Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

Walter N. Durant

Born: 11/1/1892

Died: 5/3/1977

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Choctaw, Walter N. Durant, was born November 1, 1892 at Skullyville, Indian Territory. He passed away May 3, 1977.

He is survived by his wife, Cleo Durant, and four boys and four girls. Daughter Carolyn Stinson works for the Choctaw Tribe.

Walter N. Durant served as vice-chairman of the LeFlore County Choctaw Council for a number of years.

Carl Lee Dixon

Born: 12/30/1918

Died: 2/28/2004

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Carl Lee Dixon, 85, of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away February 28, 2004. He was born December 20, 1918, a native of Guilford County and the son of Berry Davis Dixon and Nettie Dye Dixon.

Mr. Dixon was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during World War II. He was the retired owner and operator of Dixon’s Gulf Station and had worked at Carlson Farms Country Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Roy Dixon and Berry Davis Dixon Jr.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Sarah Hardage Dixon; two daughters, Cathy Stultz of McLeansville and Sammie Nichols of Charlotte, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Mindy Stultz, Jeffrey Nichols and Mike Nichols; four great-grandchildren; stepmother, Bessie Dixon of Madison, North Carolina; two brothers, Ross Dixon and wife, Edna, of Randleman.

“Papa” Arville David

Born: 6/19/1939

Died: 12/24/2003

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Arville David, 64, passed away December 24, 2003. He was born June 19, 1939, in Fort Towson, Oklahoma, to Wister L. David and Jincie N. (Gable) David.

He lived all of his life in Fort Towson and married Willa Dozier on March 16, 1958, at Corinth Baptist Church in Fort Towson.

A dedicated family man and friend to many, he was a member of the Corinth Baptist Church and Fort Towson School Board and was active in youth summer league baseball and softball.

His parents and a brother, Hathaway David, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his wife, Willa David; two sons, Steve David and his wife, Becky, and Scott David, all of Fort Towson; two daughters, Cindy Allen and husband, Danny, and Corny Taylor, all of Fort Towson; one brother, Wyndle David of Sawyer, Oklahoma; three sisters, Eunella Satterfield and Bertha Micco, both of Hugo, Oklahoma, and Louella Barnett of Oklahoma City; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins and other family.

Many special thanks from the family for all the caring and warm thoughts received.

Melvin Kenneth “Buck” Deloach

Born: 3/25/1921

Died: 3/20/2004

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Longtime Coalgate, Oklahoma, resident Melvin Kenneth “Buck” Deloach, 82, passed away March 20, 2004, at St. John’s Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born March 25, 1921, near the Parker Community in Coal County, Oklahoma, to William Middleton and Lillie Mae (Armer) Deloach.

He graduated from Coalgate with the class of 1939, attended Oklahoma State University and married Gloria Lovella Sparks on May 27, 1948, in Kermit, Texas. Buck worked many years as an oilfield mud engineer. After coming back to Coalgate he served as the director of the Big Five Community Action Program from 1968 to 1975. He was a longtime Baptist, a 32nd degree mason and veteran of World War II. He loved camping, being with his grandchildren and hanging out at the coffee shops.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Nevada, Una Mae and Vanetta, and three brothers, Otho, Enid and Billy Charles.

Survivors include his wife, Lovella of the home; three daughters, Darla Davenport and husband, Tony, of Weatherford, Oklahoma, Darita Huckabee and husband, Brian, of Tulsa, and Donna DeLoach of Colorado Springs, Colorado; five grandchildren, Matthew Davenport of Edmond and Megan Davenport and Nathan Davenport, both of Weatherford, Mary Page Huckabee and Alex DeLoach Huckabee, both of Tulsa, Oklahoma; two sisters, Davette Cauthron and Jean Bradley, both of Coalgate; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and many very dear and loved friends.

Sybil Rosenthal Davis

Born: 9/8/1910

Died: 6/30/2004

Maiden Name: Rosenthal

Honorific: n/a

MSybil Rosenthal Davis, 93, of Sulphur, Oklahoma, passed away June 30, 2004. She was born September 8, 1910, in Spencerville to Jacob Rosenthal and Birdie Earthman Rosenthal.

Mama Sybil or Ms. Sybil, as she was affectionately known, was educated at the Goodland Indian Orphanage in Hugo, Oklahoma Presbyterian College and Southeastern State Teachers’ College in Durant. She was married to Walter Davis, a rancher, farmer and school bus driver, and they made their home in a small rural community known as High Hill, ten miles north of Ft. Towson, Oklahoma. Sybil taught for 21 years in High Hill at the one teacher school, and many of the local country kids would not have been educated had it not been for her dedication and love. She functioned as a teacher for all eight grades, coach, drama coach, janitor, psychologist, librarian, cook and nurse. She had the students perform two plays every year, a highlight of the community. Sybil also was a community leader. During World War II she would organize a pie supper to raise money for the USO. After the consolidation of the rural schools, Sybil moved to the Rattan Public School where she taught for an additional 19 years until her retirement. She was a member of the Eastern Star, Delta Kappa Gamma, the Presbyterian Church and the Choctaw Tribe of Oklahoma. She was extremely proud of her Indian and Jewish heritage. In her spare time she enjoyed wildlife, gardening, walking, cooking and entertaining family and friends, and having a new car to drive.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Coy Rosenthal and George Pistol Rosenthal, and sisters, Gladys Brannan and Velma Baldwin.

Survivors include her daughter, June Akard Morris and husband, Dane, of Sulphur; grandchildren, Julie Akard Jack and husband, Clayton, of Sulphur and Jay Herbert Akard and wife, Micki, of Muskogee; great-grandchildren, Joanna Claire Jack and Madeline Jaye Jack of Sulphur; sister, Mayola Harring of Richland Hills, Texas, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Inez Dennis

Born: 10/11/1912

Died: 7/14/2004

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Inez Dennis, 91, of Soper, Oklahoma, passed away July 14, 2004, at her home. Willie Inez Dennis was born October 11, 1912 in Soper, the daughter of Will and Myrtle Ervin Page and had lived all of her life in the Soper area.

Inez married Gatha Herman Dennis in 1932. He preceded her in death in 1976.

She worked many years at the Golden Age Home in Hugo, Oklahoma, and was a member of First Baptist Church in Soper.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Louise Stephenson; three brothers, Dana Page, Lawrence Page and James Page; a granddaughter, Rena Dennis; two grandsons, Tim Broadrick and Jerod Dennis, and one great-granddaughter, Morgan Dennis.

Survivors include three sons, Roe Dale Dennis and wife, Sherry, Joe Bill Dennis and wife, Pat, and Jerry Dennis, all of Soper; 18 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 22 great-great-grandchildren. Also, a special friend, Emma Jordan of Boswell, Oklahoma, along with many cousins, nephews, nieces, and many other relatives and friends.

Warren Jay Dwight

Born: 6/8/1973

Died: 7/11/1998

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Brothers Warren Jay Dwight, 25, and Jason Lyn Dwight, 29, passed away Saturday, July 11, 1998 in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Kevin Alan Dwight, 27, died Saturday, July 11, 1998 at Wadly Hospital in Texarkana.

Warren was born June 8, 1973, Jason on May 23, 1959, and Kevin on October 2, 1970, all in Talihina.

They had lived in the Broken Bow community all of their life, graduating from Broken Bow High School. They were members of the Kulli-Chito United Methodist Church in Broken Bow. Kevin also served in the U.S. Army.

They were preceded in death by their father, Jonathan Jay Dwight, in April 1992.

Survivors include their mother, Wynona Sue Dwight of Broken Bow; one brother, Justin B. Dwight of Broken Bow; grandparents, Marilyn and Nick Colbert of Broken Bow; grandmother, Stella Crossby of Broken Bow, and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Warren is also survived by his wife, Naomi Billy Dwight of Grand Prairie, Texas, and Kevin by a special friend, Lesley James of Talihina.

Kevin Alan Dwight

Born: 10/2/1970

Died: 7/11/1998

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Brothers Warren Jay Dwight, 25, and Jason Lyn Dwight, 29, passed away Saturday, July 11, 1998 in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Kevin Alan Dwight, 27, died Saturday, July 11, 1998 at Wadly Hospital in Texarkana.

Warren was born June 8, 1973, Jason on May 23, 1959, and Kevin on October 2, 1970, all in Talihina.

They had lived in the Broken Bow community all of their life, graduating from Broken Bow High School. They were members of the Kulli-Chito United Methodist Church in Broken Bow. Kevin also served in the U.S. Army.

They were preceded in death by their father, Jonathan Jay Dwight, in April 1992.

Survivors include their mother, Wynona Sue Dwight of Broken Bow; one brother, Justin B. Dwight of Broken Bow; grandparents, Marilyn and Nick Colbert of Broken Bow; grandmother, Stella Crossby of Broken Bow, and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Warren is also survived by his wife, Naomi Billy Dwight of Grand Prairie, Texas, and Kevin by a special friend, Lesley James of Talihina.

Jason Lyn Dwight

Born: 5/23/1959

Died: 7/11/1998

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Brothers Warren Jay Dwight, 25, and Jason Lyn Dwight, 29, passed away Saturday, July 11, 1998 in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Kevin Alan Dwight, 27, died Saturday, July 11, 1998 at Wadly Hospital in Texarkana.

Warren was born June 8, 1973, Jason on May 23, 1959, and Kevin on October 2, 1970, all in Talihina.

They had lived in the Broken Bow community all of their life, graduating from Broken Bow High School. They were members of the Kulli-Chito United Methodist Church in Broken Bow. Kevin also served in the U.S. Army.

They were preceded in death by their father, Jonathan Jay Dwight, in April 1992.

Survivors include their mother, Wynona Sue Dwight of Broken Bow; one brother, Justin B. Dwight of Broken Bow; grandparents, Marilyn and Nick Colbert of Broken Bow; grandmother, Stella Crossby of Broken Bow, and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Warren is also survived by his wife, Naomi Billy Dwight of Grand Prairie, Texas, and Kevin by a special friend, Lesley James of Talihina.

John Dennis Dodson Sr.

Born: 8/9/1944

Died: 12/9/2004

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

John Dennis Dodson Sr., 60, passed away December 9, 2004, in the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was born August 9, 1944, in Sebastopool, California, to Elvin Clifton Sr. and Willie Leona Butler Dodson.

John grew up in Rio Dell, California, graduating high school in Fortuna, California. He continued trade schools learning auto body repair, appliance repair and photography, which was his passion. He loved taking photos of scenery, old barns and windmills.

He and his wife of two years had moved from Sacramento, California, to Mountain Aire, New Mexico, in late 2003. They dearly loved it there and had made many wonderful friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Wanda Sue St. Clair; grandmother, Lizzie Beth (Jones) Butler of Durant, Oklahoma, and grandfather, John F. Butler. Lizzie Beth’s father, Zack Jones of Durant, was an original enrollee in the Choctaw Nation and Zack’s father was Captain Reason Jones, Confederate Army for Texas.

Survivors include seven children, John Dennis Jr., Delona, Dennis and Darla, all of Eureka, California, Johnny and Wendy of Arizona and Brian of Mountain Aire; eight grandchildren; sisters, Betty Buttram, Willie Ethel Schuler of Bayside, California, and Letha Teague and Patsy Allen, both of Ukiah, California; and a brother, Elvin Clifton Dodson Jr. of Garber.

Willie Sim Durant

Born: 4/16/1926

Died: 9/6/2003

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Willie Sim Durant, 77, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away September 6, 2003, at McAlester Regional Health Center. Born April 16, 1926, in Bennington, Oklahoma, he was the son of Frank and Ruby Folsom Durant. He grew up in southern Oklahoma, attending schools at the Goodland Indian School and also Antlers.

He moved to Arizona and California and worked for several years in the construction industry. When he retired, he moved to Talihina, Oklahoma.

He married Mattie Parton on July 24, 1984, in Talihina, and they later moved to Wilburton, where they lived for several years and moved to McAlester in 2003.

Morris E. Dyer

Born: 8/31/1931

Died: 3/31/2005

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Morris E. Dyer, 73, of Anadarko, Oklahoma, passed away March 13, 2005, at Anadarko. He was born August 31, 1931, in Stigler, Oklahoma, to Dixon Dyer and Levisa Morris Dyer Gilstrap.

Morris, a full-blood Choctaw, graduated from Chilocco Indian School in 1950 and Northeastern State University in 1955 with a BA in education. He served with the 45th Division during the Korean conflict. He completed a total of 13 years in the armed forces, receiving the rank of 1st Lieutenant. He married Lucille Hemstreet on October 9, 1969, at Gallup, New Mexico.

He taught high school in Comanche, Oklahoma, then served as an education specialist with the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Arizona and New Mexico. He was instrumental in developing programs for the Zuni Tribe of New Mexico which allowed the tribe to govern themselves more effectively. Having a special place in his heart for children, Morris initiated the first Zuni Little League baseball program, including the construction of the baseball field.

Morris became a health educator with the Indian Health Service with emphasis in inhalant abuse. He went on to become a nationally renowned speaker and leading expert on inhalant abuse among Native Americans. The curriculum he developed on health aspects of inhalant abuse continues to be used across the United States and Canada. He retired from the Anadarko Indian Health Service in 1990. Morris was a very talented, intelligent and interesting man. His interests and hobbies included woodworking, tennis, music, photography, home remodeling, and gardening. He was an avid OU Sooner and Dallas Cowboy fan. He loved his family and his country. His grandchildren loved their Papa. Family and friends will miss his intelligent and humorous conversations.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Herman Dyer; daughter, Clorinda Herder, and son-in-law, Edward Torres.

Survivors include his wife; seven children, Patricia Torres, Dennis Dyer, Denise Dyer, Dixon Dyer and Debra Dyer, all of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Marcelin R. Pate of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Anderson Dyer of Anadarko; six grandchildren, Larissa Dyer, Elijah Pate, Carmen Page, Deija Pate, Jared Pate and Amanda Dyer; two great-grandchildren; four brothers, David Dyer and Dixon Dyer, both of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Robert Gilstrap of Miami, Oklahoma, and John Gilstrap of Stigler, Oklahoma; two sisters, Stella Long of Oklahoma City and Eloise Wibben of Hugo, Oklahoma.

Opal Darnell

Born: 8/11/1913

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Nicholas Griggs “Coach” Durant

Born: 1/1/1901

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Nicholas Griggs Durant, “Coach,” was 55 years old, the son of the Rev. Forbis P. and Teola (Woolridge) Durant. The Rev. W.W. Witt of the Oklahoma Indian Methodist Conference baptized him. He graduated in 1966 from Atoka High School. He received his Associate of Arts in Speech and Drama at Northeastern State University in 1973, and his Masters of Arts in Health Physical Education and Recreation at NSU in 1976.

James Marvin Dailey

Born: 7/29/1938

Died: 5/17/2003

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

James Marvin Dailey, 64, of McAlester, Oklahoma, Passed away Saturday, May 17, 2003 in McAlester. He was born July 29, 1938 in Blanco, Oklahoma to Jim and Ella (Jones) Dailey.

James worked for the Dr. Pepper bottling plant in Denison, Texas. He also was volunteered for the McAlester VFW.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Loretta; two brothers, the Rev. Gilbert Frazier and the Rev. Edmond Frazier, and a sister, Laura Dailey

Survivors include four children; two brothers, LeRoy Dailey of Savanna, Oklahoma and Edward Dailey of Kiowa, Oklahoma; two sisters, Margaret Carney of McAlester and Josephine Carney of Blanco, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Matt Ducan

Born: 12/28/1980

Died: 12/24/2002

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Matt Ducan, 21, lifelong resident of Spencerville, Oklahoma, passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2002. He was born December 28, 1980 in Antlers, Oklahoma, the son of Billy Ducan and Betty Sue (Wyatt) Duncan.

He is survived by his parents; two brothers, Greg Ducan of Valliant, Oklahoma and Ray Jenkins of Sanford, Michigan; four sisters, Debbie Gantt of Spencerville, Rhonda Lee Hammons of Coalgate, Okalhoma, Suzie Babuck of Hugo, Oklahoma and Jennie Fresonke of Perham, Minnesota.

He was loved and had lots of friends. He will be missed.

Hazel Daniel

Born: n/a

Died: 12/29/2002

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Hazel Daniel, 86, of Winnfield, Louisiana passed away Sunday, December 29, 2002 at her residence.

Mrs. Daniel was retired from the school system where she taught in both public and private schools. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Winnfield where she was a member of the TRI-L Sunday School Class. She was a former secretary of the East Winnfield Baptist Church and a member of the Winn Parish Homemakers Club. Mrs. Daniel served on the Election Commission of 702, Hunter Scott Goines

Eugene Dwight

Born: 6/29/1954

Died: 5/24/2002

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Eugene Dwight, 47, of Broken Bow, Oklahoma passed away Friday, May 24, 2002 at McCurtain Memorial Hospital in Idabel. He was born June 29, 1954, the son of Norman Dwight and Marylin Colbert.

He was a member of Myrtlewood Baptist Church. He loved his family, grandchildren, and friends and enjoyed the out of doors. He lived in McCurtain County all of life.

His father, Norman D. Dwight; his stepfather, Nicholas Colbert; one brother, Jonathan Dwight, and three nephews, Jason, Kevin and Warren Dwight, preceded him in death.

Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Tana and Eric Rowell of Broken Bow; one son, Kameron Dwight of Broken Bow; ex-wife, Corliss Dwight of Broken Bow; mother, Marylin Colbert of Broken Bow; two sisters, Shirley James and Vicky Amos, both of Broken Bow; one brother, Ricky Dwight; two grandchildren, Emily and Keaton Rowell; several nieces, nephews, cousins and, Flora Underwood Henry

Aaron Frank Dixon

Born: 2/2/1939

Died: 11/25/1999

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Aaron Frank Dixon, 60, was born February 2, 1939 in Bentley, Oklahoma to Frank Dixon and Francis Bessie Haney (Jim) Dixon. He passed Thursday, November 25, 1999 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Mr. Dixon and Angelita Marie Cata were married August 21, 1960 in Oklahoma City. He lived in the Okemah area for the past 30 years. He played basketball and coached the girls basketball team in his younger years. He loved to fish and was a very devoted grandfather. He was a member of the Seminole-Hitchiti United Methodist Church in Seminole, Oklahoma.

Survivors include his wife; four sons, Frank and special friend, Kathy Parker, Michael Eugine and Roslie, Christopher and Patricia and Anthony Boyd “Beefie” Dixon all of Okemah; three half-brothers Evan Haney Joe Haney and David Haney all of Seminole; one sister Neomi Harjo of Okmulgee; six grandchildren Feather Mason Gabriella Jonas Tracy Wise and Nicholas Dixon; three great-grandchildren Tristan Isiah and Tymesha Daniels and a host of other family and friends.

Hazel Downey

Born: 11/3/1928

Died: 2/18/2000

Maiden Name: Wood

Honorific: n/a

Hazel Downey, 71, of Norman, Oklahoma passed away on Friday, February 18, 2000. She was born november 3, 1928 to James Lewis Ona and Martha Louzena (Boatwright) Wood in Haskell County, Oklahoma.

Mrs. Downey owned and operated Downey Auto Glass along with her husband. She was a very giving person.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Flavil Downey, and three brothers, Charles, T.J. and Sam Wood.

Survivors include sons, Flavil Downey, Jr., and Charles Lee Downey; daughters, Eva Hale, Palemia Packard, Doris Cantrell and Judy Kile; brothers, John, Dan, Hermon and Glen Wood; sisters, Jerrye Crawford, Corene Rouell, and Willene Tahkofper; ten grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Bonnie Faye Peters Duty

Born: 2/7/1940

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: Peters

Honorific: n/a

Bonnie Faye Peters Duty, 65, a longtime Atoka County area resident, passed away October 10, 2005, at Valley View Hospital in Ada. She was born February 7, 1940, at Talihina, the daughter of Lorene Mae Peters.

She attended school at Lane and was a member of Double Springs Presbyterian Church near Lane.

Bonnie was married to Thurston Shaun and later married Phil Duty in 1971 in Sherman, Texas.

She had worked as a home health care provider for 10 years.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lorene Peters-Lombness; brother, Curtis Frankie Peters; and grandparents, William and Tracy Peters.

Survivors include one son, Phillip Wayne Duty II of Atoka; one sister, Freda Sue Brown and husband, Justin, of Oklahoma City; two brothers, Pete Lombness and Oscar Lombness, both of Oklahoma City; three aunts, Lizzie Leflore and Edna Mae Jackson, both of Atoka, and Rebecca Cole of Lane; along with numerous cousins, other relatives and many very dear and loved friends.

Dorothia Jean D’Amato

Born: 12/31/1926

Died: 6/16/2000

Maiden Name: Hume

Honorific: n/a

Dorothia Jean D’Amato, 73, of Spiro, Oklahoma passed away Friday, June 16, 2000 in Spiro. She was born December 31, 1926 at Spiro to R.T. and Jesse Avery Hume. She was a cosmetologist.

Mrs. D’Amato was a former member of Lakewood Baptist Church and Eastern Star, where she started the Choctaw Chapter in Spiro.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Nicholas D’Amato.

Survivors include her daughter, Mary Jean Rogers of Spiro; three grandchildren, Timothy John D’Amato, Jordan C. Rogers and Daniel Avery D’Amato and one great-grandchild, Chloe Brook D’Amato.

Vernon Ray Davis

Born: 10/1/1941

Died: 12/4/2005

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Vernon Ray Davis, 64, passed away December 4, 2005, at his home after a battle with cancer. He was born in Rush Springs on October 1, 1941. He was raised in Hobbs, New Mexico, but loved Albuquerque.

Vernon loved the road as he was an over-the-road truck driver for the last 40 years. In his spare time he loved fishing, hunting, golf, and the mountains and ocean. He will be truly missed.

He was preceded in death by his mother; brother, Alin Davis, and sister, Mary Lou Montgomery.

Survivors include his loving wife, Lori Davis; daughter, Vanessa and husband Martin; son, Damon Davis; four grandchildren, Daniel, Felicia, Matthew, and Isacc, all of Albuquerque; brothers, Tom Davis and wife Carol of Rattan and Billy Davis and wife Frances of Albuquerque; sisters, Beverly White and husband Bob, Linda White of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Carla Sue Cofer of Oklahoma City; sisters-in-law, Betty Westcott, Angie Pachta, Mable Taylor, and Thelma Sanchez, all of Albuquerque, and Rose Amador and husband Nick of Dublin, California; brother-in-law, George Gargoura of Albuquerque, and loving pet chow, Duke. Vernon also had many loving nieces and nephews and wonderful friends in the trucking industry.

We would like to thank Vista Care Hospice, Chaplain Larry Wills, Colin Frost, and especially wonderful and caring nurse, Raynell Garcia.

Wilburn Durant

Born: 8/12/1911

Died: 9/24/1999

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Wilburn Durant, 88, of Wilburton, Oklahoma passed away Friday, September 24, 1999 at a local nursing home.

Wilburn was born August 12, 1911 in Bennington, Oklahoma to Tinsley Pisitubbi. He married Beatrice Berry on July 17, 1951 in McAlester, Oklahoma. Wilburn lived most of his life in the Wilburton area and was a member of the Freewill Baptist Church and was a self-employed carpenter. Wilburn served in the Marine Corps during World War II.

Survivors include his wife, Beatrice Durant, of Wilburton; two sons, Larry Durant of LeFlore, Oklahoma and Randy Durant of Muldrow, Oklahoma; daughter, LaDonna Gilpen of Wilburton; sister, Edna Peters of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; six grandchildren, one great-grandchild and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers and one daughter.

Frank Durant

Born: 8/6/1921

Died: 1/12/2007

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Frank Durant passed away January 12, 2007, in Merced, California. He was born August 6, 1921, in Frogville, Oklahoma, to Rias and Wilma Grubbs Durant.

He was married 50 years to Imogene Carlile who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Ruby Jacinto, and a son, Virgil Durant.

Survivors include a son, George Durant; two daughters, Barbara Parker of Atwater, California, and Fay Gamble of Valley Springs, California; a brother, Junior Durant of Santa Rosa, California; two sisters, Lena Matson of Reno, Nevada, and Marie Noisat of Clearlake, California; 22 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren.

Annie Lee Bond Dodd

Born: 8/2/1932

Died: 6/6/2007

Maiden Name: Bond

Honorific: n/a

Annie Lee Bond Dodd passed away June 6, 2007, at Aztec, New Mexico. She was born August 2, 1932, in Duncan to Marvin and Agnes Nole Bond. She lived most of her life in Oklahoma City and was proud of her Choctaw heritage and the Oklahoma Sooners.

She was a graduate of Haskell School in Lawrence, Kansas, and attended Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Survivors include her children, Samuel and Brenda of Little Rock, Arkansas, Loretta Manning of Jacksonville, Florida, and Joel and Linda of Farmington, New Mexico; seven grandchildren, Michelle, Mindy and Stephanie McCarty, Sandra and Samuel Dodd II and Olivia and Sophia Dodd; and two great-grandchildren, Jade Grandstaff and Lizabeth McCarty.

F.A. Dumas

Born: 4/19/1916

Died: 7/3/1997

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

F.A. Dumas, 81, was a lifelong Wilson, Oklahoma resident. He passed away July 3, 1997, at the Ardmore Veterans Center. F.A. was born April 19, 1916, in Reck, Oklahoma to Robert Bob L. and Bessie Thompson Dumas.

F.A. was a retired oil field worker. He attended school at Zaneis, and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He married Lillie Baker Mayton, July 12, 1947, at Gainesville, Texas.

Survivors include his wife, Lillie of the home; one daughter, Karleeti Stewart, of Fort Worth, Texas; one son, Robert of Woodard, Oklahoma; a step-daughter, Treva Smith of Wilson; two step-sons, Chuck and L.D. Mayton, both of Ardmore, Oklahoma; two sisters, Alice Reynolds of California and Carol Allen of Lone Grove, Texas; six grandchildren, four step-grandchildren two great-grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren.

Bertha May DeRoin

Born: 11/20/1927

Died: 7/21/1997

Maiden Name: Sorrels

Honorific: n/a

Bertha Mae DeRoin was born November 20, 1927 in Oak Hill Oklahoma to Willie and Pearly Sorrels and passed away July 21, 1997.

Bertha was educated at Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kansas and San Jose, California. She moved from Stillwater, Oklahoma to San Jose in 1957. She was a teacher at L. Hubbard Elementary School for 22 years.

She is survived by her children Lewis F. DeRoin of El Cerrito, California, M’liss Davidson, Desma Saldivar, Cheri Garza, Larry DeRoin , all of San Jose and 11 grandchildren, Surviving brothers are Edward Sorrels and Daniel Sorrels of Oklahoma, Elmer Sorrels of Wyoming and a sister, Avis Glodek of California.

Richard Dale Durant

Born: 3/4/1950

Died: 9/16/1997

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Richard Dale Durant, age 47, died September 16, 1997. Richard was born March 4, 1950 in Lawton, Oklahoma to Doc and Lou Durant. He married Jamie Lynn Hendrix on October 16, 1969. They had two children Richard Wayne and Amber Dale.

Richard was a simple man that enjoyed a simple lifestyle. He enjoyed his 1977 Chevrolet truck following a hound on a night coon hunt and sitting on his front porch. He found contentment in life and loved the woods. He looked forward to the annual deer hunt in Smithville, Oklahoma. The trip was never about bringing back a large buck, just investing time with friends.

His truck is a symbol of Richard and his life, practical and wonderfully simple. The coffee can filled with Tootsie Rolls in the seat was a reflection of the special place Richard held in his Momma’s heart.

Many hours of conversation have been hared on the front porch of his house. Jamie kept the house too cold he claimed was the reason he sat our there. Being on the front porch was more about visiting with a neighbor boy or girl or friends and family stopping by. He never allowed his left to get too busy to be there for others. Many will miss his humor. Richard lived his life by never getting anxious about life and would always say, when someone got upset, Nobody died, expressing the lack of importance of things that really didn’t matter.

Richard was good to people and accepted them as they were. He lived by the philosophy, you can’t change people and what goes around comes around.

Richard often referred to his wife, Jamie as Roger Ram Jet joking about his energetic personality. Not much rattled Richard, because he kept his focus simple One woman for life be content where you are and do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Throughout his life and again with his struggle with heart disease, Richard always tried to protect his mother from knowing the pain and struggle he faced. He would always say Don’t tell Momma.

Richard left this life the way he lived, Simple, enjoying people to the end. He’s gone to a place where there is no pain or tears, where fellowship never ends and Jesus gives hew hearts.

James Dorman

Born: 1/5/1925

Died: 1/1/1997

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

James Dorman passed away January 1997, at Biloxi Veterans Hospital in Biloxi, Mississippi. He was born January 5, 1925. James was buried in the hospital cemetery. He was a World War II veteran.

James is survived by on daughter, Vickie Karon Mounce; ten grandchildren and eleven great- grandchildren.

Vivian Dean

Born: 8/28/1923

Died: 3/13/1997

Maiden Name: Roebuck

Honorific: n/a

Vivian Dean passed away March 13, 1977, at Ada, Oklahoma. She was born August 28, 1923, in Soper, Oklahoma to U.G. and Minnie Bee Fennell Roebuck.

She moved to Ada in December 1966 from Stuart, Oklahoma and was a homemaker. She was a member of the Southwest Church of Christ and served on the election board and Parent-Teacher Association.

She and Charles W/ Dean were married on December 3, 1945 in Boswell Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by an infant sister and three older sisters, Gwendolyn Joyce and Pearly Lou.

Survivors include her husband Charles W. Dean, of the home; two sons, Robert W Dean Stuart and Michael C Dean of Moore Oklahoma; three brothers U.M. Roebuck of Houston Texas, Joe Ben Roebuck of Oklahoma City, Okalahoma and Floyd Roebuck of Boswell; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Memorial may be made to Search P.O. Box 371 Edmond Ok 73034

Anthony Denetclaw

Born: 1/31/1968

Died: 10/1/2007

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Anthony Fobb Denetclaw passed away October 1, 2007, at the L.D.S. Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born January 31, 1968, in Brigham City, Utah, to Elizabeth and Raymond Denetclaw. He grew up in Brigham City.

He was working for Iron Workers Local #732. He also worked for the Sho-Ban Firefighters (wildfires).

He was preceded in death by his grandparents and an aunt.

Survivors include a daughter, Molly Bullcreek of Ibapah, Utah; a brother, Raymond Denetclaw Jr. (Carol) of Brigham City; his father, Raymond Denetclaw Sr. of Sheep Springs, New Mexico; his mother, Elizabeth Joy LaVatta (Ray) of Fort Hall, Idaho, and numerous nieces.

Robert Douglas

Born: 10/12/1964

Died: 9/14/2007

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Robert Douglas, 42, of Durant passed away September 14, 2007, at Medical Center of Oklahoma. He was born October 12, 1964, in Mooreland to Gene and Marjorie Airington Douglas.

He was married June 21, 1989, in Durant to Stacey Eads. He was a foreman for McCoy Tree Service.

Rob loved to playing guitar, telling jokes, fishing, hunting, and helping friends and neighbors when they needed it. He enjoyed his job and co-workers. Rob loved his family and spending time with them.

He was preceded in death by his mother; a sister, Cynthia Douglas; a daughter, Shania Douglas on November 11, 1997; grandparents, Clarence and Agnes Airington; and an uncle, Charles Bates.

Survivors include his wife of the home; son, Britt Douglas, and daughters, Makayla and Ashlyn Douglas, all of Durant; sister, Susan McCarty and husband Ed of Atoka; aunt, Carolyn Bates of Durant; uncles, James Garland Airington and wife Patsy of Durant, Bobby Airington and wife Rita and Johnny Airington and wife Wilma, all of Woodward; brothers-in-law, Jason Eads and wife Rachel of Arkansas and Brian Gray of Durant; and father-in-law Tommy Eads and wife Donna of Yukon

James Edward Dyke Jr.

Born: 9/29/1950

Died: 11/23/1970

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

James Edward Dyke Jr. of Seattle, Washington, passed away on November 23, 1970, in Seattle. He was born September 29, 1950, in McAlester.

James was preceded in death by his father, James Edward Dyke Sr.; a sister, Phyllis Kaye Dyke; and two brothers, Richard Dale Dyke and Donald Ray Dyke.

Survivors include his daughters, Shannon of Washington State and Kimberly Barnes of Panama City, Florida; a son, Jason King of Bakersfield; his mother, Lois Alene Dyke of Bakersfield; two brothers, Gary Wayne Dyke of Seattle, Rickey Leroy Dyke of Bakersfield; three sisters, Carolyn Beth Clarke of West Sacramento, Cornelia May (Connie) Hudson, Lawrence, Kansas, Belinda Lois King, Bakersfield; sister-in-law, Sharon Dyke, Bakersfield; and many nieces and nephews and friends.

Willie Mae Durant

Born: 6/7/1904

Died: 1/25/1998

Maiden Name: McCarty

Honorific: n/a

Willie Mae Durant age 93 of McAlester Oklahoma passed away on January 25, 1998. She was born on June 7, 1904 in Pittsburg County Indian territory to Robert Lee and Elizabeth Young McCarty. She grew up in the Tannehill area and lived there and in McAlester all of her life.

She married Ethan Lee Durant on December 24, 1924. He preceded her in death on August 22, 1979 Mrs. Durant was devoted to her family and loved to sing to her children and always made an abundance of pies and cakes during the holidays for her family. She was an original Choctaw enrollee and a member of the North Town Church of Christ.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three sons, Robert Joe Durant, Edward Lee Durant and Elmer Durant and one daughter Lillian Duncan.

Survivors include one son, Bennie Durant of McAlester; four daughters, Lois Ward of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Veta Dryden of Oklahoma City, Patsy Dyer of Tulsa and Susie Boater of McAlester; 17 grandchildren; and a host of great-grandchildren; on Sister Virgil Turney of McAlester and several nieces and nephews.

Lucile Golden Bryant Deason

Born: 2/27/1915

Died: 10/21/1997

Maiden Name: Bryant

Honorific: n/a

Lucile Golden Bryant Deason, age 82, of Norman Oklahoma passed away on October 21, 1997 in Norman.

She was born on February 27, 1915 in Blue Oklahoma to Alfred Wright Bryant and Annie Elizabeth Welborn Bryant. On July 12, 1938 she married Millard A Deason in Anadarko, Oklahoma. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Ardmore, Oklahoma and attended First Baptist Church in Norman. Through the years she was active in the Campfire Girls and Boy Scouts of America and was a lifetime member of the Yorkshire Terrier Club of Oklahoma City. She moved to Norman in the late 1950’s from Ardmore.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband; two brothers, Joe and Gene Bryant and two sisters, Ruby Hall and Alpha Barber.

She is survived by her son, Stanley Millard Deason and wife, Theada of Noble Oklahoma; two daughters, Chiquita Deason and her husband, Harry of Norman and Carol Ann Bacon and her husband Clifford of Mission, Texas; two granddaughters, Kristen Renfrow of Billings, Montana and Erin Hanses of Dallas, Texas; four sisters, Mamie Simmons and Cuma Casino, both of Okemah Oklahoma; Pauline Kruegr of Orangevale, California, and Geneva Wright of Sacramento, California, a brother in law, Lynn Barber of Sacramento; a sister in law Mary Ellen Bryant of Odessa, Texas and numerous nieces and nephews.

Carrol L. Draper

Born: 1/3/1943

Died: 4/16/2007

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Carrol L. Draper, 64, of Noble passed away April 16, 2007, in Shawnee after a battle with cancer. He was born January 3, 1943, in Blanchard to Ernest and Oma Melton Draper. He was proud of his Mississippi Choctaw heritage. His grandmother, Rosie Karr Draper, and great-grandmother, Nancy Pebsworth Karr, were original enrollees.

Carrol attended school at Lakeview, Washington, and Norman. He owned his own construction company for several years in Noble before going to work for the Citizens Potawatomi Nation as their OEH Director.

Carrol served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Janet of the home, and seven children, Sheila, Tony, Debra and Rebecca, all of Texas, from his marriage in 1963 to Wanda Chambers, Shelly and Kisha of Kansas from his marriage to Vada Bergen in 1971, Chad and Noble from his marriage to Janet Henderson in 1976; one brother, Doyle of Noble; two sisters, Joyce Hewitt and Dorothy Sharp of Noble; 16 grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and friends.

Julia Pearl Dunford

Born: 2/25/1895

Died: 12/26/1994

Maiden Name: Gradner

Honorific: n/a

Julia Pearly (Honeydew) Dunford, 99, passed away on December 26, 1994.

She was born on February 25, 1895 in Bryan County Indian Territory to Noah and Isabella Iscomia Gardner. She attended Oklahoma schools and was a member of the Church of Christ.

She is survived by a daughter, Caroline Thompson of Paris; a son Robert Gardner of San Francisco California; a sister, Geneva Andrews of Sacramento, California; 25 grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by five children, Inez Andrews, Arthur Folsom, J.D. Lawrence, Willard Dunford and Harvey Dunford.

Larry Michael Dane

Born: 2/15/1939

Died: 6/18/1995

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Larry Michael Dane, 56, passed away on Sunday June 18, 1995 in Tulsa, Oklahoma

He was born on February 15, 1939 and was a member of the Church of Christ. He and Gloria Huckabee were married on August 19, 1960 in Idabel.

He had lived in Idabel for the past 30 years and was a science and biology teacher in the Idabel school system for 26 years. He is also a bus driver and a coach. He was president of the Idabel Education Association for two terms, serving from 1986-1988. He also served a six-year term on the Oklahoma Education Association Board of Directors.

He was very proud of his Choctaw Heritage. He was a direct Descendant of Morgan Perry, a blood Choctaw who served in Martin Sheco’s Battalion as a first leuiutient during the Civil War and came from Mississippi to Oklahoma in 1837 during the Indian removal. Morgan Perry was married to Elizabeth Spring, who parents were Susan Bohanan (French and Ω Choctaw) and Christopher Spring, a saddle maker from Germany. He was a commissioned officer in Napoleon’s army. After the Battle of Waterloo, he immigrated to the states landing at New Orleans. He met and married Susan Bohanan in Mississippi. They came to Indian Territory and lived in the Hugo area. Many of the family are buried in Springs Chapel Cemetery there.

Survivors include his wife, Gloria Dane of Idabel; four daughters and two sons-in-law, Regina and Rusty Prim of Dallas Texas, Andrea and Dane Williamson of Idabel, Leigh Dane of Durant and Lindsay Dane of Idabel; one brothers and sister in law, Raymond Augustus, Jr. And Theresa Dane of Stockton, California; two grandsons, Michael Sharp and Ty Williamson, both of Idabel and seven nieces and nephews.

In Lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made to the Larry Dane Scholarship Fund, located at First State Bank in Idabel.

Billy Davis

Born: 10/16/1987

Died: 2/6/2007

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Billy Davis passed away on February 6, 2007. He was born on October 16, 1987, to Green Dale and Jolene Davis.

Billy’s grandparents are Mabel Davis and the late Charlie Davis of Broken Bow and Williston and Delia Wesley of Wright City. He is a great-grandson of World War I Choctaw Code Talker Ben Carterby.

Alfred Lee Daniels

Born: 3/18/1922

Died: 3/2/2009

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Alfred Lee Daniels, 86, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away March 2, 2009, in The Woodlands, Texas. He was born March 18, 1922, in Stuart, Oklahoma, to Otto and Audrey Daniels.

Mr. Daniels served his country during World War II in the Navy, then re-enlisted for 16 years. He worked in the field of pharmaceutical sales before re tiring in 1983. He was a very outgoing, friendly person and enjoyed playing golf during his retirement years with his best friend, Herman Bell.

Alfred and Mildred were residents of Corpus Christi for 57 years and during the last two years, resided at Garden Estates Retirement Community, where they made many wonderful friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Mildred Jean Daniels, and a brother, Clyde Lester Daniels.

Survivors include his children, Alfred William Daniels and wife Debra of Muskogee and Lynda Carol Seitz and husband Clyde of The Woodlands; grandsons, Benjamin Lee Daniels and wife Sandra of Muskogee and Daniel Austin Seitz of Fort Worth; two great-grandsons, Nick and Leland; and sister-in-law, Ruth Irene Gesler of The Woodlands.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the men of the Choctaw Color Guard for performing military ceremonies at the graveside service.

Benjamin Daney

Born: 9/4/1898

Died: 1/21/1989

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Rev. Benjamin Daney, 90, of Sand Springs, died Jan. 21 at Tulsa. He was born Sept. 4, 1898 at Talihina, Indian Territory.

He served as pastor in the following churches and communities: Greenhill Baptist Church Talihina; Friendship Baptist Church, Sasakawa, OK; McAlester Baptist Church, Overbrook, Ok; Blue Baptist Church, Fitztown, OK; 1st Indian Mission, Afa; Pine Grove Baptist, Talihina; 1st Indian Baptist, McAlester.

He was instrumental in establishing Indian Missions in Hugo, Broken bow, McAlester, Tulsa and Ft. Washakie, Wyo. He was involved in the development of the Kiamichi Indian Baptist Assoc., and the Choctaw-Chickasaw Baptist Assoc.

He served on the Choctaw Historical Society and on the Selective Service Board during the Korean War. He was active in the Choctaw-Chickasaw Alliance of Tulsa.

Survivors include his wife, Edith of the home; five daughters: Louise Paddlety of Arizona, Peggy Shoemaker of More, Billie Engavo of Wyoming, Jean Flornece of Okla. City, and April Brown of Sand Springs; two sons: Hershel Daney of Sand Springs and Daniel Daney of Idaho; a sister, Amy Smith of Talihina; a brother, Joseph Daney of Talihina.

Wilma Ruth Dodson

Born: 1/22/1916

Died: 8/13/1995

Maiden Name: Nelly

Honorific: n/a

Wilma Ruth Dodson was born to Joseph and Rosa Jo Park Neely on January 22, 1916. She passed away on August 13, 1995.

She was valedictorian of her high school class at Albany, Oklahoma and attended Southeastern State Teachers College and graduated from the Kiowa Nursing School at Ft Sill, Oklahoma. She worked on the Blackfoot Reservation at Ft Hall, Idaho before marriage.

Later she was a dental hygienist for the Air Force and in private practice. She was the granddaughter of John h Neely and Mary Jane Jones of Matoy, Oklahoma. Mary Jane was he daughter of Wallace Jones and Eliza Kineod of Matoy. Wallace served in the first Choctaw Mounted Rifles in the Civil War from Bryan Counties predecessor Blue County, Choctaw Nation.

Her great-great-grand parnts were Solomon and Sallie Jones and Andrew and Polly Kinade who came over the Trail of Tears from Mississippi.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James B Dodson.

She as survived by her children James Cummings, Vicki S. Rankin and Dawn D. Reneace; sister, Nancy Perez of Hoquiam, Washington and the grandchildren.

Esther Cooper Duke

Born: 12/24/1916

Died: 12/7/2006

Maiden Name: Cooper

Honorific: n/a

Esther Cooper Duke passed away December 7, 2006, in Yucca Valley, California. She was born December 24, 1916, in Kenta, Oklahoma. Her father was Norris Henry Cooper. She married Reno Ira Duke in Stigler, Oklahoma, moved to California and stayed.

Survivors include her son, Jack Duke; daughters, Pattye Nickell and Betty McCoy; several relatives in Oklahoma and grandchildren in California.

Sam Eli Davis

Born: 3/22/1979

Died: 12/10/1999

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Sam Eli Davis, 20, passed away December 10, 1999. Sam was born March 22, 1979 in Talihina, Oklahoma to Romona (Sam) and Dean Davis. He lived in Hugo, all his life and was a member of the FFA, Boy Scouts of America and High Hill Methodist Church.

As a boy, Sam looked forward to attending Bertram Bobb’s Christian Indian Children’s Camp every summer. He also played baseball as soon as he got old enough. In high school, Sam played baseball, golf and football.

He took great pride in his team. He won many honors through his school days but the Fighting Buffalo Award” he received was of special importance. This was given by the coaches for the ideal player with the biggest heart best values and best school spirit.

Bonnie Lou Daugherty

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Larry Davis

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Imogene Dawson

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Amber Dawn Day

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Mary Christine Dellinger

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Vivian A. Dill

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

David Preston Douglas

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Aaron Dry

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

W.D. Durant

Born: n/a

Died: n/a

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Beryle Deyne “Jackie” Davidson

Born: 4/27/1928

Died: 2/25/2010

Maiden Name: Bradshaw

Honorific: n/a

Beryle Deyne “Jackie” Davidson passed away Feb. 25, 2010. She was born April 27, 1928, in Lodi, and raised in Red Oak.

Married to Homer J. Davidson Sr., he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her step-daughter, Lil Favors; son Steve Davidson; parents Les and Thula Markham; father Bill Bradshaw Sr; and brother Bill Bradshaw Jr.

She is survived by her brother, J. D. Bradshaw of Red Oak; sisters Debbie Willson of Seminole, and Shari Maxwell of Yukon; sons, Homer Davidson Jr. of Aumsville, Ore., Hal Davidson of Washougal, Wash.; step-daughter, Billye Tidwell of Paris, Texas; 11 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great- grandchildren.

James Dunn

Born: 12/05/1919 Died: 09/14/2011 Maiden Name: n/a Honorific: Veteran

James “Jimmie” Ellis Dunn, 91, passed away on Sept. 14, 2011. Jimmie was born Dec. 5, 1919, in Gertie to Oscar Dunn and Bertha A. Pusley. He served in the U.S. Army, 45th Division during World War II and the Korean War as a combat veteran. He received numerous medals, ribbons and awards during his service. He was married to Virginia Mackie Richison for 69 years and lived in McAlester for many years. He worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and subsequently retired from the Department of Defense in McAlester. He was preceded in death by his wife, son Dwight, parents, two brothers and two sisters. Survivors include his son, James E. Dunn Jr. (Nikki); seven granddaughters, Michael Ann Lucas (Michael), Jamie Elizabeth Summers (J.C.), Daniel Elise Mackie Dunn, Cory Allyn Dunn, Dahn Dunn, Heather Dunn and Jennifer Greenwald (Jerry). He also has 14 great-grandchildren.

Wanda May Davis

Born: Died: 08/02/2009 Maiden Name: Honorific: n/a

Wanda May Davis, 75, of Oklahoma City passed away on August 2, 2009. We will always remember her fondly. Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Bobbie Haney; one stepson, Larry Davis; one brother, Woody Proctor; and three sisters, Pauline Yahola, Bessie Noreiga and Beatrice Meely. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Aleckton Davis; daughter, Ann Harry; three grandchildren, Stephanie Yazzie, Robin Harry and Jason Harry; three great-grandchildren, Alexis Martin, Shamia Martin and Brittany Harry; three brothers, Charlie Proctor, Washie Proctor and Jonas Proctor, and numerous other relatives and friends.

Frant “Skeet”Durant

Born: 3/11/1937

Died: 9/17/2012

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Frank “Skeet” Durant, 75, of Blanco, passed away on Sept. 17, 2012, in McAlester. Mr. Durant was born on March 11, 1937, in Bennington, and was a son of Willie and Lillie (Penny) Durant. His father was an original enrollee of the Choctaw Nation.

He worked in construction and loved to sing and play guitar, beginning when he was 6. He was preceded in death by two sons, Mitchell and Pete; an infant daughter; and a granddaughter.

Survivors include sons, Allen of Atoka and Randy of Stanfield; daughters, Debra of Atoka, Donna of Las Vegas, and Tamera of Washington; stepdaughter Carrie of New Mexico; several grandchildren; and a brother, Virgil Durant of Casa Grande, Ariz

Dixon Dyer

Born:

Died:

Maiden Name: n/a

Honorific: n/a

Dixon Lee Dyer Jr., 74, of Sand Springs, passed away on Feb. 16, 2013, in Tulsa. A beloved husband and father, Dixon was born in Pawnee to Dixon Lee Dyer and Levisa Morris Dyer on June 15, 1938. He and his wife Peggy were due to celebrate their 27th anniversary in March. They met through Dixon’s sister, Eloise Wibben, married after years of courtship and became the proud parents of two daughters, one of whom was recently wed. Dixon learned to appreciate the opportunities afforded through education and mentoring after attending and living in the Goodland Presbyterian Children’s Home in Hugo and later at Chilocco Indian School located near Ponca City from the age of five through high school. He took part in and enjoyed many sports including football, baseball and track, appreciating the personal attention and guidance provided by coaches as well as his teachers. He also participated in the National Guard 45th Infantry Division Charlie Company and assisted his family by working summers at a local flourmill and sending money home. Dixon’s thirst for education took him to the Cowley County Community College in Arkansas City, Kan., with athletic scholarships supporting his education and remaining at Chilocco for his room and board. In track, Dixon set a record the two-mile run that stands to this day. His education at Cowley and later at Northeastern State University where he completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice led him to entrance into the Tulsa Police Academy and a 20-year career in law enforcement. Dixon’s commitment to lifelong learning resulted in his pursuit of advancement opportunities and training after moving to American Airlines through a Tulsa Technology Center certification in Aircraft Maintenance. Later he developed a reputation for his excellence as a “cooler mechanic” and finished a career in aviation maintenance with American after 24 years. He was active in the Fraternal Order of Police including holding leadership positions, was a 32nd Degree Mason, as well as an Akdar Shriner. He also was active in the Alumni Associations for Chilocco both locally and nationally. A hands-on father who was devoted to his two daughters, Dixon managed his own career while being supportive of Peggy and his daughters in their pursuits. Though ill and hospitalized, Dixon participated in Rachel’s wedding through Skype technology.

He was preceded in death by grandson Lloyd Dixon, his parents, and brothers Herman Dyer, Morris Dyer, David Dyer, Dallas Gilstrap, Jack Gilstrap, Kenneth (Bud) Gilstrap, and Robert Gilstrap. Dixon is survived by wife Peggy; daughters, Millie Dyer, of Oklahoma City, and Rachel Dyer Hilligoss with husband Austin of Sand Springs; siblings, Stella Long of Oklahoma City, Eloise Wibben with husband Charlie of Hugo, Fleeta Nelson with husband Coleman of Muskogee, and John Gilstrap with wife Carla of Stigler; nephews, Timothy Long with Chris Herbert of New York City, Charlie Bob Wibben, Johnny Roy Gilstrap, Gregory Gilstrap, Rob Gilstrap, Cale Gilstrap and David Gilstrap. Nieces are Lisa Long with husband Nick Koumoutseas of Derwood, Md., and Dedra Gallegos with husband Mike of Hugo; mother-in-law Mildred Dumas; sister-in-law Lucile Dyer; and brother-in-law Don Dumas with wife Paulette of Stigler.