Beckner, Billye
Brown, Lorene
Burrell, Luvenia
Chandler, Clyde
Chatman, William
Clark, Dennis
Clemmons, Rance
Graham, Marva
Granger, Willie
Grayson, Ernest
Jacobs, Richard
King, Edward
Lawrence. Spencer
Lee, Franklin
Logan, Bennie
McGee, Linda
McGee, Willie
Nelson, Leonard
Nivens, Beverly
Oakley, Marion
Oakley, William
Piercy, Cecil
Pittman Kenneth
Porter, Albert
Porter, James
Puckett, Norman
Robinson,Ernest
Royal, Debra
Royal, Malcolm
Sanders, Evelyn
Scott, Thomas
Shade, Emma
Stephens, Robert
Taylor, Sybil
Teague, Kenneth
Thomas, Eula
Thomas, E.W.
Walker, Gilbert
Wallace, Juanita
Whitfield, Mary
Williams, George
Wilson, Linda
******************OBITUARIES**************
Billye Joyce Brown Woodfork
( July 26, 1946 – June 02, 2021 )
Billye J. Brown Woodfork, known to many as “Mama B.J.” and to her co-workers as “B.J.” was the daughter of Rev. William and Carrie Beckner. She attended Muskogee Elementary Schools and Manual Training High School. A servant, she was obedient and dedicated to God’s work on this land.
She was baptized and introduced to Christ by her parents early in life and she continued her spiritual growth throughout her teenage years. She began playing the piano as a child and soon was playing for her parent’s church. During her early twenties’ she left home and met Capteon Brown III, who she later married in Gary, Indiana. Soon after her marriage to Capteon Brown her father the late Rev. William James Beckner took sick and Billye decided she must return home to help her mother take of her father. Capteon and Billye moved back to Muskogee where they started a family. To this union three children were born: Captoria, Eugene and William. Capteon and Billye Joyce were married 26 years until the dissolution of the marriage in 1993.
Billye started her work experience as a hairdresser while raising her children and once they became of school age, she decided to go back to work. She worked for Oklahoma State University (OSU) Extension office of Muskogee, Okmulgee & Eufaula. She also worked with the school systems of Oklahoma to educate children concerning personal hygiene and the tough subject of sexual education. She became well known to all the young people in the school system as a resource for those who did not have one for those much needed topics and discussions. She retired from OSU extension office but never retired from doing God’s work.
Mama B.J. loved children and had a special gift to inspire children to sing with her love for music and her ability to play the piano. Her magnetic spirit drew young people to her and she formed several children and young adult mass choirs of fifty or more throughout Northeastern Oklahoma and children loved her immensely. With this ability she taught her children how to love the Lord and encouraged their special gift provided by God. Anyone who knew B.J. realized she was a special lady and brought many souls to Christ. She would make sure practice was perfected before Sunday and every section knew their part. She was a Director that expected you to give your best. Even with her desire for perfection choir members knew it was all for the glory of God.
In 1995, Billye J. Brown met and married Clarence E. Woodfork Jr. of Tulsa, OK. To this union no children were born, but the families were blended with three girls and three boys.
BJ was preceded in death by her mother and father, Rev. Carrie Elma McGee Beckner and Rev. William “BJ” Beckner, her sister, Mary Elma (Beckner) Wilkins, the father of her children, Capteon Brown, and her husband Rev. Clarence (Skip) Woodfork, and Bonus Son, Clarence Eugene Woodfork III.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Captoria Brown, Eugene Brown, William (Janice) Brown; Bonus Daughters Erica Ivey, Kimberly Johnson (Eric), and Michelle Myers; Grandchildren Stephen (Ashlie) Ivey, Brittany Ivey, Orteca (Larry) Barnes, Patricia Nunley, Laticia Nunley, Jordan Robinson, Kennedy Johnson, Zaria Johnson, Naomi and Valarie Woodfork, Josiah English and Gabrielle West; Her nephew Leroy Wilkins Jr. and nieces Joyce Wilkins, Carrie Harris, and Mary Wilkins; 10 Great-Grandchildren, Cousin Curtis R. (Devonne) McClinton Jr., God-Daughter Renee Russell, Special Son Alphaeus Washington, and a host of Relatives and Friends.
***
Rance Douglas Clemmons
“Upward and Onward”
A LIFE WELL-LIVED
Service Held
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church
Garland, Texas
Rance Douglas Clemmons Sr. was born June 15, 1946 in Muskogee Oklahoma to Ira and Doris Speigner Clemmons. His father preceded him in death in 1990. His mother remarried in 2001 to the late Rev. Frank Morrison who died in 2011. His mother passed in 2014
Rance accepted Christ at a young age. He was an active member of Ward Chapter AME as a child. God blessed him with a beautiful voice, and he used it to bless many in the Muskogee area. He was an active member of Lt. Luke AME Church in Garland, Texas for several years.
Rance attended public school in the Muskogee School District graduating from Muskogee Manual Training High School in 1964. His achievements in high school are outlined in the book, Alliance Against the Odds, volume 2, by Dr. Charles Ledbetter. While in high school, Rance was a member of the football, basketball and baseball teams. He was also a member of the choir and Hi-Y Club. The choir was so good that they were invited to the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C. to sing for then Vice-President Hubert H. Humphrey.
He furthered his education after graduating from Manual Training High School in 1964 by attending Langston University. Rance joined the Langston University Concert Choir and was blessed to sing at the World’s Fair in New York. After his junior year in college, Rance enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on May 19, 1967. Upon enlistment, it was noted that on his birth certificate his last name was spelled Clemmons. He completed his tour of duty on May 18, 1971 and returned to Langston University, graduating in 1972 earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology. He continued post graduate work at North Texas State University, Denton, Texas.
He began his work career with the U.S. Government in 1972 working in the Office of Personnel Management where he garnered many recognitions and awards. He retired at the age of 50 at a GS 12 rank.
Rance was an avid sportsman. After retirement, he started a second career as a professional guide and Pro Bass fisherman. He also was a great cook, counselor and debater. He continued in these endeavors until health would no longer allow.
While a student at Langston University, Rance affiliated with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Later he became a member of the Prince Hall Masons, Blacks in Government, and the NAACP.
Rance and Gwendolyn Anderson were married November 10, 1967. They were blessed with two sons, Rance II and Ricco Donley. Rance was grateful for his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Marcellis DeAndre, Cherish Lynae, Marcuz Dante, and Kaiden Anthony Clemmons and DeAjene Donley Raymond. Haven and Aurelis Clemmons are his great grandchildren. Rance and Gwen celebrated their 50th. wedding anniversary November 10, 2017.
In addition, he leaves to mourn his sister, Dorris I. Patillar of Muskogee, Oklahoma. Two brothers, Donald R. Clemons, SR. (wife, Tania) of Houston, Texas and Henry A. Clemons (wife, Jean) of Nicholasville, Kentucky and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and other relatives and friends. One brother, Ira B. Clemons, Jr. preceded him in death.
*******
Betty Beck English
Betty Jean Beck was born May 10, 1946 in Eufaula, Oklahoma. She is the second of fourteen children born to Charley and Rosie English.
Betty attended Muskogee, Oklahoma Public School District. While she attended Sadler Middle School and Manual Training High School she was a member of the Student Honor Society. She finished high school in 1964. She attended Northeastern State College in Tahlequah, Oklahoma where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education in 1969 and a Master of Science in Reading in 1973.
While at Northeastern State College, Betty met Edward Beck and they married on September 16,1967. They were blessed with two children, Rebecca and Suzette.
She is a member of the Antioch Baptist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. There she is the coordinator of the Sunday School Department. She has been a Sunday school teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, and Sunday School Assistant Coordinator. She and her husband also worked with the Life Preservers as facilitators working with the young adult congregation.
Betty is a sophisticated lady of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She is an active member of the Alpha Upsilon Omega chapter in Langston, Oklahoma. She consistently serves as the chair of the Sisterly Relations Committee. In 2006 she was honored that Alpha Kappa Alpha published five of her Sisterly Relations activities in their book.
In the spring of 1969 Betty worked in a program observing teachers in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Tulsa using different teaching styles and techniques. In May of that year she was hired by the Tulsa Public Schools to teach at the Elementary school level. Throughout the many years that Betty taught she became very concerned about the students who were falling through the cracks of the system. She took it upon herself to seek further education to find a way to reach these students. She transferred to an elementary school that was on the at risk list. There she participated in a 2 year program which trained the teachers on how to implement the Marva Collinsââ?¬â?¢ teaching technique. She attended the Dr. Barbara Sizemore NABSE Education Excellency Workshop.
Betty was a Tulsa teacher consultant with the Equals program which was sponsored by the California Equals group. She also trained in the Ron Edmond Seminary program, as well as other various workshops. In 1998 Betty and her husband made the decision to form a private elementary school in the Tulsa area. That same year Betty took early retirement of 30 years from the Tulsa Public School system and the ABC Learning Academy was officially opened August of 1999. The school started with 4 students and has grown to an enrollment of 60 students, where Betty and 5 teachers broaden the minds of eager young children. The curriculum is Christian based while they use the phonetic approach as well as multiple learning styles and techniques.
********
Willie L. Granger
May 28, 1946 – November 03, 2020
Willie Lee Granger was born on May 28, 1946 in Schulenburg, Texas. He was the third of seven children born to Isom Gilmore and Beatrice (Visor) Granger.
Willie’s Uncle Raymond L. Granger wanted to help his Sister-in-Law raise his brother’s children so at age 12 he brought Willie to Muskogee and Uncle Raymond and Aunt Josephine Granger raised Willie as their own.
Willie became a member of Beebe Memorial C.M.E. Church serving in many capacities. He later moved his membership to Macedonia Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Larry Smith where he was a faithful attending member until his health failed.
Willie attended Sadler Jr. High School and Manual Training High School. He excelled academically, and his favorite activity was playing the Saxophone in the band. Willie graduated from MTHS in the Class of 1964, and went onto attend Central State University where he became a Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
Willie enlisted in the United States Air force where he served four years with a one year tour in Southeast Asia. Willie received an Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service November 8, 1969.
Upon returning from Military Service Willie enrolled in Northeastern State University were he graduated in May, 1974 with a Bachelors Degree in Marketing and Business Management. He went onto attend The Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science and received his Certification in Mortuary Science as an Embalmer and Funeral Director in 1978.
Willie operated Granger Funeral Home and Evening Spring Funeral Chapel until his retirement.
On November 3, 2020 Willie transitioned from this life at the age of 74. Willie is survived by his loving wife, Audrey Gayle Granger, Daughter, Lai Andrea (Dee) Granger, His one and only Grandson, Kaben Gandy; Two adopted children Timberleigh McGee and Bradley McGee; Two sisters, Erma Garrison of Killeen, TX and Catherine Jackson of Schulenburg, TX; One Brother James (Laura) Granger of Schulenburg, TX; His Mother-in-Law, Alfretta Ousley.
Willie is preceded in death by his first wife, Marcia Jennings Granger, Son, Jason Jennings Granger; Mother and Father Isom Gilmore and Beatrice Granger; Two Sisters Eula Houston and Ponnie Winkfield; Uncle Raymond Granger, Aunt Josephine Granger; Special Brother Winifred Cade.
A Home Going celebration will be conducted, Friday, November 13, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in the Oasis Church, 800 W. Peak Blvd, Muskogee, OK with Rev. Larry H. Smith, pastor of Macedonia Baptist church, eulogizing. Interment will follow in Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, OK with military honors, offered by Tinker AFB.
Visitation will be Wednesday, November 11th and Thursday, November 12th from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. in the Precious Memories Chapel of House of Winn Funeral Home, 2200 Military Blvd, Muskogee, OK.
*****
Jacobs, Richard Burnett 63
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, September 16, 1946; passed away in his Anaheim, CA home, October 27, 2009, of cardiac complications. Longtime fan of the Clippers and deeply loved by his family, Richard is survived by his mother, Suetta; wife, Alberte; two brothers, Donald and Goldman; sister, Donetta; two children, Richy and Raina; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives.
Services to be held November 14 at 11:00 a.m. at Rice Mortuary, 5310 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503. (310) 792-7599
*****
Willie McGee
May 8, 1946 – October 28, 2015
Willie “Bill” McGee, of Muskogee, was born May 8, 1946 and passed away October 28, 2015.Bill graduated class of 1964 from Manual Training High School and the Vo-Tech program specializing in cabinet making and welding. He married Brenda Walker in 1965 and later in life was united in marriage to George Jones on February 14, 1993.His lifetime of servitude includes: applying his skilled trade at Muskogee Ironworks and settling into a 39 year career at ACME where he retired from in 2012. Bill was preceded in death by his parents John & Mary McGee, sisters Sylvia, Helen, and Opaline, brothers in law Curtis Black & James Brown, sister in law Luisa McGee, great-niece Nicole Warren, nephews Timothy McGee & Darrell Epps, and great nephew Terrance McGee. Bill is survived by his wife George, daughter, Sabrina (Stacy) Coleman; sons Therron McGee and John Michael McGee; step children Adrian, Marcelias, Christopher, Jay and Heather Thibodo; brother John McGee; sisters Ida Mae Brown, Mabel Kinnell, and Linda McGee; nine brothers and sisters-in-laws; thirty two grandchildren, thirty four great-grandchildren, three great–great grandchildren and a host of family and friends. Bill is survived by his wife George, daughter, Sabrina (Stacy) Coleman; sons Therron McGee and John Michael McGee; step children Adrian, Marcelias, Christopher, Jay and Heather Thibodo; brother John McGee; sisters Ida Mae Brown, Mabel Kinnell, and Linda McGee; nine brothers and sisters-in-laws; thirty two grandchildren, thirty four great-grandchildren, three great–great grandchildren and a host of family and friends. A memorial service will be held Saturday November 7, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at the Bedouin Shrine Temple 201 South 6th St Muskogee. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bill’s life.
Published on November 6, 2015
*****
William A Oakley |
January 22, 1946 – August 24, 2010
passed away in San Fransisco,CA
******
Cecil Eugene Piercy, Jr.
September 13, 1946 – October 08, 2015
Cecil Eugene Piercy, Jr., 69, government administrator, a resident of Tulsa, OK; formerly of Muskogee, OK; transitioned into his heavenly home, Thursday, October 8, 2015 in Brookdale Living Center, Tulsa, OK.
On September 13, 1946 the Lord blessed Dorothy Mae Piercy and Cecil Eugene Piercy, Sr. with a son. Cecil Eugene Piercy, Jr. was born in Oklahoma City to two loving parents. The Piercy Family then moved to Muskogee, Oklahoma where Cecil, Jr. attended elementary school, Sadler Junior High School and later graduated from the Illustrious Manual Training High School in 1964.
Cecil, Jr. participated in various activities while in school. He enjoyed the Boy Scouts and he later achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He sang in various choirs in church and loved to perform in gospel musicals. He also was an avid bowler who enjoyed being around his team mates and competing in tournaments in the area.
Cecil, Jr. attended Bacone College in 1965 where he continued his hobbies of singing. He attended Bacone for two years before moving on the Northeastern Stated University. He later graduated from NSU with a Bachelors in Chemistry. Upon graduating from NSU Cecil, Jr. enlisted in the United States Air Force.
Cecil, Jr. attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio Texas. He later graduated basic training and was stationed at Holloman Air Force Base near Alamogordo, New Mexico. While stationed in New Mexico, Cecil Jr. continued his hobbies of singing and bowling. He made a lifelong connection with the Holly Family.
Cecil, Jr. remained on active duty until his Father Cecil, Sr. became ill. He then returned to Muskogee, Oklahoma to help his mother care for Cecil, Sr. Upon returning to Muskogee, Cecil, Jr. worked for Fansteel Metals as a chemist. He worked there for 25 years. Fansteel eventually closed and Cecil then went to work for the Veterans Administration Regional Office (VARO). While working for the VARO Cecil, Jr. helped countless veterans process their GI BILL claims for educational purposes. Cecil, Jr. served his community in various capacities: He was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Graduate Chapter and loved to serve his alma mater “MTHS”. He sang in various community programs around town and loved all of his friends unconditionally. If you were to ask him on occasion how he felt, his response was always “I am Blessed and HIGHLY Favored!”
In 1998 Cecil, Jr. retired from the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant. He continued to faithfully work for the VARO until April of 2013. Later that year he was diagnosed with Cancer. He battled Cancer for two years under the care of his family until his death on October 8, 2015.
Cecil, Jr. was loved by all who knew him. He is greatly missed in body and in spirit. His suffering has ended and he is indeed “BLESSED AND HIGHLY FAVORED”.
Cecil, Jr leaves to cherish his memory, a son, Cecil, III, two grandsons, Corey and Casey Piercy, four sisters, Delores Williams, Saundra (Stanley) Evans, Patricia Piercy, Charlotte (Delbert) DeWitty, and a host of nephews, nieces and many other relatives and friends to celebrate his passing.
A Home Going Service will be conducted, Friday, October 16, 2015, 10:00 a.m., Rayfield Baptist Church, 601 Indianapolis Street, Muskogee, OK; with Rev. Antonio Porter, eulogizing. Interment will follow in Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, OK. Full military honors performed by Tinker Air Force Base
******
Albert Gene Porter
February 18, 1946 – June 15, 2017
Albert Gene Porter was born on February 18, 1946 in Muskogee, Oklahoma. He was the sixth of twelve children born to Robert Arthur and Fannie Elizabeth [Jackson] Porter.
Although Albert was born with a physical disability, he demonstrated often that what shaped him most weren’t his circumstances, but how he chose to react to them. He always received the support of his family. He knew that his dreams could not become reality through magic and that it would take determination and hard work to become successful.
Albert was educated by homebound teachers in grades first through eighth. After reaching high school, he was educated by a telecommunications system linking his home to Manual Training High School. He became a proud graduate of the Manual Training High School Class of 1964. After high school, Albert and his dad worked on televisions and were remembered as the technicians that repaired everyone’s television around the neighborhood.
Albert continued to be an avid reader and loved politics, as well as other news stories. He was currently following the presidential administration in office now. He was also a big Oklahoma Sooner football fan and was just waiting on the season in anticipation of what it would be like with a new coach.
Living in his new home was a big relief for Albert and he loved the restoration and new decorations by his sister, Jeanette Ceasar, allowing for more time for regular conversations. He also loved spirited talks with his brothers Dennis and Jerry, nephew Victor Caesar and his friend, William Syrus, Sr. He often talked about how the friendship and love of these individuals meant so much to him.
After a brief illness, Albert Gene Porter, in his 71st year, passed away on June 15, 2017 in the comfort of his own home. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Fannie Porter; his sisters, Alice Hitchye, and LaVerne Owens; his brothers, Robert Porter, Jr., Raymond Porter, Sr., and Phillip Porter.
Remaining to cherish his memory; his siblings, Jerry Porter, Benicia, California, Jeanette Ceasar, Muskogee, Oklahoma, Maria Rowland, Muskogee, Oklahoma, Michael Porter, Benicia California, Dennis Porter, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Phyllis Porter, Muskogee, Oklahoma; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and caretakers.
A Memorial Ceremony will be shared on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 10:30 AM in The Chapel of Remembrance at the funeral home in Muskogee.
Brother Eric Rodgers, Pastor of the 18th & Denison Church of Christ will officiate.
To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Albert Gene Porter, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
Services
Memorial Service
Saturday, June 24, 2017
10:30 AM – 11:45 AM
Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. – Muskogee
549 South 6th Street West
Muskogee, Oklahoma 74401
*****
Norman Puckett
Norman Lee Puckett was born July 10, 1946 in Oktaha, Oklahoma to Elnora and Walter Puckett Sr. Norman graduated from Manual Training High School in 1964. He attended Langston University where he received a degree in Mathematics in 1968. After graduation, he began his teaching career in Topeka, KS. He retired from teaching at Muskogee High School in 1999. Norman was drafted into the United States Army and served in Vietnam as Sergeant First Class. He was honorably discharged. Norman was drafted into the United States Army and served in Vietnam as Sergeant First Class. He was honorably discharged. Norman had five children, Angela Renee (Stoney) Currin, Catherine Puckett (Dustin) Givens, Michelle Monique Puckett, Norman Lee (Nichol) Puckett II and Robert Derrick (Miya) Puckett. Norman touched many lives as a teacher and basketball coach. He also had a great love for tennis. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Walter Puckett, Sr., daughter, Angela Renee Currin, and grandson, Timothy Wright. Norman leaves to cherish his memory, four remaining children, two sisters, Louise Stewart, Oklahoma City, OK; and JoAnn Christian, of the home; brother, Willie Puckett, Sr., California, two very special aunts, Parlee Rucker and Letha Williams, a special cousin, Patricia Reed, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends who will hold a special place in their hearts for Norman Lee Puckett. A Home Going Celebration will be conducted Monday, July 6, 2015, 11:00 a.m., Rayfield Baptist Church, 601 Indianapolis Street, Muskogee, OK; with Rev. Leroy Walker Sr., eulogizing. Interment will follow in Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, OK. Visitation will be Sunday, July 5, 2015, 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. The family has been cared for by Granger-House of Winn Funeral Home.
Published on July 5, 2015
*****
Kenneth Teague, Sr.
August 15, 1946 – May 14, 2006
Mr. Kenneth Teague, Sr., age 59 and a resident of Tulsa, left for Glory on Sunday, May 14, 2006 from St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa.
Funeral services will be on Saturday, May 20, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. in Timothy Baptist Church, 5530 West Okmulgee Avenue.
Visitation will be on Friday from 12 Noon until 7 PM at the funeral home in Muskogee.
Kenneth Eugene Teague, Sr., arrived in Muskogee, Oklahoma on August 15, 1946, much to the delight of his parents, Roy T. and Juanita [Miller] Teague, Sr. “Kenny”, as he was referred to by family and friends, was the third of nine children in this family.
He became a member of Macedonia Baptist Church at an early age. He grew up in Muskogee, where he attended Langston Elementary School, Sadler Junior High School and ultimately graduated from Historic Manual Training High School with the Class of 1964.
His employment began with Wagner Buick for many years before starting his own business, “Teague’s Garage,” where he continued to work until his health began to fail.
Kenneth was married to Dorothy Simpson and their union bore two children. This union was later dissolved. He later married Idella Brady and this union was blessed two more sons.
After 59 years, Kenneth Eugene Teague, Sr., surrendered his Soul on Sunday, May 14, 2006 from Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Remaining to cherish his memory; his loving wife, Idella Teague, of the home in Tulsa, Oklahoma; his children, Kenneth [Felicia] Teague, Jr., Tracie [Devin] Dennis, Kaycie Teague, all of Muskogee, Oklahoma,Andre [Kelli] Brady, Yelm, Washington and Leet Brady, Boston, Massuchusetts; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; his siblings, Roy T. [Espanola] Teague, Jr., Lillian [James] McVay, Merlie [Carnell] Allen, Wayne [Barbara] Teague, Janice Teague, Pamela [Peter] Rowland, Jerome Teague and Tonya[Richard] Brooks; a devoted mother-in-law, Verta Grant, Muskogee, Oklahoma; along with a caravan of other relatives and friends. who loved him dearly.
*****
EW Thomas
October 4, 1946 – February 13, 2013
Mr. EW Thomas transitioned into Eternal Rest early Wednesday Morning, February 13, 2013 in Tulsa. His services will be Wednesday February 20, 2013 at 11AM at Shiloh Baptist Church in Tulsa. Friends may visit Mr. Thomas on Tuesday from 12Noon until 7PM in Tulsa.
*****
Linda Wilks (Wilson)
Linda Jean Wilks of Muskogee, Oklahoma
March 7, 1946 – September 6, 2021
Mrs. Linda Wilks, in her 75th year, went to be with the Lord on Monday, September 6, 2021.
A baby girl named Linda was born to Linzy Wilson and Imogene (Merritt) Wilson on March 7 1946 in Muskogee, OK. As a child, Linda was active in church at Mt. Zion Baptist Church serving in many capacities. She was baptized at an early age there by Rev. E.V. Brown, but Rev. James McDaniel was the pastor primarily but was followed by Rev. Paul Washington, Rev. McKinley Craft, Rev. J. G. Whitfield, and Rev. David Ragsdale Jr.
Linda’s love for music was inspired by her special cousin Shirley Hudson. They both received music lessons from Mrs. Hattie Solomon student. Mrs. Solomon gave Linda a good foundation re: hymns, classical music, and the courage to serve as accompaniment for those who had no pianist. Further, Linda describes another favorite Solomon student, Rev. Gregory Fields. Linda received her diploma from Manual Training High School (Class of 1964) and was a member of the State and National Honor Societies.
Later, Linda earned her Bachelors of Science Degree in Education from Northeastern State University with a Minor in Accounting. Her career spanned many diverse roles: Cost Accountant at Coburn Manufacturing Company as well as Personnel Assistant at Oklahoma Children’s Center in Taft, OK. Later, Linda transferred to Hissom Center in Sand Springs, OK as a Personnel Assistant. Next, Linda transferred to Muskogee County Office as Typist Clerk III.
During Linda’s adult life, she married a young man who visited her home on a regular basis from her early childhood forward Clenton Wilks. This wonderful union provided them with two daughters, Candi and Christy. Later in her life, she took her niece Roshelle (White) Johnson under her wing due to Elaine/Imogene/Linzy’s passing. Linda was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church serving as pianist for 24 yrs until her health failed. Linda sang in the Senior Choir at Mt. Zion after that. Linda later became a member of Little Rose Baptist Church, Rev. Paul Washington was pastor until he passed and Rev. David Ragsdale III became her next pastor.
When Linda’s health was failing, she received loving care from Carter Home Health. On September 6, 2021, Linda was called from her physical strains to glory to see her Savior face to face. Those waiting to welcome her home were her husband, parents, grandparents, sister Elaine, and many other relatives. Linda leaves behind to cherish her memory, her daughters Candi Washington (Barthel Lowe) of Muskogee and Christy (Deon) Washington of Oklahoma City, niece Roshelle White Johnson of Oklahoma City; special brother-in-law Charles Wilkes (Ladonna Maxwell) of Muskogee; 4 grandchildren Lauren, Nathaniel, Callie, and Christopher; great-nieces Lindsey, Ahmawayna, Zaquaya, great-nephew Jeremiah, great-great-nephews Hezekiah, Zechariah, Joel, Little Rose Missionary Bapt Church family and a whole host of other family and friends.
Her sacred farewell will be on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 10:00 AM in the Little Rose Baptist Church. Reverend Evangelist Gregory Fields will officiate and Reverend David Ragsdale, III, the gracious host Pastor, will give the Eulogy Burial will follow in the Booker T. Washington Cemetery.