Bobbie C. Gallagher

        Bobbie C. Gallagher, 81, Blair, died Saturday, June 17, 2006 at Plantation Village Nursing Home in Altus. Funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Monday, June 19, 2006 at the Prince of Peace Catholic Church with Father Joe Arledge officiating.  Burial will follow at the Navajo cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        Bobbie C. Gallagher was born June 8, 1925 in Norman, Oklahoma to Professor LaVerne A. Comp and Helen Marie (Jones) Comp.  She graduated high school at Norman, Oklahoma and  attended college at the University of Oklahoma.  She married John H. Gallagher, Sr. at St. Joan of Ark Catholic Church in Los Angeles, California on November 14, 1945. She was employed at Douglas Aircraft in Midwest City, Oklahoma. She was a member of Beta Mothers, the Lady’s Alter Society and a PTA officer at Eugene Field school.  She lived in Jackson County for over 40 years.  She loved vegetable gardening, working in her flowerbeds, sewing, fishing, and babysitting the grandchildren.  She was a member of the Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Altus.

        She was preceded in death by her husband, twin grandsons at birth, her parents, Professor LaVerne & Helen (Jones) Comp, and her grandparents, Dr. & Mrs. George Comp.

        She is survived by four sons, John H. Gallagher, Jr. and his wife, Judie (Altom), of Gould, James L. Gallagher and Rita of Blair, Robert T. Gallagher of Muskogee and Patrick B. Gallagher of Tulsa; three daughters, Joan Gallagher-Graham and her husband, Richard, of Lampasas, Texas, Anne Altom and her husband, James (Bud) of Blair, and Helen Scott of Blair; one brother, Don L. Comp of Madison, Tennessee; sixteen grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and many friends.

        Vigil will be held at 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 18, 2006 at the Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Online tributes may be made @ www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Oscar S. Garcia

Oscar S. Garcia, 81, of Altus, died October 9, 2008 at Jackson County Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Saturday, October 11, 2008 at Kincannon Funeral Home. Burial will follow services at the Olustee Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

Oscar Sierra Garcia was born February 3, 1927, in Mercedes, TX. to Jose and Natalie (Sierra) Garcia. Oscar was a self-educated man that traveled all over the United States of America working as a farm laborer. On October 1, 1948 he married Guadalupe Valadez in Memphis, TX. They recently celebrated their 60^th anniversary. He is of the Catholic faith, enjoyed gardening, and mostly spending time with his family.

          Oscar is preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Eloise Godwin; Lupe Rodriguez; Maria Sierra Ortega and one step grandson, Pete Castillo Jr.

          He is survived and dearly missed by his wife, of the home; his daughter Sylvia Castillo and husband Pete of Altus; three granddaughters; Angela Tokarski and husband Timothy of Altus, Julie Richardson of Altus, and Mary Mullican and husband David of Grand Prairie, TX; one step granddaughter, Kathy Wiseman of Lakeland, FL; three step-grandsons, Rick Castillo and wife Bettye, of Altus; John Castillo and wife Cheryl of Oklahoma City, OK, and Martin Castillo and wife Tami, of Altus; great grandchildren, Spencer Anderson of Altus; Trace and E.J. Tokarski of Altus; Mikel Bush of Tacoma, WA; Albany Richardson and Mikayla Bush of Altus, Ryleigh and Ryan Mullican, Grand Prairie, TX; six step-great-grandchildren, Allison and Samantha Castillo, OKC; Clay and Kymberlyn Castillo of Altus; Jennifer Smith and Brandon Wiseman, both of Altus;  two step-great-great-grandchildren, Colby and Cody Smith of Lakeland, FL; sisters-in-law, Lupe Ramirez and husband Jessie of Olustee, OK; Dominga Martinez of Altus; Juanita Suniga of Altus; Candeleria Vargas of Amarillo, TX; a brother-in-law Daniel Suniga of Altus; several nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends.

          The family will host visitation, with Rosary service, at 6:00 p.m. Friday evening, October 10, 2008, at Kincannon Funeral Home. Online tributes may be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com

Doris Lee Gifford

        Doris Lee Gifford, 69, Blair, died Sunday, September 23, 2007 at her son’s home in Ada, Oklahoma.  Funeral services will be 10 A.M. Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at Kincannon Funeral Home with Pastor Lionel Mounce officiating.  Burial will follow services at the Altus City Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        She was born on May 2, 1938 in Tishomingo, Oklahoma to Ben F. Edwards and Cynthia Z. Gibson.  She attended school in Tishomingo, Oklahoma and Altus.  She married Gene Gifford on October 17, 1953 in Grandfield, Oklahoma.  She was of Apostolic Truth (United Pentecostal) faith.  She was a member of the Church Ladies Auxiliary; Prayer Warrior; Sunday School Teacher; and started the Church Newspaper.  She enjoyed writing, songs, poems, and playing the piano. 

        She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, LeRoy Edwards. She is survived by her husband, Gene; one daughter, Connie Adam and husband David of Kerrville, Texas; three sons Stephen Gifford and wife Bernice of Ada, Oklahoma; Scott Gifford and wife Tammy of The’ Colony, Texas; Richard Gifford and wife Ingrid of Olustee, Oklahoma; nine grandchildren, Michael Gifford, Steven Nathaniel Gifford, Michelle McDaugale, Tiffany Bailey, Candice Gifford, Aaron Gifford, Dwayne Gifford, Justin Adams, and David Adams, and four great-grandchildren; Aubree McDaugale, Raelyn McDaugale, Andrew Bailey and Hanah Bailey.

        Online tributes may be made @ www.kincannonfunderalhome.com.

Lela E. Gilreath

        Lela E. Gilreath, 86, passed away, Friday, April 20, 2007 in Nashville, Tennessee.  Funeral services will be held, Tuesday, April 24, at 1:00 pm, at the Grace Baptist Church of Granite with Reverend Dennis Teague officiating.  Funeral services are under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home. 

        Lela Teague was born January 30, 1921, in Madill, Oklahoma to Hosey Laborn and Susy Ann (Carroll) Teague.  She attended the Cumberland School near Madill.  She married Norman E. Gilreath in Madill, Oklahoma, on December 1, 1939.  She and Norman were the owners and operators of the Falcon Road Liquor Store, they sold the business in 2000, and retired.  She delighted in shopping for her children and grandchildren.  Lela belonged to the Methodist Church in Nashville, TN

        Lela is preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Norman, and a grandson, Kevin Huddleston, both in 2003, two brothers, Hoyt Teague and Edward Teague. She is survived by one son; and daughter -in –law, Floyd and Sue Gilreath, of Edmond, OK; two daughters, Virginia Huddleston, of Tulsa, OK; and Marcella Fletcher, of Jackson, TN; seven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, one great-great grandson; one sister, Ina Mae Strum, of Tishomingo, OK and one brother, R.J. Teague, of Ardmore, OK, and many friends.   

Charlotte Ann Gastineau

        Charlotte Ann Gastineau, 71, Blair, died Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at Comanche County Memorial Hospital in Lawton. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Friday, January 14, 2005 at the Blair Cemetery with S. K. Robinson officiating. Services are under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        She was born on October 26, 1933 in Hollis, Oklahoma to Joseph and Mary Ellen (Chilton) Eastham. She graduated from Hollis High School in 1951. She married Ray Gastineau on October 26, 1989 in Blair, Oklahoma. She was a bookkeeper for several area businesses for many years. She was an avid supporter for her husband of Gastineau Racing Team and enjoyed antique furniture restoration.

        She was preceded in death by her son, her brother and her sister. She is survived by her husband, Ray, of the home in Blair; two daughters, Jaynie Yeager and husband, Kenneth, of Blair; Jan Rose and husband, Steve, of Blair; two step sons, Russell Gastineau and wife, Joyce, of Taloga, Oklahoma; Todd Gastineau of Hydro, Oklahoma; a sister, Dorothy Timmons of California; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren and many friends. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society. Please make tributes @ www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Patricia Jean Carson Gebron

        Patricia Jean Carson Gebron, 80, Hugo, Oklahoma, died Tuesday, June 13, 2006 at Jackson County Memorial Hospital in Altus, Oklahoma. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Sunday, June 18, 2006 at the First United Methodist Church in Blair, Oklahoma with Rev. George Lupton and Rev. Ruth Atterberry officiating. Burial will take place the following day 1 p.m. Monday, June 19, 2006 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Hugo, Oklahoma. Services are under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        She was born October 26, 1925 in Kiowa County, Oklahoma to John (Kit) Paul Carson, Sr. (Maj. USAF, Ret.) and Gladys (Crumley) Carson of Hugo, Oklahoma. She was a graduate of Hugo High School and attended the University of Oklahoma. Ms. Carson worked in banks in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, San Rafael, California and Dallas, Texas. She was a candy striper volunteer in several hospitals while she lived in Dallas and was a Hospital Auxiliary Volunteer at Choctaw Memorial Hospital in Hugo. She was a member of the Methodist Church, was active in the choir and served as a superintendent of Sunday school for First United Methodist Church in Hugo. 

        She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, John Paul Carson, Jr. (Lt. Col. USAF, Ret.) and Phil O. Carson. She is survived by David D. Carson of Blair, Oklahoma. Memorials should be sent to the American Cancer Society. Online tributes may be made @  www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Faith Lopez George

        Faith Lopez George, infant daughter of Janice George and Alexis Lopez, died Sunday, November 5, 2006 at Jackson County Memorial Hospital. Memorial services will be held at a later date. Arrangements were provided by Kincannon Funeral Home.  

         She is survived by her parents; her grandparents Brenda Orr of New Orleans, La; Glen McFadin of Carthage, Tn; an uncle Tony George of Altus and an aunt Julie Moskowitz of Carthage, Tn.

Maria G. Gloria

        Maria G. Gloria, 41, Altus, died at her home Thursday, August 3, 2006. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Monday, August 7, 2006 at the Apostolic Truth Pentecostal Church in Altus with Lloyd Lopez and Paul Gloria officiating. Burial will follow at the Altus City Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.  

        She was born on June 11, 1965 in Vernon, Texas to Juan H.  and Angelita (Patlan) Martinez. She married Edward Gloria on October 25, 1994 in Mangum, Oklahoma. She graduated from Altus High School in 1984. She operated a day care business for about 10 years. She was of the Pentecostal faith, enjoyed fishing, camping, baking, cooking, taking care of children, traveling and spending time with her family and friends.  

         She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Sylvia Martinez. She is survived by her husband Edward of Altus; two daughters, Alicia Martinez and Jasmine Gloria, both of Altus; one son Jonathon Martinez of Altus; three brothers, Joe Martinez and wife Cindy of Lubbock, Tx; Johnny Martinez of Altus; Pete Martinez and wife Janie of Moore, Ok; six sisters, Maria Luna and husband Tony of Lubbock, Tx; Dora Martinez of Blair, Ok; Delia Landa of Blair, Ok; Francis Flores and husband Ricky of Altus; Janie Rodriguez and husband Fidel of Houston, Tx; Gloria Aguilar and husband Robert of Altus and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives. Online tributes may be made @  www.kincannonfuneralhome.com. 

Donald Ray Goss

        Donald Ray Goss, 71, Eldorado, died Monday, April 17, 2006 at his home. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Friday, April 21, 2006 at the Eldorado Cemetery with Rev. Don Ladner officiating. Services are under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        He was born on May 29, 1934 in Eldorado, Oklahoma to Archibald and Sadie (Starwalt) Goss. He attended school in Eldorado. He married Rita Collvins in 1959 in Eldorado. He enjoyed farming, ranching and custom harvesting. He was of the Baptist Faith and was a member of the Eldorado Saddle Club; the American Quarter Horse Association and the American Paint Horse Association. He enjoyed horses, riding, raising cattle, dancing, hunting and spending time with his family and especially his grandchildren.

        He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson Levi Martin; a granddaughter Julene Martin; two brothers, Arthur and Doyle Goss and four sisters Gladys, Lena, Hazel and Edith. 

        He is survived by one daughter Deana Martin and husband Rev. Perry Martin of Battiest, Ok; two sons, Ricky Dale Goss and wife Lynda of Eldorado, Ok; Scott Goss of Eldorado; daughter-in-law, Gayle Goss of Eldorado, Ok; one brother Fred Goss of Eldorado, Ok; one sister Ruth Dickerson of Bridgeport, Tx; five grandchildren, Leslie Martin and wife Annette of Midwest City, Ok; Ricky Don Goss of Eldorado, Ok; Charlie Nicole Goss of Altus, Ok; Michael Scott Goss and Johnny Weston Goss both of Eldorado, Ok and Martha Rozell, a special friend whom Don considered as a daughter and numerous nieces and nephews with whom he loved to argue with. Online tributes may be made @  www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Mae Goss

         Mae Goss, 92, Altus, died Wednesday, February 9, 2005 at Jackson County Memorial Hospital, 11 days following her 92nd birthday. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday,  February 12, 2005 at First Assembly of God with Rev. Richard Ventonis and Rev. J.V. Oden officiating. Burial will follow services at the Altus City Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        She was born on January 29, 1913 in Eustace, Texas to William Jackson and Maudie Irene (Rolison) Ashton. She attended school in Eustace, Texas. She married J. W. Goss on February 1, 1928 in Anderson County, Texas. To this union one son and three daughters were born. They also adopted a son. The Goss family moved to Oklahoma in the 1940's where they settled on a farm near Elmer, Oklahoma. She worked tirelessly raising her children. She was a good mother, cook and farmers wife, helping with all phases of farm life.  No one could bake a pie or make butter rolls any better. It was there her family learned to eat them with gusto. She helped her husband with rental property and worked at Kastner's Laundry for several years. She was a member of the First Assembly of God in Altus for over 60 years. She was a crafter and enjoyed quilting, crocheting, ceramics and making stuffed animals. She was also very fond of her doll collection. She loved all types of craftwork and most of all helping with charities.

        Even when she was busy with all her other activities she never missed a chance to go fishing. She could catch, clean, fry and eat more fish than anyone. 

        She was preceded in death by her parents; husband J.W. in 1989; five brothers; four sisters; one son Billy; one daughter Levie; one grand daughter; one three grandsons and one great grandson. She is survived by two daughters and one son-in-law; Carmie and Glen Allen of Altus; Maudie Keenan of Westminster, California; one son and daughter-in-law, William King and Ona Goss of Orange, California; a sister-in-law, Velma Ashton of Petrolia, Texas; 11 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren, 14 great great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins; special friends, Olene Reeves and Thomas Holt and new friend Carleen. The Goss Family will receive friends Friday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Kincannon Funeral Home.

Betty Lou (Glidewell) Graft

        Betty Lou (Glidewell) Graft was born April 8, 1928 to Web and Aurora Alloway Glidewell of Helena, OK.  She graduated from Helena High School in 1946 and attended Oklahoma State University graduating in 1952 with a degree in business. In 1950 she married Richard (Bud) Graft of Custer County, OK. 

        In 1956, the couple established their home in Altus, OK.  Betty worked at the Chamber of Commerce and St. Pauls Episcopal Church while Bud was employed with the Soil Conservation Service. In 1958, they bought a vending business which they operated for 17 years.  From 1976 -1983, they owned and operated Lee Office Equipment. 

        Betty was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.  She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Gama Mother’s, Elks Country Club,  OSU Alumni, Helena Historical Society, DAR, and Eastern Star.  The couple celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary in Aug, 2000.   

        She was an avid golfer. Also, she loved playing bridge, obtaining her Life Masters in Oct of 1990.  She enjoyed bird watching, pencil collecting, working puzzles and following every kind of spectator sport.  Betty Graft did not know the seasons of the year like you & me.  Instead of spring, summer, fall and winter – her seasons were baseball, basketball, football and golf the year round.   

        Betty is survived by two daughters, Barbara and husband Gary Griffin, Clinton, OK; Beverly and husband David Hubert, Jacksonville, NC; two grandchildren, Kyle and wife Shea Griffin, Stillwater, OK, and Ali Griffin, Stillwater, OK; one sister, Lora and husband Norman Woodall, Helena, OK, several nieces and nephews, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Richard Graft, in Feb, 2004; her grandson, JJ Hubert, in Oct 1997; and brother, Bob Glidewell, in Feb, 1985. 

        Services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 29, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church in Altus with Rev. Margie Van Oostrum officiating. Burial will follow at the Mound Valley Cemetery in Thomas, OK at 2:30pm under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Family Life Center, PO Box 502, Altus, OK  73522.  Condolences may be made online to val_verde@sbcglobal.net.

Pearl Green

        Pearl Green, 84, of Martha, OK died Thursday, August  17, 2006 at her home.  Funeral services were held August 24, 2006 under the direction Huntt Funeral Home in Waldorf, MD.  Burial followed at Trinity Memorial Gardens, Charles County, Waldorf, MD.  Arrangements in Altus, Oklahoma were handled by Kincannon Funeral Home.

         Pearl was born August 28, 1921 in Port Royal, Virginia to Ernest and Edna (Lumpkin) Bruce. She attended school in Port Royal, VA.   She married Willie G. Waid in 1939 in Virginia and to this union six children were born. She managed High’s Ice Cream in the Waldorf Area for forty years.  She retired in 1995.  She was a member of the Waldorf Moose Lodge and was of the Baptist faith.  She enjoyed crocheting, gardening, and spending time with her family.

          She was preceded in death by her parents, spouse, and one brother, William T. Bruce. 

           She is survived by  three daughters, Holly D. Jones of Huntsville, AL,  Elizabeth A. Morris of Martha, OK, Linda L. Ellis of Brandywine, MD; three sons, William R. Waid of Virginia Beach, VA,  David W. Waid of Annapolis, MD, Kenneth G. Waid of North Carolina; one half-sister, Alma Ballard of Richmond, VA, one uncle, Lee Lumpkin of Yorktown, VA;  18 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Jasey Michelle Greer

        Jasey Michelle Greer newborn daughter of Michael Jason and Amy Lynn Greer of Mangum passed away September 2, 2007 in the OU Medical Center in OKC, OK. 

        Graveside services will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 6 at the Altus City Cemetery with Zane Newton officiating under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.  

        She is preceded in death by one uncle, Sheldon Brown , and  great grandfather, William Delias both of Altus, and great grandfather Leroy Greer.

        Jasey is survived by her parents; one brother, Michael Greer of the home, grandparents, Lisa and P.J. Tugmon of Altus, OK, John and Andrea Brown of Cockeysville, MD, Wayne Greer of Mangum, OK, and Machelle and Martin Eastham of Cedar Rapids, IA; great grandparents, Joan Delias of Altus, OK, Kirby and Fusako Brown of West Columbia, SC, Ruby Jane Bull of Mangum, OK, Lorena Greer of Erick, OK and Frank and Helen Ritchey of Blair, OK; three uncles, Joseph and Jenny Greer of Higginsville, MO, Michael and Morgan Brown of Altus, OK and Aaron Tugman of Ft. Lewis, WA; three aunts, Alexis Brown of Blair, OK, Kati Tugmon and Kristi Tugmon both of Altus, OK, she is also survived by many great aunts; great uncles and cousins. Online tributes may be made @ www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Richard Gregory

        Richard Gregory, 60, Altus, passed away Friday, March 17, 2006 at the Jackson County Memorial Hospital.  Memorial services have been rescheduled for 4:00 P.M. Thursday, March 23, 2006 at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. David Player and Rev. Margie Van Oostrum officiating.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Kincannon Funeral Home. 

        Richard L. Gregory was born April 27, 1945 in Ada, OK to Alvin Daryl and Frankie Eugenia (Weed) Gregory.  He graduated from Capital Hill High School in Oklahoma City, OK.  He joined the Army National Guard where he served in the Medical Corp.  Richard married Lenore Diane Gunderson on February 13, 1971 in Englewood, CO.  To this union, two daughters, Jamie and Angela were born.  Richard worked for many years as a bank loan officer and most recently, he worked happily for the Bunker Hill United Supermarket as a butcher.  He was a member of Jaycee’s Civil Club and the Banker’s Association.  He loved sports, especially playing golf and watching OU.  He enjoyed carpentry and working in his yard.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Altus, where he was active in the United Methodist Men and singing in the church choir.  He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.    

        He was preceded in death by his father, Rev. A.D. Gregory and his sister, Judith Gregory.

        He is survived by his wife, Lenore of the home;  two daughters, Jamie Gregory of Altus, OK and Angela Brian and husband Steve of Altus, OK;  two granddaughters, Morgan and Allison Brian of Altus, OK;  his sister, Joy Beth Willie and husband Charlie of Argonia, KS;  two brothers, Daryl Alvin Gregory and wife Joann of Grove, OK and Jerry Gregory and wife Bonnie of Ashville, NC;  many nieces and nephews and other family and a host of friends. Tributes can be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Walter Griffis

        Walter Griffis, 79, Altus, died Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at the Oklahoma Veterans Center in Clinton, Oklahoma. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 5, 2007 at Kincannon Funeral Home with Bill Osborne officiating. Burial with military honors will take place in the Veterans Section of the Altus City Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

         He was born on February 11, 1928 in Cozad Nebraska to Virgil and Pearl (Fletcher) Griffis. He attended school in Willow Island, Nebraska.  He entered the United States Army in November of 1948 and honorably discharged in June of 1952. He worked as a welder for several years.  He married Tommie Ruth Williams on April 10, 1981 in Vernon, Texas. He was a long time member of the Elm and Hudson Church of Christ. He was the Commander of the American Legion in Altus for several years.  He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and working at the American Legion baseball games.

         Walter was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Tommy Ruth, sisters; Butch Carmelli and Buleah Marie Griffis, brother; Frank Ray Griffis; son, Frank Griffis, stepson T.E. Williams and step daughter Judy Bennight.

         He is survived by two daughters, Lynn and Deborah Griffis; three sons, Randy Griffis, Gregg Griffis, and Michael Griffis; three step daughters, Marietta Montgomery, Jane Breeding, and Sue Marsh; three sisters, Linda Downs, Mary Webber, Bobbie Kessler, Ruth Helfenbien, and Eva Kraft, and one brother, Hoppy Griffis. Online tributes may be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Eugene Debs Gunkel

Eugene Debs Gunkel, a lifelong resident of Eldorado, went to be with his Lord on Friday, May 19.  In life and in death, he was surrounded by his loving family. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, May 25, 2006 at the First Baptist Church in Eldorado with Rev. Pete Wylie officiating. Burial will follow services at the Eldorado Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.  

Eugene was born on December 28, 1916, the third child of Fred Washington Gunkel and Bertha Lemon (Hopkins) Gunkel.  He was born at the Gunkel home in Bentley, Oklahoma.  He remembered moving to the Eldorado area with his family in a covered wagon in 1921.  Eugene attended Antioch Country School through sixth grade.  Eugene was baptized in Sandy Creek, west of Eldorado, and became a member of the First Baptist Church.   He graduated from Eldorado High School in 1936 as valedictorian of his class.  He played baseball, primarily in left field and first base, and participated in school plays.  He received a scholarship to attend business college in Oklahoma City following high school.

Following business college, Eugene worked briefly in Houston, Texas.  In 1939, he started working in the Eldorado International Harvester business as parts manager and bookkeeper.  It was during this time that he found the love of his life.  He started dating  Lucille Martin, a school teacher at Gould.  Eugene enlisted in the United States Army on February 23, 1942 and was assigned to Camp Barkley in San Antonio for basic training.  At the end of the school year, he asked Lucille to marry him.  They were married in San Antonio on May 30, 1942. 

During World War II, Eugene served in England and France with a field artillery unit, reaching the rank of staff sergeant.  After the war ended, he was sent back to the United States and was discharged from the army in March, 1946.  He purchased the International Harvester dealership in Eldorado, in partnership with Kenneth Ledgerwood, and later bought full interest in the business.  Eugene was the IH dealer in Eldorado for 29 ½ years, before retiring in July, 1975. 

Throughout Eugene’s life, he was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church, serving as deacon, Sunday School secretary, and choir member.  He was a 62 year member of the Masonic Lodge, serving as Worshipful Master and then as secretary for over 40 years.  He achieved the Master Mason rank in 1946.  Eugene was also a member of the Scottish Rite, 32^nd degree.

Eugene and Lucille’s marriage was blessed with two children:  Charles and Sue.  Eugene delighted in the marriages of his children and the birth of grandchildren, as well as his first great-grandchild. 

Eugene was an avid golfer, since playing his first round in 1943.  He celebrated his 89^th birthday on December 28, 2005, by playing nine holes of golf.   Following his retirement, he once held joint memberships in both the Quanah (Texas) and Altus Country Clubs, so he could play with different partners on different days of the week.  He was also a very competitive domino player.  He enjoyed watching all types of sports events on television and reading novels.  Attending family reunions and visiting family all over the country were also special activities for him.  Eugene’s last trip was in September, 2005, when he flew to Nashville, Tennessee to witness the marriage of one of his grandsons.

Eugene is survived by his wife, Lucille, a resident of Plantation Village Nursing Home, as well as his children, Charles and Carol Gunkel of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Sue and Harold Peyton, of Sac City, Iowa.  Grandchildren include Andy and Julie (Gunkel) Long, Colorado Springs, Colorado; Josh and Jessica Gunkel, Mableton, Georgia; Jeffrey and Rebekah Gunkel, Nashville, Tennessee; Kevin Peyton and Amy Peyton of Sac City, Iowa.  Eugene’s great-granddaughter is Alexandria Morgan Long, of Colorado Springs, Colorado.  Eugene also leaves 6 of his brothers and sisters:  Syble Holly of Huntsville, Texas; Theaola Lynn of Grover Beach, California; Frances Watkins, of Lawton, Oklahoma; J.C. (Jake) Gunkel of Duncan, Oklahoma; Geneva Kirkpatrick of Lawton, Oklahoma, and Ethel Kinberger of Folsom, Louisiana.  Eugene is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Preceding him in death were his parents; an infant brother, R.J. Gunkel; his older brother, Ewing Gunkel; and two sisters:  Gladys (Gunkel) Thurmond and Elizabeth (Gunkel) Klein.

The Gunkel Family will greet friends Wednesday evening from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Kincannon Funeral Chapel in Eldorado 1-580-633-2548. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 820 W. Main, Eldorado, Oklahoma 73537. Online tributes may be made @ www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Ewing Gunkel Jr.

        Ewing Gunkel Jr., 78, of Eldorado, Oklahoma died April 3, 2008 at Jackson County Memorial Hospital in Altus. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, April 5, 2008 at the Eldorado Baptist Church in Eldorado. Burial will follow services at the Eldorado Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home. 

        “Junior” Gunkel was born July 15, 1929 in Eldorado, Oklahoma to Ewing and Ruby (Sample) Gunkel. He attended Eldorado schools and graduated from Eldorado High School in 1947. He married Thelma Sherwood on August 11, 1951 in Eldorado. In 1952 he was drafted into the U.S. Army and proudly served his country, overseas, for two years. Upon returning from the Army he worked for Gunkel Implement in Eldorado, for several years before choosing to spend the remainder of his years farming and running a cattle operation. He retired from farming and ranching in 2007. 

        “Junior” was preceded in death by his parents; one son-in-law, Steve Coward; one brother-in-law, Farrell Sherwood; and one nephew, Stacy Sherwood. 

        He is survived by his wife, Thelma, of the home; Three daughters, Rhonna Piercy and husband Floyd of Mineola, TX, Sandy Coward of Eldorado, OK, and Lori Freeman and husband Johnny of Altus, OK; Two brothers, Jerry Gunkel and wife Jo of Eldorado, OK and Kenneth Gunkel and wife Elaine of Elgin, OK; One sister, Faye Dickinson of Weatherford, OK; One brother-in-law, Dale Sherwood, and wife Linda, of Quanah, TX; Five grandchildren, Tracy Fernau and husband Derek of Mesquite, TX, Julie Carter and husband Jerimy of Luling, TX, Micah Coward and wife Jerusha of Bartlesville, OK, Megan Coward of Weatherford, OK, and Morgan Farr and husband Seth of Blair, OK; One great-grandchild, Robbie Kellick of Mesquite, TX; Ten nieces and nephews, and many members of a large extended family.

Pearl Lucille Gunkel 

 Pearl Lucille Gunkel passed from this life on Sunday, July 30, 2005 at the age of 90 years.  A lifelong resident of Eldorado, she died at the Altus Plantation Village Care Center, where she had lived for the last several years.  Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 3, 2006 at the Eldorado First Baptist Church with Rev. Pete Wylie officiating.  Burial will follow services at the Eldorado Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

 Lucille was born January 30, 1916 to George and Carrie (Turner) Martin in the Bethel community west of Eldorado.  The second oldest of five daughters, she graduated from Bethel High School in 1932.  She was 16 years old, and graduated salutatorian of her class.  She had an intense desire for education.  During the depression years, she borrowed $15 from the local bank and enrolled at Southwestern State College in Weatherford, Oklahoma.  She started teaching school after only a year or two of college, finishing her degree by taking correspondence courses and summer school.  She eventually received her B.S. degree from Texas Tech in 1941.  She also obtained an M.S. degree in 1970 from Southwestern State.  She taught at  Lincoln, Gould, Elmdale (Texas), Altus Wilson Elementary School and Eldorado.  She was a demanding elementary teacher and would not allow any of her students to fail.  She was named Jackson County’s Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 1977.  She retired from teaching in 1978.  

Lucille married Eugene Gunkel on May 30, 1942, in San Antonio, Texas.  After he returned from his service in World War II, their marriage was blessed with the birth of two children:  Charles and Sue.  She interrupted her teaching career to stay at home and raise her children.  During those years, she used her sewing skills to make clothes for others in the community.  She also started taking piano lessons with her children and gained enough knowledge and skill to start giving private piano lessons herself.  She delighted in the marriage of her children and wholeheartedly welcomed their spouses into the family.  When blessed with grandchildren, she enjoyed having tea parties and sharing her talents with them.  The grandchildren all had new pajamas every year at Christmas for many years, thanks to her creativity.  

Lucille was skilled in all types of sewing and handwork.  She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and needlepoint.  After retiring from teaching, her passion was china painting.  She participated in china painting groups in Altus, Mangum, Frederick and Hobart, as well as taking workshops from visiting teachers whenever she could.  

Throughout her life, Lucille was an active member of the First Baptist Church, serving as Sunday school teacher, WMU president, choir member and numerous other positions.  She was member of the Au Courant study club for many years and especially enjoyed doing book reviews for their programs and guest days.  Special travel memories included a trip to Europe with her sister Maxine, a trip to the Holy Land with her sisters-in-law, and a trip throughout the United States with her husband after her retirement.  

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband of almost 64 years.  Eugene died on May 19, 2006, so they are enjoying a grand reunion.  Her parents, an infant brother, as well as two sisters, Irene Martin Pugh and Maxine Martin Wilhelm, also preceded her in death.  Surviving family members include Charles and Carol Gunkel of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Harold and Sue (Gunkel) Peyton of Sac City, Iowa.  Grandchildren include Andy and Julie (Gunkel) Long, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Joshua and Jessica Gunkel of Mableton, Georgia, Jeffrey and Rebekah Gunkel of Nashville, Tennessee; Kevin Peyton and Amy Peyton of Sac City, Iowa.  Lucille is also survived by one great-granddaughter, Alexandria Morgan Long of Colorado Springs.  Two of Lucille’s sisters survive to celebrate her life:  Archola Martin Bruner of Elk City, Oklahoma and Florence Martin Day of Natalia, Texas.  She is also survived by many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and friends.  

Lucille was a fiercely independent woman and her family knows that she is thrilled to be reunited with loved ones in heaven, and to be free from the disabilities that have limited her life so much these last years. The Gunkel family will greet friends Thursday morning 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at the Eldorado First Baptist Church preceding services.  Memorial gifts may be directed to the First Baptist Church of Eldorado, Oklahoma, or to the charity of choice.  Online tributes may be made at www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Jo Helen Guy

        Jo Helen Guy, 64, died Thursday, April 20, 2006 at Jackson County Memorial Hospital. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, April 22, 2006 at the Altus City Cemetery under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home.

        She was born on October 16, 1941 in Hughs Springs, Texas to Joe H. and Lucille (Kinney) Bray. Her family moved from Texas to Merrill, Oregon when she was four years old. She grew up in Merrill and also attended school there. Her life partner is Benny Leonard of Altus, Oklahoma. She was of the Methodist Faith. She enjoyed gardening, animals, birds, yard work, growing flowers and spending time with Benny and her friends.

        She was preceded in death by her mother Lucille and her sister Barbara Ann Swafford.  

        She is survived by her life partner Benny Leonard of Altus; two daughters, Kristina Marie Guy of Seattle, Washington; Debbie Guy of Klamath Falls, Oregon and many friends. Online tributes may be made @ www.kincannonfuneralhome.com.

Randy Hernandez Guzman

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