Parks Brothers Funeral Service

10/08/2025

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.

View Jenny Louise Pratka's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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.

View Linda Kay Peterson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/17/2025

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

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.

View Kathleen Hecker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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.

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.

View Lorna Mae Geist's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/19/2025

Nelda Ann Simon

Nelda Ann (Bradshaw) Simon of Prague, Oklahoma, entered into eternal rest on August 16, 2025, in Prague, at the age of 81.

She was born on May 20, 1944, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to Homer Gale Bradshaw and Opal Ola (Haun) Bradshaw. Nelda grew up in Meeker and Prague, attending Meeker High School. On November 10, 1961, she married the love of her life, Paul Edward Simon, just outside of Meeker. Together they shared a lifetime of love and devotion until Paul’s passing on March 31, 2022. In July of 2015, they renewed their vows at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Prague, where Nelda had become a faithful member.

Nelda and Paul were blessed with five children: Lisa Kim, Paul Edward Simon Jr. Allen Wayne, Tami LeAnn, and Peter “Eugene,”. As a wife and mother, she devoted her life to raising her family, instilling in them the values of love, kindness, and faith.

Throughout her life, Nelda worked hard and cared deeply for others. She was employed for 25 years with Blue Bell before becoming a CMA/CNA, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. With compassion and dedication, she served in nursing homes across Prague, Stroud, Cushing, Chandler, and Jones, blessing countless lives with her gentle care.

Nelda found joy in life’s simple pleasures—fishing, playing bingo, quilting, and the companionship of her beloved cats. She carried a warmth and kindness that touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Paul; her daughter, Lisa Kay Barrett; Her son, Paul Edward Simon Jr.; her son-in-law, Laurens “Shorty” Vanderstraeten; grandson, Clayton Douglas Robison; great-granddaughter, Aria Lucille Whitson; and two brothers, Riley Bradshaw and his wife, Francis and their daughter, Sandy, and Oliver Zane “O.Z.” Bradshaw.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Peter “Eugene” Simon and Allen Wayne Simon; her daughter, Tami LeAnn Vanderstraeten; ten grandchildren, Lynn Smith, Kenneth Simon, Lisa Mitchum, Alicia Wilson, Misty Barrett, Stella Whitson and her husband, Nicholas, Sandy Collins, and Lillie Collins, Annette Sparks and her husband, Dakota and Tina Simon; twenty-four great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Delores “Dee” Bradshaw; along with a host of extended family and dear friends.

Nelda will be remembered for her faith, her devotion to family, and her generous spirit. Her legacy of love will continue in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

View Nelda Ann Simon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/18/2025

Donna Kay Smith

Donna K. Smith, 66, a longtime resident of Prague, Oklahoma, passed away on August 16, 2025. Donna was born and raised in Prague and spent most of her life there before moving to Shawnee to be closer to her family. She was happiest when surrounded by her loved ones, especially her great-grandchildren. Her granddaughter Kylee shared a special bond with her “Ninnie” and will forever carry her wisdom and love close to her heart.

Donna never missed a chance to celebrate her Czech heritage and was a proud supporter of the annual Kolache Festival in Prague. It was one of her favorite traditions, and she made sure to be there every year, rain or shine.

She is survived by her son Harris “Bear” Smith, Daughter, Shawna Smith, husband, Albert Crawford of Shawnee; grandchildren, Kylee Smith, Kolton Crawford and girlfriend Alexis Clark, Kristen Crawford and boyfriend Kemarion Huntley, and Kaygon Crawford; and great-grandchildren, Laila Sam, Penelope Guzman, and Logan Lawrence. Sister Diane VanCuren of Prague; Brother Tim Holik and Cyndi Holik of Prague and many more family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Ruby Holik.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Lifespring Hospice Care for their compassion and support, Shawna’s best friend Cassandra Ward for her constant love and help, and to Kylee’s best friend Alaura K-J for always being by their side.

To know Donna was to know unconditional love, a warm laugh, and a fierce loyalty to family. She will be remembered not only as a mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and “Ninnie,” but as the heart of her family-the one who made sure everyone felt cared for and loved. “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck.”

View Donna Kay Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/07/2025

Jennifer Megan Massey

Jennifer Megan Massey of Shawnee, Oklahoma, passed away on August 6, 2025, in Oklahoma City at the age of 49.

Jennifer was born on February 3, 1976, in Winfield, Kansas, to Stanley Edward and Mara Elaine (Niimi) Kerr. She spent her early years in Sudan, Kansas, and Bartlesville, Oklahoma, before relocating to Hawaii, where she graduated from high school. Her adventurous upbringing shaped the warm, creative, and generous woman she would become.

In 1999, Jennifer met the love of her life, Richard David Massey. The couple built a lasting bond that spanned over two decades, growing especially close in the last ten years. Jennifer had two beloved children, Kaitlyn Kerr and Greyson Massey. Jennifer’s life revolved around her children—she was a fiercely devoted mother whose love and support never wavered.

Jennifer was known for her joyful spirit, patience, and boundless generosity. She never harbored anger and was quick to forgive, always offering grace to others. Her kindness and willingness to help anyone in need left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

An avid and accomplished video gamer, Jennifer found joy and community in the world of Final Fantasy, where she maintained nine fully maxed-out characters and earned recognition in the gaming community. She was admired for her skill and often sought out for her guidance and mentorship by fellow gamers.

Jennifer also had a unique and passionate love for condiments—her refrigerator was always stocked with a wide variety of sauces, reflecting her playful and curious spirit.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Massey; her children, Kaitlyn Kerr and Greyson Massey; her parents, Stanley and Mara Kerr; her brother, Brandon Kerr; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ronald and Karen Massey; and a host of aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends who will miss her deeply.

View Jennifer Megan Massey's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/05/2025

📣 NOW HIRING: Funeral Ambassador (On-Call Position)
Parks Brothers Funeral Service is seeking a compassionate, dependable Ambassador to join our team.

🕊️ This on-call position includes:
• Guaranteed daily stipend when scheduled
• Evening, overnight, and weekend availability required
• Physical ability to lift and maneuver is essential
• Reliable transportation required
• Dress code required

📍 Assisting at multiple locations:
Prague • Meeker • Chandler • Stroud • Asa Smith Funeral Service (Harrah)

📄 To Apply:
Download and complete the application form (linked in this post) or contact us by:
📧 Email: info@parksbrothers.net
📞 Phone: 405-567-2237

We are proud to continue “A Family Tradition” of service and care — and we’d love for you to be a part of it.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK81LmG6f2hmyuLEyep2OoN6NReLIa80E7YlU5LWzUOUZ2XA/viewform?usp=header

07/29/2025

https://www.parksbrothers.net/obituaries/samuel-matthews

View Samuel William Matthews's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/12/2023

Congratulations to our winner of the Mother’s Day giveaway! Tammy Huston presented the floral arrangement to our winner, Terri Laizure! May you have a beautiful Mother’s Day weekend with people who love and care for you.

05/05/2023

The Prague Kolache Festival is coming up soon, and your family won’t want to miss it!

Date: Saturday, May 6
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Location: Downtown Prague
Address: 1107 N Broadway Ave, Prague, OK

The festival offers dance, song, food, crafts, a parade, carnival rides, and more – all in celebration of the Czech culture! Visit our local businesses, eat your fill of kolaches and klobasneks, enjoy the Arts & Crafts Show at the City Park, and make sure you stick around for the concerts and street dancing starting at 7:00 pm. You won’t want to miss the Chicken Dance – always a highlight of the evening.

Also, look for the Parks Brothers sprinter vans! We are running a free shuttle service from the parking lot to the festival.

To learn more about this FREE family-friendly event, go to www.praguekolachefestival.com.

05/02/2023

In honor of Mother's Day and moms everywhere, we're giving away a special floral arrangement designed by a talented local florist.

How can you enter to win? Simply share a favorite memory of your mom, second mom, or even your beloved grandmother in the comments!

We will draw the winning name on May 11. Feel free to like our page and share this post with your friends!

03/28/2023

The Easter “Egg” Stravaganza is coming up! Come enjoy a pancake breakfast with us on Saturday, April 8, before you join in the egg-cellent activities planned for the day!

03/10/2023

Please RSVP by calling (405) 567-2237, and join us for a FREE Advance Planning Seminar on Wednesday, March 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Parks Brothers Funeral Service (1405 W Main, Prague, OK). Come relax with us and learn about legal tools from Attorney Kimberly K. Miller, financial planning from Certified Financial Planner Marc Fleischer, and preplanning from Care Specialist Steve Lankford. You will also receive a FREE information packet!

RSVP today to reserve your spot as there is limited seating!

11/27/2022

Funeral arrangements are a deeply personal choice.

Planning ahead for funeral wishes allows you to take the time you need to make practical, detailed decisions that reflect your standards, lifestyle, taste, and budget. On top of that, you can take away the uncertainty your family may feel at the time of loss, wondering if they are doing the right thing to honor your life.

To give your family the gift of peace of mind, contact us today at 405-567-2237.

www.parksbrothers.net

11/18/2022

10/19/2022

Please RSVP by calling (405) 819-9345, and join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Thursday, November 3, at 11:30 a.m. at Juana's Mexican Restaurant (709 Jim Thorpe Blvd, Prague, OK). Come enjoy a meal with us and learn about the benefits of planning ahead for funeral wishes from Care Specialist John Davenport.

You'll also receive your own FREE information packet just for attending.

RSVP today to reserve your spot as there is limited seating!

09/06/2022

Did you know that September is National Service Dog Month? At Parks Brothers in Prague, we are excited about Marty, our aspiring Grief Therapy Dog.

A one-year-old springer doodle, Marty will soon begin training to offer families comfort during a time of loss. Marty loves spending time with his favorite humans, getting belly rubs and treats, and playing fetch with his frisbee.

For more information about how grief therapy dogs can help your family, call us at 918.968.2577.
www.parksbrothers.net

08/31/2022

Chad Vice, owner of Parks Brothers Funeral Service, is proud to announce that two new partners, Jerel and Staci Johnson, are joining the ownership team of Parks Brothers. Jerel has been the funeral director for both locations since 2018, and he has managed them for most of that time.

“Parks Brothers Funeral Service has served generations of my family and generations of people in the Prague, Paden, and Meeker communities, and we are blessed and honored to continue to serve these communities,” said Johnson, who was raised in Prague.

While attending the University of Oklahoma, he met his wife, Staci, and the two were married in 2010. Jerel and Staci have one son, Jack, and one on the way.

www.parksbrothers.net