March 2000

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Funeral services for the Rev. Noble A. CASEY, 83, of Sallisaw were held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Bunch Baptist Church, with the Revs. Rendy Proctor and Charles E. Friend officiating. Burial was in Bunch Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. The Rev. CASEY was born Dec. 1, 1916, in Middlesboro, Ky., to George Estelle CASEY and Forsie (CAYLOR) CASEY. He died Friday, Feb. 25, 2000, at his home. He married Dora P. ASBILL June 23, 1938, in Stilwell. Survivors include his wife, Dora CASEY of the home; five daughters and three sons-in-law, Louise and Frank , Pauline and Bill and Lorene, Joann and Charles, and Beverly; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one sister, Naomi of California; and three brothers, John Moss, Archie, and Barton .

Funeral services for Claud Raymond COX, 83, of Sallisaw are being held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with Robert Starr and the Revs. Jeff Beshears and Hugh Harris officiating. Burial is in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mr. COX was born Aug. 6, 1916, in Ada, to Claud Gordon COX and Mittie Mae (JONES) COX. He died Monday, Feb. 28, 2000, in Sallisaw. He married Lois Regina EDWARDS Nov. 18, 1941, in Tacoma, Wash.Survivors include his wife, Lois R. COX of the home; one daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn and Les; two sons and daughters-in-law, Gerald and Glenda, and Johnny and Connie; and seven grandchildren.

Luba Mae FINE, 90, of Sallisaw, died Monday, Feb. 28, 2000, in Sallisaw. Graveside services are being held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Akins Cemetery, northeast of Sallisaw with the Rev. Mark Hall officiating. Mrs. FINE was born Dec. 27, 1909, in Akins, to Samuel James LESSLEY and Sarotha A, (WICKETT) LESSLEY. She married Noel FINE Sept. 16, 1933, in Sallisaw. He preceded her in death March 21, 1974. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Bobby ; four grandsons, Dwaine and his wife, Jennifer, Todd and his wife, Tina, and Mark and his wife, Jackie; 10 great-grandchildren; seven nieces; three nephews; and other relatives and friends. Mrs. FINE was also preceded in death by two daughters, Rosalee CASSADY and Jonna RIDER; one grandchild, Stacy WOODRUFF. Arrangements are under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Funeral services for Jason "Jake" STEWART, 91, of Webbers Falls were held at 1 p.m. Monday at the Assembly of God Church in Webbers Falls, with the Rev. Nathan Lamirand officiating. Burial was in Vaught Cemetery, under the direction of Millsap Funeral Home in Webbers Falls. Mr. STEWART was born Aug. 24, 1908, in Eufaula. He died Saturday, Feb. 26, 2000, at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Muskogee. Survivors include his wife, Lois Regina (MENIE) STEWART of Webbers Falls; two daughters, Regina and Linda; three grandsons; two great-grandchildren; and one brother, Aaron.

Funeral services for George GOSSETT, 96, of Vian were held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Vian Baptist Church, with the Rev. Jim Murphy and Dr. C. Patrick Sullivan officiating. Burial was in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mr. GOSSETT was born June 12, 1903, in Palestine, Ark., to George Zachriah "Zach" GOSSETT and Aggie Gertrude (BRYANT) GOSSETT. He died Tuesday, Feb. 29, 2000, in Fort Smith, Ark. He married Ethel GOSSETT Jan. 10, 1927, in Sallisaw. She preceded him in death Nov. 10, 1997. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Doris and Fred; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Lawrence and Fred D. ; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. Mr. GOSSETT was also preceded in death by one grandson, Paul HARDIN.

Brenda K. SPENCE, 39, of Centralia, Ill., formerly of Talihina, died Sunday, Feb. 27, 2000, at her home. Private funeral services will be held at Campagna Funeral Home in Nashville, Ill. Mrs. SPENCE was born April 10, 1960, to Harding C. THORPE Sr. and Mary Ellen (WRIGHT) THORPE. She married Charles W. SPENCE May 25, 1980, in Hugo. Survivors include her husband, Charles W. SPENCE of Centralia; one son, Charles G.; one daughter, Ashley Nicole; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Harding "Jay" Jr. and Diana, and Jimmie G and Vickie; one sister and brother-in-law, Glenda M. and Ron; one halfsister, Saundra; and other relatives and friends.

Adilia WOODS, 92, of Arkoma died Wednesday, March 1, 2000, in Arkoma. Graveside services are being held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Woodlawn Memorial Park Chapel, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith, Ark. Survivors include five daughters, Jessie, Joerene, Wilma, Judy and Daisy; two sons, Franklin D. and John; 30 grandchildren; 57 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

W. K. BELLER of Wagoner died Tuesday, Feb. 29, 2000, at his home. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, at the Shipman Funeral Home Chapel in Wagoner, with the Revs. Phillip Bender and Tom Ballard officiating. Burial was in Elmwood Cemetery in Wagoner, under the direction of Shipman Funeral Home in Wagoner. Mr. BELLER was born July 2, 1924, in Maple, to William and Ethel Iva (RIGGS) BELLER. He was married to Willie Fay SHORT for 11 years. She preceded him in death. On March 21, 1970, he married Linda WASSOM in Bixby. Survivors include his wife, Linda BELLER of the home; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Gerald and Linda Sue, Brian and Debbie, and Michael; one stepson, Darwin and wife, Glenna; four daughters and three sons-in-law, Brenda and Bill, Marilyn and Leland, Janice, and Connie and Eddie; one stepdaughter, Teresa; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Frank and Buena, and Charlie and Gail; three sisters and two brothers-in-law, Dorothy, Faye and Gene and Fern and Starr; 26 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Opal CAREY, 81, of Roland died Saturday, March 4, 2000, in Fort Smith, Ark. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Mallory Chapel in Stigler, with the Rev. Wayne Hall officiating. Burial was in Garland Cemetery, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Stigler. Mrs. CAREY was born Nov. 29, 1918, in Stigler to joe Monroe KATES and Edith (JONES) KATES. Survivors include two daughters, Wilma and Carolyn; three sons, Ronnie, Clyde and Leon;31 grandchildren; and 55 great-grandchildren. Mrs. CAREY was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Leon CAREY; and one daughter, Barbara BROWN.

Funeral services for Opal Mae CAVES, 89, of Vian were held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Vian Baptist Church, with the Revs. Chris Trent and Tommy Clark officiating. Burial is in Oak Hill Cemetery in McAlester, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. CAVES was born Oct. 14, 1910, in Indianola, to Alexander Blackburn HAMILTON and Lillie Savanah (RENNELS) HAMILTON. She died Sunday, March 5, 2000, in Vian. She married thomas M. CAVES Oct. 12, 1931, in Indianola. He preceded her in death Dec. 3, 1972. Survivors include one sister, Nellie D. ; and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. CAVES was also preceded in death by one son, James Dewayne CAVES in 1934; one brother, Paul HAMILTON; and one sister, Jewell JOHNSON.

Graveside services for Elmer DORITY III, 27, of Muldrow were held at 2 p.m Tuesday at Lee's Chapel Cemetery, south of Muldrow, with the Rev. Phil Talley officiating. Mr. DORITY was born Sept. 18, 1972, in Sallisaw, to Elmer DORITY Jr. He died Thursday, March 2, 2000, in Oklahoma City. Survivors include one son, Chance; three daughters, Rahni, Shelby and Lauren; his parents, Jr. and Polly DORITY; one brother, William David; five half brothers, Tommy, James, John, Gary, and Nathan; five half sisters, Belinda, Stacy, Tammy, Violet, and Faye; his grandmother, Violet; one stepsister, Kimberly; and one stepbrother, Michael. Arrangements were under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Muldrow.

Graveside services for Ethel Elizabeth "Libby" BARNES ELKINS, 50, of Sallisaw are being held at 1 p.m. Thursday at Akins Cemetery, northeast of Sallisaw, with the Rev. Ed Markham officiating. Mrs. ELKINS was born Nov. 25, 1949, in Fort Smith, Ark., to John and Agnes (Shepard) BARNES. She died Monday, March 6, 2000, at Sequoyah Memorial Hospital in Sallisaw. Survivors include one daughter, Kendra ; one sister, Sharon;maternal grandmother, Allie Elizabeth; and one cousin, Vicky. Arrangements are under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Funeral services for Della E. EPPLER, 90, of Sallisaw were held at 2 p.m. Monday at Mallory Chapel in Sallisaw, with the Revs. Ted Eppler and Mack Crittendon officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. EPPLER was born Sept. 26, 1909, in Stilwell, to Isaac Newton HULSE and Maggie (PARSONS) HULSE. She died Friday, March 3, 2000, in a Fort Smith, Ark., hospital. Survivors include two daughters, Ruby and Martha; four sons and two daughters-in-law, Ted and Norma, and Calvin and Arlene, Carl and Billy; 25 grandchildren; 50 great-grandchildren; and 18 great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. EPPLER was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William "Bill" M. EPPLER Dec. 10, 1969; one brother, Isaac HULSE; one sister, Bessie PURKEY; one daughter, Betty LUKEHART; two sons, Roy EPPLER and Paul DUNN; and one grandson, Dewayne McGOWAN.

Funeral services for Nellie HYSLOPE, 64, of Webbers Falls were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Church of Jesus Christ in Muskogee, with the Revs. Gregg Westbrook, Ed Hyslope and Shane Weaver officiating. Burial was in Vaught Cemetery in Webbers Falls, under the direction of Millsap Funeral Service in Webbers Falls. Mrs. HYSLOPE was born March 3, 1936, in Webbers Falls, to Albert and frances (TEAGUE) GRAY. She died Monday, March 6, 2000, at Muskogee Regional Medical Center. Survivors include her children, Rick and Lynda, Lisa , and Karen and Tim; two sister, Thelma and Artie; two brothers, Stanley and Danny; one aunt, Minnie; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Mrs. HYSLOPE was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Preston GRAY; and three sister, Alberta WEAVER, Delores RAY and Pauline MEEDER.

Funeral services for Viola Lee JOHNSON, 96, of Sallisaw were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Mallory Chapel in Sallisaw, with Dr. Lee Woodard officiating. Burial was in the Fort Gibson National Cemetery, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. JOHNSON was born Aug. 22, 1903, in Panola County, Miss., to Abe Mallory Stephen LEE and Mary Alice (RUTLEDGE) LEE. She died Saturday, March 4, 2000, at Sequoyah Memorial Hospital in Sallisaw. She married Dave JOHNSON Oct. 18, 1922. Survivors include two daughters, Bertha and Jewel; one son, Albert; one sister, Dorothy; 27 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and 18 great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. JOHNSON was preceded in death by her husband, Dave; three daughters, Myrtle BREUNINGER, Viola Lee PHILLIPS and Betty Ann ANTINELLI; two sons, Bill JOHNSON and Roosevelt JOHNSON; four brothers; and four sisters.

Funeral services for Callie Zona KELLY, 90, of Tucker were held at 10 a.m. Monday at Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with Bro Taylor Joyce officiating. Burial was in Cowlington Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. KELLY was born June 11, 1909, in Alma, Ark., to William Clinton DAVIS and Addie Mae DAVIS. She died Friday, March 3, 2000, in Sallisaw. She married Roy Elmer Kelly Dec. 24, 1930, in Cowlington. Survivors include her husband, Roy KELLY of the home; one daughter and son-in-law, Roma Lee and James; one son and daughter-in-law, Davis and Anne; three granddaughters, five great-granddaughters; and one great-grandson.

Joann Dorothy LONG, 62, of Sallisaw died Sunday, March 5, 2000, in Sallisaw. She was born July 31, 1937, in Newark, N.J., to Thomas and Louise (Weldon) KELLY. Survivors include three sons and two daughters-in-law, Daniel, John and Cheri, and Douglas and Karen; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Cremation was under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Frances E. WELLING, 61, of Roland died Thursday, March 2, 2000, in Fort Smith, Ark. Funeral services will be held at noon Friday at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith. Burial will be in Dora Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Survivors include two daughters, Marilyn and Debbie R.; her step-mother, Sara; three brothers, Ira Jr., Richard Wayne, and Jimmy Charles; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Kenneth FORD, 74, of Hartford, Ark., died Saturday, March 4, 2000, in a Fort Smith, Ark., hospital. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at McConnell Funeral Home Chapel in Hartford. Burial was in Hartford Memorial Park Cemetery, under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home. Survivors include his wife, Connie FORD of the home; one stepdaughter, Karen; four sisters, Ruby, Joyce, Doris and Marion; and two brothers, Johnny and Wayne.

Funeral services for Wilma "Carla" HELMS, 60, of Roland are being held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Agent Chapel in Muldrow, with the Rev. Denver Callahan officiating. Burial is in Roland City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Muldrow. Mrs. HELMS was born Oct. 12, 1939, in Sallisaw, to Melvin James VILES and Nola Mabel (CALLAHAN) VILES. She died Thursday, March 9, 2000, in Fort Smith, Ark.She married William Charles "W.C." HELMS Aug. 2, 1958, in Howe. Survivors include her husband, W.C. HELMS of the home; one daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and Tommy; one son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Cindy; five grandchildren; her mother, Mabel; one sister, Cathy; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and other relatives and friends.

Graveside services for Melba M. OSBORN, 53, of Baxter Springs, Kan., were held at 3 p.m. Thursday at Octavia Cemetery in Octavia, with Bro. David Griffiths officiating. Miss OSBORN was born June 30, 1946, in Mena, Ark., to Sam OSBORN and Sarah (SHAW) OSBORN. She died Sunday, March 5, 2000, at her home. Survivors include two sons, Waylon and Rodney; five brothers, Cecil, Ellis, Claude, Harvey and Vernon; and one sister, Mary. Miss OSBORN was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Vecheal OSBORN and David OSBORN. Arrangements were under the direction of Beasley-Wood Funeral Home in Mena.

Services for Carl Lee BALLINGER, 79, of Sallisaw, a former Sequoyah County court clerk and a World War II Veteran, were held at 3 p.m. Monday at the First Assembly of God Church in Sallisaw where he was a member. Officiating. were the Revs. Robert L. Polvado, Tommy Hawkins, and Andrew Moss. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mr. BALLINGER was born March 17, 1920, in Van Buren, Ark., to John William BALLINGER and Maud ASKINS BALLINGER. He died Friday March 10, 2000, in Fort Smith, Ark. He married Delores PALMER on June 3, 1947, in Fort Smith, Ark. Survivors include his wife, Delores; two daughters and sons-in-law, Carlene and Derald, and Beverlye and E.C.; one son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Rhonda; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren; three sisters, Delia Mae, Vera and Pauline; two brothers, G.W. and Harold; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Norma June BARTHEL, 74, of Roland were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Agent Chapel in Muldrow, with the Rev. Robert Winton officiating. Burial was in Roland City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Muldrow. Mrs. BARTEL was born Jan. 26, 1926, in Mulberry, Ark., to James J. Winton and Audrey Pearl (Owens) Winton. She died Sunday, March 12, 2000, in Fort Smith, Ark. She married Benjamin Henry BARTHEL Sr. March 13, 1948, in Van Buren, Ark. He preceded her in death March 20, 1999. Survivors include one son, Ben; two daughters, June Anne and Audrey; four grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; her mother, Audrey; and three brothers, James G., Robert Lee and Roy Gene. One sister also preceded Mrs. BARTHEL in death.

Funeral services for Kendall BLAUVELT, 26, of Fort Smith, Ark., were held at 2 p.m. Monday at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Smith. Burial was in Macedonia Cemetery in Pocola, under the direciton of Edwards Funeral Home. Mr. BLAUVELT died Thursday March 9, 2000, in Fort Smith. Survivors include his mother and stepfather, James and Carol; one twin sister, Tammy; two stepsisters, Jenny and Tina; one brother, Roy Dale; two stepbrothers, Steven and Bryan; two nieces; two nephews and many friends.

Josephine Margaret GARVIN, 80, of Miami died Thursday, March 2, 2000, at the NEO Health Care Center in Miami. Graveside services were held March 6, at Akins Cemetery, northeast of Sallisaw, with the Rev. Vernon Smith officiating. She was born Dec. 10,1919, in Seneca, Mo., to Will and Stocia (CRAWLEY) CONRAD. She married Ben McDonald GARVIN July 8, 1941, in Van Buren, Ark. Survivors include her husband, Ben GARVIN of the home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Bill and Donna and Don and Meredith; two grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Ann, Darlene and Wanda; and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. GARVIN was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Willard CONRAD; and one sister-in-law, Geneva MILLER.

Enola Earlene PRIDGEON, 56, of Van Buren, Ark., died Sunday March 12, 2000, in a local hospital. Funeral services are being held at Shamrock Community Church. Burial is in Kimbler Cemetery in the Shamrock community, under the direciton of Edwards Van Alma Funeral Home in Van Buren. Survivors include her husband, Eulis of the home; three daughters, Sonia, Michelle, and Teresa; six grandchildren; and many cousins and nephews.

Funeral services for Phyllis Patricia SHAHAN, 66, of Vian were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Immanuel Baptist Church in Sallisaw, with Bro. Hubert Dale Folsom officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. SHAHAN was born Oct. 29, 1933, in Fanshawe, to John and Icle (JONES) KEIFER. She died Friday, March 10, 2000, at her home. She married Harland Jack SHAHAN Aug. 20, 1948, in Sebastopol, Calif. Survivors include her husband Harland Jack SHAHAN of the home; four daughters, Patricia, Harletta, Sandy and Debbie; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and three brothers, Benny, Shelby and Fred. Mrs. SHAHAN was preceded in death by one son, Dennis SHAHAN on Sept. 24, 1984, in Tulsa; one sister, Audra JONES: and one brother, Roy KEIFER.

Funeral services for Woodie Wood SPARKS, 82, of Muldrow were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Church of Christ in Muldrow, with Loyd Graham officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Muldrow. Mr. SPARKS was born Jan. 28, 1918, in Sallisaw, to Noah and Effie (SLATER) SPARKS. He died Satruday, March 11, 2000, at his home. He married Peggie BODINE in 1942 in Las Vegas. Survivors include his wife, Peggie SPARKS of the home; one son, Stephen Dale; two sisters, Loyaluia and Meldonna; and two brothers, Jack and Noah Jr.

Funeral services for Buren Harold STORTS, 86, of Tahlequah are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Green Country Funeral Home Chapel in Tahlequah. Burial is in the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, under the direction of Green Country Funeral Home. Mr. STORTS was born March 7, 1914, in Sallisaw, to William Thurman and Ray DAVIS STORTS. He died Monday, March 13, 2000, in Tahlequah. Survivors include his wife, Ida Mae of the home; one sister, Geneva ; one stepson, Bruce and his wife, Sherrell; three step-grandchildren; and many relatives, friends and loved ones. Mr. STORTS was preceded in death by his parents; and four brothers, Alvin, W.T. "Bill" Jr., Dean and Dan.

Services for Madolyn TUBBS, 78, of Sallisaw, were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Agent Chapel in Sallisaw with the Rev. Donald Roulet officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery under the direction of Agent Funeral Home. Mrs. TUBBS was born July 23, 1921, in Birmingham, Ala, to Rufus M. COMER and Eula ROGERS COMER. She died Saturday, March 11, 2000, in Sallisaw. She married Stanley Ivon TUBBS on June 20, 1940, in Raton, N.M. He preceded her in death on March 25, 1989. Survivors include two sons, Steve and his wife, Janet, and Stanley Jr.; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one sister, Dorothy; and several nieces nephews, cousins and other relatives.

Graveside services for Louis Phillip BARAJAS JR., 35, of Waco, Texas, formerly of Sallisaw, are being held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Fleetwood Cemetery, east of Sallisaw, with the Rev. Monroe Lowrimore officiating. Mr. BARAJAS was born Feb. 19, 1965, in Tahlequah, to Louis Phillip BARAJAS Sr. and Charlotte Joann (WACKERLY) BARAJAS HOLT. He died Tuesday, March 14, 2000, in Austin, Texas. Survivors include his wife, Deborah S. BARAJAS of the home; his mother and stepfather, Charlotte and Charles; his father, Louis Phillip; paternal grandmother, Frances; two stepsisters, Brenda and Valerie; and one stepbrother, Charles Quinton. Mr. BARAJAS was preceded in death by one brother, John Max BARAJAS on Nov. 19, 1990, in Gallup, N.M. Arrangements are under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Graveside services for Betty Jo GARVIN, 66, of Sallisaw are being held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Akins Cemetery, northeast of Sallisaw, with the Rev. Vernon Smith officiating. Mrs. GARVIN was born March 15, 1934, in Webbers Falls, to Clarence H. McGREW and Fannie (SMITH) McGREW. She died Wednesday, March 15, 2000 at Sequoyah Memorial Hospital in Sallisaw. Survivors include one son, Steve; four sister, Juanita, Helen, Ruth and Billie; one brother, Clarence "Junior"; two grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. Mrs. GARVIN was preceded in death by her husband, Emmet Edward GARVIN in April 1982; and her parents. Arrangements were under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home.

Funeral services for Ed GRAHAM, 73, of Sallisaw were held at 2 p.m. Friday at Calvary Temple Full Gospel Church in Sallisaw, with he Revs. Edward Markham and Jack McLaughlin officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mr. GRAHAM was born Feb. 12, 1922, in Sallisaw, to Francis Asbury GRAHAM and Edna Yvonne (STEPHENS) GRAHAM. He died Tuesday, March 14, 2000, in Sallisaw. He married Barbara J. GRAHAM Aug. 15, 1991, in Ponca City. Survivors include his wife, Barbara J. GRAHAM of the home; one daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Kenneth; three sons and daughters-in-law, Dwight and Donna, David and Brenda and Dean and Teresa; four stepchildren; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; one sister and brother-in-law, Faye and George; and one brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Jerri.

Funeral services for Loretta L. HARRIS, 81, of Sallisaw are being held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with the Rev. Jerry Green officiating. Burial is in Akins Cemetery, northeast of Sallisaw, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. HARRIS was born Sept. 30, 1918, in Gans, to John Riley TAYLOR and Edna Jane (MANKINS) TAYLOR. She died Wednesday, March 15, 2000, in Sallisaw. Survivors include three daughters, Genola, Charlene and Helen; 13 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Josie; and seveal nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. Mrs. HARRIS was preceded in death by two husbands, Charley P. PATTERSON and Wilburn Lloyd HARRIS; and one son, Carroll W. PATTERSON in 1991.

Funeral services for August Gladys "Gussie" ISHAM, 87, of Sallisaw are being held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Agent Chapel in Sallisaw, with the Rev. Jimmy Copeland officiating. Burial is in Buffington Cemetery, west of Sallisaw, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. ISHAM was born April 9, 1912, in Wayne County, Ind., to W.G. HORNUNG and Ethel Marie (BLUE) HORNUNG. She died Tuesday, March 14, 2000, in Sallisaw. She married W.T. "Dub" ISHAM July 25, 1973, in Sallisaw. He preceded her in death June 2, 1999. Survivors include one daughter, Bonnie; one son,Walter Elmont; seveal grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Bonnie Pauline WEBB MELTON, 81, of Broken Arrow, formerly of Sallisaw, died Wednesday, March 15, 2000, in Tulsa. Funeral services funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday at the First Baptist Church in Sallisaw, with the Revs. Brian Zinck and Frank Cargill officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. MELTON was born Oct.31,1918, in Sallisaw, to the Rev. Druary Quzeene "D.C." CALLAHAN and Nancy (SHOOK) CALLAHAN. She married Eugene WEBB Dec. 24, 1936, in Sallisaw. He preceded her in death March 22, 1986. She married Charles MELTON Jan. 14, 1989, in Broken Arrow. He preceded her in death in December 1995. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Charles; one son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Marquita; four grandchildren;six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Iva, Eva; and one brother, B.Q. "Dean" .

Johnnie Ellen ANDERSON, 98, of Arkoma died Saturday, March 18, 2000, in an Arkoma nursing home. Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at New Hope Cemetery in Spiro, under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home in Greenwood, Ark. Survivors include four daughters, Ella, Martha, Ruby and Marlene; four sons, Henry, Gene, Dwayne and Steve; 52 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. ANDERSON was preceded in death by her husband, Amos ANDERSON.

Funeral services for Jack Odell DAVISON, 90, of Poteau were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Evans Chapel of Memories in Poteau, with the Revs. Jimmy D. Cook and Phil McGehe officiating. Burial was in Oakland Cemetery in Poteau, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home in Poteau. Mr. Davison was born Sept. 2, 1909, in Denton, Texas, to Charles and Decie (KITCHENS) DAVISON. He died Saturday, March 18, 2000, in a Poteau hospital. Survivors include eight daughters, Dama Jacqueline, Janice Marie, Patricia Ann, Martha Sue,Sharon Kay, Nancy Louise,Mary Kathryn and Lisa Ellen; five sons, Jerry Odell, Charles Warren, Garry Joe, Michael Roy and James Harold; 25 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Christine, Marie and Cebelle; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, loved ones and friends. Mr. DAVISON was preceded in death by his wife, Rowene; his parents; one grandson, John HAMILTON; and siblings, Roy, Charles, Dewitt and Harold DAVISON, Lorene MYATT and Nellie MENDENHALL.

Funeral services for Alice Christine (QUALLS) FISHER, 42, of Sallisaw are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Elim Full Gospel Church in Sallisaw, with Jack McLaughlin officiating. Burial is in Drakestand Cemetery, west of Sallisaw, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. FISHER was born Dec. 27, 1957, in Wister to Walter and Alice Nadine (TREAT) QUALLS. She died Monday, March 20, 2000, at Sequoyah Memorial Hospital in Sallisaw. Survivors include her husband, Joe of the home; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Joe Jr., Jimmy Lee and Christy; and Jeremy and Misty; her parents Walter and Nadine; two sisters, Carol and Mary Beth; one brother, Walter Lee; three grandchildren; and seven nieces and nephews.

George Henry GIBSON, 58, of Marble City died Friday, March 17, 2000, in Marble City. Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Monday at Drakestand Cemetery, west of Sallisaw, with Gary Blankenship and Johnny Watkins officiating, Mr. Gibson was born Jan. 7, 1942, in Bluff, to Ray and Elizabeth "Bess" (LUKER) GIBSON. Survivors include his wife, Christene (TAYLOR) GIBSON of Marble City; his mother Bess; two sons and daughters-in-law, Bo and Janet, and Leon and Rita Gibson; four grandchildren; one sister, Pat; one brother, Vernon; Mr. GIBSON was preceded in death by his father; and one brother. Arrangements were under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Graveside services for Steve William HARNAGE, 45, of Sallisaw will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Fleetwood Cemetery, east of Sallisaw. Mr. HARNAGE was born Nov. 2, 1954, in Naylor, Ga., to William Freely HARNAGE and Vera May (McNEIER) HARNAGE. He died Saturday, March 18, 2000, in Sallisaw. He married Terri Lynn STEVENSON July 23, 1998, in Fort Smith, Ark. Survivors include his wife, Terri Lynn HARNAGE of the home; three daughters, Misty, Lisa and Amy; one son, Steven; three stepsons, Ben ,Jeffrey and Jeremy; one sister, Nell; and five brothers, Tony, Lonie, George, Jr., and Bobby John. Mr. HARNAGE was preceded in death by one brother, Richard HARNAGE. Arrangements are under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Funeral services for Amanda Iris JEREMIAH, 22, of Muldrow were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the First Assembly of God Church in Muldrow, with the Rev. Shawn Money officiating. Burial was in Liberty Cemetery, northeast of Muldrow, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Muldrow. Mrs. JEREMIAH was born July 30, 1977, in Fort Smith, Ark., to Ernest Nathan Kidd and Sherry Lynne (REED) KIDD BRUNK. She died Thursday, March 16, 2000, in Fort Smith. She married Jimmy Shawn JEREMIAH Feb. 26, 1999, in Fort Smith. Survivors include her husband, Shawn JEREMIAH of the home; one daughter, Skyler Lynn ; one son, Shawn Michael; her mother and stepfather, Sherry and Jimmy; her father, Nathan; one sister, Sandra Michelle; one brother, Jordan Beau; one stepbrother, Lyndon Kyle; maternal grandparents, Herbert and Judy; paternal grandmother and stepgrandfather, Susie and Kenneth; maternal great-grandfather, Edgar; and paternal great-grandmother, Elvie.

Funeral services for Tina Eloise (Pierce) JOYCE, 31, of Sallisaw were held at the First Assembly of God Church in Sallisaw, with the Rev. Robert L. Polvado and Bro. Royce Martin officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. JOYCE was born Aug. 26, 1968, in Enid, to Herbert and Doris Irene (BARGER) PIERCE. She died Thursday, March 16, 2000, in Houston. She married Kenneth Wayne JOYCE Jan. 29, 1999, in Van Buren, Ark. Survivors include her husband, Kenneth W. JOYCE of the home; parents, Herb and Doris; one brother and sister-in-law, Joel and Amy; three nephews; three nieces; and her maternal grandmother, Ruby.

Funeral services for Lahoma Virginia RITTER, 76, of Blackgum are being held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the First Baptist Church in Blackgum, with the Rev. Dale Ritter officiating. Burial is in Box Cemetery, north of Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. RITTER was born March 14, 1924, in the Blackgum community, to Robert E. Lee FAULK and Janet (PRUITT) FAULK. She died Saturday, March 18, 2000, in Sallisaw. She married Merel RITTER Feb. 27, 1946, in Reno, Nev. He preceded her in death Nov. 2, 19998. Survivors include two daughters, Letha and Trina; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one sister, Christine.

Corbett SMITH, 74, of Farmington, Mo., died Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2000, at his home. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Feb. 24, 2000, at Cozean Memorial Chapel in Farmington. Burial was in Hillview Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Cozean Funeral Home in Farmington. Mr. SMITH was born March 28, 1925, in Cleveland to Corbett B. and Lessie (COLE) SMITH. Survivors include his wife, Mary (PETTIGREW) SMITH of Farmington; two sons and two daughters-in-law, Dr. Norman and Naomi, and Dr. Byron and Marilyn; one daughter, Dr. Shelly; six grandchildren; and two sisters, Dorothy and Pauline.

Funeral services for Virginia Rose TAYLOR, 96, of Gore are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Gore City Cemetery, with the Rev. Nathan Lamirand officiating. Mrs. TAYLOR was born Dec. 7, 1903, in Marietta, Ohio, to Edwin Earl WINGER and Aurilla (MILLER) WINGER. She died Monday, March 20, 2000, in Gore. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Richard F and Doris; two grandsons; three great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Arrangements are under the direction of Millsap Funeral Service in Webbers Falls.

Funeral services for Jimmie Lee WRIGHT, 43, of Muldrow, formerly of Vian, will be held at the First Baptist Church in Vian. Burial will be in Roselawn Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mr. WRIGHT was born Dec. 31, 1956, in Vian, to Leon and Odessa WRIGHT. He died Monday, March 20, 2000, in a Fort Smith, Ark., hospital. Survivors include his mother and stepfather, Odessa and Cephus; his finacee, Clema; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Minnie Louise and Waymon and Linda and Charles; one sister-in-law, Cassie; four brothers, Leo, Brian, James and Rodney; two nieces; and many other nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

Graveside services for Paul Reba BEATY, 91, of Sallisaw, were held at 2 p.m. Friday at Sallisaw City Cemetery, with the Revs. Hugh Harris and Dale Phelps officiating. Mr. BEATY was born Dec. 4, 1908, in Sallisaw. to Dix and Easter (HENDRIX) BEATY. He died Wednesday, March 22, 2000, in Sallisaw. He married Anna Louise ROGERS Nov. 7, 1951, in Van Buren, Ark. She preceded him in death Oct. 19, 1992. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Martha and Johnny; two granddaughters; and five great-grandchildren; Arrangements are under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw.

Funeral services for Ira DIFFEE, 89, of Sallisaw were held at 2 p.m. Friday at Mallory Chapel in Sallisaw, with the Rev. George Gilland officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mr. DIFFEE was born Aug. 30, 1910, in Sallisaw, to William Alexander DIFFEE and Mary (DIXON) DIFFEE. He died Tuesday, March 21, 2000, at his home. Survivors include his wife, Jessie Gertrude (PRICE) DIFFEE of the home; one son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Beverly; one sister, Susie; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Mr. DIFFEE was preceded in death by his parents; and three sisters, Sylvia, Velma and Irene.

Funeral services for Brenda Kay NATION, 57, of Sallisaw are being held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Blunt Baptist Church, north of Sallisaw with the Rev. LeRoy Reid officiating. Burial is in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. NATION was born March 20, 1943, in Sallisaw, to Benjamin Quzeene (B.Q.) "Dean" CALLAHAN and Lucille Marie (HESTER) CALLAHAN. She died Wednesday, March 22, 2000, in Tulsa. She married Bill Edward NATION July 5, 1960, in Stilwell. Survivors include her husband, Bill NATION of the home; two daughters and sons-in-law, Jayna and Ray and Kellie and Gary; her parents, B.Q. and Marie; and three grandchildren.

Eva STACEY, 87, of Fort Smith, Ark., died Wednesday, March 22, 2000, in Fort Smith. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday at Woodlawn Memorial Chapel in Fort Smith. Burial was in Woodlawn Memorial Park, under the direction of Fentress Mortuary in Fort Smith. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Martha Sue and Jack; two grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

James Terry ALLINDER, 57, died Thursday, March 23, 2000, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa. Graveside services were held at noon Monday at the Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, under the direction of Heath-Griffith Funeral home in Tulsa. Mr. ALLINDER was born July 17, 1942, in Marble City, to James John ALLINDER Jr., and Reba June (PEMBERTON) ALLINDER. He married Barbara STRECK Dec. 11, 1993, in Tulsa. Survivors include his wife, Barbara ALLINDER of the home; three sons, Jimmy, Terry and John; one daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Jeff; one stepson, Kevin; one stepdaughter, Megan; seven grandchildren; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Frances and John and Carol; and one brother, Max.

Funeral services for Willie E. DAVIS, 86, of Sallisaw were held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Frist Baptist Church in Sallisaw with the Rev. Brian Zinck officiating. Burial was in Sallisaw City Cemetery, under the direction of Mallory Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. DAVIS was born March 28, 1913, in Fackler, Ala., to William and Avis (ATKERSON) OWENS. She died Satruday, March 25, 2000, at her home. Survivors include four daughters and two sons-in-law, Helen and Linda and Donald, Vivian and Doyle and Debbie; two sons and two daughters-in-law, Owen and Pam and Mike and Shawn; one sister, Bertha; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Mrs. DAVIS was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Art DAVIS; one son, G.W. DAVIS and four sisters, Lou ROLAND, Mary ROLAND, Flora STUMP and Leigh Ann OWENS.

James Floyd HUDSON, 77, of Bokoshe, died Friday, March 24, 2000, at The Oaks Healthcare Center in Poteau. A memorial service will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. Sunday at the First Assembly of God Church in Bokoshe. He was born in May 1922, in Ft. Worth, Texas, to William Daris HUDSON and Gladys Ayleen (MORLEY) HUDSON. Survivors include his wife, Suella HUDSON of Bokoshe; one daughter, Nancy; one son, Jerry; two stepdaughters, Charlotte "Charlie" and Susan; four grandchildren; and one great-grandson; Mr. HUDSON was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; and one brother.

Funeral services for Therasa Ann (ROWE) KELLEY, 42, of Blackgum are being held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Blackgum Christian Union Church with the Rev. Reginald Kelley officiating. Burial is in Box Cemetery, north of Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral Home in Sallisaw. Mrs. KELLEY was born June 24, 1957, in Sallisaw, to Frank and Dorothy (PRUITT) ROWE. She died Monday, March 27, 2000, in Sallisaw. She married Reginald Eugene KELLEY Dec. 17, 1976, in Sallisaw. Survivors include her husband Reginald KELLEY of the home; one daughter, Tammy; two sons, Christopher and Gregory; two grandchildren; her mother, Dorothy; two sisters, Mary and Alice; and nine brothers, James, Robert, Norman, Charles, Earl, Merel, Paul, David and Edwin.

Funeral services for Joann G. RISLEY, 59, of Gore were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Agent Chapel in Gore, with the Rev. Robert Buttery officiating. Burial was in Box Cemetery, north of Vian, under the direction of Agent Funeral home in Gore. Mrs. RISLEY was born Aug. 3, 1940, in Muskogee, to Arie A. CARTER and Esther (JACKSON) CARTER. She died Thrusday, March 23, 2000, in Gore. She married Norman RISLEY May 30, 1932, in Muskogee. Survivors include her husband, Norman of the home; one daughter, Cassandra Jean; one son, Dustin; one stepdaughter, Kristie; three grandchildren; her mother, Esther; two brothers, Bill and Jim; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

John D. ROGERS, 68, of Van Buren, Ark., died Friday, March 24, 2000, at his home. Funeral Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Ocker Memorial Chapel in Van Buren. Burial was in Gill Cemetery in Van Buren, under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren. Survivors include his wife, Glenda of the home; five daughters, Patsy, Diana, Ruby, Marie and Virginia; one stepdaughter, Jamie; one sister, Wynell; two brothers, Bill and Jim; 16 grandchildren; and two stepgrandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

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