Parks Brothers Funeral Service - Chandler

10/29/2025

Gas prices are a roller coaster week to week. It is unfortunate that we cannot lock in gas prices from when it was less than $1 a gallon. You can however lock in the price of your burial or cremation TODAY. Let's get you plans in place so your loved ones won't have to worry how they will pay for your funeral.

10/28/2025

Pamela Sue Davis

Pamela Sue Davis, 45, passed away on Monday morning, October 27, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Pam was born on June 1, 1980, in Hollis, Oklahoma, to Raymond and Lois Oliver. She attended school in Hollis, graduating from Hollis High School in 1999. She later went on to further her education, earning an Associate of Arts degree in 2020, a Bachelor of Science in Business in 2022, and a Master’s in management in 2024.

Pam made her career as a loan officer in Dallas, Texas, for several years before settling in Chandler, Oklahoma, where she has lived since 2012. She loved cooking for others, visiting the casino, and singing. Pam was known for her generous heart and her willingness to help anyone in need.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Lois Oliver; and by members of the Davis, Dickson, and Oliver families.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Danielle Chatman and Alex Chatman; her boyfriend, Robert Damon Parrot; brother and sister-in-law, Kennon and Jessica Wade; sister and brother-in-law, Jeramie and Jaqueline Elkins; her “second mom,” Linda Shuck; sisters, Tasha Davis and Vicky Oliver; brother, Raymond Oliver Jr.; ten nephews; six nieces; aunt, Sue Dickson; uncle, Robert Davis; along with a host of cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

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10/10/2025

Liam Reece Fischer

Liam Reece Fischer was born on, and received back into the arms of Jesus, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at OU Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Son of Joshua David and Emily Kay (Blackwell) Fischer, Liam was a much beloved and eagerly anticipated baby boy. Though his journey here on earth was brief, his life made a huge impact on his entire family and community. He was, and will continue to be, cherished by everyone who shared in his life.

Liam was preceded in death by:

One miscarried sibling.

His father’s twin sibling, who was lost before birth.

His paternal great-grandparents: Walter and Patricia Fischer and Daniel and Selma Anderson.

Maternal great-grandparents: Troy and Geneva Blackwell and Paul and Leona Wollenberg.

Those left to cherish Liam’s memory include:

His Parents.

One Sister, Avery Micah Fischer.

His Grandparents: Eric (Pa) and Martha (Mimi) Fischer and Rick (Opa) and Melonie (Oma) Blackwell.

7 Uncles, 6 Aunts, 10 Cousins and a host of extended family members.

A Graveside Memorial Service for Liam will be conducted on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 10:30 am, at Oak Park Cemetery in Chandler, with Pastor Rick Blackwell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family are asked to prayerfully consider making gifts to assist in the defraying of medical costs and end-of-life expenses. In addition to gifts of cash or checks payable to the Fischers, you may also share gifts via Venmo at -Fischer-40.

Once again, thank you for your outpouring of love, kindness and generosity throughout this difficult time.

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10/08/2025

10/01/2025

May Antionette Rice

May Antionette Rice, of Chandler, maiden name Young, was born in Oklahoma City, August 15th, 1970, to Rayvone Young and Robert Young. She passed on September 26th, 2025, at the age of 55 in her home surrounded by family.

May spent her childhood in Oklahoma City and moved to Chandler in her teenage years and attended Chandler High School. She was a loving mother to three children, her daughter Randisha Young, and two sons James Young, and Joshawa Torrance. She spent her years as a homemaker caring for her children and had many friends and family. She enjoyed family get-togethers, dancing and westerns. Always the life of the party. She was like a mom to a lot of people. She remarried in her later years and spent the duration of time with family and friends.

May was preceded in death by her late husband James Marshall of Luther; and her parents Rayvone Young and Robert Young.

Those left to mourn her absence are her current husband, Howard Rice; her three children and four grandchildren, Nathan Bartell, Onyxx Bartell, James Young III, and Ezekiel Torrance; her two sisters Sonia Albert and Debra Hines, along with a host of family and friends.

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09/30/2025

Jenny Warden Pratka

Jenny Warden Pratka, of Prague, OK, passed away on September 28, 2025, at the age of 73. She was born on July 14, 1952, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to Robert “Short” Warden and Katherene Suggs Warden. Jenny graduated with the Prague High School Class of 1970, a proud member of the basketball team.

Jenny’s journey through life was marked by her boundless energy, work ethic, and a deep love for her family. A master of many trades, Jenny worked as a dental assistant and billing clerk, but her greatest joy came from her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, and her presence in their lives was nothing short of extraordinary.

After the passing of her best friend and boss, Jenny began working alongside her beloved husband, Jerry Pratka. Jenny married Jerry in Las Vegas on January 31, 1997 and began their life together. Together, they built a life centered around hard work and shared passion. Whether tying steel or shoveling sand, Jenny was never one to shy away from a challenge, always giving her best.

When Jerry had the idea of opening a restaurant, Jenny poured herself into the project. Over the next two years, she ensured it was not only a place of excellent food but also one of beauty. She even let Jerry select the ceiling for the back room, but she quickly decided that it was too perfect not to be part of her vision, and it became a signature part of the décor.

As Jenny decided to “retire,” her focus shifted to her home and the Seminole Church of Christ, where she found joy and fulfillment in serving her church family. She spent countless hours tending to her sprawling 80-acre property, particularly enjoying mowing the 10 acre "lawn".

Above all, Jenny's greatest joy came from her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She loved them fiercely and was always there with open arms, offering support, wisdom, and a listening ear. She never missed a birthday, holiday, or special event. No matter what was going on, she showed up with love, support, and a warm smile. She made everyone feel special just by being there. Her constant presence and kindness meant the world to them and her love will stay with them forever.

Jenny is survived by her loving husband, Jerry Pratka; children Jason Wi******er, Rob Wi******er (wife Kristi), Josh Pratka (wife Carrie), Marria Pratka; grandchildren JC Pratka (wife Hanna and children Titan and Jette), Samantha Pratka (husband Connor and daughter Launna), Gavin Vickers (wife Hannah and daughter Maizy), Kati Stahlman (husband Dalton and daughter Blakely), Kallie Stahlman (wife Caylen McGirt), Sydney Hamilton (husband Zane and daughter Lorelei), Anna Wi******er, Julie Brydon, and Courtney Brydon; brother Doug Warden, nephew Rob Warden (and children Sam, Lily, and Molly), niece April Humphrey (husband Carey, children Jordan and Cole (wife Casey & daughter Brooks); sisters Sandy Dean, Debbie Garcia, Sherrie Lyon, and Pat Snyder, and many other beloved family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

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09/25/2025

Linda Kay Peterson

Linda Kay Peterson, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, departed this world on September 19, 2025, in her hometown of Prague, Oklahoma, at the age of 74. Born on October 4, 1950, in Prague, Linda was the cherished daughter of Thomas Edgar "Junior" Gregory and Delores Ann (Gerlich) Gregory. A proud graduate of Prague High School’s Class of 1968, Linda went on to build a life full of love and laughter.

On December 5, 1973, she married the love of her life, Chester Lee Peterson, in Gainesville, Texas. Their love story began at Dairy Cup in Seminole, where Linda worked and Chester charmingly asked her, “When are you going to marry me?” Their nearly 46 years of marriage were filled with joy, raising their two sons, Clint "CD" Self and Joshua Peterson, and creating countless memories through family vacations and fishing trips.

Linda’s family was the cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose warmth and kindness touched all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by her two sons, CD Self and his wife Sierra and Joshua Peterson; six cherished grandchildren—Stacy McKee and husband Paul, Christain Self, Kyle Self, Kallie Self, Hunter Self, and C**t Self; four great-grandchildren, Ronan McKee, April Self, Clifford Self and Isabella McKee. Linda also leaves behind two loving sisters and a host of family and friends who will miss her dearly.

Preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Chester, Linda’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her memory will be celebrated by all who were fortunate enough to be part of her life’s journey.

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09/25/2025

James Jefferies Farris

James Jefferies Farris of Davenport, Oklahoma, 55, passed away Friday, September 19, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Born April 10, 1970, in Fresno, California, to James Jefferies Farris II and Mildred Ann (Simpson) Coppola, James grew up between Fresno and Davenport. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy as a Damage Controlman before building a long career in the oil field, railroad construction, fiber optics, heavy machinery, road work, and several years at Timco in Bristow.

James loved riding his motorcycle, shooting his guns, fishing, hunting, and gathering around a bonfire drinking a beer with friends. Known for his humor, big heart, and stubborn streak - that he passed on to all of his children, he cherished his family above all else.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Terri Farris, brother David Farris, and nieces Chanel Baker, Courtney Nessen, and Rachel Long, and a nephew, Joe Bobbitt.

He is survived by his partner, Cherry Sowers; his six children, Mildred Alexandria “Alex” Farris, Tai Knapp, Destiny Farris, Annie Dickerson, Chelsea Davis, and Kalene Adams; and eleven grandchildren, Mila, Elliot, Ian, Arabella, Jae, Owen, Isabella, Poppy, Cael, Ira, and John Michael. He is also survived by brothers Curtis Smith and Jerry Long; sisters Debra Baker, Tara Farris, Kristie Raymond, Kay Farris, and Paula Villeneuve; sixteen nieces and nephews —Ashley Farris, her daughter Miracle Farris, Brittany Farris, her children Brett, Bailey and Bella, Steven Baker, Heather Zinni, her son Braden Long, Amy Long, her sons Ethan and Eli, Michelle Kitchens, her children Stormi and Dylan, Jerica Long, her children Rylan and Carter, Jerry Long “JD” Jr., Cheri Nessen, Bridget Villeneuve, Kyle Villeneuve, Ryan Raymond, Ashley Raymond, Landon Raymond, Amanda Roberts, and Hypatia Fleeting along with many more great nieces and nephews.

He leaves behind lifelong best friends Robert Berry and Josh Tipton, and close family friends Holly Dickerson-Ingram, Stacy Farris-Easley, Misty Adams, and Shelly Dickerson-Ingram, as well as many more friends and loved ones across the country.

James will be remembered as a giant kid at heart who lived his life fully, loved deeply, and left lasting memories with all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds”

James’s family will be holding a memorial service at approximately 6:00 PM, on Saturday, September 27th, 2025, at Davenport First Baptist Church, Davenport, Oklahoma.

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09/22/2025

Geneva Lou Keef

Geneva Lou Keef, long-time Chandler, Oklahoma resident, was born on November 7, 1943, and departed this life on September 19, 2025, in Chandler, OK, at home, at the age of 81 years.

Geneva was the daughter of Arthur D. and Luceal (Brown) Danker. She attended Springdale School and graduated from Chandler Public Schools in 1961. After graduation, Geneva lived an exciting life with her two daughters, moving to Kansas and California. In 1967, Geneva and the girls returned to Chandler, where she worked as a seamstress at Deiner Mills Sewing Factory. Following the sewing factory, she started her real estate career with Ball Auction Service. She met the love of her life, Lonnie in 1978, and they started LD’s Wrecker Service. In 1999, she retired from real estate, where she worked full-time with Lonnie. After Lonnie passed in 2019, Geneva sold LD’s Wrecker Service to enjoy more time with her family. She enjoyed reading, watching the OKC Thunder, traveling to Branson with family, and supporting her grandchildren in everything - but truly LOVED being Meme G to her great grandchildren. She was a bright spirit who was always willing to help anyone.

Her husband, Lonnie Keef; her parents, Arthur and Luceal Danker; one brother, Delbert Lee; and 4 sisters, Betty Morton, Flossie Bridges, Wanda Miller, & Lorena Stephens, preceded Gevena in death.

Survivors include her two daughters and sons-in-laws; Vicky and Tony Jarvis of Chandler, and Deedee and John Peterman of Chandler; 4 grandchildren; Cheyanna Wunderlich and husband Zack of Chandler, Kady Farasyn and Husband Cody of Chandler, C**ton Jarvis and wife Liza of Dallas, TX and Connor Jarvis of Chandler, 4 great-grandchildren; Cruz, Kaylee, Ryder and Cason; 1 blessed god daughter Jenny Craig-Brown and her family; 2 sisters; Alice Patterson of Sparks, OK and Dorris Burchett of Lexington, OK; 1 brother and sister in law, Doyle and Sue Danker of Manhattan KS; many nieces and nephews; many more great nieces and nephews; and a village of wonderful friends.

The family would like to offer our sincerest gratitude to the wonderful nurses and aides at Luminous, Barbara Mathis and Melissa Jackson for helping care for Geneva.

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09/17/2025

Come see at Senior Day The Oklahoma State Fair . Free event and free admission to all seniors!

09/16/2025

Debbie Kay Williams

Debbie Kay Williams, 69, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Born on July 7, 1956, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Debbie was the daughter of Jay C. and Winifred Rachel (Hayford) Swartz. In 1962, at the age of six, Debbie and her family moved to Tulsa, where she grew up and graduated from McLain High School in 1974.

That same year, Debbie married Jim Williams at Garnett Assembly of God in Tulsa. The couple later renewed their vows on December 31, 1980, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, also in Tulsa.

Debbie built a career in office management and bookkeeping. She owned and operated an Excel bookkeeping company for several years, worked as a tax representative for Hilti in Tulsa, and managed offices for Hertz Equipment Rental in Oklahoma City and Zap Plumbing in Grove, Oklahoma.

In March of 2022, Debbie and Jim relocated to Chandler, Oklahoma to be closer to family. Family was at the heart of Debbie’s life. She treasured every moment with her children and grandchildren, who often joined her in activities she loved - whether swimming, painting, gardening, or shopping. She especially enjoyed time spent by her pool, watching hummingbirds, and riding her Sea-Doo Jet Ski, a skill in which she became well experienced.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Jay and Winifred Swartz; a sister, Carol Steen; brothers, Bill Springer and Danny Springer; and her father-in-law, Buryl J. Williams Sr.

Debbie is survived by her husband of over 50 years, Jim Williams; sons, BJ Williams, and Brian Williams, and his wife, MaryAnn Williams; a daughter, Stephanie Streets and her husband Thomas Streets; 3 grandchildren, Benjamin Williams, Brody Williams, and Tyler Streets; her brother, Alan Jay Swartz; and a sister, Winifred Grace Clark; several nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other family members and friends.

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09/15/2025

Jerry Randall Rickner

Jerry Randall Rickner, 83, longtime resident of Chandler, Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025.

Jerry was born at home on March 9, 1942, in Oilton, Oklahoma to Russell and Blanche (Adams) Rickner. He graduated from Drumright High School in 1960, where he was voted “Most Likely to Succeed.” He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in animal science from Oklahoma State University in 1965 and also served in the United States Army.

On August 10, 1965, Jerry married Treva Hesser at her parent’s home in Stillwater, Oklahoma. In 1985, they relocated to Chandler where they made their home. Jerry and Treva recently celebrated 60 wonderful years together.

Jerry devoted his life to dairy farming. He worked alongside his father-in-law for 13 years in Stillwater before owning and operating Rickner Dairy with his sons in Chandler, retiring in 2004.

Jerry was a longtime member of the First Christian Church in Chandler. He loved the Lord and will be remembered by his humility, dedication, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life.

Above all, Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He cherished time spent with his family, especially watching his grandchildren in their sports, dance and FFA activities. Jerry also loved carving, making many different things from wood and enjoyed watching Oklahoma State and the OKC Thunder.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Blanche Rickner; and infant son, Roger; sisters Judy and Linda; and brothers, David and Mike.

He is survived by his wife, Treva; sons, Steve Rickner and wife Krista, and Kevin Rickner and wife Debra; grandchildren Nathan Rickner and wife Amrita, Mason Rickner and wife Caitlin, Charity Dempsey and husband Brawley, Cobie Yates and husband Ashton, and Blake Rickner and wife Brooklyn; great-grandchildren, Mila, Sylvie and C**ter Rickner, Walker Dempsey and great-granddaughter to be, Della Jayne Dempsey; his sister Peggy Pinson and brother Ronnie Rickner; as well as a host of other family members and dear friends.

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09/12/2025

Kathleen Hecker

Kathleen Hecker, a lifelong resident of Prague, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at her home on September 12, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on July 21, 1929, in Prague, the daughter of Samuel Hopkins Thompson and Roxie Ethel (Hobbs) Thompson.

While Glenn Elwood Hecker Jr. was serving in the U.S. Air Force, Kathleen met the love of her life. The two were married on May 3, 1952, in Prague, where they built their home and raised their family. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership that lasted until Glen’s passing on February 14, 2015. Together, they raised five children—Trey, Susan, Carol, Rita, and Jeannie—who were the joy of her life.

Kathleen dedicated many years of service to BancFirst of Prague, where she developed lasting relationships and retired as a Vice President. She was also a faithful member of Pleasant Home Baptist Church, where she found great strength in her faith and community.

A skilled seamstress, knitter, and crocheter, Kathleen’s hands were rarely still. She was especially known for her handmade washcloths, which she gifted generously to anyone who would accept them. Her heart was fullest when her home was filled with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gathered around her table enjoying one of her home-cooked meals. She was a genealogical encyclopedia for the Prague and Paden areas, keeping her sharp mind engaged by preserving family and community history.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Glenn Elwood Hecker Jr.; her son-in-law, Dennis Cannon; her great-great-grandson, Ezekiel Guillory; her brother, Onis William Thompson; her sisters, Lorene Young and Ednamae Marsh; brothers-in-law, Sy Young, Harold Garner, and Noel Marsh; and sister-in-law, Juanita Thompson Coffey.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Glenn E. Hecker III (Trey) and his wife, Cecilia; four daughters, Susan Cannon, Carol Smith and her husband, Les, Rita Martin and her husband, Terry, and Melanie “Jeannie” Goodner and her husband, Mark. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren—April Cannon, David Cannon and wife, Mindy, Samantha Day and husband, Brett, Kerry Smith and wife, Sarah, Clint Smith and wife, Lindsey, Candice Smith and husband, Jerry, Shayne Smith, Megan Hecker, Madeline Hecker, Samuel Hecker, Jennifer Blocker and husband, Chad, and Julie Blackwell and husband, Duncan. Her legacy continues through her many great-grandchildren—Alexis Cross, Braden Cross, Kane Rogers, Harli Rogers, Seth Rogers, Hannah Day, Tyler Day, Gracin Cannon, Alivia Cannon, Holden Cannon, Brooklynn Guillory and her husband, Spencer, Lukas Smith, Faith Smith, Dallas Smith, Hannah Smith, Jentezen Smith and his wife, Isabella), Lyla Smith, Russell Smith, Addie Evans, Noah Evans, Cooper Smith, Brody Smith, Graham Smith, Magnolia Smith, Emilia Linn, Glenn Smith, Madison Blocker, Allison Blocker, Emerson Blocker, Ezra Blackwell, Owen Blackwell, Eamon Blackwell, and Wyeth Blackwell—as well as her great-great-grandchildren, Rozalynn Cross and Kayce Rogers. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will deeply miss her.

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09/11/2025

We are excited to spotlight and to celebrate fellow Lion, Steve Lankford, as our Lion of the Day.

Steven Lankford joined the Prague Lions Club in 2025 and is passionate about serving his community. He works as a Care Specialist at Parks Brothers Funeral Service, where he focuses on funeral prearrangements, monument design and sales, and aftercare services. Steven is a proud father to his son, Jacob, and grandfather to his beloved granddaughter, Evelyn. He enjoys spending time outdoors and cheering on his favorite teams—the Buffalo Bills, LA Dodgers, Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Actively involved in various Chambers of Commerce and civic organizations across Lincoln County, Steven’s favorite part of being a Lions Club member is the opportunity to give back to the community he loves.

09/01/2025

Jerry Ish Williams

Jerry Ish Williams, 89, passed away peacefully at his home in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Monday morning, August 25, 2025.

Jerry was born on April 22, 1936, in Lexington, Kentucky, to Thomas Milton and Mary Louise (Littrell) Williams. He grew up in Lexington and, at a young age, accepted Jesus as his Savior at Grace Baptist Church.

In 1953, Jerry graduated from Clark County High School in Wi******er, Kentucky, where he played basketball. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army. He later earned an associate degree in business from the University of Kentucky.

On August 16, 1970, Jerry married Mary Elizabeth Banks in Seco, Kentucky. Together, they built a loving marriage that spanned 55 years, celebrating their anniversary just days before his passing.

Jerry began his career in insurance with American Mutual in Lexington. In 1989, he and Mary relocated to Chandler, where he worked as an underwriting manager for NAICO until his retirement.

A devout and faithful Christian, Jerry was deeply committed to serving the Lord and his community. He served as treasurer at David's Fork Baptist Church and as a deacon at Glen's Creek Baptist Church, both in Kentucky, as well as treasurer at First Baptist Church in Chandler. Over the years, he also taught junior high Sunday school, sang at the Chandler Nursing Home, and faithfully volunteered for more than 20 years at the God & People’s Food Pantry in Chandler.

Outside of work and ministry, Jerry enjoyed watching sports, especially Cincinnati Reds baseball, and in his younger years, playing softball.

Jerry will be remembered as a kind and genuine man with a quick wit and sharp sense of humor. He had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, often checking in on old friends and even the friends of his children. His legacy is one of faith, service, and love for others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, two brothers, and his sister. Jerry is survived by his devoted wife, Mary; brother Gil Williams and wife Julie of Florida; sister-in-law Debbie Williams of Kentucky; daughter Mary Rossdeutscher and husband Karl of South Carolina; son David Williams and wife Cheryl of Louisiana; three grandsons: Wesley, Josiah, and Brody; and two great-grandsons: Trey and Oliver.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Chandler Fire Department or God & People’s Pantry. Both organizations have meant a lot to Jerry and Mary over the years.

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08/26/2025

Lorna Mae Geist

Lorna Mae Geist, of McLoud, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at home on August 24, 2025, at the age of 78. She was born on August 20, 1947, in Lincoln, Nebraska, the daughter of Alfred LaVaughn Straw and Marguerite (Kennedy) Straw. After the loss of her mother at a young age, her beloved aunt, Florence Frazier, stepped in to help raise her with love and guidance.

On July 20, 1968, Lorna married the love of her life, Brian J. Geist, in Olathe, Kansas. They shared nearly 47 years of marriage until his passing on January 15, 2015. Together they raised three daughters, who were the joy and pride of her life: Deanna, Shawn, and Danielle.

Lorna’s life was rich in love, service, and faith. For nearly 40 years, she was a faithful member of Faith Community Church of God in Shawnee, where she also taught Sunday School. She worked many years at Meeker Nursing Home, where she was known for staying long after her shift ended, simply to sit with and comfort the residents. She later ran her own home daycare, where countless children fondly called her “Nanny,” and she kept track of their lives long after they were grown.

Her home and heart were always full. She loved decorating for every holiday—especially Christmas—when her house would sparkle with as many as five trees and her treasured snowman collection. One of her favorite traditions was the “grandkid tree,” lovingly adorned with ornaments commemorating her grandchildren’s milestones. She was also a gifted cook, making everything from scratch, and a devoted shopper with a special fondness for “GW”—her affectionate name for Goodwill.

Lorna was preceded in death by her parents, her aunt Florence Frazier, her husband Brian Geist, her sister Wava Fern Guinn and Wava’s husband Jacky. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness in her family: three daughters, Deanna Moore and husband Kevin, Shawn Sprouse and husband Shane, and Danielle Morphew and husband Robert; eight grandchildren, Nicole Collins and husband Tim, Dale Moore and wife Shai, Kyle Moore, Shane Tackett and wife Amariah, Joel Tackett, Chad Tackett and wife Katelyn, Shelby Beal and husband Bo, and Brielle Cook and husband Aaron; twenty great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her brother, Jimmie Straw; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Lorna was one of a kind—full of goodness, always counseling and caring for others, and deeply devoted to her family. If she knew you, she loved you. She had a gift for expressing her love in unique ways, often saying, “A hug is with two arms, one is just a lean.” She was known for being able to remove any stain from any piece of clothing, for her love of reading and travel—especially the mountains of Alaska—and for her tireless devotion as a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Above all, Lorna’s family was her world. She often referred to her beloved late husband as “My Brian,” and the bond they shared continues in the family they built together.

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08/23/2025

Joann (Skaggs) Pickett

Joann (Skaggs) Pickett

November 4, 1934 – August 22, 2025

Joann went home peacefully on Friday, August 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Family

She is survived by her three daughters: Betty Makintubee and her husband Steve of Chandler, OK, Cherri Brown and her husband Ronnie of Carney, OK, and Janet Hall and her husband Lance of Tryon, OK; her grandchildren: Michele Hood and her husband Chuck of El Reno, OK, Michael Harris and his wife Joleen of Wellston, OK, Gerad Hall and his wife Samantha of Tryon, OK, Jodi Ortega and her husband Michael of Tryon, OK, Dustin Brown and his wife Jessica of Carney, OK, Lukas Brown and his wife Siara of Perkins, OK, and Dylan Makintubee of Chandler, OK; she was blessed with 17 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren.

Joann was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Nina Skaggs; her brothers Bob and Bill Skaggs; her granddaughter Kristal Harris Sanders; and her loving husband of 68 years, James “Sonny” Pickett.

Life and Legacy

Joann was born in Rush Springs, Oklahoma, and at a young age traveled from state to state with her family, working the fields picking cotton, hops, and strawberries. After years of traveling and camping along roadsides and lakes, the family eventually settled in Carney, OK.

It was there that, during a rain shower at an outdoor movie, Joann found herself taking refuge in Sonny’s truck—a meeting that would change her life. On September 27, 1952, Joann and Sonny married, beginning a life together filled with family, hard work, and love.

Together, they raised three wonderful daughters, hosted countless tea parties for grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and ran a successful dairy farm for 32 years. Joann was a dedicated member of her community, serving as an election clerk, a member of the Carney Home Demonstration Board, the Farmers Home Administration Board, and the Carney Christian Church.

A Life Well Lived

In later years, Joann traveled with her daughters to places like New York and Switzerland—and even enjoyed a Kid Rock concert. Through it all, her family remained her greatest joy.

She was able to remain at home during her final years with the loving support of her daughters, grandsons, and incredible caregivers: Beverly Clark, Terri Smith, Mattie Waldon, Torie Cartwright, and the compassionate team at Luminos Hospice.

Farewell

Her family fondly remembers her playful goodbye: “See ya later, alligator… after while, crocodile.”

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