Grace Memorial Chapel

01/13/2026

View Betty J. Goodwin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/13/2026

View James Rickard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/12/2026

Martha Lavern Palmer

Martha Lavern Palmer, a beloved member of her community, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, at the age of 84. Born on April 29, 1941, in Anadarko, Oklahoma, Martha lived a life characterized by love, generosity, and a deep commitment to her family and friends.

Martha had a rewarding career, dedicating over thirty years to Conoco Phillips after initially contributing her talents to Ponca City Hospital. Her unwavering work ethic, combined with her caring nature, shaped not only her professional life but also left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege to know her.

One of Martha's greatest joys was creating unforgettable holiday celebrations, particularly during Christmas. She had a unique gift for decorating and transformed ordinary spaces into awe-inspiring scenes. Known for her huge heart, Martha made it a priority to ensure everyone felt included, fostering a sense of community that resonated deeply with all who were lucky enough to be invited into her home.

In addition to her flair for celebrations, Martha was an enthusiastic and gracious hostess, relishing the time spent hosting family gatherings, dinner parties, and card games. She was an avid fan of OU sports and loved attending games. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel and bring people together, as she always made an effort to stay connected with her friends and family spread across the country.

Martha took tremendous pride in her family, viewing them as her proudest accomplishment. Martha's love extended seamlessly to the next generations, instilling in them the values she held dear.

She was one of the original alumni members of the Attucks School Reunion Committee, where she played a pivotal role in envisioning and establishing the Attucks School Reunion. This endeavor reflected her commitment to fostering lifelong friendships and nurturing connections.

Martha is survived by her loving children Greg Palmer & wife Denise, Marsha Palmer-Thelwell & husband Dwight Thelwell. Grandchildren Nicole Dawn Palmer and Alisha Kay Palmer; great grandchildren Carlaiya Michelle Harrison, Kiyleah Monique White, Mikahlyn Grace Caldwell, as well as countless friends whose lives she touched with her warmth and kindness.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Thelma Irene Guesby Morris; her father Earl Roger Wiley; her husband, Clarence Palmer; and her daughter, Michelle Palmer-Washington.

Martha's spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and an unyielding commitment to family that will inspire generations to come.

Visitation services will be held on January 16, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Grace Memorial Chapel, located at 2016 N 14th St, Ponca City, OK 74601. A funeral service will follow on January 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM, also at Grace Memorial Chapel. Interment will take place the same day at Odd Fellows Cemetery, located at 1206 S. Waverly, Ponca City, OK 74601.

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01/12/2026

A new year brings reflection, and often, questions about the future.

Planning ahead allows time to consider your wishes carefully, creating clarity during moments that can otherwise feel overwhelming.

We’re here to answer questions when you’re ready.

01/12/2026

Erma Jean Burke

Erma Jean (Kirkendall) Burke was born on April 8, 1939, in Newkirk, Oklahoma, and passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. A beloved member of her community and devoted to her family, she lived a life rich in love.

Erma's career began as a Dental Technician after graduating high school, but her true calling evolved as she embraced the role of homemaker, nurturing her family with unwavering dedication. She also contributed to her community as the Wheat Heart Nutrition Director, sharing her passion for health and nutrition with those around her.

In her personal life, Erma shared 37 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Carol Dwane Burke. Together they raised a beautiful family, instilling values of love, kindness, and togetherness.

Erma was a passionate sports enthusiast, taking great joy in watching the OU Sooners and OKC Thunder Basketball, among many other sports. Her interests extended to creative outlets such as scrapbooking when time allowed, working on puzzles, and playing the piano. Above all, Erma cherished attending events that celebrated her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, demonstrating her pride in their accomplishments and her deep love for family.

She was the proud mother of two daughters, Kimberly Sue (Burke) Mead, married to Michael Mead, and Angela Marie (Burke) Baird, married to Rick Baird. Erma was blessed with a large extended family that included numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who filled her life with joy.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Brittany Sue (Mead) King, married to Danny King, whose children are Charlie, Milo, and Gracie King; Cassandra Ann (Mead) DeNoya, married to Jeremy DeNoya, with son Tucker Larson; Katlyn Michaela (Mead) McKay, married to Brandon McKay, with children Maddelin, McKenzie, and Alayna McKay; Lindsay Kay (Baird) Kyle, married to Nathan Kyle, parents to Carter and Axel Kyle; Teresa Carlene (Fox) Briggs, married to Chris Briggs, with children Lane, Gabrielle, and Evan Briggs; Laci Michelle (Baird) Williamson, married to Aaron Williamson, with children Jaron Williamson, Kaytn Williamson, and Cooper Weatherly; Amanda Marie (Feathers) Freeman, married to Devon Freeman, with children Skyler, Chase, and Olivia Faith Marie Freeman; Lucas D Baird, Taylor Young, and Rikki Nicole Baird. She was also survived by her sister Shirley Weaver.

Erma was preceded in death by her parents Ica Almeda (Gilbert) Kirkendall and Fred Edward Kirkendall, SR, her husband Carol Dwane Burke, as well as her siblings: Forest Fred Kirkendall, Nell Rose (Kirkendall) Lind, Leroy Kirkendall, Fred E Kirkendall, Jr., Iva (Kirkendall) Heath, Eugene Kirkendall, Dorthey (Kirkendall) Myers, and Mary (Kirkendall) Houser.

A visitation will be held on January 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City, Oklahoma. This will be followed by a memorial service at the Carolyn Renfro Center in Ponca City on January 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Erma Jean Burke will be remembered as a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a proud grandmother, and a loving friend. Her legacy is the warmth of family love that she cultivated throughout her life, which will continue to flourish in the hearts of all who knew her.

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01/09/2026

Betty J. Goodwin

Betty Jean Goodwin of Ponca City, OK passed away January 8th, 2026 at 5:00 a.m. at Clarehouse Hospice Home in Tulsa, OK. She was 96, born October 9th, 1929 at Dorrance, KS. She was the daughter of the late Max Leo Duryee and the late Anna Katherine (Miller) Duryee. Betty attended High School at Dorrance, KS and graduated in 1947. She worked in the bakery for Dillon’s Food Stores in Salina, KS where she met and married George Francis Wilgus on November 14th, 1948. To this union three children were born. Betty baked pies for Landmark Coffee Shop and was well known for her beautiful pies, cookies, and breads. Later, Betty was a Receptionist and Secretary at Edwin Fair Community Mental Health Center in Ponca City. June 14th, 1986, Betty married Donald Lloyd Goodwin.

She was a member of First Assembly of God Church in Ponca City. She had been active as a past nursery worker, Sunday School teacher, and choir member. Betty was an avid baseball fan, enjoyed traveling, reading, working crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, baking, and writing letters. She enjoyed Thursdays playing dominoes with the seniors at the church and Friday nights out with her closest widow lady friends for dinner and a bit of shopping. Also, the little squirrels in her courtyard counted on her daily feedings and brought her hours of amusement.

Betty Is Survived by Two Daughters; Connie Alfano (Phil) of TX, Carla Miller of Bixby OK, one son Randy Wilgus of Florence, AZ, one granddaughter; Brianne Goodwin of Meridian, ID, two grandsons; Jeffery Thurmond (Brandon) of TX, Jason Thurmond (Amanda) of TX, three great-grandchildren; Edward Yanish of Tulsa, OK, Billie Yanish of Las Vegas, NV, and Anna Thurmond of TX

She is also survived by her sister-in-law Nancy Duryee of Dorrance, KS and many nieces and nephews

Betty was proceeded in death by her parents Max and Anna Duryee, her husband Don Goodwin, two sisters; Cora Whitmer of Dorrance, KS and Maxine Temple of Salina, KS, four brothers; Henry Duryee of Dorrance, KS, La Vern Duryee of WaKeeney, KS, Dale Duryee of Great Bend, KS, and Willis Duryee (infant) of Dorrance, KS, two granddaughters; Denise Yanish of Owasso, OK and Shannon Tuter of Cleveland, OK.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

TruHeart Hospice (918)-779-7584 https://www.truhearthospice.com/

Clarehouse - (918)-893-6150 https://www.clarehouse.org/

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01/07/2026

Linda Sue Meyer

Linda Sue (Johnson) Meyer was born in Ponca City, OK on July 22, 1949 to Melvin Levi Johnson and Elsie Marie (Pitzer) Johnson. On January, 2, 2026, her Lord and Savior called her home at the age of 76. Linda grew up in the Ponca City area attending Kildare Public Schools through the 8th grade and graduating from Ponca City High School in 1967.

While attending Kildare schools, Linda met her one and only love, Duane Meyer. Upon graduating from high school, they were married November 20, 1967 at her parents’ home in Kildare. They made their first home together in Charleston, SC and later in San Antonio, TX while Duane served his country in the Air Force. In July 1971, while stationed in Texas, they welcomed their first son, Scott Duane Meyer. Late in 1971, Duane and Linda returned to their roots in Ponca City. October 1976 brought about the birth of their second son Chad Anthony Meyer.

Linda was an excellent, valued employee for 19 years at Evans and Associates followed by 22 years at Mertz. In her spare time, she enjoyed many of the simple things in life: crossword puzzles, old westerns, fishing at the lake, drives around the countryside, watching the birds in her yard and spending time with her grandchildren.

Those left to treasure her memory are husband Duane of the home, son Chad (Lindsey), grandchildren Connor, Mallory, Gavin, Adalyn, and one great grandchild Sayge; brother, Arthur Johnson (Barbara), and in-laws Kenneth Meyer (Marilyn), Darlene Fields, and Curtis Meyer (Karen), along with a host of nieces and nephews.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, son Scott (2006), brother Allen Johnson, brother Arley Johnson and his wife Bonnie, and nephew Nathaniel Johnson.

Viewing will be held at Grace Memorial Chapel in Ponca City, January 7, 2026 from 3pm-7pm. Graveside service will be at 1:00 PM January 8, 2026 at Braman Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grace Memorial Chapel.

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01/06/2026

Frances Baur

Frances Alice Baur of Ponca City, Oklahoma took her peaceful heavenly flight on December 26, 2025, from her home surrounded by her loving family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith i n God, service to others, creativity, and fun!

Born on May 5, 1932, in San Francisco, California, Frances described herself as "outspoken, determined and able to do anything I really decided to do"! Many who knew her would agree, calling her lively, and warm, with a welcoming smile that could light up a room. During her 5th-6th grade years, Frances often chose to "play hooky to go catch pollywogs" instead of attending First Aid class, as she was not allowed to express herself freely! Fran flourished at Sacramento High School becoming a class officer and yell leader i n her junior year. In her senior year, she was elected student body President, the first female in 20 years. A passionate athlete, she participated in volleyball, softball, basketball, and diving. Fran enjoyed the spotlight as a thespian in school plays and modern dance performances. Her brother fondly recalls her saying "to make friends, you need to smile and make people laugh!"

After high school graduation, her family moved to Mobile, Alabama where she worked making calls to schedule maintenance for the military base. Fran loved meeting new people and was able to shine thanks to her communication skills! Her time there was cut short when she contracted tuberculosis.

At Fitzsimmons Army hospital in Denver, Colorado, she met the love of her life, SSgt. David H Baur.

They married and enjoyed 64 wonderful years together, relocating many times, while raising their seven children. Fran and Dave regularly made a point to remind their children that they were "WANTED and LOVED", especially when strangers would ask "Are they ALL yours?"

Fran embraced her role as a devoted mother dedicating herself to raising the children in the tenets of the Catholic faith through instruction and her example of praying and trusting God. For many years we were kissed each night and told " I love you. GOD bless you." She ended our phone calls as adults every time with the same blessing. A service she held in high esteem was being a Eucharistic minister.

Her creativity flowed when she was creating costumes or prom dresses or the angel dolls, she made to resemble the recipients, graham cracker and Rice Krispie treat candy houses at Christmas time and the homemade brightly decorated Easter baskets cut from gallon sized plastic milk jugs.

Throughout her life, Fran demonstrated remarkable resourcefulness. She worked in various positions, primarily as a secretary or accounting clerk, contributing to her family's income in every way that she could. Notably she achieved remarkable success as a Tupperware manager who built up 22 teams under her leadership.

Fran had a heart for giving back to the community. She volunteered with the Ladies Knights of Columbus and the Elks Lodge, was a Cub Scout leader, active in the Band parent club, assisted her husband during his appointment as commander of the American Legion, Drill team coach aide, kids school projects and helped organize a reunion with former USAF friends. One of her most impactful moments was hosting a cookout for a group of young men, encouraging them not to waste their lives. Her heartfelt conversations inspired four of them to join the military, pursue higher education, and secure meaningful jobs. We were so proud of her.

Fran was preceded in death by her husband, USAF Major David H Baur Sr., her mother Frances Clark, her brother, Ralph Clark Jr. and her father Andrew Blahut.

She is survived by her brother, Don Clark (Jill), her children: Theresa Kitchens Lane (Mike), David H. Baur Jr. (Carol), Victoria Clemons (Richard), Paul Baur, Elizabeth Martinez (Mark), Daniel Baur (Shannon), and Suzanne Baur. Grandchildren: Roem, Vanessa, Rick, Sean, Joseph, Davielle, Patrick, Cassandra, Kalyn, Derek, Stephanie, Allison, Alexandra, Samuel, Donovan, Dorothy, Catherine, Matthew, Landry, and Brandon. She is also survived by 19 great grandchildren and 2

She is also survived by 19 great grandchildren and 2 nieces and 1 nephew.

Friends and family are invited to the service at Ft Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio Texas, on Monday, January 12 at 9am in Pavilion One. Please arrive 15-20 minutes early

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01/06/2026

Margaret Louise (Peggy) Anderson

Peggy Anderson, 74, beloved Mother, Grandmother, and sister, was called to her eternal resting place on December 28, 2025. She entered this world on January 13, 1951, in Dodge City, KS, born to Harry Beacham and Billie Simmons Beacham.

Graveside services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2026, in the Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery under the care of Grace Memorial Chapel of Ponca City, with Pastor Josh Garza officiating. Visitation will be held at Grace Memorial Chapel Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Peggy attended the Wichit, KS school system and she graduated in 1969. Peggy met the love of her life, Kenny Anderson and they were married October 9, 1975, and they made their home in Ponca City, OK. She enjoyed coloring, cross stitching and most of all spoiling her grandchildren and family.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are her son Jim Reed of Ponca City, OK, grandchildren, Peyton Reed of Stillwater and Cole Reed of Ponca City, OK. one great grandson, Rowan Johnston of Stillwater, OK, one brother, Jim Beacham and wife Dee of Nebraska, two sisters, Judy Connor of Arkansas and Jane Koehn of Meno, OK and numerous nieces and nephews.

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01/06/2026

Georgia Lee Buffalohead

Georgia Lee Buffalohead, 42, beloved daughter, mother, and sister, was called to her eternal resting place on December 29, 2025, in Omaha, Nebraska. Georgia entered this world on October 13, 1983, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, born to Ronald Lee Buffalohead and Vickie Bigbear. She was the paternal granddaughter of Roy and Dorothy (Blueback) Buffalohead.

Georgia was a loving mother to Ronnie Lenae Buffalohead-Claiborne and twin sons, Anthony L. Buffalohead-Claiborne and Daniel L. Buffalohead-Claiborne. Her children were her pride and joy, and anyone who knew Georgia knew she would move the world for them.

Georgia grew up near Cowboy Hill, Oklahoma, and attended Frontier Public School. She later moved north to spend time with her Uncle Steve Buffalohead, along with many cousins and extended family. It was there that she met the father of her children, Len Claiborne, and together they welcomed three beautiful children.

Georgia enjoyed the simple things in life. OU football was her favorite team, she loved going to the casino, and she was rarely without her beloved New Balance shoes. She was a fiercely loyal and strong-willed woman who cherished her extended family. Her “sister,” Debbie Wallace, was her constant confidante and held a special place in her heart.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Ronnie Lenae Buffalohead-Claiborne; her twin sons, Anthony L. Buffalohead-Claiborne and Daniel L. Buffalohead-Claiborne; and her sisters, Rheannon Thompson (Sonya Hernandez) and Laci Youngberg. She also leaves behind many close relatives, cousins, and great-nieces and nephews.

Georgia was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Visitation and night services will take place on Tuesday January 6th 2026. A traditional noon feast and giveaway will be held on January 7th, 2026, at the Ponca Community Building, with Dr. Louis V. Headman presiding over services. Burial will follow at the Ponca Tribal Cemetery, under the care of Grace Memorial Chapel of Ponca City, Oklahoma.

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01/06/2026

James Kelsey

James Howard Kelsey, 71, of Newkirk, OK passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2025. "Jim" was born June 23, 1954, in Aurora, Colorado to JoAnn Work Kelsey and Howard Kelsey. He is survived by his sisters, Fran Kelsey Suttles, and husband Mark of Enid, OK, Jane Kelsey Parker of McAlester, OK and his brother, Steve Kelsey and wife Risa of Fay, OK.

An honorable loving, man, Jim was also devoted to his 14 cousins, and his 10 nieces, nephews, their spouses and their children. He has numerous lifelong friendships that he called family. He was humble, kind, fair minded and a very sincere brother, cousin, uncle and friend.

Jim grew up in Shidler Oklahoma where he graduated high school in 1972. He attended OSU Okmulgee where he received a degree in Heat, Air, and Refrigeration. Jim owned his own business in Pawhuska, OK then began a long-term career with Conoco in Ponca City, OK, where he retired after numerous years of service. Jim cherished his family, friends, and the times he spent with them. He was passionate about his pickups and all the time he spent in his workshop. He loved rebuilding and re-storing Vehicles. Jim’s overwhelming generosity and gentle nature are what will be remembered by all of those who were fortunate enough to share in his life.

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01/06/2026

James Rickard

James Rickard, age 54, passed from this life into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior on January 5, 2026. James was born on August 31, 1971, in Ponca City, Oklahoma, to Thomas Rickard and Melissa Rickard (Draper). He spent his childhood in Foraker, where he developed a love for family, adventure, and the simple joys of the great outdoors.

A proud graduate of Shidler High School, Class of 1989, James went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Northeastern State University. Wherever he went, James carried a deep curiosity for learning and for experiencing the world around him.

James was a loyal OSU Cowboys and Dallas Cowboys fan, never wavering in his enthusiasm—win or lose. He could often be found cheering on his beloved teams, sharing that passion with anyone willing to join him.

He had an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for history. James loved to travel, explore, and discover hidden stories in the world around him. He was an avid member of the Forgotten Oklahoma group, contributing to the preservation of Oklahoma’s historical places and forgotten landmarks.

James never met a stranger. With a warm heart and an easy smile, he formed connections with everyone he encountered. Much of his life was spent working as a host, where his natural gift for conversation and genuine kindness shined. Of all his jobs, his favorite place to work was The Mercantile in Pawhuska, where he enjoyed welcoming guests from all over the world—and even had the chance to meet a few celebrities along the way.

Above all, James’s greatest joy in life was being a “bonus grandpa.” His bonus grandson, Billy, brought him immeasurable pride, love, and delight. Anyone who spoke with James knew within moments just how important Billy was to him.

James is survived by his sister Jodee and her husband Wendell Clement of Ponca City; his aunt Judy of Arizona; cousins Craig and wife Jen of Florida, and Darroll and wife Suzanne of Colorado; his bonus daughter Chantel Jones, Tony Worley, and beloved bonus grandson Billy, all of Oklahoma; along with many other cousins, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM), Make checks payable to Muskogee Baptist Association with FBCM in the memo line along with James Rickards name, an organization close to James’s heart.

A memorial service celebrating James’s life will be held at Grace Memorial Chapel on Saturday, January 10th, at 2:00 PM in Ponca City, Oklahoma.

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