Choctaw Nation Honors Outstanding Elders for Dedication and Service

DURANT, Okla. — The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma honored two distinguished tribal members during its annual Outstanding Elder Celebration, recognizing their exceptional dedication to community service, leadership, and the preservation of Choctaw culture and values.

This year’s honorees are Jerry McKinney of District 3 (Smithville), and Mary Aaron of District 2 (Broken Bow).  Both individuals exemplify the Choctaw Nation’s core values of faith, family, and culture through their lifelong commitment to serving others and strengthening their communities.

Known for his selflessness and compassionate nature, Jerry McKinney, the outstanding male elder, is recognized throughout his community for his commitment to helping others. Whether assisting elders at the Smithville Community Center, delivering firewood to community members in need, or providing transportation for those without vehicles, McKinney continually demonstrates humility and kindness through action.

He volunteers his time freely, offering support to the sick and homebound by performing household tasks such as carrying heavy pots, starting fires for warmth, or even taking home laundry to wash himself. McKinney’s quiet generosity and willingness to serve have made him a cornerstone of the Smithville community.

“Jerry’s dedication to others represents the very best of the Choctaw spirit,” said his nomination. “His humility, good humor, and heart for service make him an inspiration to all who know him.”

Mary Aaron, the outstanding female elder, has long been a pillar of strength and leadership in District 2, serving as secretary of the district’s fundraising committee and helping organize monthly community events. A fluent speaker of the Choctaw language, Aaron actively promotes cultural preservation through music, poetry, and fellowship with other elders.

In addition to her community service, Aaron is a talented artisan and caregiver. She creates handmade blankets and pillows for new parents, homebound elders, and cancer patients, often accompanying her visits with prayer, scripture, Choctaw hymns, and her well-known fried pies. Her compassion extends beyond physical gifts, offering comfort, connection, and cultural continuity to those she serves.

Aaron is also an accomplished writer whose poetry has been published in the Biskinik, the Choctaw Nation newspaper. Her work reflects deep faith and gratitude, and she attributes her many blessings to Chihowa (God), giving thanks for her family, her husband, the Choctaw Nation, and the enduring power of the Choctaw language.