Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home & Crematory

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Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home & Crematory

Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home and Crematory has served families in Lake Okeechobee for 45
(1)

As the only locally family owned funeral home in Okeechobee, our promise to you is compassionate and respectful care while ensuring professional guidance for those we serve. As a full service funeral home we offer a vast selection of service and product options at affordable prices. Today many families are choosing cremation and it's important that you know we operate the only onsite crematory in Okeechobee County. Because of this, we offer you peace of mind knowing your loved one is in our care at all times and never transported to distant crematories where countless cremations are handled. We ensure every cremation is performed with careful individualized attention to detail with the dignity you're loved one deserves.

01/13/2026

David George Blankenbaker, 82

David George Blankenbaker was called home on January 1, 2026. He was born on October 7,1943 in Inavale, Nebraska to Myrl Strickland Blankenbaker and Marjorie Louise Humphrey. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church and the Masonic Lodge in Nebraska. He was a proud veteran of the United States Naval Construction Battalions, better known as the Navy Seabees, and was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. David was also a lineman for 35 years before he retired and served as a foreman to over 30 members of his crew. He was a resident of Okeechobee for the last 26 years and loved outdoor gardening, growing vegetables, caring for his goats, and mowing with his tractor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Myrl Strickland and Marjorie Louise Blankenbaker; and his brothers-in-laws, Butch Herrick and Larry Edgar.

He is survived by his wife of 7 years, Mary Jane Blankenbaker of Okeechobee, Florida; son, Jim Blankenbaker of Tampa, Florida; daughters, Sarah Garr of Key West, Florida and Tashi Bliss of Lake Orion, Michigan; sisters, Markeeta Herrick of Guide Rock, Nebraska and Rosemary Edgar (Bud) Herrick of Guide Rock, Nebraska; grandchildren, Julia, Jonah, and Sophie of Tampa, Florida, Tate of Key West, Florida, Torri and Bailey of Lake Orion, Michigan; great-grandchildren, Brinley and Bentley of Lake Orion, Michigan; and his best friends of 26 years Mellisa, Danny, and Jonathan of Okeechobee, Florida.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Peace Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in David George Blankenbaker's memory.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/09/2026

Isaac James Froeber, 29

Isaac James Froeber was called home on January 8, 2026. He was born on July 25, 1996 in Holland, Michigan to James Robert Froeber and Mandi Ridgway. Isaac has been a resident of Okeechobee for the last 9 years. He loved history and ancestry, politics, gaming, reading, and DC Marvel.

He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, “Shirt” and Elaine Babbitt of Michigan.

He is survived by his parents, James Robert Froeber of Michigan and Mandi Morris (Eric) of Florida; brother, Eric Michael Morris of Arkansas and James Froeber Jr. of Michigan; sisters, Hannah Morris of Florida, Natalee Morris of Florida, Lexi Froeber of Michigan, and Kiara Horton of Kentucky; grandparents, Mamaw Rebecca and Papaw Larry Froeber of Florida, Nana Kim Christopher of Michigan, and Papa Shawn Hattey of Michigan.

Memorial Service will be held from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to help with the funeral expenses. Donations may be made by clicking the Services tab at the top of the page, select Payment Center, then select A Loved One's Account, and then search for Isaac James Froeber's name.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/09/2026

Phyllis Lea Fennell, 89

Phyllis Lea Fennell died January 4, 2026. She was born on January 4, 1937 in Detroit, Michigan. A resident of Okeechobee for 36 years, she was Episcopalian and was a member of the NRA and American Legion Auxiliary. She was a devoted housewife and mother.

Mrs. Fennell was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Daniel F. Fennell, Jr.; father, Lyle Muir; and mother, Nellie McDonald Muir.

She is survived by her daughters, Diane Latiolais, of Riverton, Utah, Karen Bradley, of Chads Ford, Pennsylvania, and Kathleen Brown, of Okeechobee, Florida; seven grandchildren, Joshua Folmar, Jonathan Smith, April Morton, Lindsey Canuso, Jamie DeRita, Alex Bradley, and Evan Bradley; fourteen great grandchildren; and brother, Clyde Muir, of Red Bluff, California.

No services will be held.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/09/2026

Stephen Herman “Spooner” Spooner, 61

Stephen Herman “Spooner” Spooner was called home January 5, 2026. He was born on March 23, 1964 in Fort Myers, Florida to Wallace Herman Spooner and Holly Logan. He was a church member of Bull Pit Ministries. He loved the natural Old Florida landscape and spent countless cherished hours fishing the Ten Thousand Islands, a place that brought him peace. He also enjoyed traveling to and loving North Georgia, causing a ruckus, and SPORTS! He was a lifelong die-hard Miami Hurricane Fan. He had a lifelong love for his dogs. Wherever Steve was, there was usually a dog close by — his loyal companion, his comfort, and often the punchline of his favorite jokes.

Spooner loved his time coaching Little League. It allowed him to reminisce on his youth with his dad coaching. He enjoyed every moment he spent on the field, building lifelong memories with his children. But also, building lifelong relationships with other children who stayed in contact with Stephen up until his passing. He was a father, coach, umpire, and league president for many years. He truly enjoyed teaching and cultivating meaningful relationships with the youth of Labelle, just as his father did in Immokalee.

Stephen also started and served as a Cubmaster for an Immokalee chapter of the Cub Scouts of America. Reminiscing about those same experiences he had with his father.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wallace Herman Spooner.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Dionne Marie Spooner of Felda, Florida; son, Daryl Herman Spooner of Buckingham, Florida; daughters, Jessica Spooner Perez (Ballinger) of North Port, Florida and Stepheney Rodriguez (Alan) of Labelle, Florida; mother, Holly Spooner; sisters, Christine Ingram (George) of Lehigh Acres, Florida, Gwen Raulerson (Buddy) of Labelle, Florida, Sarah Bray (David) of Ocala, Florida, and Cynthia Carson of Lehigh Acres, Florida; grandchildren, Austin Perez, Hailey Perez, Chelsea Perez, Madison Perez, Alan James Rodriguez, Genesis Marie Rodriguez, and Asteria Luna Rodriguez.

Service will be held at 12:00 pm on Monday, January 12, 2026 at First Methodist Church of Immokalee. Internment at Baptist Church Cemetery to follow.

While your generosity is appreciated, the family respectfully asks that memorial contributions be made to Moffit Cancer Center or Bull Pit Ministries, rather than sending flowers.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/08/2026

Cirinna Marie Bormuth, 42

Cirinna Marie Bormuth died on January 6, 2025. She was born April 25, 1983 in Okeechobee, Florida to Charles Anthony and Rhonda Bormuth. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, fishing, playing the guitar, art, and she loved to draw. She was a lifetime resident of Okeechobee.

She was preceded in death by her father, Charles A. Bormuth; grandmother, Carol Carden and Jane Bormuth; Aunt, Robin Miller; and great-grandmother, Edith Westberry.

She is survived by her mother, Rhonda Bormuth of Okeechobee, Florida; son, David Lee Bormuth of Okeechobee, Florida; daughter, Brandy Larie Salas of Okeechobee, Florida; brother, Anthony David Bormuth of Okeechobee, Florida; grandparents, David Certain (Kathy) of Lavonia, Georgia; grandfather, Charles A. Bormuth of West Palm Beach, Florida; uncle, Greg Miller of White Springs and Craig Bormuth (Wilma) of West Palm Beach, Florida, Florida; aunt, Missy Crews of Okeechobee, Florida and Jody Jacobs of West Palm Beach, Florida; niece, Rylie Bormuth of Okeechobee, Florida; cousins, Cheyenne Stafford (James) of Okeechobee, Florida, J.T. Crews of Okeechobee, Florida, Jennifer Bormuth of West Palm Beach, Florida, Clay Bormuth (Maxey) of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Eric DeCarlo (Andrew) of Denver, Colorado; along with a host of great cousins and friends.

Memorial service will be held from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Douglas Rope Swing. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com.

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/06/2026

Medford Simmons, 74

Medford Simmons died January 3, 2026. He was born March 5, 1951 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. A resident of Okeechobee for 60 years, he was a member of the Church of Christ. Medford was a kind and generous man that was loved by all that knew him. He will be greatly missed.

Mr. Simmons was preceded in death by his parents, M.E. and Mary Simmons; brothers, Paul Simmons, J.T. Simmons, and Floyd Simmons; and sister, Margaret Walker.

He is survived by his brothers, Billy Simmons, Sr. (Kathy), Gene Simmons, all of Okeechobee, and James Simmons, of Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.

No services will be held at this time.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/06/2026

Richard Helfinstine—a master gardener, professional-grade bullsh*tter, and a man who truly never met a stranger—took his final pontoon ride into the sunset on January 3, 2026. Born on October 17, 1964, Richard spent 61 years proving that life is best enjoyed with a cold polar pop in your hand, dirt under your fingernails, and a smile on your face with a good joke ready to go.

Richard was a true "Jack of all Trades." Whether it was a leaky faucet, patching a roof, or a broken heart, there was nothing Richard couldn't fix. He was the first person neighbors called when they were in a bind, and he was always quick to drop everything to help a friend or family member with any project. He seemed to know everything about everything, and if he didn’t know it, he’d figure it out by the time his polar pop was finished.

Above all his projects and hobbies, Richard’s greatest love was his family. He cherished every moment spent with them and held a particularly special bond with his grandchildren. Whether he was teaching them the secrets of the garden, how to haggle for a bargain at the flea market, or showing them how to take the wheel of the pontoon boat, he was at his happiest when he was "Pappa."

Richard took pride in his garden; he had a green thumb that could make a stone bloom. He was best known for his lush collard greens and cabbages, which he grew and would give to anyone who looked like they needed a good meal or a friendly smile. When he wasn't in the dirt, you could find him scouring the flea market for treasures, winning bingo at the Buckhead Ridge Moose Lodge, supporting 4-H and the Okeechobee Pregnancy Center, or captaining the family pontoon boat.

For 15 years, Richard fought a rare cancer with the same grit he used to tackle a tough repair job. He fought hard and he fought quietly, choosing to keep his struggle private because he loved life too much to see his friends and family feel sad. He wanted to be remembered for his jokes and his helping hand, not his illness. He passed away peacefully in his home, exactly where he wanted to be, surrounded by his children and the people who loved him most.

Richard is survived by his children, Richard Helfinstine and Rachel Helfinstine; his son-in-law, Cory Hicks; and his grandchildren, Bryleigh and Robert Hicks. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Jo Starr, Penny Kammerer, Elizabeth Cooper, Terri Jekot, and Linda McCombs; his brothers, Robert Helfinstine, Joseph Helfinstine, John Helfinstine and Michael Helfinstine; as well as countless cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stella and Raymond Helfinstine; his brother, Charles Helfinstine; and his nieces, Tammy Helfinstine and Arianna Pickett.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on January 8, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Buckhead Ridge Moose Lodge, 1016 Linda Road, Okeechobee, FL 34974.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do as Richard would do: help a neighbor, plant something green, or tell a joke to a total stranger.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34972.

01/05/2026

Gregory Lee Congdon, II, 54

Gregory Lee Congdon, Il died December 31, 2025. He was born November 4, 1971 in Flint, Michigan to Gregory Lee Congdon, Sr. and Debra Jackson. A resident of Okeechobee for 42 years, he loved wood working. He started his days at Pogey's Family Restaurant and ended his days playing pool.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Debra Smyth; paternal grandparents, Harland Congdon and Violet O'Brien; and maternal grandparents, Art and Betty Jackson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Janie Congdon; loving children, Jack Congdon, Maggie Congdon and Chrissie Congdon; grandchildren, Meredith, Claire, and Michael; sister, Christina Straight; nephew, Tracy Arnold; and niece, Katelyn Straight.

No services will be held at this time.

In leui of flowers the family is asking for donations to help with the funeral expenses. Donations may be made by clicking the Services tab at the top of the page, select Payment Center, then select A Loved One's Account, and then search for Gregory Lee Congdon, II's name.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34972.

01/05/2026

Brittany “Aunt B” Nicole Stone-Newman, 28

Brittany “Aunt B” Nicole Stone-Newman died December 31, 2025. She was born August 5, 1997 in Fort Pierce, Florida to Lloyd and Stephanie Stone. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, shopping, dancing, taking pictures of sunsets, and having a good time. She was the happiest in being a wife and aunt.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 10 years, Jeffery “Scott” Newman; paternal grandparents, Lawton and Mary Stone; and maternal grandparents, David and Gladys Griffith.

She is survived by her parents, Lloyd and Stephanie Stone of Okeechobee, Fl; brother, Lloyd Stone, Jr. (Nati) of Okeechobee, Fl; sister, Samantha Stone of Okeechobee, Fl; nephew, Daniel Everhart; nieces, Meadow Everhart, Amelia Birdsell, Zoey Hampton; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles who are deeply loved.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 am until service at 11:00 am on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home. Internment at Evergreen to follow.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com

All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34972.

01/05/2026

Charlotte Annette Wilde, 70

Charlotte Annette Wilde, of Okeechobee went home to be with Jesus on December 31, 2025. Charlotte was born on June 30, 1955 in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, the daughter of a Marine. Though she moved frequently during her childhood, she ultimately found her home in Okeechobee.

Charlotte faced cancer with remarkable strength and grace. She exceeded every expectation and far outlived her prognosis, never allowing the diagnosis to define or defeat her. She accepted each challenge with quiet determination and an unshakable spirit. For more than 30 years, Charlotte devoted her life to serving others as an ICU Critical Care nurse. She was the one everyone called with medical questions, and when the situation required “the big guns,” Charlotte was the one you wanted. Knowledgeable, and fiercely dedicated, she was exceptional at her work and deeply committed to her patients, their families, and her own family.

A natural-born caregiver, Charlotte had a tough outer shell with the softest heart beneath it. She was a fighter, a protector, and a steady source of strength for countless people. If Charlotte believed in you, she stood by you without hesitation. Her talents were endless. She had a green thumb, she could paint, draw, landscape, drive a tractor, bake you a cake, crochet or sew just about anything. She would learn to do anything and do it well! Charlotte absolutely loved a good yard sale, cherished her chickens, ducks, and cows—but nothing compared to the love she had for her little dog, Gibbs.

Charlotte’s home was always open to anyone who needed a place to land. Above all else, the greatest joy of her life was her grandchildren. Her world revolved around them, and her love for them knew no bounds.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rodney Wilde; her son, Brandon Pope; her father, Collel Barnhill; her mother, Florence Myers (Jesse); her sisters, Charlene White and Cheryl Hebert; and her brother, W***y Barnhill.

She is survived by her daughter, Carrie McDonald (Kenny); her beloved grandchildren, Blake McDonald, Wyatt McDonald, and Desarae Pope; her brother, William Barnhill; and her sisters, Coleen Love (Larry) and Collette Siler.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.

01/01/2026

2025....a year of many ups and downs for so many, maybe devastation, repair, learning, the birth of a dream, or maybe the growth of love. I have been blessed in many ways, a beautiful wife, a granson, healthy daughters, a roof over my head, decent health, and a means to support it all. Each year brings it's own challenges and obstacles and each of us must find the ways to overcome and capitalize on what each year brings. I’ve heard some say 2025 was a terrible year and glad to see it go. I ask you as well, was it really? Was nothing gained, was nothing learned? Do we allow the negative outweigh the good that was found, the something that maybe we never had in the past? Take each day, week, month, and year as it comes, along with events that build and shape our lives. I assure you there is an ultimate plan. So thru this next year accept what comes, when given love return it, when given opportunity be thankful and capitalize, and don't forget the little things for they can show so much with little effort. I wish you health, wealth, happiness and love with this ensuing year, may you follow the path that is lit with your name on it or keep your head up and fight to find the path that is meant for you. 2026, what do you hold us, more like what do we hold for you? We will not be at your mercy, we control more than we give ourselves credit for and we say you will be prosperous for us….from my family to yours, we wish you a happy and prosperous new year…

Matt

01/01/2026

And happy New Year to those in heaven who aren’t here to celebrate with us.

To the ones we thought would be here for another countdown.
Another hug.
Another year.

The day feels different when someone you love is missing.
When the joy is real, but the ache is too.
When celebration and grief sit side by side.

We carry you with us into this new year.
In the memories.
In the traditions.
In the quiet moments when the noise fades and we feel you the most.

You may not be here in the way we wish you were.
But you’re never far from our hearts.

We’ll celebrate for you.
We’ll remember you.
And we’ll love you always.

Happy New Year.
Until we meet again.

Address

400 North Parrott Avenue
Okeechobee, FL
34972

Telephone

(863) 763-1994

Website

http://www.okeechobeefuneralhome.com/

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