Chaney-Harkins Funeral Home

Chaney-Harkins Funeral Home A Family Owned And Operated Funeral Home Committed To The Community. A Family Tradition Since 1889. A short time later, a fired destroyed most of the building.

Chaney's Funeral Home is one of the oldest funeral establishments in Oklahoma dating back to 1889. The firm was founded in 1889 and originally served Oklahoma territory as a trading post in Krebs. In 1909 the business was moved to Main and Cherokee in South McAlester. The Chaney family made it their mission to offer caring and personal service to all they served. However, George Chaney with his son Harry, rebuilt the business. When Mr. Chaney died Harry Chaney assumed charge. A third generation family member; George Chaney and his wife Lulu Marie, built the current location at Third and Comanche. Mr. Chaney died in 1967 and Mrs. Chaney took charge and managed the funeral home until 1978 when she sold the business to Mr. Denver D. Jones, Jr. In 1992 the funeral home was sold to a corporation. Stephen and Ruth Harkins bought the funeral home in December of 2000 and it again became an independent, family owned and operated funeral home. It is with great pride that Harkins Family carry out the commitment to excellence that was started long ago.

Edgar Leon Garner of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 at the age of 86.Leon was born on Aug...
10/02/2025

Edgar Leon Garner of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 at the age of 86.

Leon was born on August 22,1939 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Ernest Garner and Velma Jo (Goldman) Garner. He joined the United States Army in 1956 and received an honorable discharge in 1959. He married Donna DeNico.

Fredonia Jean Robinson Smith Vogle, 83, of McAlester, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, September 24, 202...
09/26/2025

Fredonia Jean Robinson Smith Vogle, 83, of McAlester, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.

She was born January 30th, 1942 to Elton Levi Robinson and Helen Rachel Yoss Robinson in McAlester, OK. She dearly loved her parents and was most excited to see her mother in Heaven, whom she lost at a young age.

Fredonia wanted nothing more in life than to have her family and friends around her. Likewise, in death she hoped all her friends and family would be there with her in Heaven.

She was a woman of grace who hoped God would show mercy on us all.

She was a woman of strong-will and determination that stayed on her feet and independent until the end - a characteristic she was born with and carried through every decade of her life.

She traveled all over the country with her husband, Jack, and loved telling stories about the museums and historical sites they visited. They went through a period where they visited a lot of cemeteries. That was kind of creepy. Otherwise, her stories and pictures were awesome.

McAlester, Oklahoma was the center of the world for her. She loved her home and her community. Deep into retirement, she was still helping local organizations with bookwork and guidance. Over the many decades, she held various positions in various clubs to the point where listing them independently would be ridiculous.

Fredonia was known for her dramatic flair. She was a flame that lit up the room and wasn't afraid to speak her mind, no matter the size of the group. In private, she was a woman of contemplation and carried a heavy burden to leave the world and people better than she found them.

She is survived by her daughter, Katheryn Jean Smith Lightle; grandson, Jason Thomas Lightle and wife Jessica Ann Lightle (who is the only person that Nana ever awarded the title of “Best Behaved") great-grandson, Levi Thomas Lightle and her siblings: Wallace Robinson, Shirley Robinson Carroll and Yvonne Robinson Workman.

She is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her nephew Ricky Workman and his wife Angie were a special counsel for her during her final months.

She is preceded in death by her husband Jack Vogle; her parents and her brother Bert Robinson.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Pastor Donnie King will be officiating. The burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Ricky Workman, Dustin Workman, Mark Bullard, Jason Lightle, Terry Richardson and Danny Sullins.

Gene “Tony” Phillip Carano, 80, of McAlester, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, September 22, 2025.The famil...
09/25/2025

Gene “Tony” Phillip Carano, 80, of McAlester, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, September 22, 2025.

The family will greet friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2025 at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 29, 2025 at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home with Danny Drake officiating. The burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Patrick “Pat” Skaggs, 83, of McAlester, went to be with the Lord on September 22, 2025. He was born on December 10, 1941...
09/25/2025

Patrick “Pat” Skaggs, 83, of McAlester, went to be with the Lord on September 22, 2025. He was born on December 10, 1941, in Billings, Missouri, to George Wade Skaggs and Lucille Harter Skaggs.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 26, 2025 at Lindsey Chapel Baptist Church, 116389 S. 4240 Road, Eufaula, OK burial will follow at Triplett Cemetery, 116335 S. 4246 Road, Eufaula, OK.

Pat was a devoted father, grandpa, brother, uncle, and a cherished friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, a decision that shaped the way he lived his life.

Known for wearing his signature overalls and ball cap 95% of the time, Pat had a big heart and a simple love for life. He enjoyed watching western movies and listening to old gospel music. One of his favorite traditions was attending the car show in Wilburton every year, where he admired classic cars and enjoyed the tap dancers. Pat was proud of his children—never missing a chance to brag about them—and he adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life.

He is survived by his children: daughter Michelle Gupton and husband Bill, daughter Patricia Russell and husband Kenneth and son Patrick Wade Skaggs and wife Angela; grandchildren: Brian Skaggs and wife Brenda, Jennifer Wells and husband Chris, Johnny “John” Kennedy and Beth, Derrick Russell and wife Ashley,
Theresa Moore and husband Jonathan, Joseph Russell and wife Tina, Josh Russell, Ashley Lirette and husband Kyle, Christian Skaggs, Heather Skaggs, Levi Skaggs, Caleb Skaggs, and Emma Skaggs; great-grandchildren: Abby Campbell, Kyra Kennedy, Cheyenne Russell, Maddi Wein, Addisyn Wells, Ally Skaggs, Kaycn Russell, Crosby Russell, Millie Lirette, and Ruby Russell.

He is also survived by his brothers: Mike Skaggs and David Skaggs.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, George Wade Skaggs and Lucille Skaggs, his sister Mary Lou Cox, and his brother Joseph “Joe” Skaggs.

Pat lived a life full of simple joys, strong faith, and unconditional love for his family. His stories, laughter, and steady presence will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Though he may no longer walk beside us, his legacy will continue through the lives he touched. We take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and resting in the arms of his Savior.

Daniel Anthony Rigazzi passed from this life on September 15, 2025 at the age of 95.Dan was born on May 21, 1930, in Har...
09/18/2025

Daniel Anthony Rigazzi passed from this life on September 15, 2025 at the age of 95.

Dan was born on May 21, 1930, in Hartshorne, Oklahoma to Dan and Gertrude Rigazzi. His father was an Italian immigrant who came to working the coal mines of Pittsburg County. His parents met as Gertrude was the cook for the miners. Her culinary gifts would be a hallmark for the family, creating delicious food that is still recalled fondly and set the tone for Dan’s life-long love of good food.

He was raised in a loving home with three sisters and two brothers who had their run of the neighborhood. They survived the Depression and the Second World War as brothers Bill and Leon served in the Untied States Army.

Dan felt cheated, he had missed the war and lied about his age (16) to enter the U.S. Army in 1946 for an 18-month enlistment. He returned to Harthorne and continued high school. With his $100 per month GI Bill, he was known as a clothes horse and consequently friends borrowed for special occasions.

A turning point in his life came at this juncture as he met the love of his life, Mary Patricia Oliver. Their attraction was instantaneous. Married on June 30, 1951, their union would last for 74 years as an example of love and devotion and marital commitment. When asked how he lived so long he replied, “I have to take care of your mother.” She in turn would say, “I have to take care of your father.” At varying physical infirmities throughout their lives, both lived up to that pledge.

Family was always paramount to Dan. Three sons were born of this union, Tony, Steve, and George, and he reveled in their accomplishments. At every sporting event, play, or concert, he made sure to attend and offer encouragement. Nothing pleased him more than when children and grandchildren came for the annual Christmas gathering. He loved to play and laugh with his grandchildren. One of the ways he showed his love was by making handmade fresh ravioli with Pat for the masses. He always requested mincemeat pie and declared, “it would not be Christmas without it”.

Another of Dan’s passions was sports. A life-long St. Louis Cardinal fan, he instilled that devotion to all three boys. Oklahoma Football was his Saturday obsession, listening to the radio broadcast before every game was televised.

His nieces and nephews loved to watch football with Uncle Dan, as they “learned new words”. Nothing gave him more pleasure than OU beating Michigan. Dan was a starting guard for the Hartshorne Miners Football team, weighing in at a whopping 145 pounds and a face maskless leather helmet. While he loved playing, he did complain about his “football knees”.

Faith played a major role in his life. He was active at All Saints Episcopal Church, as he sang in the choir and served as Senior Warden of the Vestry. He came back to the Catholic Church (he was baptized as a Catholic) in 1988 and along with Pat (who was the organist) continued to sing. In fact, he was a cantor at age 88!
He was truly a Renaissance Man as he dabbled in home repair (with varying degrees of success). Music was a major part of his life as he was a jazz aficionado and had a great interest in English church music.

He is survived by is wife, Pat; sons: Tony and wife, Sibyl of Collinsville, Illinois, Steve Rigazzi of Independence, Missouri, and George Rigazzi and wife, Stephanie of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; eleven grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren all of whom were proud to call him “Grandpa”.

It was indeed a life well lived as he was a kind and generous man who easily gave his love and in return received it. People marveled at his encyclopedic memory until the day he died. His magnetic personality, ready wit, and loving embrace will be severely missed by all. Well done, good and faithful servant!

Southeast Hospice became part of our family and we are grateful for the service offered and the loving care they provided.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 25, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist Church with the Very Reverend Jovita C. Okonkwo celebrating. The burial of cremains will follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery in Hartshorne, Oklahoma.

Lydia F. Garza, 89, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at her temporary residence in McAlester, Oklahoma.Born in ...
09/15/2025

Lydia F. Garza, 89, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, at her temporary residence in McAlester, Oklahoma.

Born in Edinburg, Texas, Mrs. Garza lived in Edinburg most of her life and was the wife of a veteran of the United States Air Force. She was a loving grandmother and great grandmother who loved to spoil her grandchildren. Her favorite past time was traveling and shopping for perfume, jewelry and all the finer things in life. Her laugh was contagious; she was always a joy to be around.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Noe E Garza; and her parents: Desiderio “Desi” and Lucinda “Lucy” Flores.

Mrs. Garza is survived by her daughter, Marissa (Jonathan) Boggs; a granddaughter, Amanda (Jacob) Salinas; two grandsons: Aaron S. (Kamron) Boggs, and Andrew S. (Hailey) Boggs; five great-grandchildren: Eleanor Jewel Boggs, Judah Boggs, Jace Salinas, Julia Joy Salinas, and Lydia Jo Salinas (on the way); three siblings: Oscar (Maria-Elena) Flores, Adela McCorkle, and Francis Garcia.

A memorial service will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025 at the Grace Party Place, 4001 W. university Drive, Edinburg, Texas 78539, dinner will be provided.

Flower may be delivered to the Grace Party Place on Friday, September 19, 2025 between the hours of 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Peaches and Cream Harkins, a beloved figure whose presence brou...
09/06/2025

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Peaches and Cream Harkins, a beloved figure whose presence brought comfort and joy to all who crossed her path. Peaches, known to some as Peaches and Sour Cream for her dual nature of sweetness with a dash of sass was more than just the funeral home cat. Her job description was simple: be there, be furry, and be loving. And boy, did she excel at it! She eagerly awaited the arrival of each visitor, ready to offer her unique brand of consolation.

Peaches's career as an Assistant at the funeral home was marked by her unwavering dedication to brightening the lives of those around her. Peaches was a master of love. She didn't walk into a room; she sauntered in, tail high, eyes bright, ready to make your day better whether you liked it or not.

Beyond her work at the funeral home, Peaches extended her loving spirit to the community, frequently saying hello to the kids at the Boys and Girls Club while they exited the bus. Her presence was a reminder of the simple joys in life, and she never failed to leave a lasting impression on the hearts of the children.

As we say goodbye to Peaches and Cream Harkins, let's not dwell on the loss but celebrate the joy she brought into our lives. She may have been just a cat to some, but to those who knew her, she was a healer in a fur coat, a four-legged therapist, and the best darn funeral home assistant this side of the rainbow bridge. Rest in purrs, dear Peaches. Your madness was a gift, and your memory a treasure.

Bradley Martin Errecart, 66, of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma....
09/04/2025

Bradley Martin Errecart, 66, of McAlester, Oklahoma passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

The family will greet friends from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel. Cremation and a private celebration of his life will follow the visitation.

Brad was born on June 18, 1959 in Fresno, California to Tony Errecart and Sybil June (Carpenter) Errecart. He grew up in Tranquillity, California. He graduated from Tranquillity High School. Brad worked as a long-haul truck driver for most of his life. He was currently driving for West Motor Freight Company.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in law, Tiffany Villa & Kenny Wilson ; son and daughter in law Brandon Errecart & Kristy Brewer; grandchildren: A.J., Aiden, Brandon Jr, Ariana, Khloe, Lexi, and Trinity; and brothers: Johnny Errecart and wife, Peggy, Rick Errecart and wife, Debbie, Tim Errecart and wife, Cherie, Randy Errecart, and Mike Errecart; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Brad is preceded in death by his parents: Tony Errecart and Sybil June (Carpenter) Errecart.

Brad's career as an over-the-road truck driver was more than a job; it was a calling. He navigated the highways of life with the same passion and dedication that he steered his rig through the vast landscapes of America. His work was his canvas, and he painted it with the colors of sunrise and sunset, across the endless miles.

Family was the cornerstone of Brad's life. He was a beacon of strength and love for his children and grandchildren, with whom he shared not just his time but also the wisdom of his experiences. Brad's legacy is reflected in the lessons he imparted and the unconditional support he provided. Whether it was a band competition, football games, rodeos, or a simple family dinner, he was there, cheering on and celebrating the achievements of his loved ones.

Brad's interests extended beyond the steering wheel and into the realm of classic cars. He had an affinity for the elegance of bygone eras, which was evident in his meticulous restoration work with his grandson. Car shows were his playground, and he relished in the camaraderie found amongst fellow enthusiasts. Brad's joy was contagious, and he inspired others to pursue their passions with the same fervor.

As we reflect on Brad's life, it is clear that he was a man who didn't just pass through this world; he left tire tracks of love, joy, and inspiration. He taught us to embrace the journey, to find happiness in the pursuit, and to always make time for those we hold dear. Brad's life was a reminder that every moment is precious and that the roads we choose to travel can lead to incredible destinations.

Today, as we bid farewell to Bradley Martin Errecart, let's not say goodbye but rather, 'see you down the road.' Let's honor his memory by living fully, loving deeply, and facing each new day with the same zest for life that Brad exemplified. His spirit will continue to ride the highways of our hearts, guiding us with the headlights of his legacy, illuminating our paths with the warmth of his memory.

Brad's journey on Earth may have come to a rest stop, but the echoes of his laughter, the wisdom of his words, and the impact of his love are immortal. They are the fuel that will propel us forward, inspiring us to live with purpose, to cherish every mile, and to make every moment count. Godspeed, Brad. Your journey was one well-traveled, and your story will be told for miles and miles.

Andrew Grover Smith Jr was born February 6, 1952 to Andrew and Juanita Smith in McAlester, Oklahoma. He married the love...
09/03/2025

Andrew Grover Smith Jr was born February 6, 1952 to Andrew and Juanita Smith in McAlester, Oklahoma. He married the love of his life Rita Ann 55 years ago, although there has been a lifelong debate of the date being August 28th or 29th in 1970.
He was a loyal employee as a truck driver at Big Mac Tank Trucks for close to four decades until they shut prompting him to retire at that time. After retirement he always stayed busy. He freely gave his time to those around him, not for recognition but for the right reasons. After several months of praying for Hudson Campbell and the Lord working on his heart, he attended church on January 14th of 2018 when his best friend Danny Walters led him in the prayer of salvation. After his salvation his big heart for serving others amplified his giving heart even more. He was truly quick to help anyone in need and never asked for anything in return. Most recently helping and serving those of McAlester through Northside Assembly where he grew the bus ministry touching those of all ages.

His final earthly resting place will be Adamson Cemetery where he spent numerous hours lovingly tending the cemetery.
He enjoyed hunting or just spending time at deer camp, fishing, camping, attending church, and spending time loving all of his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife Rita and precious pug Ellie Mae of the home; three daughters and their husbands: Lisa Gentry and husband, Jamie Gentry of Kellyville, Tanya Davis and husband, Brandon of McAlester, and Pamela Cunningham and husband, Brian of Adamson; six grandchildren: Rashelle Williams and Wesley Lawson, Joseph Andrew and wife, Kimberly Williams, Carole Pyle and husband, Dillon Pyle, James “Adam” Williams and fiancé Erin, Christina Tarkington and husband, Kyle Tarkington, and Andrew “Drew” Cunningham; 12 great grandchildren: Daniel Tucker, Tristan Fitzgerald, Samuel Grover Fitzgerald, Ryan Williams, Espen Pyle, Meridikan Pyle, Lynnleigh Pyle, Oxley Williams, Brynlee Williams, Jade Tarkington, Fallon Tarkington, and Emmett Tarkington; sister, Linda Brown; extended family: Kathy Lewis, Anna and Bob VanOrden, Carolyn Cummings, Wayne Green, Kathy and David Cunningham, Brandon and Mary Calvert, Randy Calvert, Jimmy and Jana Calvert, and David Calvert; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. His church family was a great part of his life especially Shaye Broadway and his best friend and Pastor Brian Smith.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Andrew and Juanita Smith; siblings: Betty and Clyde Roller, Elsie and Bob Lizik, Janice and H.B. Calvert, Rose and Jerry Brodhacker, and Tommy and Mina Smith; niece, Carmen McCraw; special friend, Danny Walters; and a man’s best friend, Prissie.

The family will greet friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 5, 2025 at the Northside Assembly of God with his best friend and Pastor, Brian Smith officiating. The burial will follow at Adamson Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Joseph Williams, James Adam Williams, Daniel Tucker, Jamie Gentry, Brandon Davis, and Brian Cunningham.

Honorary pallbearers will be Drew Cunningham, Espen Pyle, Tristan Fitzgerald, Ryan Williams, Samuel Grover Fitzgerald, Wesley Lawson, Dillon Pyle, and Kyle Tarkington.

https://pushpay.com/g/northsideassemblymcalester?fnd=rmjhcJaDUeYu9RThr9-B3w&r=No&lang=en&src=qrcode

Jerrilon Ann Herring, was born on October 5, 1954 in McAlester, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of Joel B. Morgan and Jer...
09/03/2025

Jerrilon Ann Herring, was born on October 5, 1954 in McAlester, Oklahoma. She was the daughter of Joel B. Morgan and Jerry David Herring. At an early age, she gave her life to Jesus Christ at East Star Baptist Church and later moved her membership to Mt. Triumph Baptist Church. She knew the Lord and called on Him daily through prayer, scripture and faith song.

Jerrilon Ann attended McAlester High School and was known for her quick wit, infectious smile, and personality that could light up the room.

She was an original and had a way with words that usually left people laughing because it was often the perfect mix of wisdom and humor. She had a love for people especially children and worked in childcare centers and care homes throughout her life.

Jerrilon Ann had a gift for creating and making life a lot more fun - she was the life of the party.

Whether she was singing one of her favorite songs, whipping up a recipe in the kitchen (she could make a meal out of nothing), or offering an impromptu hairdo to anyone who sat still long enough, Jerrilon was always creating—creating food, joy, beauty, and more often than not, an unforgettable laugh.

But of all her creations, Jerrilon’s greatest was undoubtedly her five sons that she shared with the love of her life, Ervan, and together they moved to Portland, Oregon in 1985.

She was a boy mom. Each of “her boys” knew they were loved beyond measure, and that love never wavered, no matter what.

Her love extended far beyond her sons, to include her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, siblings, cousins, neighbors, and friends.

Jerrilon had a way of making family and friends feel like they were included and loved - always making sure no one ever went hungry and that grace was said before every meal. With her, life was filled with laughter, love, and and a whole lot of unforgettable memories and for that we are truly thankful.

She leaves to celebrate her life and home going to her three sons: Masico Walker, Ervan Ronell (Cherise) Herring, and Michael Herring of Portland, Oregon, brothers: James Dana of McAlester, Oklahoma, Charles Brown of Shreveport, Louisiana, Jerry David (Lillie) of Denver, Colorado; sisters: Lillie Mae Ndu of Dallas, Texas and Sandra Miles (Eugene) of McAlester, Oklahoma and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Jerrilon was preceded in death by her parents, sisters: Freddie Mae Morgan and Verna Kay Aigbe, grandchildren: Jamarie’ Herring and Ervaeua Herring and two sons: Makeitho and Mario Herring.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 5, 2025 at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, McAlester, OK.

Doris “Dottie” Porter Williams was born September 5, 1945 in Holdenville, Oklahoma to Rachel and Otis Porter.The funeral...
08/25/2025

Doris “Dottie” Porter Williams was born September 5, 1945 in Holdenville, Oklahoma to Rachel and Otis Porter.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 29, 2025 at the Sulphur Springs Baptist Church, 229 Booker T. Washington, Eufaula, Oklahoma. The committal service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, August 29, 2025 at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, Ft. Gibson, Oklahoma, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Larry.

Dottie, as she was affectionately known, attended Holdenville Elementary School. When the family moved to Eufaula, Oklahoma, she attended Booker T. Washington School, where she received her high school diploma. After graduating high school, she moved to California and had a successful career in banking. She held several positions, such as a Banking Analyst, Loan Processing Officer, Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, and Bank President.

She joined Mount Zion Baptist Church in Redwood City, California and volunteered in several ministries and committees focused on bookkeeping and treasury. Although she moved to O’Fallon, Missouri in 2019, she remained committed to her hometown, and remotely joined Sulphur Springs Baptist Church in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Dottie truly loved the Lord and remained faithful to supporting the Church’s mission and always striving to be a light in lives of others.

She was preceded in death by both parents: Otis Porter and Rachel Johnson Porter; and her husband, Lawrence “Larry” or “Duke” Williams, who passed away in 2024. She is also preceded in death by an uncle, Christopher Porter, who passed away in July of 2025; and two brothers: Douglas Porter and Stanley Porter.

Dottie leaves to cherish her memory two daughters: Celeste Williams, and Kneeda Williams both of Bremerton, Washington; two grandchildren: Lamont and Lillian of Bremerton, Washington; four sisters: Loretta Porter Nash of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Althea Porter Steptoe of Oakley, California, Sandi Porter of O’Fallon, Missouri, and Doris Porter Banks (Timothy) of Kennesaw, Georgia; brother, Reverend Dwight E. Porter (Evangelist Joyce) of Eufaula, Oklahoma; several God-children: LaQuanda Rickmon (L.J.) of Bridgeton, Missouri, Doug Walker (Rebecca) of Wainwright, Oklahoma, Angie Walker of Ft. Gibson, Oklahoma, Jamin Winters of Redwood City, California, and Charla Brandon (Charles) of Raleigh, North Carolina; and a host of many nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Judy Gail Lester (Robins), 76, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, after a long and courage...
08/20/2025

Judy Gail Lester (Robins), 76, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on June 14, 1949, in McAlester, Judy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose life was defined by her unwavering love and generosity for others.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2025 at the Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel.

For fifty-three years, Judy shared her life with her beloved husband, Daniel Thomas Lester. Together they built a home, raising two children, Todd and Robin, and later welcoming three precious grandchildren: Kaleb, Colin, and Haylie.

Even in the midst of life’s challenges, Judy carried herself with grace and warmth. She had the heart of a servant—always thinking of others before herself—and made everyone feel truly seen and valued. Her smile and presence left people feeling cared for and loved.

Music was one of the threads that connected Judy to her memories, even during her journey with Alzheimer’s. Her favorite song, Que Será, Será by Doris Day, remained with her until the end. She never forgot the words and would sing with a twinkle in her eye.

Judy is preceded in death by her husband, Dan, and their daughter, Robin. She is survived by her son, Todd and his wife, Karisa; grandchildren: Kaleb, Colin, and Haylie; and a large circle of extended family and dear friends who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now reunited with Dan and Robin, and that her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the lives she touched.

Address

528 S 3rd Street
McAlester, OK
74501

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+19184235353

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