WE REMEMBER - St Joseph Church
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WE REMEMBER
The following is a listing of departed
members of St. Joseph Church who have
passed in 2020 through 2017. More names
beyond 2017 will be added.
If you know of a St. Joseph Church
member who has been left out of this list,
please contact the St. Joseph Parish Office
580-332-4811 or email
pom.stjosephada@gmail.com. Submit an
obituary and photograph of the decease
would be very helpful.
✠
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May their soul
and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God,
rest in peace.
Amen.
Gildardo Cruz
January 5, 1969-November 6, 2020
Gildardo Cruz, 51, passed away Friday, November
6, 2020 at an Oklahoma City hospital. He was born
January 5, 1969 at Tlacuitapan, Jalisco Mexico to
Leandro and Concepcion Marquez Cruz.
He married Olga Y Cuevas April 6, 2012. Mr. Cruz
was a construction worker for National Coating. He
was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Survivors include his wife, Olga, of the home; his
four children, Diego Martinez, Andrew Cruz, Kevyn
Cruz and Gildardo Cruz, all of Ada; his mother, Concepcion Marquez; his
siblings, Juana Cruz, Daniel Cruz, Francisco Cruz, Servando Cruz,
Sacramento Cruz, Hilaria Cruz, Arcelia Cruz, Concepcion Cruz, Cristobal
Cruz, Laura Cruz and Guadalupe Cruz.
He was preceded in death by his father, Leandro Cruz.
Funeral Mass for Gildardo Cruz, 51, of Ada was held 11:00 Thursday,
November 12, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Father Aaron Foshee was
officiate. A Rosary was held 6:00 p.m. at Criswell Funeral Home. Burial
followed at Rosedale Cemetery.
Bearers will be Guadalupe Cruz, Andrew Cruz, Gildardo Cruz, Jeremy
Eck, Diego Martinez and Kevyn Cruz
Rev. Thomas Dowdell
April 20, 1945-November 6, 2020
Rev. Thomas Robert Dowdell died
Nov. 6 in Tulsa after a long illness. He
was 75.
Father Dowdell was born in Roswell,
N.M., on April 20, 1945, to Thomas
Philip and Jean (Pickett) Dowdell. He
was baptized at Saint Peter Catholic
Church in Roswell on May 6, 1945.
The family moved to Tulsa where
they attended Christ the King Catholic
Church.
Father Dowdell attended Marquette School and Bishop Kelley Catholic
High School in Tulsa. Following the inspiration of his uncle, Father Robert
Pickett, a priest of the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Father
Dowdell discerned a vocation to the priesthood.
He attended Saint Francis de Sales Minor Seminary in Oklahoma City
and Conception Abbey and College Seminary in Conception, Mo.
After completing college seminary, Father Dowdell was sent to
Assumption Seminary in San Antonio in 1967 to begin his graduate
theological formation. On May 21, 1971, he was ordained to the priesthood
in the then Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa at Christ the King
Catholic Church in Tulsa by Bishop Victor Reed. Soon after his ordination,
the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa was divided into two parts, the
Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Diocese of Tulsa. Father Dowdell
became incardinated in the new Archdiocese of Oklahoma City.
He served at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Ada; Saint Joseph
Catholic Church in Blackwell; Saint Gregory the Great Catholic Church in
Enid and its mission of Saint Michael Catholic Church in Goltry; Saint
Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Oklahoma City; Saint Rose of Lima
Catholic Church in Perry and its mission of Sacred Heart Catholic Church
in Billings; Saint Mary Catholic Church in Ardmore; Christ the King
Catholic Church in Oklahoma City; Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic
Church in Oklahoma City; and Saint James the Greater Catholic Church in
Oklahoma City. He retired in 2018.
Father Dowdell served as a regional vicar and on the Presbyteral
Council for two terms, one of them as chairman.
In April 2018, Father Dowdell retired to Saint Ann Assisted Living
Center in Oklahoma City. In June, Father Dowdell transferred to University
Village in Tulsa. Father Dowdell was preceded in death by his parents and
infant brother; and also by brothers-in-law Arnold Junger and Father
Thomas McSherry as well as by several aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his siblings, Jean (Arnold) Junger, Richard (Noreen) Dowdell and Judge John (Rochelle) Dowdell, and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Nov. 12 at Christ the King Catholic Church in Tulsa with Archbishop Coakley presiding and San Antonio Auxiliary Bishop Michael Boulette as homilist. Interment is at Calvary Cemetery in Tulsa. Memorials may be made to Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City as well as Marquette, Bishop Kelley or San Miguel Catholic schools of Tulsa.
Dr. Rosemarie Benya
May 20, 1942-September 27, 2020
Dr. Rosemarie Ann Benya, PhD, age 78 of
Brecksville, OH passed away peacefully after a
long illness on Sunday September 27, 2020. She
was born on May 20, 1942. She is the daughter
of the late Vincent and Marie Benya. She is
survived by her sisters, Kathleen (Steven)
Hunsicker, Karen (John) Greene and many
nieces and nephews. She considered every
student from all over the world as her "spiritual
children”.
Rosie developed many lifelong relationships with friends and neighbors
who became like family to her. She graduated from Parma Senior High School
in 1960. She completed her undergraduate studies at Notre Dame University in
Cleveland, OH and received her Master's Degree from Middlebury College
after studying abroad in Spain. She earned her Doctorate from The Ohio State
University.
Rosie was a professor and department chair of Foreign Languages at East
Central University for more than 30 years. She also became a Fulbright Scholar
during her career, serving in Czechoslovakia for two years during the Velvet
Revolution.
She devoted her life to education, art, animals and serving her community.
Rosie enjoyed worldwide travels, including European adventures with her
nephews and niece. She was active in Ada Arts Council and St. Joseph Catholic
Church in Ada, OK. Rosie honed her oil painting skills during retirement
which has provided wonderful memories for those who have received her
artwork.
There was a private family burial at Foxfield Preserve in Wilmot, OH.
Foxfield Preserve is part of The Wilderness Center, whose mission it is to
connect the community with nature, educate people of all ages and conserve
natural resources. Memorials may be made to the organization of your choice
in a way that would honor Rosie.
Vedo Mayhall
January 20, 1921-September 10, 2020
Private graveside services for Vera Marie “Vedo”
Mayhall, 99, of Dallas, TX, formerly of Ada were 2:00
p.m. Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Rosedale
Cemetery.
Mrs. Mayhall passed away Thursday, September
10, 2020 at a Dallas, TX nursing home. She was born
in Ardmore, OK on January 30, 1921 to Moss Phillip
and Nell Coweta Patterson. She had two older sisters,
Mary Nell and Dorothy. Her family moved to McAlester soon after and then
moved to Oklahoma City. She graduated from Classen High School in
Oklahoma City and attended a women’s college in Maryland. She returned to
Oklahoma to attend the University of Oklahoma.
She met the love of her life, Carl Leon Mayhall, Jr. and was married on
November 28, 1941. After Pearl Harbor, her husband Carl was called into the
Army. During that time, their 1st child was born. Upon completion of military
service, the family moved to Ada where son Paul and daughter Patricia were
born. She became known as “Vedo” and they had an active life. After Carl
retired, they loved to travel and did so extensively. Carl died August 15, 1996.
Vedo remained in her home in Ada until 2014 when she moved to Dallas to a
long term care facility closer to family. She always had a smile on her face and
will be missed by all who loved her.
She is survived by sons, Carl Moss and wife Kathy, Paul and wife Kate, and
daughter Patricia and husband Rob. She leaves behind three grandchildren,
Kristen McCaig, Stephanie Smith and Hilary Mayhall; and four great-
grandchildren, Alex and Zoe Smith and Moss and Shawn McCaig.
Jean Erickson
November 9, 1924-July 8, 2020
Services for Jean Mary Erickson, 95, of
Ada were 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at St. Joseph
Catholic Church. Father Aaron Foshee
officiated. A Vigil was held 7:00 p.m. Monday
at St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Jean Mary Erickson passed away
Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at the Baptist Village
in Ada. She was born November 9, 1924 at
Hartford, WI to William and Hattie Frey
Mago. She was preceded in death by her
parents, her husband, and a brother, LeRoy Mago.
Jean attended secretarial school after graduating from high school. She met
her husband to be on a blind date in Oshkosh, WI where Floyd attended
college after serving in the Navy. She married Floyd Vernon Erickson
September 18, 1948 at West Allis, WI. He preceded her in death February 6,
2000 in Ada. Floyd said when they were married she didn’t even know how to
boil an egg. Through time she became an excellent cook. Her treat once they
moved to Oklahoma was visiting Braums as often as she could.
She was an avid bridge player for most of her adult life. Fellow bridge
players enjoyed her friendly sociability. She enjoyed golf and the camaraderie
during and after outings.
She belonged to numerous sororities in Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Ohio and
Oklahoma. She traveled throughout the Midwest as Floyd worked in retailing.
She went back to work after Sandy and Gary graduated from high school.
Until she went to live at Baptist Village she was very active in the Elks Club
wherever she was living. She received great care at Baptist Village. Her favorite
meal of the day was always breakfast!
Mrs. Erickson was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Survivors include a son, Gary Wayne Erickson and wife Barbara, Fairfield,
CA; a daughter, Sandra Jean Poe and husband Weyland Douglas, Ada; six
grandchildren, Nicholas Erickson, Springfield, MO, Benjamin Poe and wife
Kelsey, Oklahoma City, Jessica Tran and husband Duke, Dallas, TX and Erica
Poe, Chicago, IL, Marshall Underwood and wife Brandi, Augusta, GA and
William Bryce Underwood of Bethesda, MD; eight great-grandchildren, Jacob
and Peter Erickson, Weyland and Waverly Poe, Harlan and Britton Tran and
Benjamin and Margaret Underwood; and other relatives and friends. She
thoroughly enjoyed her grandchildren and her great grandchildren. She saw her
newest great grandchild on her 95th birthday.
Lorraine Childers
October 29, 1931-June 3, 2020
Anna Lorraine Hey Childers was born
October 29, 1931 to Lawrence Mathias and Julia
Izora Murray Hey in Stonington, Colorado. Mrs.
Childers, 88, passed away Wednesday, June 3, 2020
in Ada, Oklahoma
After she graduated from high school as
valedictorian, the family moved from Colorado
back to the Hey family farm in Wanette,
Oklahoma. While in Wanette, her brother
introduced her to a tall, lanky young man named
Leroy Childers. The couple wed on April 15, 1951, and moved to Ada,
Oklahoma to begin their family.
While raising a family of five children, she worked outside the home at
Montgomery Wards, the Specialty Shop, and Brockway Glass.
While in Ada, Lorraine was very involved with her church work at St.
Joseph Catholic Church. There, she was active in the Altar Society, Martha's
Guild, Church, Golden Club, Smorgasbord, Rummage Sale, and for many years
she was in charge of the funeral dinners.
She lived a full life on this Earth. She was a daughter, sister, wife, mother,
grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, friend, and so much to so many. Her
life was filled with joy, laughter, love and heartache, pride and sacrifice, giving
and nurturing, and she gave with her whole heart.
Lorraine is survived by four sons, Michael of Ada, Gary of Ada, Philip and
wife Anna of Tulsa, and Bradley and wife Kim of Ada, the one and only
daughter, Kyra of Ada, six grandchildren, Chris Childers of Irving, TX, James
Childers of Ada, Julie Childers of Lubbock, TX, Spencer Childers of Ada,
Sarah Kate Childers of Ada, and Liam Shaughnessy of Tulsa, OK, two great-
grandchildren, Jessie James Childers of Altus, OK and Quinlan Childers of
Irving, TX, brother-in-law, Hoyt McKinley and many loving nieces and
nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Leroy, a brother,
Marion Hey and wife Myrtle, and sister Rosemary McKinley.
A rosary for Lorraine was held at Estes~Phillips Funeral Home Chapel,
6:00 p.m., Sunday, June 7. Mass of Christian Burial was 10:00 a.m., Monday,
June 8 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ada. Interment followed at Wanette
Cemetery in Wanette, Oklahoma.
Sally Spence
December 10, 1936-May 20, 2020
Lillian "Sally" Bernal Spence entered into eternal life on
Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at the age of 83. Born on December
10, 1936 to Josephine and Manuel Bernal in Los Angeles,
California, Sally married George Spence in 1976, and the
couple moved to Ada, OK in 1983 where they raised their
granddaughter, Julie (Hayden) Scott. Sally pursued her passion
for dancing and spent the majority of her career as a professional ballroom
dancer, competing and winning nationals in New York City for two consecutive
years. After retiring from competitive dance, she maintained her involvement as a
ballroom instructor and judge. In Ada, she taught ballroom dance at East Central
University and also imparted cotillion dance and dining etiquette to the youth of
the Ada community. Sally was the embodiment of elegance, style, and grace and
had a natural talent for transforming ordinary things into something
extraordinary. This talent, coupled with her love for flowers, evolved into a
venture of floral and interior design and she often used her talents as a
contribution to St. Joseph Catholic Church where she was a beloved parishioner.
Sally was most proud of being a wife and Nana, a name given by her
grandchildren because she said, "I'm too young for you to call me grandma." She
always found big and little ways to express her love for she always felt that actions
spoke louder than words. Sally loved to cook and entertain, especially during the
holidays when she would make all her family's favorite traditional treats that
included traditions from her Mexican heritage to which she was also proud. As
the family grew in size, she continually found ways to create new traditions and
added personal touches to make everyone feel special.
Sally had a beautiful and caring heart and humbly reached out to those in
need. A time remembered was when she had contacted the school and
anonymously paid for a young boy's admission into summer camp because the
family did not have the financial means to send their child. Even during her final
months, she contacted several families impacted by the pandemic in order to
offer her support. Sally was a philanthropist for multiple organizations including
but not limited to Catholic Charities, Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude
Children's Research Hospital, and ASPCA.
Sally was preceded in death by her mother, Josephine, and father, Manuel.
Her aunt and uncle, Eloisa and Ramon Lopez, who raised her. Her siblings Lena
Martinez, Minnie Lopez, Molly Marquez, Lily Lopez, Margaret Bernal, Andrea
Aceves, Roy Lopez, Gilbert Lopez, Charles Bernal, Theodore Aceves, Oliver
Aceves, and Raul Aceves. She is survived by her siblings Bill (Irma) Bernal,
Tommy (Tina) Aceves, Estella Mckeown, Dorthy Bernal, and Catalina Aceves;
husband George Spence; children Laura Gosnell and Anna (Tim) Todd;
grandchildren Julie (Michael) Scott, Stephanie Isham, Doug (Sara) Stafford; and
great-grandchildren Cody Cox, Hadley and Senora Stafford, Spencer and
Sebastian Scott, and Noah Donovan.
A vigil service was held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ada, OK at 2:30
PM on Friday, May 29. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic
Church at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, followed by a graveside committal
service at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Konawa, OK at 4:30 p.m.Jane Ritchie
November 20, 2039-May 7, 2020
Mrs. Jane Ritchie, 80, of Ada passed away Thursday,
May 7, 2020 at her home.
She was born November 10, 1939 at Tulsa to James E.
and Anna Margaret Niklas O’Malley. She graduated from
Marquette Catholic High School in Tulsa.
Jane married John A. (Jack) Ritchie May, 1960 at Tulsa.
He preceded her in death October 28, 2019 in Ada. She and
her family moved to Ada from Tulsa in 1972. Mrs. Ritchie
was a member and the secretary/bookkeeper at St. Joseph
Catholic Church for many years.
Survivors include a daughter, Catherine Myers and husband Mark; her sons,
John A. Ritchie, Jr. and wife Stacy and Kevin Ritchie; her grandchildren, Jacqueline
and Kale Castner, Todd and Dinah Ritchie, Mary Catherine Myers, Tristan Ritchie
and Tate Ritchie; great-grandchildren, Matthew and Andrew Castner; brother, James
E. O’Malley, Jr. and wife Linda; and many nieces and nephews.Sister Macrina Wiederkehr
July 28, 1939-April 24, 2020
Sister Macrina Wiederkehr, age 80, died April 24,
2020, at St. Scholastica Monastery in Fort Smith.
The family of Henry Wiederkehr and Marion
(Eveld) Wiederkehr welcomed their daughter,
Martha Ann, into their family on July 28, 1939, in
Altus. Upon being received at St. Scholastica
Convent on June 24, 1957, she took the name Sister
Mary Macrina Wiederkehr. Sister Macrina taught at
St. Boniface School in Bigelow, St. Joseph School in
Ada, Okla., and St. Gabriel School in Kansas City,
Mo., and served at St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lebanon, Mo., Springfield, Mo.
Branson, Mo., El Dorado, Mo., Marshfield, Mo., and Ozark, Mo., and St.
Thomas Newman Center in Fayetteville. She served as a vocation director,
retreat director and spiritual director at St. Scholastica Monastery and Center
and in the diaconate ministry for the Diocese of Little Rock. She earned her
Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education at Mount Angel College in
Oregon and her master's degree in religious education at St. Thomas University
in Houston. She was the beloved author of nine books.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Raymond and
Basil Wiederkehr; and two sisters, Henriette Ann and Dorothy Alice
Wiederkehr.
She is survived by a brother, Joseph Wiederkehr; two sisters, Edna O'Neill
and Mary Lou Bennett; her beloved nieces; and members of her Benedictine
family.
Mass for Christian Burial for Sister Macrina will be held at a later date.
Please remember Sister Macrina in your prayers.
Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Fentress Mortuary
in Fort Smith.
You may make memorials to St. Scholastica Monastery Continuing Care
Fund, 1315 S. Albert Pike Ave., Fort Smith, AR 72903.Dr. Joe Troska
November 28, 1941-April 4, 2020
Dr. Joe L. Troska, 78, of Ada, Oklahoma,
passed away on April 4, 2020, at Noble Health
Care Center, Noble, Oklahoma. He was born
November 28, 1941, to Joe and Hermine Troska in
Enid, Oklahoma. He graduated from Waukomis
High School in 1959, from Phillips University,
Enid, in 1963, then from Creighton University
Medical School, Omaha, Nebraska, in 1967.
He married Rita Suhr on June 27, 1970, in
Omaha, and had two children, Brian and Jeana.
After working at the Sugg Clinic in Ada in the early 70s, he opened Ada
Internal Medicine in 1972, and retired in December of 2004. He enjoyed
agriculture, farming, and cattle. He and his family showed Limousin cattle for
13 years, and he served on the Pontotoc County Livestock Show board and the
Southeast District Heifer Show board.
He believed in the value of education and served on the Latta School
Board for ten years.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Rita, his parents, and an older sister.
Survivors include Brian Troska, his wife Carrie, and their two children, Carter
and Mary, all of Austin; Jeana Troska Sutton, her husband Jerry, and their two
children, Kyle and Michael, all of Tulsa, Oklahoma; a sister, Marylind
Washmon, Houston; and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be held in April 2021.Helen Vitale
June 27, 1919-March 3, 2020
Services for Helen Ruth Vitale, 100, of Ada
were held 10:00 a.m. Monday at the St. Joseph
Catholic Church. Father Aaron Foshee officiated.
Burial followed at Rosedale Cemetery.
Helen Vitale passed away Tuesday, March 3,
2020 at a local nursing home. She was born June 27,
1919 at Bonham, Texas to Sam and Vernie Morgan
Segler. She graduated from Bonham High School.
Mrs. Vitale was a Restaurant Hostess and
waitress in New York during her working career and
was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Survivors include her sister, Billie Marcela Polyak, Lake Elsinore, CA; many
nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews and other
family.
She was preceded in death by both of her husbands, Bob O’Hara and
Frank Vitale; four sisters, Clara Sires, Effie James, Dora Segler, and Edna
Brewer; and a brother, Earnest Segler.Jack Ritchie
June 5, 1934-October 28, 2019
Services for John Alan (Jack) Ritchie, 85, of
Ada were held 2:00 p.m. Saturday at St. Joseph
Catholic Church. Father Aaron Foshee officiated.
A Wake Service was held 7:30 p.m. Friday at the
Criswell Funeral Home Chapel.
Jack Ritchie passed away Monday, October 28,
2019 and was born June 5, 1934 at Tulsa to Frank
D. and Mary Catherine Ritchie. He graduated
from Marquette High School in Tulsa and
attended Tulsa University. Jack entered Trappist
Monastery in Spencer, MA for five years.
He married Jane O’Malley May 28, 1960. He and his family moved to
Ada in 1973 from Tulsa. He was a claims manager for St. Paul Insurance
Company for 30 years. Jack was a longtime active member of St. Joseph
Catholic Church and had served in the National Guard.
Survivors include his wife, Janie, of the home; a daughter, Catherine A.
Myers and husband Mark of Oklahoma City; two sons, Kevin E. Ritchie of
Oklahoma City and John A. Ritchie, Jr. and wife Stacey of Georgetown, TX;
his grandchildren, Jacqueline Castner and husband Kale, Mary Catherine
Myers, Todd Ritchie, Tristan Ritchie and Tate Ritchie.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother and a sister.Paul Rogers
October 23, 1931-October 14, 2019
Services for Chief Master Sergeant (RET)
Montie Paul Rogers, 87, of Ada are 11:00 a.m.
on Monday, October 14, 2019 at Criswell
Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Steve Wilburn
officiating. Burial will be at 3:00 p.m. Monday at
the Coalgate Cemetery, with Father Aaron
Foshee officiating. The U. S. Air Force Honor
Guard will conduct military honors at the
cemetery.
Mr. Rogers, (known during his military career as Montie, but lovingly
referred as Paul in Oklahoma) was born on October 23, 1931 in Parker, OK
to James and Nettie Rogers. He had one older brother, James, and two
younger sisters, Norma and Beverly.
Growing up in a farming community influenced his entire life. Paul was
diligent about shelling the pecans that dropped from his pecan trees. Family
and friends came to appreciate that he always shared the fruits of his labor.
In turn, they would make pies and other treats with the pecans and bestow
them back to Paul. The circle of life!
Paul attended elementary and high school in Coalgate, Oklahoma. He
graduated in 1950 and quickly enlisted in the Air Force, where he completed
basic training and additional courses to become skilled in radio operations
and communications, accounting, budgeting, management and COMSEC
analysis. During his 29 years in the military, Chief Master Sergeant Rogers
served numerous tours of duty overseas, including Germany, Guam, Tripoli,
Turkey, Korea and a tour with NATO in Oslo, Norway. After fully retiring
from the military, Paul worked for the Power Production Department in
Austin, TX and obtained his degree from Texas State University. Paul then
moved to the Washington D.C. area to work for the NSA (National Security
Agency). From there, his career took him to the Defense Mapping Agency
(as a GM-15) which is now known as the National Geospatial Intelligence
Agency.
Paul was predeceased by his first wife Edith, with whom he raised two
children, Katrina and Montie. As good fortune would have it, he had an
opportunity to reconnect with his former Coalgate classmate, Gloria Ann
Mazzolini Kemp. The two became constant companions and discovered love
later in life. They married on July 12, 2011. Their love for each other had not
beginning and no end and is eternal.
Paul remained a true patriot throughout his life. His meritorious service
was recognized by his superiors who bestowed many service ribbons, two
very prestigious air Force Commendation Medals, a Joint Service
Commendation medal, and two Service Medals upon him. Throughout hislife, he took great pride in raising, lowering and folding the American flag on
national holidays. Paul was proud to be an American.
He loved his family and this included his cats, Blue and Sophie, and he
seemed to be especially amused by Blue. All the grandkids had a special bond
with Paul. He knew kids loved to swing and he hung several different types,
including tire swings and sling swings. Laughter was abundant when the
swings were in motion. Paul enjoyed doing for others and it was a common
occurrence to see him giving freshly-cut flowers to Gloria and pull the
evening paper from underneath his arm and hand that to her too.
Paul’s hobbies included fishing, gardening and Conchology. He collected
shells from all over the world and enjoyed them from an aesthetic viewpoint
and from a learning perspective. In addition, Paul enjoyed woodworking and
Western movies and television shows.
Survivors include his wife, Gloria, of the home; a daughter, Katrina
Louise Rogers and husband, Danny Ducharme, FL; a son, Montie Rogers,
San Antonio, TX; his grandchildren, Arielle Ducharme and Montie P. Rogers,
III; his bonus family, Elizabeth Kemp Brown and husband Ronald; Susan
Kemp Hanna and husband Gary; Thomas E. Kemp, Jr. (deceased) and wife
Ashley; Mary Kemp Milsten and husband Marc; James Harold Kemp and
wife Lorrie; and Michael Kemp; 12 grandchildren; and three great
grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Edith; brother,
James Harold Rogers; sister, Beverly Rogers Boswell; brother-in-law, Tony
Corsini; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.Lovena Drymon
October 28, 1936-September 6, 2019
Lovena Joyce Drymon was from Ada,
Oklahoma and passed away Friday, September 6,
2019 in Ada.
Lovena was born October 28, 1936, second
child of 9 children to Ira Luther and Ollie
(Jewell) Jenkins of Ada. She attended Ada Public
Schools in Oklahoma and Chaffey College in
California. She retired as a certified Nurse's Aide
for the State of California and the Oklahoma
State Department of Health. Lovena was an old-
fashioned homemaker that had seven healthy
children. She loved her family, dogs, and baseball. She also devoted her entire
life to the Catholic religion.
Lovena was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Mike Molles,
husbands Macilino Molles, James Job, Rod Bias, Duane George and Herman
Drymon, brother Raymond Luther, and sisters Beverly Luther, Nancy
Owens, Doris Gibson, and Elizabeth (Buffy) Fraizer.
She is survived by her sons, Raymond Job of Del City, Oklahoma, Martin
Molles of Ada, Oklahoma daughters Marcella Bacon of Ada, Susan Meyers
of Riverside, California, Linda Worden of Santa Rosa, California, Mary Ann
Molles of Yucaipa California, sisters Virginia Phillips of Upland, California,
Sena Brown of Ada, Pam Hoggatt of Oil Center, Oklahoma. She is also
survived by numerous nephews and nieces, numerous grandchildren and
great grandchildren, all of whom she will be dearly missed by for her
kindness and love.
Services for Lovena were held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday September 19,
2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ada, Oklahoma with interment at
Lightening Ridge Cemetery. A family visitation was held from 5:00 until 7:00
p.m. Wednesday, September 18, 2019 at Estes-Phillips Funeral Home in Ada.Thomas E. Kemp, Jr.
March 27, 1960-March 27, 2019
Thomas E. Kemp, Jr. passed from this life
March 27, 2019 on his 59th birthday after
developing complications from the flu. He was born
March 27, 1960 in Ada, Oklahoma to Thomas
Elwood and Gloria Mazzolini Kemp. Tom grew up
in Ada where he attended St. Joseph Catholic
Elementary School. He graduated from Ada High
School in 1978. He attended the University of
Oklahoma where he was a member of Beta Theta Pi
and obtained a degree in accounting and business in 1982. He also became a
certified public accountant shortly thereafter. He graduated from the
University of Oklahoma School of Law in 1985 and then obtained a Masters'
of Law in Tax from Southern Methodist University. Tom was in the private
practice of law in Norman until he was tapped to serve as General Counsel
of the Oklahoma Tax Commission in 1997.
Tom's dedication to his community and strong work ethic led to his
appointment as a Commissioner of the Oklahoma Tax Commission in 2001
by Governor Frank Keating and he served for many years as its Chairman.
He was reappointed in 2007 by Governor Brad Henry and again in 2013 by
Governor Mary Fallin. Tom served the State in that role until his death. Tom
had a servant's heart and was proud of all that he helped to accomplish
during this tenure. All who worked with Tom or called upon him knew he
maintained an open-door policy where he was easily accessible to taxpayers,
his colleagues and others who needed his advice.
Tom inherited his father's love for all things OU from attending OU
football games with his parents and siblings in his early years. Later, as a
resident of Norman, he was a constant presence at OU athletic events and
often traveled for games. He continued to support his Beta Theta Pi
Fraternity as a dedicated alumnus. Many of his high school friends and
fraternity brothers remained his best friends throughout his life.
Tom was an avid golfer, although his enthusiasm for the game often out-
matched his ability. Searching for errant balls was just part of the enjoyment
of a round, no matter where he played. Few, other than family, know of his
true talent as a self-taught pianist. He regularly entertained his family by
playing his favorite songs, his piano music often filling his home. His passion
for travel began at an early age, piling in the family station wagon for trips to
Missouri. Enduring memories were created with regular trips with his parents
and siblings, and later with his own family, to the Hotel del Coronado in San
Diego and Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. The days before his death
were spent with his family enjoying the fresh snow in Vail, Colorado.If true love is worth the wait, then Ashley was Tom's prize. He accepted
her family as his own, and Tom loved and adored Alex and Megan. Their son
Tommy was a joyous addition, and Tom relished his role as father, playmate,
coach, and mentor. His children were his pride and joy and will continue as
his legacy.
Tom was a member of St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church. His
dedication to his faith and family shall forever be an example for all to follow.
He was preceded in passing by his father, Thomas Elwood Kemp. Those left
to cherish his memories include: his wife, Ashley Kemp; children, Alexander
Williams, Megan Williams, and Thomas E. Kemp III; mother, Gloria Kemp
and her husband Paul Rogers; brother, Jim Kemp, his wife Lorrie and their
children, Brandon, Ross, Katy and Emily; brother, Mike Kemp; sister, Liz
Brown, her husband Ron and their children, son, Matt, his wife Ryanne, and
their children Michael and Daniel, daughter, Lauren Warner and her husband,
Eric and son, Andy Brown; sister, Sue Hanna, her husband Gary, and their
daughter, Casey, husband Ryan and their son, Ford; sister, Mary Milsten, her
husband, Marc and their children, Jennifer, Hailey and Erin. He is also
survived by a host of loving extended family and friends.
The funeral mass took place on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at
St. Mark The Evangelist Catholic Church, with the burial following at St.
Joseph's Catholic Cemetery. Tom was a type 1 diabetic and the family would
suggest donations instead be made either to the Harold Hamm Diabetes
Center, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, St. Mark's Catholic Church
or a charity of the donor's choosing made in Tom's honor.Elizabeth Witherow
June 21, 1934-February 28, 2019
Elizabeth Pruner Witherow, beloved wife,
mother, grandmother, and great-
grandmother, passed away on February 18,
2019 after a brief illness. She was loved by all
and will be greatly missed.
She was born on June 21, 1934, to
Edward and Gertrude (Hagar) Pruner in
Washington, D.C. and grew up in Dallas,
Texas. She attended Holy Trinity grade
school and graduated from Ursuline Academy of Dallas in 1952. She received
a B.A. in education from Southern Methodist University in 1956 and taught
elementary education in Dallas. In 1993, she earned a B.A. in pastoral ministry
from Kansas Newman College.
Elizabeth married Jack L.Witherow in 1960. They enjoyed a 58-year
marriage, living in Texas, Indiana, Missouri, and Oregon and settled in Ada,
OK, where they raised their four daughters. Following Jack's retirement from
the EPA, they traveled to European and Far Eastern countries with friends and
took many cruises. They loved to fish and play bridge together and were very
involved in St. Joseph Catholic Church and charity work. For several years,
Elizabeth was the Director of Religious Education at St. Joseph.
Elizabeth was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority, Daughters of the
American Revolution, Fortnightly, Elk's Club, League of Women Voters,
Renew Prison Ministry, Meals on Wheels, Prime Timers, Home Visitations, St.
Joseph Smorgasbord and two prayer groups. She was a passionate reader and
bridge player, belonging to several book and bridge clubs.
Surviving are her husband Jack; her sister Pat (and Bob Baumann); four
daughters, Mary (and Susan Schneider), Annette (and Linus Fuhrmann),
Denise (and Mark Lake), Elaine (and Tim Fitzgibbon); 10 grandchildren
(Laura, Sean, Rachel, Sarah, Matthew, Maggie, Colin, Katie and Dylan; and
Willie, who preceded her in death); and four great-grandchildren.
A Vigil service (rosary) was at Criswell's Funeral Home on Thursday,
February 21, at 7:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial was on Friday, February
22 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Rite of Committal was held at
Calvary Hill Cemetery in Dallas, Texas.Dr. Stanley “Stan” Nnochirionye
January 2, 1949-January 30, 2019
The funeral mass for Dr. Stanley
Ifeanyichukwu “Dr. Stan” Nnochirionye, 70, of
Ada were held at the St. Joseph Catholic Church
on Friday, February 8 at 11:00 a.m. A Wake
Service and Vigil took place on Tuesday, February
5, at Criswell’s Funeral Home at 7:00 p.m.
A public celebration of his life took place
Thursday, February 7 at ECU.
Dr. Nnochirionye was born on January 2, 1949 in Kaduna City, Kaduna,
Nigeria. He died on January 30, 2019 at his home.
Dr. Nnochirionye, or, as he was known to all, Dr. Stan, came from humble
beginnings and made the best of the many opportunities provided to him by
God. Opportunities came to him because he was a gentleman, scholar, athlete
and a friend to all who knew him. His generosity to the many international
students he recruited, mentored, advised, supported and/or helped adjust to
their new surroundings made it possible for them to receive an education that
will impact generations of their families now and forever. For many of the
local and United States students he befriended Dr. Stan was the difference in
them getting a degree or not getting a degree.
After lying about his age he joined the Army at the age of 17. He served in
the Nigerian Civil War (Biafran War) and rose to the rank of Captain. After
being wounded in battle he returned home and completed the required work to
graduate from Holy Spirit High School. He so impressed the missionaries at
the school that they helped him get an academic/athletic scholarship to study
in the United States. He immigrated to the US in 1975.
Dr. Nnochirionye received a Bachelor of Arts Degree and a certificate in
Radio and Television Broadcasting from the State University College of New
York in Buffalo. He earned a Master of Arts degree and an Educational
Specialist degree from Indiana State University. He received his Doctor of
Philosophy degree from the University of Oklahoma. He taught at Columbia
State Community College in Tennessee and in 1992 was hired by East Central
University as a speech communications professor. Due to his background and
expertise in broadcasting he was soon tasked with establishing and running
ECU’s Instructional Television (I-TV) program as well as continuing to be a
professor of Speech Communication. Following his retirement in 2016 he
continued to teach as an adjunct professor.
He was not only a scholar, but an outstanding soccer player, coach, referee
and administrator. He earned a scholarship to play soccer and study at the State
University College of New York in Buffalo. He was an assistant coach of the
first intercollegiate soccer team at Indiana State University and, in the fall of
1997, became the first coach of the East Central University women’sintercollegiate soccer team. He was long recognized as one of the top soccer
authorities in this region and was involved in soccer all of his life.
He was known as “Ada’s Mr. Soccer.” He was one of the leaders of the
effort to establish youth soccer in Ada and, later, to establish varsity soccer at
Ada High School. He developed and trained many coaches, referees, game
officials and league administrators.
Dr. Nnochirionye was recognized as Ada’s Distinguished International
Citizen of the Year in 2007 for his contributions to Ada, World Understanding
and for sharing his culture with others. He served St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
as a lector, Eucharistic minister, usher and 3rd degree member of the Knights
of Columbus. He was also instrumental in establishing Cub Scout Pack 316 at
St. Joseph and served as the Chartered Organization Representative.
He was a longtime member of the Board of Directors of the Ada Boys
and Girls Club; an active member of the Central States Communication
Association and advisor for the Sigma Tau Alpha fraternity at ECU. He was
also a volunteer for LifeShare Transplant Donor Services of Oklahoma and a
member of the Ada Rotary Club. Dr. Stan loved to travel and was a music
enthusiast and avid photographer.
Dr. Nnochirionye is survived by son Noah Obinna Nnochirionye, step
daughter Kalina Popova and special friends Silviya Popova, Carol Hayward,
Tawfik and Siham Ramadan, Paul and Lisa Penwright, Houston and Betty
Mount and Pat and Usha Fountain.
He is survived by a brother, Albert Nnochirionye and a sister, Veronica
Nnochirionye Anyanwu both of Nigeria. He is survived by many nieces and
nephews, dozens of former student workers he mentored and advised,
hundreds of former players he coached and thousands of former students.
Dr. Nnochirionye was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and
Helen Nnochirionye; Brothers, Boniface Nnochirionye and Cyprain
Nnochirionye as well as Sisters, Lucy Nnochirionye Nwaonu, Theresa
Nnochirionye Onu and Antonia Nnochirionye Umunna.
A fund for scholarships for international students is being established in
Dr. Nnochirionye’s name at the East Central University Foundation. Those
who wish to contribute to the fund may contact the ECU Foundation at
580-559-5655.Rev. George J. Pupius
May 3, 1930-November 23, 2018
Rev. George J. Pupius died Nov. 23, 2018.
Father Pupius was born on May 3, 1930, in Krebs,
Okla., to John and Anna (Delugas) Pupius. After
attending Krebs Elementary, he went on to Saint
John Catholic High School in McAlester. After high
school graduation in 1949, Father Pupius entered a
Trappist monastery at the Abbey of Our Lady of
Gethsemani near Bardstown, Ky., where he took temporary vows.
He left Gethsemani where he served alongside Thomas Merton (Father
Louis) and entered the seminary for the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa
in 1956. Father Pupius said he left the monastery because he lacked the skill to
sing in the monastic choir. Father Pupius attended Saint John’s Seminary in
Little Rock, Ark. He was ordained a priest at The Cathedral of Our Lady of
Perpetual Help in Oklahoma City on May 25, 1963.
He faithfully served the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa, and later
the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, for 55 years. Father Pupius served as
pastor of Sacred Heart, Mangum (1969-73); Saint Eugene, Weatherford, and
missions (1973-84); Saint Andrew, Moore (1984-1999); St. Joseph, Ada
(1999-2001); and Immaculate Conception, Oklahoma City (2001-2018). He
served as associate pastor of Christ the King, Oklahoma City (1963); The
Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Oklahoma City (1963-67); and Saint
Peter, Woodward, and missions (1967-69) as associate pastor. He retired from
active ministry earlier this year.
He is survived by his sister, Kay Pupius Lawrence, and niece, Geralyn
Varney (husband Bruce). He is preceded in death by his parents and his
brother John A. Pupius. A Vigil Service was held Nov. 29 at The Cathedral of
Our Lady of Perpetual Help with Archbishop Emeritus Eusebius Beltran
presiding; Father Joe Arledge as homilist. A Mass of Christian Burial was
celebrated on Nov. 30 at The Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
Archbishop Coakley was the main celebrant; Father Rusty Hewes as homilist.
Burial at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery in Oklahoma City.Melvin Brooking
January 12, 1944-October 30, 2018
Services for Melvin Dwight Brooking, 73, of Ada were
10:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Father Billy
Lewis presided. Burial was at Rosedale Cemetery.
Melvin Dwight Brooking was born January 12, 1944 to
Vernon Lee “Bud” Brooking and Della Faye (Davis) Brooking
at Seminole County, Oklahoma. He attended Pleasant Grove
High School, later graduated from East Central University with a bachelor’s degree
in Psychology and Oklahoma State University with a master’s in Sociology. He was
drafted into the U. S. Army February 1969 and served in the Vietnam War as a
helicopter platoon assault squad leader. He met Helen Jane Cameron upon his
return to Ada, and they married February 24, 1979. Together, they had two
daughters, Meagan and Meredith. Melvin retired in 1997 from the State of
Oklahoma’s Department of Rehabilitation Services after 30 years of service. For
career Day at Meredith’s elementary school, he wrote and sang a jingle that pretty
well summed up his career:
When I was a younger man So, I became a rehabilitation man
I traveled all about And to this day
I was looking for a job I work with the disabled
That I could not live without Who cannot find their way
Then I meet a blinded person Some are blind and some can’t hear
Who could not find his way, And some ain’t got no sense
And he said, “Hey Mister, will you help me out today?” But with a little rehab work can find employment
After retirement, he continued working in drug and rehabilitation programs
for Oklahoma’s prison system.
Melvin was a man of God, judiciously studying the Word and constantly
searching for truth. His spiritual journey started in the Pentecostal Holiness Church
and ended at St. Joseph Catholic Church with a lifetime of service, friendship and
growth in between. He was well-known for his leadership of the Whosoever Will
Sunday School Class at Ada First Baptist Church. He was an ordained minister
through the Southern Baptist Convention and served his church and God through
various roles including Minister of Music at the Pentecostal Holiness Church in
Ada; Minister of Music at First Free Will Baptist Church in Ada; deacon, choir
president and teacher at FBC, Ada; Music Minister at FBC, Stonewall; and pastor
of Galey Baptist Church. He converted to Catholicism approximately 10 years ago.
At St. Joseph Catholic Church, he taught Catechism classes and served as Director
for Meals on Wheels. His entire religious journey was a search of Biblical truth, and
he passed from this earth with a deep understanding and complete peace in his
salvation.
He was known as the gray-haired man with the booming voice who could
always be heard singing. He was known as the father always involved in every aspect
of his children’s lives. He was known as the man with big ideas (and with the wifewho could see them through). He was unyielding in his discipline and conviction
and audacious in his humor and wit. He found pure and complete joy in his two
granddaughters, Cameron and Brooking. His relationship with them was unique
and was genuine. All the love and hope he had rested in those girls. The simple
words he sang to his daughters will live on as they are now sung to the next
generation.
I love my girls,
They love me too,
I love to be with them
In everything we do
(repeat in pig Latin)
Melvin died in his home on October 30, at the age of 73, his body
succumbing to cancer but his spirit soaring to new heights with our Lord. He is
survived by his family in Ada, his wife, Helen, of the home; daughter, Meagan
Brooking, granddaughter, Cameron Brooking, daughter, Meredith Murphy, son-in-
law, John Murphy, and granddaughter, Brooking Murphy, all of Ada; He is also
survived by brother, Kenneth Brooking (Ricki) of Tulsa, sister, Joyce Marsh (Bill)
of San Diego, CA, and brother, Doyle Brooking (Linda) of Shawnee.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Carolyn Harris Beck of
Shawnee; and brother, Jerry Brooking of Maud.O.A. “Mel” Melton
May 1, 1932-October 1, 2018
Services for O. A. “Mel” Melton, 86, of Ada
were at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic
Church. Father Aaron Foshee officiated. Burial
followed at Rosedale Cemetery. The U.S. Army
Honor Guard conducted military honors at the
cemetery. A Prayer Vigil was held at 6:00 p.m.
Friday at Criswell Funeral Home.
O. A. “Mel” Melton was born May 1, 1932 at Byars, OK to Obra Altany
and Ira Ruth Bates Melton.
He was drafted into the Army on November 21, 1952 and served in the
307th Military Police Battalion at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, TX and
Fort Hood, TX. He was honorably discharged November 20, 1954.
Mr. Melton worked in the Civil Service starting in 1956 at Medina Base,
Kelly Air Force Base and Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. After
moving to Oklahoma, he worked at the McAlester Army Ammunition Depot
until 1974, then worked at Valley View Regional Hospital in the Maintenance
Department, retiring in 1994 after 20 years of service. He also worked 16
years part-time at the Ada School System.
He married Marcia Fritsch September 14, 1967 in San Antonio, TX. They
celebrated 51 years of marriage. He and his wife enjoyed fishing and
spending time with their family. Mr. Melton was a member of St. Joseph
Catholic Church. He passed away Monday, October 1, 2018.
Survivors include his wife, Marcia, of the home; daughters, Vickie (Sam)
Hardin, Dana (Jim) Foster, Tonya (Jason) Kinsey, all of Ada and Cherie
(John) Nugent, of Texas; his sons, Vincent and Steven Melton, both of
Texas; granddaughters, Cara Morris, Shelby Mann, J. J. Foster, Madeline
Kinsey, Jessica Kinsey, Julia Hardin, Katie Hardin, Rachel Selfridge; his
grandsons, Darrin Foster, Michael Hartel, Chris Melton, James Melton; great-
grandchildren, Carter Knighten, Felix Morris and Camryn Melton; three
sisters, Estelle Pennington, Jewel Elmore, and Johnnie Sue (Raymond)
Henegar of Stratford; many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Bernice Ellsworth; and
brothers, H. T. Melton and Garvin Melton.
Many thanks to Dr. Sanjay Sikka, Dr. Randall Baker of Mercy OKC
Hospital, and Dr. Ashtami Banavali of Mercy Ada, and all the nurses in the
Oncology Dept. at Mercy, Ada; and a special thanks to Dr. James Wight.Donnie Butler
February 27, 1952-June 13, 2018
Memorial services for Donald “Donnie”
William Butler, 66, of Ada were 10:00 a.m. Friday
at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Rev. Aaron Foshee
will officiated. A Rosary was held 7:00 p.m.
Thursday at the St. Joseph Chapel.
Donnie Butler died June 13, 2018 at his home.
He was born February 27, 1952 in Canton to
Donald Edward Butler and Carol Childs. He
attended Western Heights High School in
Oklahoma City.
He married Patricia Butler on December 11,
1987 in Ada. He was employed with Ada True
Value as a salesman, and Oxygen of Oklahoma and other medical equipment
companies. Mr. Butler attended St. Joseph Catholic Church and was a
member of the Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include his wife, Patricia of the home; a son, Christopher
Butler; two brothers, Chris Butler and Cleat Butler; two sisters, Cindy
Thompson and Donnita Schroder; and numerous other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Toni MilesAnn Maxwell
December 8, 1937-May 5, 2018
Services for Charlotte Ann Maxwell, 80, of Ada
were 10:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic
Church with Father Billy Lewis officiating. the burial
followed at New Bethel Cemetery near Byng. The
family received friends from 6:00 p. m. – 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday at Criswell Funeral Home.
Charlotte Ann Maxwell passed away Saturday, May 5, 2018 at her home.
She was born December 8, 1937 at Dallas, TX to Clarence Austin and
Gertrude Agnes Shea Christian. Ann loved family, friends and strangers alike.
She was interested in the stories of those around her and found most days or
events to be, “delightful.”
After graduating from Byng High School in 1955, she attended East
Central University while working as a telephone operator. She married
Kenneth Maxwell in 1961, and had four children through the years. She
continued to work in banking and customer service while raising her children
and retired from Legal Shield at the age of 77.
She was a proud Byng alumnus and never had a conversation about
education that didn’t include the praises of Mr. Stokes and Mrs. Teague. She
worked with the Stonewall PTA, where her children attended, to fund raise
and sponsor class trips. She served on various church committees at St.
Joseph—most notably with Prison Ministry. She was proud of her own
children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and she supported and
celebrated many others that she also counted as family.
Ann took the time to get to know people and was always willing to give
of her time and resources—including stories and opinions. She followed her
own path and found information and tidbits that didn’t have to be interesting
to anyone but her. She enjoyed shopping for bargains and was always giving
‘nana’ gifts to graduates, newlyweds, neighbors or those receiving care—even
while she was receiving care herself.
Ann leaves behind two sons, Kenny Maxwell and Chris Maxwell, both of
Stonewall; two daughters, Barbie Maxwell of Stonewall and Debbie Claxton
and her husband Tim of Ada; a brother, Mike Christian and wife Pat of The
Colony, TX; three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and other loving
relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Mary
Louise Baker; and a brother, Lawrence Gilbert Christian.
Celebrate her spirit with a kind act, a conversation with a stranger, or a
sassy outfit that you bought on sale.Lilly Jo Chapman
January 4, 1942-April 23, 2018
Lilly Jo Chapman, age 76 passed away
April 23, 2018 after a short battle with
lymphoma. She was born in Odessa, Texas
January 4, 1942 to Clyde and Ora Lee Long
of Ada. A funeral mass was held at St.
Joseph Catholic Church in Ada at 1:00 p.m.,
April 26, 2018 followed by interment at
Lehigh Cemetery in the Grilley family
gravesite.
Jo attended St. Joseph Catholic School, in Ada, thru seventh grade then
graduated Ada High School in 1960. She graduated in 1966 from East
Central University with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. Jo
earned “Golden Tiger” status in 2016.
Jo married Jerry Smith in 1960, had two children, then divorced. She
remarried to James Chapman, MD. They lived in Oklahoma City and
Temple, Texas then settled in Ardmore Oklahoma. Jo worked as a medical
technologist in various hospitals over the years while raising her family. She
enjoyed being a home maker in Ardmore and taking her third daughter to
dance class and other activities.
Jo lived in Ada the last 15 years where she enjoyed the company of her
sister, Pat Long Davidson and a few close friends. Her joy came from her
girls and her tuxedo cat “Pearl.” Her sharp wit never left as she would tease
and joke with family in her final week.
Survivors include her sister, Pat Long Davidson, of Ada; three daughters,
Lydia Bare and her husband, David, of Norman, Debbie Barnes of
Edmond, Trish Weaver and her husband, Rusty, of Ardmore; seven
grandchildren, Braden Smithson and Elizabeth Bare of Norman, Kati
Barnes of Edmond; Sam Barnes and his wife Sarah, of Edmond, Wes
Weaver of Ann Arbor, MI, Zac Weaver and Max Weaver of Ardmore.
The family wishes to thank Ruby Long, for being a good friend to Jo,
PACT Team for their support and friendship, Mercy Hospital Ada, third
floor nursing staff for their compassion and concern, and Dr. Banavali of
the Cancer Center.Bob Cristelli
March 17, 1930-April 13, 2018
A rosary service for Robert C. Cristelli, 88, of Ada, was
held on Tuesday, April 17 at 6:00 p.m. at the St. Joseph
Catholic Church in Ada, followed by a funeral mass on
Wednesday, April 18 at 10:00am.
Born March 17, 1930, in Rapson, Colorado, Robert
“Bob” Charles Cristelli was a son to Charles and Rose
Cristelli of Florence, Colorado, and elder brother to Carolyn
Marty and Dorothy Payne. Bob grew up with a love for
music and craftsmanship (namely woodworking), and ultimately attended the Holy
Cross Abbey Academy in Canon City, Colorado, where he graduated from high school
prior to taking an assignment in the United States Navy where he served as a
radioman on the USS Kaskaskia.
Following a successful service in the Navy, Bob began his career in the cement
manufacturing industry, where he dedicated the entirety of his 42-year professional
career, ultimately retiring as the plant manager of Holcim Cement Company in Ada,
Oklahoma. Bob was steadfast in his attention to detail and the many rewards
associated with hard work and dedication to his craft.
Between Bob’s graduation from Holy Cross Abbey and his service in the Navy, he
met the love of his life, Phyllis Manley of Canon City, Colorado at a music
competition in Pueblo, Colorado. Bob and Phyllis immediately connected through
their affinity of music and family, which is exemplified through their marriage of 49
years. Bob and Phyllis proudly raised two sons, Mick and Pat, who continue to lovingly
share their parents’ values and legacy with their children and grandchildren.
In his golden years, Bob received great joy and satisfaction through serving his
local community of Ada, Oklahoma, along with his beloved St. Joseph Catholic
Parish, and first and foremost, his family. Bob’s community involvement included
programs such as meals on wheels and conducting the children’s train for the Ada
Kiwanis Club. He dedicated considerable time serving St. Joseph’s by managing the
physical plant and various structural projects, and always enjoyed making gravy and
carving turkey for the St. Joseph annual Smorgasbord. Finally, Bob wholeheartedly
cherished his time with his sons, sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and
nephews, with whom he shared Italian folk-stories and danced the polka, played the
accordion, and occasionally played a competitive game of bocce ball.
Bob is survived by his two children, Mick and wife Jan of Ada, Oklahoma; Pat
and wife Diana of Ada, Oklahoma; four grandchildren, Tony Cristelli, wife Reynolds
and children Rose and Charlie of Denver, Colorado; Jamie Cristelli, child Parker
Rachal of Daytona Beach, Florida; Ryan Cristelli, wife Aley of Oklahoma City,
Oklahoma; Shane Cristelli, partner Savanna Sutton and child Luca of Ada, Oklahoma;
two siblings, Carolyn Marty of Lindale, Texas, and Dorothy Payne, husband Joe of
Denver, Colorado; along with many in-laws, nieces, nephews, friends and family. All of
the foregoing can be seen proudly enshrined on Bob’s refrigerator.Charles Krause
July 6, 1944-September 9, 2017
Services for Charles Adrian Krause, 73, of
Madill, formerly of Ada, were 10:00 a.m. Tuesday
at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Father Billy Lewis
officiated. Burial followed at Swan Hill Cemetery. A
Rosary was held 7:00 p.m. Monday at Criswell
Funeral Home.
Mr. Krause passed away Saturday, September 9,
2017 at a Madill hospital. He was born July 6, 1944 at Long Beach, CA to
Reuben and Helen H. Howard Krause. He graduated from Ada High School
in 1963 and attended two years at East Central University. He graduated from
the University of Oklahoma in 1968 with a degree in Business
Administration.
He married Brenda Hunter June 22, 1968. Mr. Krause began working at
Holnam (now Holcim) Cement Plant in 1968 and retired as the Maintenance
and Distribution Manager July 2010. He was a longtime member of St.
Joseph Catholic Church, served in the U. S. Army Reserves and was an avid
fisherman. Charles loved OU Sooner football, his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife, Brenda, of the home; two daughters, Erika
Thurman and husband Jason and Michelle Krause, all of Edmond; two
brothers, Joe Krause of Ada and Tom Krause of Anchorage, AK; a sister,
Karen Baker and husband Ben of Bartlesville; brother-in-law, John Hunter
and wife Casey of Shawnee; and several nieces and nephews.
Bearers were Joe Krause, Tom Krause, Ben Baker, Jason Thurman, John
Hunter and Brian Beasley. Honorary bearers were Heath Hunter, Brett
Beasley, Brice Beasley, Jon M. Krause, Gary Phillips, George Taylor and
Charley Bryant.Milton Donaghey
July 7, 1960-May 28, 2017
Milton (Milt) Ray Donaghey, age 56 of Ada,
passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2017.
He was born July 7, 1960, to the late Melba Jane
Rives Donaghey and Farrell F. Donaghey.
Milt graduated from Ada High School in May
1978 and Tulsa Welding School in December 1978.
He was the owner/operator of Spencer Machine
Works. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic
Church of Ada and the Knights of Columbus.
Milt is survived by his wife, Kelley Willcutt Donaghey, whom he married
on Aug. 27, 1982, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Krebs. Also surviving
are his two daughters, Delaney Donaghey and Maggie Donaghey; grandson,
Kai Donaghey; brothers, Jamie Donaghey (Prissy) and Bart Donaghey
(Teresa); cousins, Machel Donaghey Considine, Brigette Donaghey Gean and
Jeff Donaghey; parents-in-law, Raymond and Phyllis Willcutt; "sisters," Carol
Willcutt, Kathi Willcutt Johnston and Rita Willcutt Garrison (Johnny);
nephews, Chris, Kyle and Zack Donaghey, Luke Johnston and Miles
Garrison; and nieces, Beth and Allison Donaghey and Katie Jo McCool.
A rosary was held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in
Ada. A Mass of Christian burial was held at 2 p.m. June 8 at St. Joseph
Catholic Church in Ada.You can also read
