Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

02/26/2026

David Thornton

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of David Thornton, Sr., age 81, of Vian, Oklahoma, who departed this life on February 25, 2026. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated public servant, David's life will be celebrated during a funeral service at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 2, 2026, at The Crossing Church in Gore. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian, with arrangements entrusted to Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

David was born on August 30, 1944, in Susanville, California, to Kati Lucile (Montgomery) Thornton and Frank Alexander Thornton, Sr. He married the love of his life, Gladys Marie (Craghead) Thornton, on December 31, 1963, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Over his distinguished career, David served as Tenkiller State Park Superintendent for 26 years and was a Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilman for 18 years. He also worked as a consultant for Cherokee Nation Businesses for 12 years, illustrating his unwavering commitment to the people he served. His dedication to the Cherokee Nation was only rivaled by his profound love for his family.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Gladys; their two sons, David Thornton, Jr. of Vian, OK, and James Thornton, Sr. and wife Angela of Vian, OK; as well as his cherished grandchildren, Kati and Jared, David III and Briana, Alexus and Cole, James Jr., Josi, Olivia, Carter, Kennedye, Beau, Haven, Harlow, Titus, Gunner, and Emma. He is also remembered fondly by numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, including one sister, Mary Catherine Thornton, and one brother, Frank Thornton, Jr.

Active pallbearers honoring David's memory will include Rob Boyd, Chad Ellis, Anthony Bailey, Chris Peoples, Steven Barnes, and Dennis Fletcher. Honorary pallbearers will be Danny Carter, Jim McLaughlin, Steve Carter, Roy Simmons, Butch Cowart, Chuck Garrett, Steven Barrick, Bill John Baker, Joe Crittenden, Deputy Chief Bryan Warner, and Chief Chuck Hoskins, Jr..

Viewing will be at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw on Saturday from 10 AM - 6 PM and Sunday from 2 PM - 8 PM, with a special time to greet the family from 4 PM - 6 PM on Sunday.

David Thornton will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew him.

View David Thornton's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/25/2026

Bruce Wayne Hoover

Bruce Wayne Hoover, age 57, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, passed away on February 17, 2026, in Ely, Nevada. Born on September 30, 1968, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, he was the cherished son of Henry Ronald and Helen Marie (Parker) Hoover.

Bruce dedicated his life to his work as a driller on a drilling rig, particularly fond of his time spent in the stunning Alaska Mountains, where he returned each Spring. An avid hunter, he enjoyed memorable hunting trips to Colorado and Wyoming alongside family and friends. At home, Bruce found joy in working with his horses and enhancing his land, often lending a helping hand to his father. He treasured time spent with his dogs, showering them with affection.

Bruce is survived by his loving parents, Henry Ronald and Helen Hoover; two daughters, Ashley Hoover-Lopez, and Kaleigh and Eric Herzberg; five grandchildren, Kalishka Hodges, Courtney Wilborn, Hunter Walters, and Makenna and Madelyn Herzberg; three brothers, Bryon and Malinda Hoover, Larry and Renee Hoover, and Lonnie and Thelma Hoover; one sister, Lisa Cowan-Stringer; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Muldrow, Oklahoma, with the service to follow at 2:00 PM.

Active pallbearers will include Byron Hoover, Lonnie Hoover, Larry Hoover, Dakota Hoover, Ronnie Hoover, and Eric Herzberg. Honorary pallbearers are Bruce Rowe, Justiss Rowe, Bret (Cale) Vastine, Sheldon Sanders, and Tyler Hoover.

Bruce Wayne Hoover will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May his memory live on in the hearts of those he touched.

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02/25/2026

This is a question we sometimes hear. When a family chooses an open casket, our trained staff carefully prepares your loved one with dignity and respect. This includes embalming, dressing them in clothing you’ve selected, gentle hairstyling, and light cosmetics to create a natural, peaceful appearance.

Our goal is always to help families feel comforted when they walk into the room. We take our time, pay attention to the details, and treat your loved one as if they were our own. If you ever have questions about the process, we’re always here to talk through it with you.

02/23/2026

Lorene (Sevenstar) Taylor

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lorene (Sevenstar) Taylor, age 84, of the Bellefonte community in Oklahoma. Lorene peacefully departed this life on February 21, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Born on March 16, 1941, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to Betsy (Coleman) Sevenstar and Jim Sevenstar, Lorene was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was united in marriage to Benn Lee Taylor, who preceded her in death. They had 9 children.

Lorene's love for her family was immeasurable. She cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, sharing laughter and joy that brightened their lives. Her ability to uplift those around her was remarkable; she would bring comfort and laughter to anyone she interacted with. Lorene had a deep connection to her heritage, often expressing her love through songs of praise in her native Cherokee language.

She is survived by her six daughters, Carolyn Byers and Eddie of Gans, OK; Elsie Taylor; Irene Taylor; Betty Taylor-Raney; Sandra Soap and Jimmy Dale, all of Bellefonte community, OK; and Loretta Barrios and Efrain of Fort Smith, AR. Additionally, she leaves behind two sons, Justin Taylor and Mark Allen Taylor, both of Bellefonte community, OK; 18 grandchildren; 60 great-grandchildren; and 26 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Flora May Soap; her brothers, Wayne Sevenstar and Lee Sevenstar, all of Bellefonte community, OK; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.

Lorene was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one daughter, Joann Taylor; two grandsons; one great-granddaughter; one great-great-granddaughter; three brothers; and her son-in-law, Kenneth Raney.

A funeral service honoring her life will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Bellefonte Baptist Church, with burial to follow at Bellefonte Cemetery under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc. The wake will commence at 4:00 PM on Wednesday at her home.

Active pallbearers will be Dustin Taylor, Andrew Mathews, Keith Mathews, Columbus Sevenstar, Eric Sevenstar, and Aaron Sevenstar. Honorary pallbearers include Mark Taylor, Adrian Mancera, and Alec Locust.

Lorene will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love and laughter will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

View Lorene (Sevenstar) Taylor's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/23/2026

David "Roger" Beard

David "Roger" Beard, age 82, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, passed away on February 23, 2026. He was born on June 20, 1943, in Washington State to Opal Claydona (Owen) Beard and David Samuel Beard. Roger devoted himself to his family and work during his lifetime. A retired lineman for OG&E, he proudly served in his profession and enjoyed his time with those he met along the way.

Roger married Deanna (Rogers) Beard on June 23, 2018. He is cherished and remembered by his wife, Deanna. Roger's legacy continues through his children, Randy Beard of Muldrow, OK, and Shelly Williams of Muldrow, OK. He is also survived by five grandchildren—Jesse, Logan, Donald, Jay, and Melody—and four great-grandchildren, along with stepchildren, Lanette Turpin and Rick, Ray Watts and Teresa, and Stan Watts and April, all of Muldrow, OK. He leaves behind many other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a sister, Margaret Rybenski of St. Louis, MO, and numerous relatives and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Roger was preceded in death by his first wife, Marilyn Beard; his parents; and his brother, Paul Beard.

A graveside service will be held in his honor on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Cottonwood Cemetery in Muldrow, Oklahoma, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc. Active pallbearers will include A.J. Henshaw, Logan Beard, Randy Beard, Dan Frizzell, Stan Watts, and Ray Watts.

Family and friends are invited to view and pay their respects at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Muldrow, OK, on Thursday from noon to 8 PM, where the family will greet guests from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Roger will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

View David "Roger" Beard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/23/2026

Donna Carol Haddox

Donna Carol Haddox, 82, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026. She was born on June 27, 1943, to Helen Belter (Prewett) and Clemo Perceful.

Donna graduated from Sallisaw High School in 1961. On September 2, 1961, she married the love of her life, Benny Ray Haddox, beginning a beautiful 64-year marriage built on devotion, faith, and family. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Northeastern State University and later completed her Master’s degree in Special Education. Donna began her teaching career in Watova before dedicating 30 years of service to South Coffeyville Schools, where she made a lasting impact on generations of students before retiring.

Donna had a passion for antiquing and was an avid collector, especially of Coca-Cola memorabilia. She enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles, hosting Bunco at her home for friends and family, and cherished traveling with her husband and family. She was the heart and soul behind DC’s Juntiques, a legacy that continues through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Donna also took great pride in helping her daughter and providing bookkeeping support for Noxie Show Goats, a role she truly enjoyed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Clemo; her brother, Benny Martin; and her son, Edward Ray Haddox.

Donna is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Benny Ray Haddox; her sister, Cassie Underwood of Sapulpa, OK; and her sister-in-law, June Martin of Kiefer, OK.

She is also survived by her children: Clemo Haddox and wife Berneta of South Coffeyville, OK; Michael Haddox and wife Coleen of South Coffeyville, OK; and Alicia Lawrence and husband Mike of Noxie, OK.

She leaves behind a cherished legacy in her grandchildren: Lisbeth Edwards (Tyler) of Cherryvale, KS; Benjamin Haddox (Rachel) of South Coffeyville, OK; Michaela Lowe (Amos) of Childers, OK; Norma Robinson (Christian) of Lenapah, OK; Pierre Mansfield (Nicole) of Noxie, OK; and Falicia Mansfield of South Coffeyville, OK; as well as her beloved great-grandchildren, Bryson, Cooper, Addison, Adaline, Lila, Cheyenne, Everleigh, and Rowan.

Donna’s love for her family was unwavering. Her kindness, strength, and servant’s heart will be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, education, entrepreneurship, and deep family roots that will continue for generations to come.

She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

A funeral service for Donna will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, with burial to follow at Akins Cemetery. Viewing will be available from noon to 8 PM on Tuesday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, where the family will greet visitors from 6 to 8 PM.

Active pallbearers will include Pierre Mansfield, Falicia Mansfield, Tyler Edwards, Benjamin Haddox, Amos Lowe, and Christian Robinson.

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

02/23/2026

Gladys Craighead

Gladys (Lee) Craighead, age 89, of Vian, Oklahoma, passed away on February 20, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was born on February 5, 1937, in Barber, Oklahoma, to Lucille (Eden) Lee and William P. Lee.

A member of Blackgum First Baptist Church, Gladys dedicated her life to her family and community. She worked as a housekeeper, demonstrating her unwavering work ethic and commitment to those around her.

She leaves behind her son, Chuck Craighead and Shannon of Vian, OK, along with a loving legacy that includes eight grandchildren: Connie Titus, Jeremy York, Michael Randolph, Holly McElhaney, Zachary Randolph, Cale Gillespie, Noah Craighead, and Dalton Pendergrass. Additionally, she cherished her numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, and is survived by her sisters, Bonnie Silk of Oklahoma City, OK, and Eva Lee of Fort Gibson, OK, her brother, William Lee of Ponca City, OK, and many more relatives and friends.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; two daughters, Rhonda York and Sherry Pendergrass; one son, Mike Randolph; three sisters, Hiawatha Cloud, Christine Waters, and Bernice Ellis; and three brothers, Albert Lee, J.C. Lee, and Donel Lee.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Blackgum Baptist Church in Vian, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at Box Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Active pallbearers will include Darrell McElhaney, Michael Randolph, Dalton Pendergrass, McKennon McElhaney, Cale Gillespie, and Noah Craighead.

Family and friends are invited to view from 1 PM to 8 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, OK, where the family will be present to greet guests from 6 PM to 8 PM.

In honoring her memory, let us reflect on the love and kindness she shared throughout her life. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

View Gladys Craighead's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/23/2026

Helen Christenberry

Helen Christenberry, age 60, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on May 20, 1965, in Sallisaw to Rachael Marie (Brasher) Barker and Henry Leon Barker, Helen lived a life filled with love and cherished memories.

Helen shared a beautiful life with her husband, Wesley Carlton Christenberry, whom she married on June 25, 1990. She was a devoted mother to her son, Mathew Christenberry, and a proud grandmother to Jase and Elizabeth Christenberry. Her family was her joy, and she deeply cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren. A woman of many talents, Helen had a passion for fishing and enjoyed creating tumbler cups, often finding happiness in these simple pleasures.

For 15 years, Helen lovingly prepared meals for the students at Sallisaw High School, nurturing not only their bodies but also their hearts. She earned the affection of many young people during her time there, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Helen is survived by her husband, Wesley of the home; one son, Mathew Christenberry and Chelsea of Stilwell, OK; two grandchildren, Jase and Elizabeth Christenberry; mother, Rachael Barker of Sallisaw, OK; two sisters, Mary Barker of Sallisaw, OK and Polly Frey and James of Sallisaw, OK; one brother, Jimmie Barker and Sandy of Sallisaw, OK; three step-children, Patrisha Bates of Plainville, AR, Shawn Christenberry and Melissa of Fort Smith, AR and Brian Walton and Rachel of Fort Smith, AR; 16 step-grandchildren; special niece, Sofia Frey; and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Henry Leon Barker; one sister, Kathy Barker and one nephew, Little Henry Barker.

A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, with burial to follow at Akins Cemetery. Viewing will take place at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM, where the family will be present from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM to receive friends and loved ones.

Active pallbearers will include Wayne Wilson, Johnny Brasher, David Brasher, Zack Barker, Cory Barker, and Brody Wood. Honorary pallbearers are Kenneth Frey, Jim Frey, and Clyde Osborn.

Helen Christenberry will be greatly missed and forever remembered for her loving spirit and the joy she brought to those around her.

View Helen Christenberry's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/20/2026

A Service of Remembrance and Celebration of Life for Doris Luella (Walker) Johnson will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, April 25, 2026 in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, Fort Smith, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers the public are asked to contribute at this time and in the future to the Sallisaw Education Foundation, Inc. - PO Box 276 - Sallisaw, OK 74955.

View Doris Luella (Walker) Johnson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/19/2026

Catherine "Cathy" Collins

Catherine "Cathy" Collins, 72, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, passed away on February 18, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Born on October 14, 1953, in Napoleon, Ohio, Cathy was the beloved daughter of Freda Louise (Tyler) Long and Beldon Long. On June 12, 1975, she married David Lynn Collins in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, who preceded her in death on May 3, 2009. Cathy was a devoted family member who cherished her loved ones deeply. She had a passion for crocheting, gardening, and fishing, and she was known for her caring heart and willingness to assist others.

Cathy leaves behind her partner, Aaron Slate of Sallisaw, OK; four daughters: Karen Howard and Charles of Gans, OK, Barbara Poor and her husband Chad of Sallisaw, OK, Margie Collins of Van Buren, AR, and Heather Collins of South Dakota. She is also survived by two sons: Dawson Collins and his wife Kelli of Oklahoma City, OK, and Christopher Collins of Tulsa, OK.

Her legacy continues through her 15 grandchildren: Alex Collins, Clayton Collins, Emily Fuller, Sarah Collins, David Collins, Grace Collins, Natalie Poor, Evan Poor, Austin Collins, Zachery Collins, Colby Rawson, Tanner Ogdon, Samuel Comstock, Lakinzie Comstock, and Mathue Collins; as well as four great-grandchildren: Tucker Collins, Saylor Collins, Athena Fuller, and Hemera Fuller. Cathy is also remembered by her three sisters, Karen Scrivner, Tracy McNew, and Kathy Moss; and her two brothers, Mike Champion and Jerry Champion.

Cathy was preceded in death by her husband, David Collins; her parents; and one daughter, Patricia Ann Grady.

She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

View Catherine "Cathy" Collins's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/19/2026

Sheila Ann Burger

Sheila Ann Burger,73, of Muldrow Oklahoma, passed away on February 18, 2026, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Cremation services is under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Born on September 12, 1952, in Springdale, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Anna Mae (Combs) Cooper and Johnny Edward McFall. Sheila was known for her warmth and kindness, making friends wherever she went and never meeting a stranger. She had a passion for watching game shows and enjoyed traveling.

A dedicated educator, Sheila taught Special Education at Fort Smith Public Schools and later served as a school bus driver, touching the lives of many children throughout her career. Above all, her family was her greatest joy, and she cherished the time spent with her children and especially her grandchildren.

Sheila is survived by her daughter, Melissa Burger of Muldrow, OK; her three sons, Russell Burger of Greenwood, AR, Jeremy Burger and Shyla of Roland, OK, and Kevin Burger and Tiffany of Roland, OK; as well as seven beloved grandchildren: Seth, Katie, Sidney, Khamden, Kinlee, Kaden, and Makayla. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Debbie Brockman and Ed of Vian, OK, along with many other relatives and friends.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents and a step-brother, Larry Cooper.

Sheila Ann Burger will be remembered for her generous spirit and the love she shared with those around her. Her legacy of love and kindness will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

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02/19/2026

Today is National Caregivers Day, and we want to recognize the caregivers who quietly give so much of themselves every single day.

Whether you’re caring for a parent, a spouse, a friend, or a loved one, or you're a medical care professional, your compassion and dedication do not go unnoticed. Caregiving is hard work, often done behind the scenes, and it means more than words can say.

Today, we thank you for the care, patience, and love you give so freely.