Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services Obituaries

Introduction to Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services

Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services is a trusted and compassionate funeral home located in the heart of Jenks, Oklahoma. With a rich history and commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home has become a beacon of hope and comfort for families in their time of need. In this article, we will delve into the services, facilities, and values that make Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services a standout in the industry.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services has a long-standing reputation for providing personalized and dignified funeral services to the Jenks community. Their team of experienced funeral directors and staff are dedicated to ensuring that every family receives the highest level of care and compassion during one of life's most difficult moments. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorial gatherings, Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services offers a range of options to suit each family's unique needs and preferences.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Paula G. Foster - November 03, 1932 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Viewing will occur in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home located at 815 W. Main Street, Jenks, OK on Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 1 to 7 PM with the family present from 5 to 7 PM.

A Memorial Service will take place at the Jenks Methodist Church, located at 415 E. Main Street, Jenks, OK, on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 1 p.m. with a reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall of the church.

Paula Gene Foster, 91, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away on April 18, 2024, in Tulsa.  She was born on November 3,1932, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to the late Raymond J. Whitmeyer and Isadora Barr Whitmeyer.

Paula graduated from Daniel Webster High School in 1951.  After completing business school, she worked as an bookkeeper at ONG and later worked in the accounting department at Williams Companies.  Paula was best known for her expertise in creating beautifully crafted custom draperies, sheers, cornice boards, roman shades, and valances.  Her passion for decorating, especially during the holidays, led her to open Paula's Gifts & Antiques on Main Street in Jenks America in 1969, the first of its kind in town.

A devoted member of West Tulsa United Methodist Church and Jenks United Methodist Church, Paula found solace and community in her faith.

Paula was a dedicated fan of the Jenks Trojans and took pride in her exquisite penmanship.  She enjoyed creating clever and encouraging signs for the football teams, often impressing sports writers with her witty lines.  Paula also had a talent for writing special notes, poems, and rhymes for friends and loved ones.

Paula Gene Foster is survived by her daughter Lydia Foster (Charlie), son Brian Ray Foster (JoLynn), grandsons James Ray Foster (Courtney) and Ryan Michael Foster (Abby), beloved niece Julianne Warren, great-grandchildren Clara Love Foster, Micah Joel Foster, Renee Hope Foster, Eleanor Lynn Foster, and Boaz Robert Foster. She is also survived by many longtime family friends and will be missed by all.

She is preceded in death by her husband Harold G. Foster, sister Eloise Whitmeyer Warren, brother in law Andy J. Warren, parents Raymond and Isadora Whitmeyer and niece Andrea Warren.

May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

View Full Obituary

Vicki R. Holliday - July 22, 1948 - April 13, 2024

Departed: 04/13/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Memorial Service will occur at the Leonard - Marker Funeral Home located at 6521 E. 151 st Street in Bixby, OK on April 20, 2024, at 10 AM.

Vicki Roseanne Holliday passed from this earth on April 13, 2024, in Glenpool, Oklahoma. She was born to parents Roy and Thelma Delores Hughes Williams, Jr. in Tulsa, Oklahoma on July 22, 1948.

Vicki was a vivacious, fun-loving, person with a variety of interests. Her loving caring nature fostered many close relationships treasured by her family and friends. Her grandchildren were the light of her life. Caring for Dawson and Payton was her primary focus during their preschool years. She was the epitomy of the proud grandmother. She followed Dawson and Payton's lives and sporting events with enthusiasm, always. Vicki loved and cherished her children. She was proud of Julie and George. She always had their best interests at heart. Wayne and Vicki were married 24 years. She was truly the love of his life. She loved Wayne deeply. They shared a passion for hunting, their dogs, and Native American Art. When asked about their relationship Wayne and Vicki would say that they had had two arguments in their entire relationship: short and completely resolved. While Vicki's favorite career was her grandchildren, she opened her own business and operated it for several years. Vicki was witty, clever, and the queen of the cutting quip. Her very presence guaranteed laughter, joy, and rapier wit. Vicki was a strong positive influence on her nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

She is survived by her husband of 24 years, Wayne Holliday, daughter Julie Main, her son, George Main, his wife Kristi Main, grandchildren Dawson W. Main and Payton S. Main, brother Wayne Williams, sister Jo Lynn Williams as well as many nieces, nephews and longtime family friends.

Vicki was preceded in death by her parents and sister Stephanie Rusch.

View Full Obituary

Anna Margaret Reece - August 08, 1932 - March 28, 2024

Departed: 03/28/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, April 2 from 5 to 7 PM at Hargrove-Marker Funeral Home, 815 W Main St, Jenks, OK.  A Rosary will be held at St. Catherine Church on Wed., April 3 at 7 pm.  A Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 am Thursday, April 4th at St. Catherine Church with Father John Grant officiating.  Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Tulsa.

Anna Margaret (Mills) Reece passed peacefully from this life on Holy Thursday, March 28, 2024 at her home with family by her side, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.  Margaret was born August 8, 1932 in Tulsa, OK to Joseph Roscoe Mills and Mary Aliene Mills.  She was raised on the family Dairy Farm in West Tulsa along with 8 siblings.

Margaret graduated from Holy Family High School in 1950. She began working soon thereafter at Watt Henry Pontiac, sight unseen, on the referral of her older sister who was already working for the company.  She continued to work for the dealership, through 4 different owners, until 1980.  At that point she began working for Dean Bailey Olds and continued that employment for 30 years.  She retired in 2011 at the age of 79.  She was also a supportive member of her husband’s business, Reece Manufacturing.

A blind date led to her meeting the love of her life, Vernon Reece.  The were married June 5, 1954 at St. Catherine Church in Tulsa.  They were together for 48 years at the time of his passing in 2002.  The couple was blessed with a daughter Kathleen Michelle, who was only a few days old at the time of her adoption in January 1959.  Margaret was an attentive mother and loved attending her daughter’s activities, especially dance classes and recitals.

Margaret liked to crochet and was a very neat and orderly housekeeper.  She would do whatever she could to fix things when they were broken and repeated the advice she had gotten from her own father “don’t throw anything away”.  One time she even used string to fix a broken broom.

One activity she particularly loved was spending time at Lake Keystone on the family houseboat called “The Princess Kathleen”.  Although she never learned to swim, she became an avid boater and spent many enjoyable weekends on the lake.  When the first grandchild was born she even added “ And Baby Amy” to the name of the boat.

Family was very important to Margaret.  As her brothers aged she would visit them and perform their nail care.  When her older sister Ramona was widowed Margaret moved in with her and cared for her for a year.  Margaret was a very calm, comforting and loving person.  She never raised her voice and seldom, if ever, got angry.

She was an active member of St. Catherine Parish throughout her life.  She was baptized there and attended the Parish grade school through 8th grade. She also was married in the same Church.  In adulthood she was an active member of the Altar Society and other Parish functions.

Preceding her in death were her parents and 5 brothers who died in infancy.  She was also predeceased by her husband Vernon and brothers Alfred, Wayne, Pat, Herman, Eddie and sister Ramona.  Brothers-in law who are deceased include Martin Groden and Leroy Armer. Sisters-in-law  who preceded her in death include Mary, Patty, Betty, and Carol Mills as well as several nieces and nephews.

Survivors include daughter Kathleen Cherry and husband Clay of Tulsa. Also surviving are grandchildren: Amy Perez (Blue) of Sapulpa, Ashley O’dell (Josh) of Inola and Christina Clark of Tulsa. Great grandchildren include Blazik Perez, Aziah Perez, Avianna Perez, Bronx Perez all of Sapulpa, Maggie O’Dell of Inola and Lexus Fager, Landon Fager, Hayley Fager, Haden Fager all of Tulsa.  Other survivors include: sister Mary Jo Armer and brother Jack (Sonny) Mills as well as in-laws, Ruth Ann Mills and Ida June Graves.  Numerous nieces, nephews and extended family survive including many cousins in Kentucky. The family would ask you to consider a donation in memory of Margaret to the Alzheimer's Association:     https://www.alz.org

View Full Obituary

Clarence G. Marshall - September 07, 1941 - March 13, 2024

Departed: 03/13/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Visitation will occur in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, located at 815 West Main Street in Jenks, OK from 5 to 7 PM.

A Funeral service will occur in the First Baptist Church, Jenks on March 27, 2024 at 10 AM located at 11701 S. Elm in Jenks, OK officiated by Pastor Mark Powell.

Clarence Gaynes Marshall was born to Jack English Marshall and Billie Lou Arnett Marshall in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, on September 7, 1941, just three months before the attack on Pearl Harbor. The family moved to Claremore when Clarence was 2 years old, his father became the chemist at the DuPont plant ensuring the quality of each type of gun powder. They eventually settled in Coweta, OK, where his family attended elementary school and grew up on a farm. Clarence had two younger sisters, Suzi (1943-2008) Potts, who passed away in 2008, and Penny (1952-) (Roger) Kile, who resides in Austin, TX. He graduated from Broken Arrow High School, where he transferred so that he could take calculus.

In December 1961, while on break from college, Clarence (OSU) and Nancy Lee Randolph (OU) met at Nancy's sister Jane's basketball game in the Old Gym in Bixby. It was love at first sight. They married June 15, 1962, in Nancy's parents' living room in Bixby. They then went back to Stillwater for Clarence’s senior year. He graduated in 1963 with a bachelor's in Electrical Engineering. During that year, the oldest child, Michael Lee, was born.

After beginning his career at Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids, IA, Clarence enlisted in the Army. During that time, Richard Alan and Amy Clarice were born in Broken Arrow, OK, and Pittsburgh, PA, respectively. After his honorable discharge, the family returned to Cedar Rapids, where Mark David was born. Clarence continued in the Army Reserves as First Lieutenant until 1969. While on active duty, he achieved the level of Sharpshooter in rifle, pistol, and smallbore. Clarence's job transferred the family to Plano, TX, in 1976, where Michael and Richard graduated. He was then transferred to Wheaton, IL, in 1982, where Amy and Mark graduated high school. He was proud that all four kids graduated college, two from his alma mater, Oklahoma State University. Clarence and Nancy moved to West Monroe, LA, in 1993, where he was Vice President of Corporate Planning, and Chairman of the Board for a time at their subsidiary, SkyPort, through which he earned a Homeland Security award for protecting our ports.

During Clarence's forty-three-year professional career, in addition to his two-year service as an officer in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during the Vietnam Era, he was a development engineer in high technology electronics and computer industries. He spent thirty years with Collins Radio, which was acquired by Rockwell International. This took the family from Iowa to Texas to Illinois. He then spent ten years at CenturyTel in Louisiana. Clarence and Nancy retired to Riverwilde, their horse farm in Jenks, OK, in 2003. Clarence continued to consult for a time.

During his career, Clarence spent time in over fifty countries on six continents. He sat with world leaders as he gave proposals for our government on how the US would help improve their communication technology. At times, he was not able to tell Nancy where he was going. At other times, he did not even know where he was in a particular country, as it was top secret. The stories of his adventures are too many to list here. With many job offers over the years, he was committed to keeping his family in the Midwest, where he believed they would have a more wholesome life and the best schools. Always, his priority was what was best for his family.

After retiring, Clarence was able to spend much more time in deeper Bible study. He taught Sunday School and hosted on-line church on social media, welcoming all who participated. He also began his horse breeding and training hobby. He used his scientific and mathematical brain to breed high quality animals, which, with his partnership with trainer Elzy Harrison, produced several world class quarter horse ropers. He loved his horses. He also raised Suffolk Punch horses and mules. He collected goats, cats, and dogs. He loved the duck pair that settled on his pond every year to raise their ducklings. He also had a family of geese who raised many goslings around the pond. He enjoyed the deer who visited his pasture. Clarence was an avid Ham radio operator, having received patents for improved technology early in his career. One friend said he loved his horses, but he loved his radios even more!

In addition to his love of horses, Clarence was an avid fisherman. He and Nancy took trips with Nancy's sister Jane and her husband, Bryce, Destinations included Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, South Dakota, and Arkansas. You could often see him down by the pond fishing for relaxation.

Clarence and Nancy also traveled together to Italy and Great Britain. They especially loved England and Scotland.

Some of Clarence's other talents and hobbies include fly tying, learning languages, painting, cooking, baking, marksmanship, and reading all kinds of books. He loved OSU, wearing orange, and posting about politics and his faith.

Clarence is survived by: sister Penny (Roger) Kile of Austin, TX; children Michael (Angela) Marshall of Aubrey, TX; Richard (Dana) Marshall of Mounds, OK; Amy (Doug) Karnes of Jenks, OK; Mark Marshall of Jenks, OK. Grandchildren Paul (Kendra) Karnes, Emily (Johnny) Dudley, Travis Marshall, Ashley (Brett) Rutter, Clayton (Samantha) Marshall, Adam Marshall. Greatgrandchildren Allison & Meredith Karnes; Jase & Luke Dudley; Brett, Brady, Barrett & Abby Rutter; Austin & Cayson Marshall.

Clarence was preceded by: Nancy Lee Marshall wife of 55 years, parents Jack and Billie Lou Marshall and sister Carol Sue Potts. K5CGM signing off The family would ask you to consider a donation in memory of Clarence to the National Alzheimer's Association:

View Full Obituary

Charlene E. Hogan - September 03, 1937 - February 29, 2024

Departed: 02/29/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Visitation has been scheduled from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 in the Hargrove-Marker Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, March 6, 2024 in the First Baptist Church of Jenks, 11701 S. Elm St., Jenks, officiated by Pastor Mark Powell. Interment will follow in the Memorial Park Cemetery at 1:00 P.M..

Charlene Elizabeth Hogan departed from this life on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the age of 86. She was born on September 3, 1937 in Tulsa, OK.

Charlene grew up in the Tulsa area and graduated from Central High School with the class of 1956. She began working for T.D. Williamson in the accounting department where she received special recognition for decades of dedication and service to the company and its employees. It was there that she met her husband and best friend, Daniel. The two were married on December 11, 1976.

She and Daniel enjoyed countless adventures together such as traveling to PT Cruiser car shows, going on cruises and taking road trips around the U.S. whenever they were able to get away together. They were also faithful members of the Jenks First Baptist Church. Charlene was a quiet person, but one who performed numerous acts of hospitality and kindness to others quietly and most often outside of the view of all but those very close to her.

Charlene is survived by her husband of 47 years; Daniel Hogan, three nephews; Bob Mareburger (Diane), Steve Mareburger (Loni), and Bill Mareburger (Susan) and one niece; Julie Smith (Vance). She also leaves behind a host of great nieces & nephews and countless other family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her mother; Charlotte (Beasley) McDaniel and one sister; Carolyn Mareburger.

View Full Obituary

Nolan Ray Murray - February 09, 1933 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Funeral Service will occur in Trinity Baptist Church on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 10:30 am located at 1703 W. 41st Street, Tulsa, OK.

The family requests that if you are graciously sending flowers please have them delivered to the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home located at 815 West Main Street for their staff to transport to the Service.

Nolan Ray Murray, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, one day before his 91st birthday in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Nolan, the fifth of nine children, was born on a farm in Stroud, Oklahoma, February 9, 1933, to John Willard and Lula Mae Murray.

In 1936 the family moved to Carney, Oklahoma, where Nolan started school and had a second grade teacher he accredited to giving him his lifelong love of reading. In 1946 the family moved to a farm near Chandler, Oklahoma and Nolan attended Chandler High School, graduating in 1951. While there, he was Sophomore Class President, a member of FFA and Men's Glee Club. He went out for football, played both offense and defense, was team captain and named Al District End. However, he would be the first to say, his most memorable moment was when, at the age of 15, he met the love of his life, 13 year old Jeanie Rackley. He said there was never anyone else.

In 1951, the US was involved in the Korean War, and Nolan enlisted in the Air Force his senior year. February 2, 1952, he and Jeanie were married and their enduring love story spanned 71 years until her passing just a year ago.

Nolan's military tour resulted in an overseas assignment to England. Upon his return to the US, he completed his service in Ft. Worth, Texas, where he and Jeanie started their family. At the recommendation of his brother-in-law, he interviewed for a job at what was then DX Refinery in Tulsa and was later told that he had impressed the interviewer with his work ethic, an attribute he continued throughout his life. He worked as a lab technician at Sun Oil Refinery for almost 37 years.

Nolan served his Lord throughout his life, as a church deacon, Sunday School teacher, and a member of a Lay Renewal team, sharing the story of Christ to anyone he met and leaving a lasting impact on many lives.

Nolan and Jeanie raised their four children, Deborah, Steven, John and Michael, with love, wisdom and humor. As a true sports enthusiast, it was natural he combined that with his love of family, resulting in hours coaching his sons' baseball teams and instilling in them the values of teamwork and perseverance.

His memory was as remarkable as his love for sports, as he could effortlessly recall sports statistics and the names of everyone he met. He cherished moments cheering on his favorite baseball team, the St. Louis Cardinals, and cherished time with his growing family, including his ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Nolan is survived by his children, Deborah (Tom) Gill, Steven (Teresa) Murray, John (Janet) Murray, Michael (Dawn) Murray; his grandchildren, Kathryn Gill-Miller (Mickey), Anna Gil, Carter Gil, Jordan Dossett (Justin), Russell Murray, Chris Murray, Ashley Judd (Joe), Shea Murray, Matthew Murray, Chance Murray; his great grandchildren, Marco Miller, Peyton Dossett, Hayden Dossett, Bowen Judd, Wesley Judd, and Emerson Judd.

Nolan will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his Lord, his family, and his community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

View Full Obituary

Valerie Dahli Centeno Luna - February 02, 2009 - February 07, 2024

Departed: 02/07/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Funeral Service will occur in LifeChurch-South Broken Arrow located at 5801 S. Elm Place, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 10 AM.

Viewing will occur in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home located at 815 West Main Street, Jenks, Oklahoma on Friday, February 16, 2024 from 2 to 7 PM with family present from 5 to 7 PM.

Valerie Dahli Centeno Luna was born on February 2, 2009 in Tulsa Oklahoma and passed away February 7, 2024. Valerie attended Jenks Public Schools from pre-K until the day she left us. Jenks was Valerie’s home.

She was a ray of sunshine to everyone she met and will be missed dearly by so many. As we always say in this family, “Valerie, we love you sweet girl to the moon and back”.

Valerie is survived by her Mom, Bethann Luna; Dad, Jose Luna; 2nd mom and dad, Krysta and Fern Rodriguez; brothers, Blaze, Nathan, Alystar and Felix; sisters, Maria Rodriguez and husband Lanz, Xochitl Rodriguez and husband Eli; grandfathers, Fernando Rodriguez Moreno and Fidel Centeno Luna; grandmothers, Maria Elena Luna and Carol Copeland; godfather, Pedro Leon and godmother Guadalupe Leon; aunts, Oralia Centeno Luna, Charity Pikkaraine, Alyssa Hunter; uncle; Juan Centeno Luna, David Hunter Jr., Harley Hunter, Wayne Reese, as well as cousins Anabel and husband David, Andres, Alejandra, Jovanni, Isabel, Bella, Delilah, Luis, Mari, Celena, Brenda, Martin and Jose and many other family and friends.

Valerie was preceded in death by her grandfather, David Hunter; aunts, Macena and Kayjo.

View Full Obituary

Jewel Dean Frank - December 21, 1926 - February 07, 2024

Departed: 02/07/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview:

View Full Obituary

Ewing Vance Wiley - January 29, 1941 - February 02, 2024

Departed: 02/02/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Visitation will occur in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 located at 815 West Main Street, Jenks, Oklahoma with family present from 5-7 PM.

A funeral service is scheduled at 10 AM on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 in the Skelly Drive Baptist Church located at 8504 East Skelly Drive, Tulsa, Oklahoma with interment to follow in the Bixby Cemetery in Bixby, Oklahoma.

Vance Wiley passed from his earthly home into the gates of heaven on February 2, 2024 in Tulsa, Oklahoma surrounded by his loving family. Vance was born on January 29, 1941 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Ferris Ewing Wiley and Ida Lucille "Powell" Wiley.

Vance attended Webster High School and was a member of the class of 1959. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from Liberty University in 1978. Vance was a longtime evangelist and pastor of multiple churches and was ordained to preach in May of 1965 by the Southern Baptist Convention.

Vance married the love of his life Charlene Esterline in Tulsa, Oklahoma on December 6, 1958 and recently celebrated 65 loving years of marriage. Vance was a disciplined man of study of the bible and would do so daily preparing for sermons and upcoming revivals. He would study the word early in the morning before departing to work his other vocations of manual labor and providing for his family.

Vance loved and enjoyed his time with his family and loved to encourage and win the souls of individuals that were placed upon his heart to nurture.

Vance is survived by wife Charlene, son Randy of Owasso, Oklahoma, daughter Cathey Williams of Tulsa, Oklahoma, daughter Angela Clark of Rogers, Arkansas as well as son Tim Wiley of Bixby, Oklahoma. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren as well as other relatives and longtime family friends. Vance will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved him.

Vance was preceded in death by his parents.

View Full Obituary

Francis "Scotty" Roberts - November 21, 1950 - January 25, 2024

Departed: 01/25/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A “Life Well-Lived” recognition will take place at 1 pm on April 6, 2024 in the Vista Room at the ONEOK Boathouse, The Gathering Place, 2650 S. John Williams Way, in Tulsa. Reserved parking instructions are provided below.  Additional information regarding the gathering place is available at:  https://www.gatheringplace.org For more information call Hargrove - Marker Funeral & Cremation Service, 918-938-0121 or visit www.markerfuneralhomes.com

Celebrant Glenda Stansbury will officiate.

Francis “Scotty” Roberts left this life as a happy man on Jan. 25 after a sudden illness at age 73. His last 12 years were spent in Tulsa with the love of his life, Penny Owen, whom he met in Oklahoma City in 1991. “We met on a cargo plane,” was his favorite story to tell anyone who’d listen

Scotty was born into a military family and joined the U.S. Air Force at age 17. He earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of Oregon in 1987.

When he retired from a 20-year military career, Scotty became a world traveler, criss-crossing the globe on military hops, or Space A flights. His life became a tremendous adventure, when he ran with the bulls in Spain, skated into Antarctica on an ice plane, and basked in the sun on beaches everywhere. Scotty, in his words, had “an endless appreciation for the wonders of life.”

Soon he became perfect bait for the International Red Cross, which recruited him in the Philippines and turned him into a Level 5 officer. The American Red Cross put him on their disaster recovery team, where he’d drop into the aftermath of floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and such.

All the while, Scotty embraced nature.  He marveled at horizons, whispered to animals, and noticed a cardinal in the tree.

In time he followed the sunshine to Destin, FL, where he received his 100-ton captain’s license, becoming a boat captain who took passengers deep-sea diving off Florida shores, as well as moved boats around the Gulf of Mexico.

Scotty lived life on his own terms. He followed the rules, then followed his heart and expanded his mind with a lifetime of travels - Boy Scout that he was, he kept a portable hammock in his back pocket as he hopped from place to place.

Scotty lived a Hemingway life. Then he longed to settle down.

Whether in Charleston, SC, Wilmington, NC, or at his last home in Tulsa, Scotty created a beautiful world for his family of cats, Tank and Izzy, and his girl Penny. He chose his friends carefully and cherished those he had.

Organized and strong, Scotty loved history, documentaries and murder mysteries. Old westerns on TV were a favorite.

He once said he walked gently on the earth. And indeed, he did. The family would ask you consider donations in memory of Scotty to Alley Cat Allies:    https://alleycat.org

View Full Obituary

Ronald A. Whitewater - May 09, 1942 - January 24, 2024

Departed: 01/24/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Ronald (Ron) Allen Whitewater, 81, of Jenks, Oklahoma passed from this world on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. A memorial service to celebrate Ron’s life will be held Friday, February 2, at 10 a.m. at Leonard & Marker Funeral Home 6521 E 151st Street South, Bixby, OK. Later at 12:30 p.m. at Fort Gibson Military Cemetery (1423 Cemetery Rd, Fort Gibson, OK 74434) a military ceremony will be held for Ron with honors provided by the US Navy.

Ron’s family includes Linda, his wife of 58 years, two sons Brian Whitewater of Houston, Texas and Barry Whitewater of Coppell, Texas. Five grandchildren, Chloe of Brooklyn, NY, Sophia of Camden, CT, Anna of Houston, TX, Marshall of Coppell, TX and Jaclyn (Ace) of Coppell, TX. Sisters, Mary Childress of Muskogee and Peggy Goad and her husband Vernon of Braggs. Brother-in-law Jimmy Mull and wife Karen of Berryhill. Sister-in-law, Diane Swaim and her husband Jack of Tulsa. Sister-in-law Juanita Andrews of Tulsa. and several nieces and nephews and longtime family friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Tony Allen Whitewater and Maye Belle Garrison.

Born in Muskogee, Oklahoma on May 9, 1942 Ron graduated from Muskogee High in 1960 and then went onto Oklahoma State University at Okmulgee to get his degree in diesel mechanics in 1962. Ron’s first job was with Williams Brothers before being drafted into the Naval reserves and serving two tours in Vietnam from 1966 to 1968. Ron was in the Construction Battalion (Sea-Bees). After coming home Ron worked for Midwestern Engine and Equipment for 24 years, going from apprentice to salesman. Other companies that Ron worked for were T.J. Lambrecht, Crescent, Doskocil and Scott Macon. Ron worked until age 74.

Ron loved to fish, to travel with Linda and he especially loved to spend time with his grandchildren.

View Full Obituary

Rose Ann Risenhoover - October 18, 1938 - January 03, 2024

Departed: 01/03/2024 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Memorial Service officiated by Reverend Dan Taylor will occur in the Jenks First Baptist Church on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 11 AM located at 11701 S. Elm Street, Jenks, OK 74037.

Rose Ann (Prentice) Risenhoover found eternal rest in the arms of our heavenly Father on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, after a brief battle with lung cancer.

Rose Ann was born on October 18, 1938 to Vonnie and Edith Prentice in Stigler, Oklahoma. It was there that she grew up with her parents and three siblings and eventually met the love of her life, Bill Risenhoover. After a relentless pursuit from Bill that would emulate even the most romantic of love stories, Rose Ann and Bill married in 1958 and went on to have two boys, Kyle and Jeff, creating a legacy that is truly unmatched.

Rose Ann began her teaching career in 1960 in Keota, Oklahoma and went on to teach for more than 25 years at schools in Checotah, Tulsa, Jenks, Broken Arrow, Bixby, and Union.

Rose Ann loved traveling, talking for hours with her friends in Kappa Kappa Iota, reading, spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her beloved Jenks Trojans.

Rose Ann is survived by her son, Kyle Risenhoover (Lindy), her grandchildren, J.P. Risenhoover (Jessica), Callie Jones (Brent), and Ben Risenhoover (Abbey), her great-grandchildren, Burns (6), Jefferson (3), Colbie (4), Taylor (2), and Sutton (2), and her siblings Ron Prentice (Gayle), Sharon Burton (Jim), and Rick Prentice (Sherri).

Rose Ann is preceded in death by her husband, Bill Risenhoover, son, Jeff Risenhoover and her parents, Vonnie and Edith Prentice.

View Full Obituary

Fern Spavital Hesser - November 25, 1927 - December 25, 2023

Departed: 12/25/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: There are no formal services planned at this time.

Fern Spavital Hesser 96, was born on Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1927, in Stillwater, Oklahoma. She went home to be with the Lord on Christmas morning, December 25, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was born to parents Lewis D. Myers and Geneva Sanford Adams. Her stepfather was H. P. Adams.

Fern grew up in Stillwater, Oklahoma, graduating from Stillwater High School as well as attending Oklahoma A.&M. College. Fern was extremely knowledgeable of the game of football, she could have been an assistant coach, she was a die-hard OSU fan. Fern met the love of her life James Joseph Spavital, they were married for 47 years when he passed away. She was blessed to meet Abe Lee Hesser and married on February 3rd,1994, He passed away in 2003. Fern is survived by Daughters, Jimmie Feher and husband Greg and Bobbie Hanson and husband

Phil, 22 Douglas Bankway SE Calgary, AB. Canada. Son, Steve Spavital and wife Tina, Tulsa Oklahoma. Stepson, Richard Hesser, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Granddaughter, Kimberly and husband Dave from Calgary Alberta Canada. Step-granddaughters, Tracy Emmons and husband Matthew of Jenks, Oklahoma

Amanda Lee of Jenks, Oklahoma. Abbey and Andrea Hesser of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Grandsons, Zac Spavital of Washington D.C., Jake Spavital and wife Mehgan Spavital of Waco, Texas. Matt Hanson and wife Ainsley of Atlanta, Georgia, Thomas Hanson and wife Daytana of Alberta, Canada. Great grandchildren, Leah, Hayden, Madison and Landyn Spavital, Owen, Zachary, and Axel Hanson. She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands James Spavital and Abe Hesser as well as

step-granddaughter, Cheryl Lee. In Lieu of flowers the family would like for you to consider donations: To Abe Hesser Directors Scholarship c/o OSU Foundation and Seasons Hospice in Tulsa, Oklahoma,

https://www.seasonshospice.com.

View Full Obituary

Donna Raye Engel - July 21, 1958 - November 27, 2023

Departed: 11/27/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Memorial Service will occur in the Jenks Methodist Church located at 415 E. Main Street, Jenks, OK on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 2 PM.

Donna Raye Engel was born on July 21, 1958 to Ray and Janice Engel in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was one of four daughters in a lifelong Jenks family. She was dearly loved and supported by her Sisters and Brother-n-laws, Renae and Jack McGuire, Tammy and Johnny Barnes and Paula and Jeff Erwin.

Donna attended Jenks schools K-12 for 13 years & received her Bachelors and Masters from NSU. She was an extremely talented flutist, musician and singer. She received the John Phillips Sousa award for her outstanding contribution to the band. She also participated in cheerleading, basketball and was a dear friend to many.

Donna, Tammy and Paula attended NSU together where Donna received a flute scholarship. She taught herself how to play the piano and she grew up singing with her sisters (The Engel Sisters).

She was the mother of Jason Lee Wyers, Christopher Ray Wyers, Valerie Kaye Jennings and Emily (Amanda) Gold. Her Grandchildren are Lyla & Wyatt Jennings and Lacey and Ashton Gold. In spite of her struggles every generation has a piece of Donna’s heart to hold.

She was preceded in death by her Father, Ray Engel, who is embracing her in heaven. She is survived by her devoted & loving Mother, Janice Engel, her 3 Sisters, 4 Children, 4 Grandchildren and a host of Aunts, Cousins, Nephews and Nieces as well as many longtime family friends.

She lived her last five years with her new found family at Beacon Ridge Senior Mental Health Nursing Home where she became a source of entertainment for this community and family. Her caretakers at Beacon Ridge and the hospice staff blessed her and her family with a sweet goodbye and homecoming.

Donna went home to be with the Lord and her sweet Daddy on November 27th. She passed peacefully as her Mom embraced her hand. Today she is new and finally free.

View Full Obituary

Justin JR Watts - October 09, 1984 - November 22, 2023

Departed: 11/22/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday, November 30, 2023 in the First Baptist Chruch of Jenks, 11701 S. Elm St., Jenks, officiated by Pastor Cody Brumley.

Justin JR Watts, age 39, of Tulsa, OK, entered eternal rest on November 22, 2023 after courageously battling ALS. JR fought long and hard and prayed that he did his part to help others win the war against ALS.

Justin JR Watts was born on October 9, 1984 in Muskogee, OK to Phyllis Watts Smith and Larry Watts. He was raised in Tahlequah, OK and went to Lowrey Elementary School, where he began to go by JR, since there were four other Justins in his kindergarten class. JR then went to Keys Middle School and Tahlequah High School where he excelled in both academics and sports. In high school, his favorite classes were math and science, and he loved playing football and soccer. JR was chosen for the President’s Leadership Class at Northeastern State University and spent his time there involved in the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity, Rookie Bridge Camp, the NSU Ambassador program, as well as other student activities. He went on to study petroleum engineering at the University of Tulsa, graduating in 2008, then completed his education with a MBA at the University of Arkansas. He worked in the oil and gas industry for many years until ALS forced his retirement in 2020.

Everyone who knew JR knew how much he enjoyed living life to its fullest. He enjoyed spending time with his family, as well as his numerous friends. JR will always be remembered for his smile, his adventurous personality, and his ability to be the life of the party. JR never let ALS define him, and he never complained about his diagnosis or what ALS took from him. JR had the most positive attitude and amazing mental strength during his adversities over the past 3.5 years. We could not have asked for a better dad, son, brother, and friend, and we will miss him every day. JR’s memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

JR was very successful in life; however, he would say that his greatest achievement was becoming a father to his three sons. JR is survived by son Camden Watts (age 6), twin sons Colton Watts and Cooper Watts (ages 4); wife, Catherine Watts; mother and step-father, Phyllis and Stanley Smith; father and step-mother, Larry and Laura Watts; sister and brother-in-law, Desiree and Jim Breech, nephew, Brock Breech; as well as his silver labrador, Cabella. JR was preceded in death by Fred “JR” Watts, grandfather; Fred W. Wilson, grandfather; and Teressa Wilson, grandmother.

View Full Obituary

Kenneth Richard Beauchamp - March 07, 1933 - November 15, 2023

Departed: 11/15/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth Richard (Dick) Beauchamp, age 90, a resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed from this life on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. He was born March 7, 1933, to Kelsie Corn Beauchamp and Nora Dessie Beauchamp (Maloney) in Bethel, Oklahoma. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Martha Guinn Beauchamp, daughters Linda Fraley (Rick Fraley), Nancy Coggins (Curt Coggins), and Susan Poplin (Bob Poplin), grandchildren Brooke Macko (Mike), Blake Fraley (Natalie), Beau Fraley, (MaryAshton), Ken Coggins, (Haleigh), Tanner Coggins, Andy Poplin (Tricia), Anna Eaton (Blake), and great-grandchildren Coleman Macko, Audrey Fraley, Reagan Fraley, Kennedy Fraley, Reece Coggins, Blythe Coggins, Addisyn Poplin, and Wyatt Poplin. Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers and sisters, and his great granddaughter Madilyn Leigh Eaton.

Dick graduated high school from Wayne High School in Wayne, Oklahoma and received his BS degree from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. While there, he began his sales career at Black’s men’s clothing store. That experience in sales led him to a 20 year career with John Hancock Life Insurance and then another 20 years as an independent agent. Dick loved his family and he also loved Lake Tenkiller. He and Martha had a place on Tenkiller for over 30 years and were there almost every weekend. He loved to take his kids and grandkids out in the boat and sometimes even let them drive! As much as he loved the lake, when his grand children began to play sports, that became his favorite pastime and he and Martha were at every grandchild’s game that was physically possible. Many Saturdays he would attend 2 or 3 games. He always liked to keep score, especially for baseball and basketball games (probably because he didn’t trust the other scorekeepers)! He was always courteous to the referees and umpires no matter what call they made. Well, maybe not always!

He was proud of his 3 sons-in-law and was a great mentor to each of them in special ways. No guy could ask for a better father-in-law.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend and always was the first to help anyone who needed it. He will forever be our “Papa” and “Mr. B” and the beautiful family legacy that he began will always be a testament to his quiet faith and loving example.

The family would like to thank Trinity Woods and Compassus Hospice for their excellent care, and attention during these past few weeks. A private graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 18.

View Full Obituary

Kristina K. Ector - December 05, 1967 - November 09, 2023

Departed: 11/09/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Visitation will occur on Thursday, November 16, 2023 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home located at 815 W. Main Street, Jenks, OK.

A Funeral Service will occur on Friday, November 17, 2023 at 3 p.m. in the Leonard - Marker Funeral Home located at 6521 E. 151st Street S., Bixby, OK.

Kristina Kay Ector passed away peacefully while sleeping at home in Jenks, Oklahoma while laying next to her husband, around 11pm on Thursday, November 9, 2023. She is survived by her husband, Jeff and her daughters, Samantha (25) & Madison (16). Kristi fought an exhausting battle with blood clots and later Multiple Myeloma, bone cancer. In 2022, after a whirlwind few months in and out of the hospital due to complications from the cancer treatment, she lost her left leg to a blood clot, and was diagnosed with heart failure. None of these physical ailments kept her from lifting up everyone around her and the diagnoses sure did not stop her plight for a happy life moving forward. She made the most out of each day and was always there for friends and family in need. Her last days were spent getting back into church, reading the bible, listening to her favorite music (gospel and country), preparing for a prosthetic leg and getting ready for the coming holidays.

Kristi was born in Houston on December 5, 1967. At age 11 she left Texas for Haddonfield, New Jersey where she finished high school and went on to attend college at Centenary University, a women’s liberal arts school in Hackettstown, NJ. In May of 1991 she met her future husband after coming home from school to Haddonfield while pursuing her love of animals working as a veterinary technician at an animal hospital in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Jeff and Kristi grew a liking to one another, and ended up marrying two years later, during a blizzard on March 13, 1993. Their first child, Samantha was born in June of 1998 while they were living in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was named after one of Kristi’s favorite childhood TV characters Samantha, from Bewitched.  In November of 2006 their second child, Madison was born in The Woodlands, Texas. Kristi loved absolutely nothing more than the adventure of motherhood. It was a dream of hers from a very young age, to be a wholesome mother who dedicated her life to her children. She spent many years catering to the high demand of her young girls, who she took to all of their events and practices such as Samantha's dance and cheerleading, Madison’s gymnastics and seemingly endless play dates for both. Kristi really loved every minute of it, she stopped working while pregnant with Sam to be able to afford her daughters and husband the benefits of a lifestyle with their mother, and wife, right by each of their sides every single step of the way. Through the good and the bad, she remained a source of strength and unwavering love for all three of them. She was the one person known to grant the peace of solace and a listening ear to anyone whether they were near or far.

Kristi worked as a Veterinary Technician from her college days, until she was told to be on bed rest while pregnant with Samantha. She had a passion for caring for the underdog. Kristi always took the sickest and most needy dogs' home with her from her job. Sometimes, she would have ten or more dogs in her house at one time. She loved all animals, although cattle and horses were her favorite because she grew up with them on her family farm. Kristi was spunky enough to break wild horses in her early years, this led her to continue to do crazy things, like own a few exotic animals, such as, a skunk, squirrel and even geese. Kristi adored all breeds of dogs, and never had a dog-less home, she would not stand for it. She owned larger dogs in her adult years, primarily German Shepherds and later on, an Irish Setter, a Great Pyrenees. Kristi’s last dog was her final best friend, who was by her side in her last moments, Sadie the St. Bernard, her 200 pound fluffy pillow.

Kristi loved to spend her time looking over old pictures of her kids, her family, and other memories from throughout her life, like her crazy college days. She took delight in printing out pictures she enjoyed and placing them strategically into photo albums to reference back to in later times. She spent countless hours putting these together and decorating them to her liking. Kristi filled the rooms in the house with these beloved photo albums. She was known for bringing out the albums when her daughters had new friends or boyfriends over to the house to embarrass them as best she could. Anytime she was able to whip out her photo albums always brought a smile to her face. Once Samantha moved out, Kristi turned her old bedroom into her office and creative place, where she would spend time listening to her favorite music, some being Blake Shelton, Elvis, 1980’s & 1990’s country such as Garth Brooks, Reba, Alan Jackson, and often the soundtracks to her favorite movies, like Grease and Sound of Music.

Kristi’s favorite season was winter, she enjoyed the stark cold weather. Christmas always brought her an abundance of joy and warmth. Our favorite Christmas tradition with her was the day after Thanksgiving, where she would hand each Christmas decoration singularly to Samantha and Madison while deciding the right place for it. She would reminisce about each decoration, telling us about the memory behind each one, and where it originated from. Many of the tree ornaments were handmade by either Samantha or Madison in their early school years, or personalized with one of the family members' names, made each year by the girls grandmother, Jan Ector.

Kristi Ector had quite a bright energy about her. She had a gentle voice and a contagious smile. Her long, light blonde hair would catch anyone’s attention from a mile away. Kristi never met a stranger, as she treated everyone as a dear friend. The friends she held closest to her heart, she treated as family. She was a great mother, sister, daughter, granddaughter, niece and friend. She was always willing to be a crying shoulder, and listening ear, she would do anything for her family and friends. She will be truly missed by all, the impression she left in the world is incomparable.

We are sure she was met by her family and friends as well as the many animals she once cared for with open arms. She is survived by her children, Samantha and Madison, husband Jeff and his parents Jan & Don. She is also survived by her siblings, Lynn, James & Robin, and her brothers and sisters in law, Shelley & Dave, and Aimee & Jim.

Kristi was preceded in death by her parents, Donna and William, and her brother in-law Robert.

View Full Obituary

Dale Acker - January 01, 1956 - October 12, 2023

Departed: 10/12/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Memorial Service will occur on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 2 PM in the Leonard - Marker Funeral Home located at 6521 E. 151st Street S., Bixby, OK.

Ronald Dale Acker was born on Sunday, January the first, 1956 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the son of Mildred (Sanders) Acker and Richard Acker. He passed this life in October 2023 in Crowley, Texas. He was 67 years young.

Dale was a 1974 graduate of Sallisaw High School. After his graduation, he decided to leave the family farm and to attend OSU tech in Okmulgee, graduating from his electrician program in 1976. He subsequently moved to Jenks where he met and married the mother of his children. Dale was one of the strongest people alive, pulling himself up by his bootstraps each time he found himself down, he was a survivor against all odds. He loved to tell terrible jokes, dance like a fool, and make people smile. He treated everyone with respect, no matter your title you got the same level of respect the next person had. Dale’s phone was always on to offer a listening ear, give excellent gardening advice, and you could always count on him to be able to diagnose any car issue described to him. One thing everyone who knew him would be able to say is if you were talking to Dale, you would receive 100% honesty, even if it hurt to hear.

Dale’s passion will live on in the three little girls he loves and adores his Oklahoma Sooners, and the smell of gas in the air and rubber kissing the pavement when you rev your engine.

He is survived  by his daughter Amanda Acker of Bixby, daughter Ashley and son-in-law Andrew McConnell of Jenks, daughter Amy and son-in-law Alexander Campbell of Stillwater, grandchildren Anderson Ophoff and Adriana Acker, Maggie, Dillion, and Hudson McConnell, Lillian and John Campbell, brother-in-law Randy Adams of Bedford, brother Charles Acker of Tahlequah, brother Frank and sister-in-law Jeanie Acker of Idabel, along with countless nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Myra Adams.

View Full Obituary

Harold "Dean" Clawson - April 04, 1938 - October 03, 2023

Departed: 10/03/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Visitation has been scheduled from 4 to 6 P.M. on Sunday, October 8, 2023 in the Hargrove-Marker Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, October 9, 2023 in The Carbondale Assembly of God officiated by Pastor Brian White. Prior to the service, a viewing will be held at the church from 9:45 A.M. to 10:15 A.M..

Harold Dean Clawson, 85, from Jenks Oklahoma went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday October 3 2023. Dean was born in Roxton Texas on April 4 1938. He was born to  Sturlon Randolph Clawson and Trudie E. {Nichols} Clawson. Dean met the love of his life, Flora Mae Gobble in Tulsa Oklahoma in 1957 and married shortly thereafter. Dean spent his career in the retail management industry. He worked at Jitney Jungle, Sams Thrift T Wise and Buds grocery stores. Together they enjoyed 66 years of marriage living in Tulsa and Jenks Oklahoma. Dean and Flora had two daughters Carol Dean {Clawson} Noah and Teresa Lynn {Clawson} Angel.

He was proceeded in death by parents, Sturlon and Trudie Clawson and by brothers and sisters; Melvin Clawson, Wanda St. Clair, Ray Clawson, Faye Blackshear, and Bill Clawson.  Survivors include his wife, Flora Clawson, daughter Carol Noah and husband Martin Noah and daughter, Teresa Angel and husband Mike Angel.  Grandchildren; Stephanie Brown(Spouse, Brent Brown) and Kristi Main (Spouse, George Main), Natalie Angel and Laken Angel.  Great-grandchildren; Noah Brown, Hannah Brown, Braden Brown, Dawson Main and Payton Main.

View Full Obituary

Helen Louise Branstetter - April 27, 1935 - September 22, 2023

Departed: 09/22/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Visitation is scheduled for Wed., Sept. 27th from 4:30-6:30 PM at Hargrove-Marker Funeral Service, 815 W. Main St., Jenks. A service will be held on Thursday, Sept. 28th at 1 PM at First Baptist Church of Jenks, 11701 S. Elm St., Jenks, Pastor Mark Powell officiating. Interment to follow at Bixby Cemetery, 6498 E 151st St, Bixby, OK.

Helen Louise Martin Branstetter (88) passed away peacefully on 09/22/2023 surrounded by her family.

Helen was born in Jenks on April 27, 1935, the oldest of two children born to Verbal Cletus Martin and Ollie Mae Hilton Martin. She attended Jenks High School and it was there that she met the love of her life, Jack Richard Branstetter. They were married on July 8, 1952 in Las Cruces, New Mexico and returned to Jenks to make their home and raise their family.

Helen’s career spanned many years which included bookkeeping at Broadway Poultry Market and Pepsi Cola Bottling Company. She was also the office manager for Thomas L. Ashcraft, MD for many years and after retiring from there, she and Jack built and ran Bearly Angels, a childcare facility in Jenks. Along the way, Jack and Helen also were business partners with their best friends, EG and Sue Featherston, owning Camp Rite Coach Sales at Ten Mile Corner, until a tornado destroyed the business.

Helen was very talented and enjoyed numerous hobbies including cooking, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, woodworking, making dolls for her grandkids as well as many mediums of painting. She loved camping and boating at Ft. Gibson and Lake Tenkiller with friends and family and spent many weekends there in the summertime. Later travels were across the United States by RV. She and Jack loved having the kids over for a cookout and swimming in the pool for hours. Reading was perhaps one of her favorite pastimes. She had an extensive home library and shared her love of books with her kids, making sure they had frequent visits to the bookmobile and time to explore the old Jenks library.

Helen was passionate about her family and loved spending time with her family and friends. Her relatives were scattered about northeast Oklahoma as well as through Arkansas, Mississippi and the South and she loved opportunities to visit with them. She enjoyed researching genealogy and tracing the family roots back many generations.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband of nearly 60 years and her son-in-law, Jerry Billings, Jr. She is survived by her 5 loving children - David Branstetter and his wife Sara who spend time in both Oklahoma and California, Donita Billings of Corinth, TX, Debbie Fiddler and fiancé Mark Peters of Edmond, DeAnn Beach and husband Tim, of Kellyville, and Darla Koetter and her husband, Brandon, of Jenks. She was also the proud grandmother of ten grandchildren and is survived by Heather Branstetter and her husband, Chuck Schneider of Chester Springs, PA, Elizabeth Notti and her husband, Nick of San Rafael, CA, Brandi Billings-Wilkerson and her husband, Darrell of Flower Mound, TX, Amanda Bryan and her husband, Kenneth of Corinth, TX, Justin Fiddler of Oklahoma City, Jeremy Beach and his wife, Becca of Jenks, Brandon Beach and his wife Rebecca of Tulsa, Katie Fiddler and her husband, Dylan Franks of Oklahoma City, Sydney Koetter and Grant Koetter of Jenks. Great-grandchildren were her delight and include Luca and Eleanor Notti, Cooper and Kayleigh Wilkerson, Madison and Jack Bryan, Hadley and Henry Beach, and Maryn, Brynnlee and Keira Beach. Helen is also survived by her brother, Jerry Martin and his wife, Carolyn of Langley, OK as well as Brother-in-Law, Jean and his wife, Nelda Branstetter of Derby, KS.

View Full Obituary

King P. Kirchner - November 18, 1927 - September 19, 2023

Departed: 09/19/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A Memorial Service will occur in the Memorial Park Cemetery Chapel, located at 5111 S. Memorial Drive, Tulsa, OK, Friday, September 29, 2023 at 2 PM.

“Gone Flying!” That’s what the grave marker reads. On September 19, 2023, King P Kirchner flew to his heavenly home to be reunited with his wife, Lee, and numerous family and friends. King’s extraordinary journey of life began on November 18, 1927, in Kansas City, MO. He was the only child of parents Kenneth Kenton Kirchner and Thelma P Kirchner. King grew up on a farm west of Perry, OK riding horses and doing farm chores. Hot summers were spent in the cool mountains of Holy Ghost Canyon, New Mexico where the family cabin walls are still decoratively hand painted by his mother and favorite Aunt Lottie.

King graduated from Perry High School in 1945, where he was recently recognized as the “oldest” living member of the high school wrestling team. He graduated from Oklahoma A & M (now OSU) in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Afterwards, he served two years in the army stationed in Germany during the Korean War. King then attended the University of Oklahoma and earned another Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1954. He was also a member of Sigma Nu fraternity.

King put these degrees to good use when he co-founded Unit Drilling Company in 1963 (later Unit Corporation), which started with a $180,000 loan and $10,000 cash, 3 rotary rigs and 3 employees. In 1979, the Company went public as Unit Drilling and Exploration. By 1981, Unit Corp was a publicly traded oil, gas, and drilling Company on the NYSE which grew to 130 drilling rigs, 3,000 employees and a 3 billion market capitalization. After retiring, (or should we say “regrouping”), from Unit Corp in 2003, King formed Kirchner Investments, LLC and in 2008 Rawhide Well Service.

King was a member of YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) and WPO (World Presidents’ Organization). In 2006, King was inducted to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and introduced by his friend T. Boone Pickens. He was also inducted to the Collins College of Business Hall of Fame at Tulsa University. He was a long-time member of Southern Hills Country Club. King was a “fix it” man. It was amazing what a little WD-40 and duct tape could solve with that engineering mind. A friend mentioned, “He’s probably telling St Peter to put a little WD-40 on that Heavenly Gate!” King did not believe in the word “NO.” He always found a solution to the problem. King loved to “tinker” with his “toys” which included anything fast…boats, motorcycles, cars and especially airplanes. Aviation was his passion where he held multiple pilot ratings, owned hundreds of piston, turboprop, and jet airplanes, and logged over 9,000 hours. He held commercial and ATP pilot license with glider, single engine and multi-engine land, single engine sea, instrument ratings and Lear Jet and Cessna Citation Jet type ratings. At the ripe age of 95, he was still flying!! King, you certainly lived up to your name, but your greatest achievement was your found faith in God. I’m guessing the skies are clear for takeoff in Heaven. We love you! Wheels up and FLY!

He will be greatly missed by those left behind. Diane Kirchner, mother of his two sons Kenton and Kyle Kirchner. King Kenton Kirchner (Chris Barber), granddaughter Kasey Kirchner Almand (Luke Harris), and her three children Jadynn, Kinsey and Luke, grandson Cody Kirchner (Keri), son Kyle V. Kirchner, Lee’s daughter, Stephanie Kristen Edwards (Todd), and their daughters Sophia and Lilly, brother-in-law Lawrence Clay Brotherton II (Mary Lou), cousins Krista Schneider Klees (Doug) and Kirk Schneider (Rhonda) and their two sons Kade and Karson, and Office Manager and long-time friend of 43 years, Jonna Brown.

King was preceded in death by his loving wife Lee Caren Kirchner, his parents Kenneth Kenton Kirchner and Thelma P. Kirchner, his aunt Lottie Schneider, his cousin Kent Schneider, his father-in-law Lawrence Clay Brotherton, mother-in-law Etta Mae Brotherton and sister-in-law Mary Kay Brotherton.

View Full Obituary

Peggy Joyce Donaldson - February 10, 1933 - September 12, 2023

Departed: 09/12/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A graveside committal service is being planned in Calvary Cemetery located at 9101 S. Harvard Ave., Tulsa, OK 74137 on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 1 PM.

It is with great sadness for us, Gayla and Debbie, her daughters to say goodbye for now to our mother.

Peggy Joyce Donaldson was born February 10, 1933, in Hartshorne, Oklahoma to Willie Pearl Vinson Anderson and Wilburn Columbus Anderson, 7th child of 8, She had five sisters and two brothers, and all were very close. She grew up with not much but boy, she made a life for herself. She lived her life to the fullest and was a very happy person. Always pleasant and all wanted to be around her. She raised two daughters, Debbie and Gayla as a single parent and did a great job. Her biggest joys were her grandchildren, Ashley, Shelby, Shane, Ryan, Taylor, along with their spouses, Joseph, Dillon, and Justin. She was lucky to be around to see her great-grandchildren, too, Thomas, Carter and Reed,Jack,Henry, Claire, Ava, Tavery and Jyllian.

She was married to Ted Donaldson, Jr who preceded her in death and was stepmother to Jan and Ronnie. She was involved with the Tulsa Antique Doll Club and past President at one time. She became fast friends with many of the members and stayed close. She was an antique furniture collector and bought and sold many beautiful pieces over the years. Her home was filled with history and things she loved.

She loved to go to dinner with her grandsons who lived here, Joe and Dillon, who spent many times just being with her, not many young men take the time out of their busy lives to just be with their grandparents, but they did. She was always a part of their weekly plans. We are so thankful for them. She and her sister, Pat, were the last two of the Anderson Clan. Pat was the baby in her family and she and mom were very close. Thank you, Pat, for all you did for our mother and your sister. And believe us, Debbie and I know at times it wasn’t easy! As she was very in charge, or at least wanted to be and could be bossy at times. We don’t know how we will move forward in life, but we do know she is in a better place finally with the Anderson girls and brothers, and all who went before her. To say she will be missed so much is an understatement. Our hearts are broken, but will heal, she would want us to all be happy and move forward in life. The old saying was, “Don’t look back, you aren’t going in that direction”. Another one, “Pick yourself up, straighten up your crown and remember where you came from”.

We love you, Mama.

View Full Obituary

Sandy Sue Bates - January 12, 1947 - September 04, 2023

Departed: 09/04/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: A  Memorial service will occur on September 23, 2023 at 1PM in the Leonard - Marker Funeral Home located at 6521 E. 151st Street S. in Bixby, Oklahoma.

The family would ask you to consider wearing festive colors as opposed to traditional funeral attire to celebrate the life of Sandy.

Sandra Sue Bates passed from this life on Monday, September 4, 2023, at the age of 76 years. She was born on January 12, 1947 in La Junta, Colorado to Benjamin and Marilyn Springer.

A well-known hairdresser for more than 50 years in the Tulsa area, Sandy loved being at the beauty shop. She continued to work up until her last days as she loved being around her people. Each day she looked forward to seeing her clients and salon family. She was eager to hear what you were doing and made you feel special when you sat in her chair. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people, share herself, and evoke that spirit of love in each person she knew. And of course, she would always make sure you left looking your best.

Sandy was a fun-loving person; she was a fashionista to the core - fearless of patterns or the latest trend, avid reader of romance novels, enjoyed hosting neighborhood pool parties, never one to pass up a sweet treat, and a dedicated friend. She was always one who wanted to stay busy, give and do what she could, never met a stranger and was sincerely kind to everyone. Sandy was one of a kind. Sandy will never be forgotten but forever remembered and missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Sandy ended each phone call the same, “Okay.. Hunny. Love you, bye!” With Sandy’s illness taking a turn quicker than maybe we all expected, let's remember to cherish our loved ones out loud, live with a positive outlook, and find joy in the simple things in life. We love you, Sandy.

Survivors include her son; Ben Allen and wife Siobhan of Palatine, Illinois; grandson Tristan Allen of Palatine; sister Casee Finnell and husband Brad of Rocky Ford, Colorado; nephews Seth Finnell and Nate Finnell (Mikayla), many cherished cousins, and extended family members and friends of all ages.

She was preceded by her parents, husbands Eddie Bates and Brent Allen, and brother Frank Springer and wife Gale.

View Full Obituary

Robert L. Taylor - August 25, 1934 - August 12, 2023

Departed: 08/12/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Viewing will occur in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 from 2 to 6 PM with family present from 4 to 6 PM.  A Celebration of Life/Reception will occur on Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 11 to 1 PM in the Memorial Heights Baptist Church located at 1500 W. Will Rogers Blvd. in Claremore, Oklahoma.

Robert Taylor left his earthly home on August 12, 2023, surrounded by his loving family in Tulsa, OK. Robert (Bob) Taylor was born on August 25th, 1934, to Lovella Karn and Leslie Joseph Taylor in Shattuck OK.

He lived in Shattuck and graduated from Shattuck high school. He graduated from high school and attended Southwestern State in Weatherford for 1 year until he went to play minor league baseball. In his words, I was playing baseball and loving life when Uncle Sam decided to give me an all-expense paid 2-year vacation to Korea in April 1955. During his time in the Army, He was a radio operator and played on the Army Baseball Team. He was discharged from active duty in April 1957 and went to work in Borger, Texas at the Phillips refinery. He remained in the reserves for the Army until April 1963. He married Bobbie Grace Marcum in December 1957, and they had 3 children. They lived in the Borger area until being transferred to Bartlesville where he finished his career as a Geologist in 1992. Bob and Bobbie retired to the lake and lived there for 13 years until moving to Claremore, OK where they lived for an additional 13 years until moving to Tulsa in their last years. Bob was an avid sports fan, always rooting for the Oklahoma teams no matter which ones. He loved softball and spent many many hours watching his kids and grandkids play. Bob loved to fish and tell fish stories. Some of his best memories that he talked about later in life were of the Phillips Men’s Club softball team and fishing. Bob was a deacon of the church and a member of the Southern Baptist Convention. He was very strong in his faith and never had a doubt about where he would spend eternity.

He is survived by his son Terry Taylor and wife Celia of Dewey, Daughter Roxanne King and husband David of Jenks, Daughter Tonya Miller and husband Gary of Bartlesville. 6 Grandchildren, Leslie Taylor, Dustin Miller and wife Gina, Alissa King, Ashley Miller, Joey Clark, and Doug Clark. He had 3 great grandchildren, Eden Loch, Koby Loch, and Lillian Taylor.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, and the love of his life Bobbie, or Gertrude as he lovingly nicknamed her.

Bob will be laid to rest in Claremore, Oklahoma next to his love. Heaven is a happier place with the two of them together.

View Full Obituary

Willard Vaughn - January 20, 1933 - August 11, 2023

Departed: 08/11/2023 (Jenks)

Obituary Preview: Viewing and Visitation will occur in the Hargrove - Marker Funeral Home located at 815 West Main Street, Jenks, OK on Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 4 to 7 PM with family present from 5 to 7 PM.

A graveside service is planned in the Fillmore Cemetery in Coleman, OK at 11 AM on August 18, 2023 with Celebrant Mark Powell officiating.

Willard Vaughn, age 90, of Tulsa, OK passed away peacefully at St. Francis Hospital on August 11th,2023 surrounded by his loving family. Willard was born January 20, 1933 to parents, Joe and Dixie "Slaton" Vaughn in Hopewell, Oklahoma. Willard shared many fond memories through the years with his daughter about fishing with his father. Joe, but Dixie was the better fisherman, raising cattle on the Vaughn farm and a garden that was impressive. His love for animals started with an old gray mare named “Maude”. Maude kept the garden tilled, and the large family fed. Willard spoke of his many friends back in his younger years, especially. Lonny and Leonard Green as well as Walter Cook were spoken of fondly through the years. His brother “Otis” taught him at a young age to weld, which directed his life to work at Jensen Welding where he retired after many years. Willard had never been hospitalized until two days before his passing. “He was Blessed.”

Willard is survived by his daughter, Melanie and son-in-law Larry Harrison of Tulsa, OK, and his grandson Michael and wife, Tiffany Pendergrass, two great grandchildren, Ashlyn and Aaron of Tulsa, OK.

Willard was proceeded in death by his parents, Joe and Dixie Slaton Vaughn of Hopewell, OK. Eleven siblings and his sweetheart, Kathryn Fillmore from Wapanucka where they met at a school dance. They were married for 36 years until Kathryn’s death in March of 1992.

The family of Willard Vaughn would like to thank his Doctors and Nurses for their excellent care and kindness.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facility, located at 815 W Main Street in Jenks, OK 74037, is designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to gather. The spacious chapel can accommodate large groups, while the intimate visitation rooms offer a cozy setting for smaller gatherings. Additionally, the funeral home features a state-of-the-art crematory on site, ensuring that families can trust that their loved one is being cared for with dignity and respect.

Funeral Services and Options

Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services understands that every family is unique, which is why they offer a range of funeral services and options to suit individual needs. From traditional funerals with burial or entombment to cremations with memorial services, their experienced staff will guide families through the planning process with compassion and expertise. They also offer pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make arrangements in advance and alleviate some of the burden from their loved ones.

Cremation Services

Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services offers a variety of cremation options, including direct cremation, cremation with memorial service, and cremation with burial or entombment. Their on-site crematory ensures that families can trust that their loved one is being cared for with dignity and respect. The funeral home also provides a range of urns and memorialization options, allowing families to choose the perfect way to honor their loved one.

Pre-Planning and Advance Directives

One of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved ones is the gift of pre-planning. By making arrangements in advance, you can spare your family from having to make difficult decisions during an emotional time. Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services offers pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make choices about their funeral arrangements and ensure that their wishes are respected. They also provide guidance on advance directives, such as living wills and power of attorney documents.

Community Involvement and Support

Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services is deeply committed to serving the Jenks community. They participate in local events and charities, supporting organizations that benefit families and individuals in need. The funeral home also offers grief support resources, including counseling services and support groups, to help families navigate the grieving process.

Why Choose Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services?

When it comes to choosing a funeral home, families have many options. So why choose Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services? It's because of their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service, their attention to detail, and their dedication to honoring each family's unique needs and preferences. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll be treated with kindness, compassion, and respect – exactly what you need during one of life's most difficult times.

Contacting Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services

If you're in need of funeral services or would like more information about pre-planning or cremation options, don't hesitate to reach out to Hargrove-Marker Funeral & Cremation Services. You can visit their website or contact them directly at (phone number) or (email address). Their caring staff is always available to answer questions, provide guidance, or simply offer a listening ear.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to share news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community members. They provide a sense of closure and allow people to pay their respects to the deceased. Obituaries also help to preserve the person's memory and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend writes an obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to use.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their life story, achievements, and accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 150-250 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to ask about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may have online forms or email addresses where you can submit the obituary.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms and websites that allow you to publish an obituary. These may include memorial websites, funeral home websites, or social media platforms.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals. Online platforms may offer free or low-cost options.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

This depends on the publication or platform. Some may allow edits or corrections within a certain timeframe, while others may not make changes once the obituary has been published.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

This varies depending on the platform or website. Some may keep the obituary online permanently, while others may remove it after a certain period of time.

Can I write an obituary for someone who died many years ago?

Yes, you can still write and publish an obituary for someone who passed away many years ago. This can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and share their story with others.

What if I don't have all the information needed for an obituary?

You can still write an obituary even if you don't have all the details. Focus on sharing what you do know about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, including quotes or poems can add a personal touch to the obituary and make it more meaningful.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

Be respectful of the deceased person's privacy and only include information that is appropriate for public sharing. Avoid including sensitive details such as cause of death or health issues unless explicitly requested by the family.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes, this is a common practice. You can specify a charity or organization that was important to the deceased person and provide details on how to make a donation in their memory.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider asking a friend or family member for assistance. You can also seek guidance from a funeral home or crematorium staff member.

How do I proofread an obituary before submitting it?

Carefully review the obituary for spelling, grammar, and factual errors. Ask someone else to review it as well to catch any mistakes.

Can I reprint an obituary from another source?

If you want to reprint an obituary from another source, such as a newspaper or online platform, be sure to obtain permission from the original publisher first.

What if I need to make corrections to an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform where the obituary was published as soon as possible to request corrections. They may have procedures in place for making changes.

Can I write multiple obituaries for the same person?

Yes, it's not uncommon for multiple people to write separate obituaries for the same person. This can provide different perspectives and insights into their life and legacy.

How do I ensure that my loved one's memory is preserved through their obituary?