revs. Cotton McKinney and Wesley McLaughlin officiating. She was born Sept 15, 1920, in Flower Hill to Edgar BREWER and Martha (CAGLE) BREWER. She died Saturday, July 12, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. Survivors include her husband, Rev. Robert Eligah MACKEY; two daughters and three sons-in-law, Loretta "Tammy" and her husband Allen, and Bernice and her husband Vendall, and Charles Amos; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Cleo and Albert. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Margaret SPARKS, five sisters, Eva SMITH, Ella Mae PROCK, Ruby PIKE, Dee TEDFORD and Flossie Mae BREWER.

Funeral services for Vera Beatrice McKEEHEN, 70, of Gans, are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the First Assembly of God Church in Gans, with Revs. Harold McKeehen and Kevin Fouts officiating. Burial is in Gans Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born June 15, 1933, in Hutchinson, Kan. to Earnest Edward POWELL and Mary Agness (POLLOCK) POWELL. She died Monday, July 14, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married Harold Eugene McKEEHEN on June 21, 1950, in Hutchinson. Survivors include her husband, of the home; one daughter, Bonnie; one son and daughter-in-law, Rev. Harold and Janie; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; grandchildren by marriage; one sister, Juanita; and several other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Vicki Lynn; one son, Glen MARTIN; one sister, Clara CHONG; one brother, Jack Dempsey; and one daughter-in-law, Rene.

Funeral services for Bobby Ray MORGAN, 62, of Muldrow, will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at the First Baptist Church in Muldrow, with Rev Tim Ohls officiating. Burial will be in Box Cemetery north of Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Muldrow. He was born on Sept 4, 1940, in Muldrow to Clinton MORGAN and Donna JOHNSON MORGAN MECOM. He died Monday, July 14, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. He married Jerrie Alice BARNES on June 24, 1978, in Sequoyah County. Survivors include his wife, Jerrie MORGAN of the home; three daughters, Kimberly, Fonda and Angela; one son, Marshall; nine grandchildren; two sisters, Elaine and Becky; two brothers, Danny and Denver; and his step-mother, Lola MORGAN. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Betty THOMPSON; and one brother, Eddie TURNER.

Funeral services for Wendell Lee PARKER, 58, of Claremore, were held at 10 a.m. Friday at the Fort Smith National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark., under the direction of Midtown Tulsa Chapel of Tulsa. He died Wednesday, July 9, 2003, in Claremore Veteran's Center. Survivors include his wife, Louise PARKER; two sons, Justin Windell and Gready; five daughters, Tonya, Dorthy, Betty, Phyllis and Carol; 25 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Hellen, Betty and Rhonda; and two brothers, Michael and Jimmy. She was preceded in death by one sister, Rosa Lee CALDWELL; and one brother, Lindel Luther PARKER.

Funeral services for Bettie Jean SPALDING, 65, of Roland formerly of Hamilin, Texas, were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Hamlin Church of the Nazarene, with James Spalding, Braxton Bigot and Jearl Houghton officiating. Burial was in Hamlin Memorial Cemetery, under the direction of Foster-Adams Funeral Home of Hamlin. She was born June 30, 1938, in California to Lawrence and Lucile (BELL) COTTRELL. She died Saturday, July 12, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married Aurthur Jim SPALDING Sr. on July 11, 1958, in Oklahoma City. Survivors include three daughters, Clara, Debora and Janell; three sons, Billy Joe and Floyd Jay and Gary James; 14 grandchildren; two brothers, Johnny and Charles; one granddaughter-in-law; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband on Nov 26, 1982; one son, A.J. SPALDING Jr.; and two sisters, Effie Mae BAKER and Viola Jewell McGRAHANN.

Funeral services for Wynona Katherine BENTON, 83, of Muldrow, are being held at 11 a.m. Saturday, at the New Morning Star Baptist Church in Moffett, with Revs. T. Dodson and James Jones officiating. Burial is in Centerpoint Cemetery in Redland, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born April 24, 1920, in Redland to McKinley WARE and Minnie (DAVIS) WARE. She died Wednesday, July 16, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married Benjamin BENTON Sr. on March 26, 1939. Survivors include her husband, Benjamin "Skinner" BENTON Sr.; two daughters, Lea Etta and Minnie; one son, Benjamin Jr. and his wife Effie; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one cousin, Anna Lou; one sister-in-law, Dorothy; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one daughter.

Funeral services for Mable A. BIBB , 84, of Oklahoma City, were held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Bill Merritt Funeral Home Chapel in Bethany, with burial in Resurrection Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Oklahoma City, under the direction of Bill Merritt Funeral Home Service of Bethany. She was born April 15, 1919, in Fayetteville, Ark. She died Wednesday, July 9, 2003. Mrs. BIBB was survived by her children, Kenneth, Judy, James, Debbie and Gary; 15 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren and expecting a great-grandchild in February 2004. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kepner C. BIBB on May 10, 1997; and one great-grandson, Zachary.

Funeral services for Kelly Walter JOHNSON, 67, of Short, were held at 2 p.m. Friday, at the Ocker Memorial Chapel in Van Buren, Ark., with burial in Seabolt Cemetery in Short, under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home of Van Buren. He died Tuesday, July 15, 2003, in his home. Survivors include his wife, Kathryn JOHNSON of the home; three daughters, Kelly, Terry and Tasha; one son, Wade; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother, Noel; and 12 nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Marie GANN LaFOND, 73, of Arkoma, were held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Putman Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith, Ark., with burial in Woodlawn Memorial Park in Fort Smith, under the direction of Putman Funeral Home of Fort Smith. She died Wednesday, July 16, 2003, in an area hospital. Survivors include one daughter, Connie; one son, Alvin Leon; seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Melvin. She was preceded in death by two husbands, William "Bill" GANN and Donald R. LaFOND.

Graveside services for Nancy Jane McREYNOLDS SKAGGS, 71, of Fort Smith, Ark., are being held at 10 a.m. Saturday, at the Mt. McCurry Cemetery Arbor in Rudy, Ark., under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, Ark. She died Wednesday, July 16, 2003, in an area hospital. Survivors include her husband, Floyd SKAGGS of the home; seven daughters, Velma, Sue, Betty, Ramona, Alexia, Tammy and Lori MORTON of Fort Smith; two sons, Robert and Denis; 24 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; five sisters, Lydia, Lou Ann, Marie, Lorene and Etta Ellen; and one brother, Ransom.

Graveside services for Glenn SPRINGWATER, 67, of Gans, were held at 10 a.m. Friday at the Gans Cemetery, with Rev. Charles Sparkman officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born Oct 27, 1935, in Brent community to William Ross "Bill" SPRINGWATER and Della Mae (FOYIL) SPRINGWATER. Survivors include several aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Steve Douglas ANDERSON, 57, of Cameron, were held at 2 p.m Saturday at the Grace Manor Memorial Chapel in Poteau, with Rev. Dewayne Anderson officiating. Burial was in Fair Hill Cemetery in Cameron, under the direction of Grace Manor Funeral Home of Poteau. He was born July 23, 1945, in Fort Smith, Ark. to Amos and Johnnie (CAGLE) ANDERSON. He died Thursday, July 17, 2003, in his home. He married Margaret PRESCOTT on Aug 18, 1965, in Stilwell. Survivors include his wife Margaret ANDERSON of the home; two daughters, Tammy and Tresia; two granddaughters; four grandsons; three sisters, Ruby, Martha and Marlene; two brothers, Gene and Dewayne; and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Walter Lee ASBILL, 54, of Oklahoma City, formerly of sallisaw, are being held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with Rev. Robert L. Polvado officiating. Burial is in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born March 17, 1949, in Oklahoma City to Walter Parker ASBILL and Lula Lee (PRUITT) ASBILL. He died Monday, July 21, 2003, in Oklahoma City. Survivors include one daughter, Meredith Kay; one granddaughter; his mother, Lula Lee ASBILL, and several aunts, uncles, cousins and other relative and friends.

Funeral services for Floyd W. BEGLEY, 91, of Sallisaw, were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Mallory Funeral Home Chapel in Sallisaw, with Pastor John Earnhart officiating. Burial was in Akins Cemetery northeast of Sallisaw, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born July 2, 1912, in Kellyville to Joe Abe BEGLEY and Ida (HILL) BEGLEY. He died Friday, July 18, 2003, in Pryor. He married Lenora MOORE on Aug 17, 1933, in Sapulpa. Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Jawanda "Jo" and her husband Bob, and Elaine and her husband Greg; one son and daughter-in-law, Clifton and his wife; 12 grandchildren;21 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Bill; and several nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lenora Dovie BEGLEY; one son, Clayton Edward BEGLEY; and his parents.

Funeral services for Mildred F. BETHEL, 88, of Gans, will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Gans Bible Church in Gans with Rev. Charles Sparkman officiating. Burial will be in Memory Gardens Cemetery in Muldrow, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born June 22, 1915, in Sebastian County, Ark. to John Joseph FISCHER and Francis Columbus (KINCADE) FISHER. She died Tuesday, July 22, 2003, in Norman. Survivors include one daughter, Wanda L.; one son, Lander; 17 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and one half-brother, Wald She was preceded in death by one son, Hubert BETHEL; one daughter, Mary Lea PAGE; two sisters, Myrtle Ellastene EGGERS and Martha HUFF; and two brothers, Joseph BROWN and Rago FISCHER.

Funeral services for Rachel BIRD, 36, of Sallisaw, were held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Pine Tree Baptist Church north of Sallisaw, with Revs. Lawrence Eagle and Kevin Flynn officiating. Burial was in Salem Cemetery near Bell community, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born July 8, 1967, in Tahlequah to James W. LOCUST and Mary BIRD. She died Friday, July 18, 2003, in Sallisaw. Survivors include one daughter, Brashelle; one son, Brandon; one grandson; her mother and step-father, Mary and Roy DUNCAN; her father and step-mother, J.W. and Sharon LOCUST; maternal grandparents Leona BIRD and Jim BIRD; two sisters, Carmelita and Sheena; and four brothers, Michael, William, Bradley and James Allen.

Funeral services for Thomas Willard JAMES, 59, of Muldrow, were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Fair Hill Cemetery in Cameron, under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood, Ark. He died Sunday, July 20, in Tulsa. Survivors include his wife, Paulette JAMES of the home; two daughters, Jean and Georgette; two sons, Dale and Phillips; three grandchildren; three sisters, Dorothy, Bessie and Mollie; two brothers, Robert and David. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Ginger JAMES.

Funeral services for David Edward MUSZYNSKI, 50, of Sallisaw, are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark., with Revs. Diana Harman and Bill Ralston officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born Dec 15, 1952, in Briston, Conn. to Walter MUSZYNSKI and Marjorie (DAHLGREN) MUSZYNSKI. He died Tuesday, July 22, 2003, in Sallisaw. He married Martha Ann VAUGHN on Feb. 15, 2002, in Fort Smith. Survivors include his wife, Martha Anne MUSZYNSKI of the home; his father and step-mother, Walter and Rachel MUSZYNSKI; two aunts, Diane and Caro; and several cousins and friends.

Funeral services for Warren G. ROZELL, 82, of Webbers Fall, were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Assembly of God Church in Webbers Falls, with Pastor Rennie Ohl officiating. Burial was in Vaught Cemetery in Webbers Falls, under the direction of Millsap Funeral Service of Webbers Falls. He was born on Nov 3, 1920, in Braggs to Floyd F. and Vada (BARNES) ROZELL. He died Sunday, July 20, 2003, in Tulsa. Mr. ROZELL married Villa MELSON on Jan 20, 1948, in Claremore. She preceded him in death on Oct. 6, 2001. Survivors include his children, Charles and Truly, Paula and Doug,, Doris Inez, Leona Sue, Jessie and Betty Carolyn and Darrell; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Dorothy Nell; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Fern MYERS SMITHER, 78, of Sallisaw, were held at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Mallory Funeral Home Chapel in Sallisaw, with Rev. David Rhoads officiating. Burial was in the Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born on Sept 9, 1924, in Gans to Rev. Oscar H. MYERS and Myrtle (RHODES) MYERS. She died Friday, July 18, 2003, in Sallisaw. Survivors include her husband, Harper SMITHER; one step-son, Ricky and his wife Stacy; one grandson; three sisters, Hester, Hazel,and Betty Jo; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Grace PETERSON; and two brothers, Raymond MYERS and James MYERS.

Funeral services for Stanley R. SPENCE, 49, of Van Buren, Ark., were held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith, Ark., with burial in U.S., National Cemetery in Fort Smith, under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith. He was born June 11, 1954, in Moffett. He died Monday, July 14, 2003, in Fort Smith. Survivors include his wife, Martha Lee SPENCE of the home; one daughter, Julie; one son, Teddy L.; two grandchildren; his mother, Flossie TYLER; his father, Ray SPENCE; one brother, Randy; two sisters, Marcia and Pam; one half-sister, Ray Lene; one half-brother, Ray Gene; and two nieces and five nephews.

Funeral services for Marie VAUGHT, 87, of Arkoma were held at 10 a.m. Monday at the Cavanaugh United Methodist Church in Fort Smith, Ark., with her grandsons, Benjamin Magness officiating. Burial was in the Old Cache Cemetery in Cartersville, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith. She was born May 14, 1916, in Cartersville to Monte STANLEY and Eliza Alexander STANLEY. Survivors include three sons and daughters-in-law, Larry and his wife Carolyn of Arkoma, Ronnie and his wife Kathy of Pocola and Stan and his wife Trish; three daughters and two sons-in-law, MariSan and her husband Gene, Beverleigh and her husband Lanny, and Sharon; 30 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; one brother, Cecil. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul VAUGHT, her parents; one sister, Vivian CAMPBELL; and two brothers, Mack Clayton STANLEY and Glyn Alexander STANLEY.

Funeral services for Evelyn Louise ERWIN, 56, of Fort Smith, Ark., were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the First Baptist Church in Fort Smith, with Rev. Dale Thompson officiating. Burial was in Memory Gardens Cemetery in Muldrow, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born on March 4, 1947, in Sallisaw to Leon Baud ERWIN and Ester (PENDERGRASS) ERWIN. She died Saturday, July 19, 2003, in Fort Smith. Survivors include her mother, Ester ERWIN; three sisters, Karon, Sharon and Edith; and several other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Melba Elaine LYNN, 67, of Muldrow, were held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Liberty Assembly of God Church, with Rev. Tommy Treat officiating. Burial was in Liberty Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born Sept 12, 1935, in Belfonte community to Marvin Maze PREWETT and Arminda (CURL) PREWITT. She died Tuesday, July 22, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married Neil Wesley LYNN on July 27, 1967, in Dallas. Survivors include her husband of the home; four sons, Dale and Jeff, Anthony and Galen; 12 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; three sisters, Joyce, Faye and Margie; two brothers, Udell and Clell; two step-daughters, Karen and Pamela; one step-son, Ricky; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by one brother, Jimmy PREWETT.

Funeral services for Rhonda Jean MULLINS, 38, of Webbers Falls, are being held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Millsap Funeral Chapel in Webbers Fall, with Rev. Wendell Cox officiating. Burial is in Vaught Cemetery in Webbers Falls, under the direction of Millsap Funeral Service of Webbers Falls. She was born Dec. 25, 1964, in Denver, to Donald and Bettie (EAST) SINCLAIR. She died Tuesday, July 22, 2003, in Muskogee Regional Medical Center. Survivors include Robert ISBELLof the home; two brothers, Ronald and Gary ;one step-brother, Eddie; her step-mother, Ramona SINCLAIR; aunts and uncles, Lois and Bill, Wade and Judy and Jackie and James. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Ashley SINCLAIR on Jan 4, 1989, and her parents.

Funeral services for Edith PHILLIPS PALMER, 86, of Uniontown, Ark., were held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Ocker Memorial Chapel in Van Buren, Ark., with burial in Roland City Cemetery, under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home of Van Buren. She died Tuesday, July 22, 2003, in an area nursing home. Survivors include one daughter, Joy; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three sisters, Maysel, Jean and Frankie; and one brother, Bill. She was preceded in death by two husbands, George Alvin PHILLIPS and William PALMER.

Margaret RITTER RASH, 87, of San Diego, formerly of Vian, died April 25, 2003, in San Diego. She was born Dec. 31, 1915, in Vian to Will and Ada RITTER. Arrangements were under the direction of Greenwood Mortuary of San Diego. Survivors include one son, Billie, two grandsons; three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Harold. She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, LaVerne RAY; and one brother, Gaye RITTER.

Funeral services for Russell WILLIAMS, 58, of Van Buren, Ark. will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at the St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in Fort Smith, Ark., with Burial in National Cemetery in Fort Smith, under the direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel of Fort Smith. He was born Feb. 13, 1945, in Chicago, to George and Gertrude WILLIAMS. He died Wednesday, July 23, 2003, in his home. Survivors include his wife of 25 years, Susan (SMITH) WILLIAMS of Dora; one daughter, Anna Elizabeth; one son, Matthew Russell; and one brother, Wayne.

Graveside services for Glen Dale CLARK, 59, of Shawnee, formerly of Long community, are being held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Long Cemetery north of Muldrow, with Rev. Curtis Mitchell officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Muldrow. He was born Jan 2, 1944, in Nicut, to Bert CLARK and Cora (SUTTON) CLARK. He died Monday, July 28, 2003, in Shawnee. He married Nancy PETREE on May 18, 1962 in Muldrow. Survivors include his wife, Nancy CLARK of the home; three daughters, Shannon Ladale, Laurie Ann and Kimberly Jim; one son, Fred Lee; 15 grandchildren; one sister, Joan; and one brother, James Vann.

Funeral services for Herman Gordon KECK, 80, of Stockton, Calif. will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Rocha's Mortuary in lodi, Calif., with burial in Lodi Memorial Park and Cemetery, under the direction of Rocha's Mortuary of Lodi. He was born Aug 12, 1922, in Sallisaw. He died Tuesday, July 29, 2003, in Stockton.. Survivors include his wife, Catherine KECK of Stockton; one daughter, Nancy; and one brother, Earl Cody. He was preceded in death by one son, Roger Martin KECK.

Graveside services for Mildred Marie STARR PINKERTON, 86, of Ochelata, were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Steep Hill Cemetery in Fort Smith, Ark., with Rev. Kenton White officiating, under the direction of Arnold Moore Funeral Service of Bartlesville. She was born in Pocola. She died Friday, July 25, 2003, in Jane Philips memorial Medical Center in Bartlesville. She married Sam PINKERTON on May 19, 1934, in Fort Smith. He preceded her in death on Feb. 5, 1995. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Jerry Donald and his wife Jeannie; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Lois June, Doris J. and her husband Frank, and Sharon M. and her husband Edward;13 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren;two brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard and his wife Ayako Su, and Jerold and his wife Wanda; and two sisters, Alice Jean and Jessie Mae. She was preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Lillian WHITSON and Rose Ann STARR.

Funeral services for Ted I. STEPHENS, 90, of Sallisaw, were held at 2 p.m Saturday at the First Assembly of God Church in Sallisaw, with Revs. Carl Page and Terry Guthrie officiating. Burial was in Buffington Cemetery in Sallisaw, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. He was born on Oct 15, 1912, in Shiloh community, to Oscar Louis STEPHENS and Mattie (STEWART) STEPHENS. He died Thursday, July 24, 2003, in Sallisaw. He married Madie A. TIMMERMAN on Dec. 23, in McKey. Survivors include his wife Madie STEPHENS of the home; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Patsy and J.C., Joyce and Connie and Steve; two sons and daughters-in-law, Curtis and Sylvia, and Steve and John ; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Maxine, Geraldine and Kathryn; three brothers, Elbert, J. D. and Sterling; several nieces, nephews, cousins , and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Elvera June SWIGERT, 56, of Sallisaw, are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with Rev. Gary Mullen officiating, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home of Sallisaw. She was born June 17, 1947, in Kansas City, Kan. to Lester Lee ROBINSON and Goldie Mae (GRANT) ROBINSON. She died Monday, July 28, 2003, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married James Elbert SWIGERT on June 21,1965, in Kansas City. Survivors include her husband of the home; five daughters, Becky, Vicki, Lesliee, Joyce and Kathern; 13 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; four sisters, Vicki, Gloria, Tracy and Tina; and two brothers, George and Thomas.

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