Okmulgee County News Source
CP Kelco to test Emergency System on Wednesday
CP Kelco wishes to alert citizens that the company will be conducting a test of the Emergency System this week. The test will begin at noon on Wednesday, October 15th.
Okmulgee County Health Department
Schedules Flu Vaccine Clinics
The Okmulgee County Health Department announced today its seasonal influenza vaccination clinic schedule for the upcoming flu season. Clinics will begin Monday, October 20th. Clinic days and times are as follows:
Okmulgee County Health Department
Monday- Friday 8:00am to11:00am & 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Henryetta County Health Department
Thursday & Friday 8:00am to11:00am & 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Beggs County Health Department
Wednesday 8:30am to11:00am &1:00pm to 4:00pm
Flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older and will be available for anyone who wants to be protected from influenza.
Persons at high risk of serious complications from flu are strongly encouraged to get the flu vaccine, including pregnant women and people with asthma, diabetes, chronic heart and lung disease, or other chronic conditions.
Parents and family members of babies less than 6 months of age and people who live with or care for anyone at high risk for complications from the flu, including health care workers, should also get the vaccine.
“It may take time and a special effort to get the flu vaccine, but it is well worth the effort when you consider how serious the flu can be for anyone of any age,” said William R. Pierson, regional director for the Okmulgee County Health Department. "We encourage everyone in Okmulgee County to take the time to get the flu vaccine.”
The Okmulgee County Health Department will be providing flu vaccine using the following fee schedule:
There will be no charge for families whose income is less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level. However, if you have health insurance, please bring your card. The insurance company will be billed for the vaccine and an administration fee.
There will be no charge for adults 65 years of age and older. Adults 65 and older should bring their Medicare Card or other health insurance card.
Also, there is no charge for children 18 years of age and younger who have no health insurance, whose health insurance does not cover flu vaccine, who are eligible for SoonerCare, or who are Native American or Alaskan natives.
All others will be charged a fee of $25.00 to cover the cost of the flu vaccine and the cost of administering the vaccine.
The Okmulgee County Health Department will accept SoonerCare, Medicare, all private health insurance, cash, checks, or credit cards as payment for flu vaccine.
In addition to getting a flu vaccination, persons 65 and older and those with chronic health conditions should ask their doctor if they should be vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia, if they have not already received a dose. Pneumococcal pneumonia is a common and potentially serious complication of the flu. Unlike the influenza vaccine, the pneumococcal vaccine does not need to be given every year.
For more information about the upcoming flu clinics at the Okmulgee County Health Department, call (918) 756-1883.
Girl hospitalized after
being struck by SUV
Two automobile-related accidents were investigated Friday evening by the Okmulgee Police Department. The first crash involved a driver slamming into a light pole on South Wood Drive. The second accident was about 35 minutes later and involved a young female pedestrian being struck by a vehicle on South Oklahoma Avenue.
Police Chief Joe Prentice provided information on both accidents.
The single-vehicle accident occurred at about 6:55 p.m. near the intersection of 13th Street and Wood Drive. Driver Floyd Harp, 50, was traveling south on Highway 75. For an unknown reason his vehicle traveled left of center at approximately 13th Sreet. The vehicle then traveled onto the center median divider - striking a road sign and light pole.
“Mr. Harp was issued two citations for Driving Under Suspension and No Insurance,” the police chief said.
A second accident occurred at approximately 7:30 pm involving a motor vehicle and a pedestrian.
Sgt. Fuqua arrived at the scene and was notified that EMS had already be on scene and were assisting a young female. The female was unconscious and was laying on the pavement of the road. The girl was wearing a dark colored purple shirt, dark red pants and dark shoes. The officer noted that the condition outside was dark and slightly raining.
A blue SUV was parked directly in front of the female. The SUV was being driven by Michelle Eartly. The driver said she was traveling north-bound on Oklahoma Avenue. She noted that it was wet, rainy and dark outside as she approached 10th street. Eartly did not see any pedestrians in the roadway. She felt the impact and immediately noticed someone on the front of the SUV. Eartly said she stopped, got out of the SUV and went and checked on the pedestrian. She could see the young female was still breathing. The driver told a witness to call 911. Eartly waited at the scene until emergency crews arrived.
The police officer noticed some damage to the front of Eartly's SUV. He asked the SUV driver if the damage he had seen was from hitting the female.
“Eartly informed me there was already previous damage to the SUV,” Officer Fuqua said.
Eartly informed the police officer that she noticed recent damage which could be from hitting the female. Eartly then pointed out a dent on the front of the hood and a broken passenger blinker light.
Sgt. Fuqua spoke with a witness on scene identified as Johnny Henderson. The witness informed Officer Fuqua that he was driving south on Oklahoma Ave. from 9th St. Henderson said he witnessed a child step out onto the street at the corner in front of a vehicle traveling northbound. Henderson believed the driver of the other vehicle did not see the child. Henderson said when the SUV hit the child, she went underneath the right side of the SUV. Henderson believed the SUV was doing the speed limit when the incident occurred. He wrote a written statement for the police report.
Sgt. Fuqua also spoke with John Moss Jr. on scene.
“Moss approached me carrying a pair of blue, child shoes,” the officer said. “Moss stated he located the shoes just north of the intersection of 10th St. and Oklahoma Ave.”
Moss was instructed to place the shoes back where he had found them. The witness believes the shoes were approximately 30 feet to the south from where Raven was laying. Moss also provided a written statement.
Sgt. Fuqua discovered the female's mother lived a few houses to the south in the 700 Blk of S. Oklahoma Ave. The officer went to the residence and made contact with Charlene Edwards, the child's mother. He informed Charlene of the accident. He also explained that the child was going to be transported by EMS to Saint Francis hospital due to her injuries.
At presstime, the young girl’s condition was not available.
SALVATION ARMY FUNDRAISER BEGINS MONDAY
The Salvation Army and local businesses of Okmulgee will be helping to raise funds for this year’s Christmas food baskets . Pictured above, William Shirley and Janet Watkins show off the Home Emergency Lifesaving Pack. When you go by a local business and donate five dollars, you will receive a Home Emergency Lifesaving Pack for free. These kits are used when emergency personnel (fire, police or EMS) enter your home in an emergency. They know by seeing the Home Emergency logo on the front door of your home that your refrigerator contains one of these kits. Each Home Emergency Lifesaving Pack contains information about each of your family member’s medical history like what pills you take, what you’re allergic to, next of kin information and many other things that EMS workers may need to know about you. The fundraiser will begin October 20th and end November 7th. Funds raised will be used to purchase Christmas food baskets for the needy this holiday season. (Staff photo by Patrick Ford)
2nd Chief Roger Barnett pleads
guilty to embezzling $150,000
TULSA, OKLAHOMA—Muscogee (Creek) Nation Second Chief Roger Dana Barnett, 53, of Bristow, pleaded guilty October 9th before United States District Chief Judge Gregory K. Frizzell to embezzling approximately $150,000 from the Tribe, announced U.S. Attorney Danny C. Williams Sr. for the Northern District of Oklahoma. Barnett was indicted on August 6, 2014.
Barnett admitted that, from April 2013 through April 2014, he embezzled more than $1,000 of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation funds from the Tribe’s Direct Assistance Fund, a tribal executive branch fund meant to aid tribal citizens in need.
The Government told the court it estimated the loss and restitution amounts to be approximately $211,000. The Government also told the court the direct assistance funds were embezzled by Barnett when he went to area casinos and withdrew the funds from ATMs. Barnett admitted he then used the money to gamble.
At the time of sentencing, Barnett faces the statutory maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shannon Cozzoni and Trent Shores on behalf of the United States.
Pickering Receives Special Honor from MCN Family Violence Prevention Program
Special Judge Cynthia Pickering (third from right), was recognized last week by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Family Violence Prevention Program for her work to increase the safety of victims of domestic and sexual violence and for her diligent and responsive work to combat these crimes. Program staff honored Judge Pickering by providing her one of the Nation's commemorative Pendleton blankets titled, "Perpetual Blessing". A luncheon was held last Thursday to honor all the staff, volunteers, law enforcement, District Attorney’s Office, and judges - everyone who works hard in the fight against abuse. Pictured from left to right- Tina Qualls, Victim Advocate- Lesah Deere-Yargee, Victim Advocate- Jo Jo Martel, Victim Advocate- Carla Creason, Judges' Bailiff/Secretary- Special Judge, Cynthia Pickering- Denise McCrary, Victim Advocate- Elizabeth Edwards, Victim Advocate. (Staff photo by Patrick Ford)
National Paper Clover Campaign
continues support of Okmulgee County 4-H Youth
National 4-H Council has announced the launch of the fall 2014 4-H Paper Clover Campaign in partnership with Tractor Supply Company (TSC). This event marks the fifth year of collaboration between the organizations on the national in-store fundraiser, benefiting state and local 4 -H programming in each of the communities where a TSC Farm and Feed Supply store is located.
The fall 2014 4-H Paper Clover Campaign will take place October 8-19, 2014. Shoppers at the Okmulgee store will have the opportunity to support 4-H in Okmulgee County by choosing to purchase paper clovers for a $1 or more at checkout. All funds raised will be donated to 4-H, and will support 4-H youth development program activities in Okmulgee County. Okmulgee County 4-Hers will be in the Okmulgee store on October 18th and 19th from 10:00am- 2:00pm showcasing their project work.
For many years, the fundraising event has allowed us to provide thousands of 4-H youth across the country greater access to 4-H programs, said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4-H Council. We are thrilled about our continued partnership with Tractor Supply Company as it drives the excitement of local community participation and support for 4-H programs, and therefore the success of the 4-H Paper Clover Campaign.
Last year, across 48 states, the TSC 4-H Paper Clover Campaign provided more than $1.4 million to 4-H across the country. All proceeds raised directly benefit 4-H, with 70 percent of funds being returned to state and local 4-H programs. The effort has provided direct support for local camps, after-school programs and other activities, and has granted scholarships to these events that youth can explore their interests in everything from animal science to robotics.
The Paper Clover fundraiser is a significant part of Tractor Supply Company s support of 4-H programs throughout the 1,300 communities we serve, said Christi Korzekwa, vice president, Marketing, Tractor Supply Company. We are proud to be able to provide essential funding to more than 1,000 county 4-H programs. These programs make a positive impact on young people that last a lifetime. The continued success of the Tractor Supply Paper Clover fundraisers demonstrate the importance of our 4-H partnership with our customers, team members and communities.
Once again, funds donated during the national campaign will be tracked online and recorded by state and by store. Visit www.tractorsupply.com/4-H for more information on the fall 2014 4-H Paper Clover Campaign and to view the donation tracker.
Obituaries
DUKE MONROE HARJO
Duke Monroe Harjo was born into Bear Clan and Alabama Tribal Town in Okemah OK September 22, 1942 to Jim Busey Harjo Sr. and Lena (Wind) Harjo, and transitioned from this world October 9, 2014. He is survived by his wife Ellen (Moore) Harjo; two children, Dr. Jim Harjo III and wife Beverly of Tulsa OK, and Dr. Laura Lea Harjo of Albuquerque NM; four granddaughters, Faith Harjo, Hope Harjo, and Patience Harjo of Tulsa OK and Hotvlkuce Harjo of Albuquerque NM; and one great grandson, Gabriel "Boomer" Harjo of Tulsa OK; two brothers, Francis Harjo "Chubbs" of Glenpool and Jim B. Harjo, Jr. "Lil" of Okmulgee ; two nieces, Jennifer Porter “Missy” of Sapulpa, and Connie Paige Harjo of Okmulgee; four nephews, Francis Harjo, Jr. "Man" of London England, Christopher Harjo of Coweta OK, Terrence Duke Harjo of Okmulgee OK, and James Harjo "Chebon" of Glenpool. He is preceded in his transition by his parents; his granddaughter, Joy Harjo; two brothers, John James Harjo, and Norman Lee Harjo; and one sister, Connie Lynn Harjo.
Duke entered Murrow Indian Children’s Home at a young age and continued through to boarding school. He was educated at Chilocco Indian School, trained in the care of animals, horses, cattle and ranching, which he spoke fondly of; he was a stand out in track and field, and ran hurdles, played football there, and served as class president, and president of student council, while also forging lifetime bonds and connections with friends. Duke attended Haskell Indian Junior College (HIJC), in Lawrence KS, with his wife, Ellen, and received an A.A. in Liberal Arts from HIJC. He also matriculated through a BA in Marketing from Northeastern State University, Tahlequah OK, leaving just before completing to take care of his family in a more substantial way.
Duke enjoyed spending time with his family, and friends, visiting with people and making new friends. "He never met a stranger he didn't like." He was dedicated to Sapulpa Indian Community, a charter member from the seventies until his passing, he coached and mentored children for the Creek Nation Youth Olympics. A learned and wise man, he had many different interests - enjoying Stomp Dances, softball, fishing, football, boxing, basketball, watching the Olympic Games, reading western novels and poetry, and listening to classical music. An athlete himself, he was a Golden Gloves boxer, he played semi-pro football for the Tulsa Seminoles and played in the Indian softball and basketball tournament circuit.
Duke was committed to Mvskoke people serving as one of the first directors of Lighthorsemen, four terms as a legislator, as the Creek District's council representative, serving on all of legislative committees at some time, and chief of Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town (AQTT) and chairman of AQTT governing board. He was involved in foundational work in tribal government and developing communities after the Indian Self -Determination Act of 1975, and served his Nation for forty years. He took leadership in building and developing assets and services for the Sapulpa Indian Community-for young and old and everyone in between; he was responsible for major efforts in the community capital development, introducing and sponsoring legislation funding the construction of Sapulpa Indian Community Building, and an FFA barn for Sapulpa's agricultural students. He was also responsible for leading efforts to bring an elderly nutrition program to Sapulpa, transportation to area Indian Churches, and support to Murrow Indian Children’s Home. He answered the call of numerous tribal members for help and counsel, he was a servant of the people. Up until his passing he still was planning and envisioning good things for the community, and he remained passionate and dedicated in his vision for Sapulpa Indian Community, and Indian people. Duke created a foundation for leadership and community development that we can build upon; this and his love and commitment for his family and Nation is his legacy.
A memorial service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 14, 2014, at Smith Funeral Home 1208 South Main St. in Sapulpa, followed by a wake at 7:00 p.m. at High Spring Indian Baptist Church, in Oklahoma, and the Funeral Service will be at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at High Spring Indian Baptist Church in Okemah, with Reverend Ray Samuel officiating. Pall Bearers are Nelson “Windy” Wind, Christopher Harjo, Terrence Duke Harjo, James Harjo, Alfred Mason, and Cordell Whitetree. Honorary Pall Bearers are Francis Harjo Jr., Alfred Berryhill, Loy Thomas, Alfred “Sonny” Bevenue, and Everett “Chico” Wood. Interment will follow at the Wind Family Cemetery
Online guestbook available at http://www.smithfuneralhomesapulpa.com.
WILLIAM A. MARTIN
Graveside services, with military honors by the U.S. Air Force, for William "Bill" A. Martin will be 10a.m. Thursday, October 16, 2014 at Woodlawn Cemetery, under the direction of MMS-Payne Funeral Home & Cremation Service. A memorial service is scheduled for 1p.m. at Victory Christian Center in Tulsa. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 15 from 1pm-8pm. Family will receive visitors from 6pm-8pm. Bill passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2014 at the age of 66. MMS-Payne Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Claremore
Elmer Lee Jimboy
Elmer Lee Jimboy, a resident of Okmulgee, passed away Monday, October 13, 2014 at the age of 70. He was born December 1, 1943 to Woodrow and Ella Mae (Manley) Jimboy in Okemah, Oklahoma. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was a member of the Second Baptist Church in Okmulgee. He won the National Championship in fast pitch, at which he played shortstop. Elmer enjoyed spending time with his family but most of all, he loved his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Ella Mae Jimboy; brother, Edwin Gene Jimboy and sister, Elaine Branch.
Survivors include his wife, Debbie Jimboy of the home; four children, Tonya McCollum of Tulsa, Michael (Cheetah) Jimboy of Okmulgee, Tiarra Jimboy of Okmulgee and Tessie Jimboy of Okmulgee; ten grandchildren, Cameron and Cody Yocham, Jesse Glass, Courtney McCollum, Brandon Jimboy, Mariah Sanders, Isaiah and Talia Jimboy, Jade Whinery and Jax Finch; one great-grandson, Kason and numerous other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 15, 2014 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Jackson Funeral Home Chapel in Okmulgee.
Wake Services will be held Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Jackson Funeral Home Chapel in Okmulgee.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, October 16, 2014 at the Creek Chapel Methodist Church in Clearview with Reverend Ed Jimboy officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Creek Chapel Cemetery under the direction of the Jackson Funeral Home and Crematory in Okmulgee.
Pallbearers will be Phillip Finch, Paul Roberts, Jared Bunner, Trevan Jimboy, James Jimboy, Mark Jimboy and William Proctor.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Grover Wind, Ray Barnett, Terry Jimboy and Bryan McGertt.
Military Honors will be conducted by the Muscogee Creek Nation Honor Guard.
Friends may send their condolences to www.jacksonfhandcrematory.com
BOB MCINTIRE
Bob McIntire, 79, passed from his earthly home in Okmulgee on Sunday, October 12, 2014.
Mr. McIntire was born in Claude, Texas on May 5, 1935 to Archie and Annie (Jackson) McIntire. He graduated from Claude High School where he lettered in basketball and football. After graduation, Bob attended Texas A & M. He joined the U.S. Army on April 12, 1955. While stationed at Loring Air Force Base in 1956, Bob met the love of his life, Marie Venette LaForest. They married on April 13, 1957 in Grand Falls, New Brunswick, Canada. Bob was Honorable Discharged on April 11, 1957 and they returned to Texas to make their home. They later moved to Oklahoma City where Bob had a 25 year career with Lee Way Motor Freight as Vice-President of Data Communications. They then moved to Okmulgee in 1988 and he began a 13 year career with OSU-IT as Director of Computer Services. The year prior to Bob’s retirement, he was honored as Employee of the Year at OSU-IT. Bob studied at the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University during his careers. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, granddaughter, Jennifer Aguilera, and a brother and sister that died in infancy. Survivors include his three daughters, Robin Aguilera of Okmulgee, Denise and husband Wynn Lippoldt of Newcastle, Oklahoma, and June McIntire of the home, one son Mike and wife Sarah McIntire of Okmulgee, six grandchildren, Ashley Aguilera, Ryan and wife Rachel Lippoldt, Zachary McIntire, Abby McIntire, Lexus Stick, Robert McIntire, two great grandchild Devon Aguilera and Silas Lippoldt and twin great grandbabies on the way. He is also survived by his brothers, Sherwood McIntire and wife Mary Alice of Cincinnati, Ohio and Jerry McIntire of Claude, Texas and a sister, Yvonne Carini of Kansas City, Kansas.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 A.M. Saturday, October 18, 2014 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Okmulgee with Father Josh Litwack officiating. Interment will follow in the Okmulgee Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ryan Lippoldt, Zachary McIntire, Dr. James Ward, Dr. David Hall, Mike McIntire, Wynn Lippoldt, Daniel Carlock and Tommy Propes. Honorary pallbearers will be Devon Aguilera and Don Burgess. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 5:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M. at the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home Chapel. Arrangements are under the direction of the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Okmulgee.
Dorothy M. Moody
Dorothy M. Moody “Granny” went to be with the Lord on October 13, 2014 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She was born on August 28, 1916 to Arlie and Mary (Cordell) Wolfinbarger in Viola, Missouri.
She was preceded in death by her husband, W.W. “Bill” Moody in 2002 and her parents, Arlie and Mary Wolfinbarger.
Survivors include two sons, Bill Moody and wife, Dorothy of Manteca, CA and James Moody and wife, Janice of Springdale, AR; sister, Lola Weems of Eureka Springs, AR; four granddaughters, Lisa Sloan of Ripon, CA, Carolyn Duncan of Phoenix, AR, Angela Gusewelle of Bryan, TX and Jennifer Jones of Fayetteville, AR; great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held Friday, October 17, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Jackson Funeral Home in Okmulgee.
Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 17, 2014 at the Okmulgee Cemetery with Dr. Dennis Taylor officiating. Services are under the direction of the Jackson Funeral Home and Crematory in Okmulgee.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Okmulgee. Friends may send their condolences to www.jacksonfhandcrematory.com
MAMON PETERSON
Mrs. Mamon Peterson, in her 98th year, "dozed into Rest beyond The River" on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 from Okmulgee, Oklahoma.
Mamon Patterson Snoddy Peterson, was born in Haskell, OK to Jessie and Maggie Patterson. She was the fourth of eleven children.
She attended and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Haskell, OK and also accumulated hours from Langston University.
In her youth she was a member of Bethel A.M.E. in Haskell, OK. After her marriage to Rosea Snoddy, she relocated to Ft. Worth Texas. From this union two sons were born William and Billy. Upon the death of Rosea, she returned to Oklahoma. She met and married Reverend Leroy Peterson, and from this union 2 sons and 2 daughter were born; Leemon, Renee, Russell and Gay Lynn.
She was a faithful and loving pastor’s wife, a wonderful mother, grand-mother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and community servant. As first lady of Shorter Chapel (as well as other churches) she led the Missionary Society, and always had programs and events for them and the youth, locally as well as other levels of the A.M.E. church. She became a life member of the A.M.E. Church Missionary Society under the tenure of Bishop Samuel L. Green, Sr.
She taught youth and adults, friends, neighbors and organized groups as a home economist, to cook, to budget, to clean, how to shop and was always happy to share what she knew. What she taught then is known now as “life skills”. She was a volunteer worker with the OK School for persons with challenges and several other youth programs. She was chosen as outstanding extension aide (home economists) with OSU from aides over 12 counties and her cooking received national honors.
She was preceded in death by two husbands, her mother and father, 3 brothers and 6 sisters.
Mamon leaves to cherish her memories; a loving sister, Mildred Chamberlain of Tulsa, OK, 6 children, 20 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 6 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors - Okmulgee Chapel.
JOHN R. MCGEE
John R. McGee, a resident of rural Henryetta passed away Monday, October 13th, 2014 in Henryetta at the age of 79. Services are pending with Integrity Funeral Service.
Robert Manuel
Robert Manuel of Okmulgee died Thursday, October 9, 2014 in Tulsa. Services will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Christian Center. Visitation will be held on Friday from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of the Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. - Okmulgee Chapel.
NATHAN WILSON
Services for Nathan “Big Nate” wilson, who died Wednesday, October 8, 2014, will be held on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 at 10 a.m. at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Visitation - Friday, 12 noon to 7 p.m. Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. Okmulgee Chapel.
Maurice Coulter
In Oklahoma City, a baby boy was born to Pearlie Weathers and Alexander Coulteron October 13, 1952 They named their son Maurice Archille Coulter. Maurice was reared by his grandparents A.J. and Essie Barnes (Poppa & Mama) in the Dripping Springs Community west of the City of Okmulgee.
Maurice received his formal education at Rocky Hill School until its closing then, transitioned to Okmulgee High School, where he was member of the class of l970 and was an exceptional basketball player.
Maurice confessed the Lord Jesus as a young teen and was baptized at the Greater Jones Chapel AME Church, under the leadership of the late Rev. Lyons Manuel. He attended Church with his grandmother and participated in the youth department. In l975, Maurice met Sharon Jones and her son and shortly afterwards he and Sharon were married. To this union, two daughters were born. After 21 years the marriage was dissolved.
Maurice acquired the nicknames Reese Dog & AhVay by friends and family. He was a very outgoing person, always the center of attention. He kept you laughing with his witty sayings and jokes. You never knew what to expect when he was in the midst. He loved hanging out with this friends, playing cards, dominos, playing pool and occasionally riding motorcycles. He would brag about his children’s athletic abilities and didn’t allow anyone to mistreat them. He taught the children about being honest and standing up for themselves.
Maurice worked different jobs while in Okmulgee, as a heavy equipment operator for the City of Okmulgee, cement finisher and brick layer and maintenance technician for the DFCA Senior Citizen Site.
In 1997 Maurice started a new chapter in his life and moved to Purcell Oklahoma. With his personality it didn’t take long for him to make many new acquaintances and he became well liked. And the people started calling him “Mo” He was employed by the City of Purcell as Street Superintendent. He worked until his health forced him to retire in 2009.
Maurice rededicated his life to Christ and joined the First Baptist Church of Purcell under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Ricky McNeal. He served faithfully, was ordained a Deacon and was a member of the choir. He showcased his singing ability with the song “I know the Lord Will Make A Way”. He served until moving back to Okmulgee in 2014 due to his declining health. On October 9, 2014, in Okla. City in the comfort of his son’s home and surrounded by family, Maurice exchanged his earthly suffering for his eternal home.
Love ones awaiting him: His father, grandparents, sisters, Palecia Roundtree, Valerie Coulter and brother Regional Weathers
Family remaining to cherish his memory: His mother, Pearlie Weather, OKC, two sons, Tyrone (Tiffany) Harris, Edmond OK. Waylan Jones, OKC, Three daughters, Marquecia (Kent) Rice, Okmulgee, OK Scherryl Coulter and LaQuita Adams, OKC. Four Grandchildren; Shylan, Kent, Tyler and Kovan. 4 Brothers, Se’Carl Hopkins, Dennis (Ruth) Matthews, Alexander Coulter II, Kevin Coulter all of OKC. 8 Sisters; Sonya Smith, Rochelle Coulter, and Tracy Kirkendoll all of OKC. Diane Jenkins, ATL, Larcenia Coulter, Sucellia Coulter both of San Antionio TX, Beverly (Bruce) High, Yukon OK, Denise (CD) Byndom, Dibol, TX., a host of uncles, aunts and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and friends,
The final hour with Brother Maurice will be on Saturday, October 18, 2014 at 2:00 P.M. in the St. Matthew Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the Sharp Cemetery in Okmulgee.
You may visit Mr. Coulter, as he slumbers in peaceful repose on Friday from 12 Noon until 7:00 PM. at the funeral home in Okmulgee. Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors - Okmulgee Chapel.
Calendar of Events
Prayer Band
The City Wide Prayer Band will meet at 2 p.m. on Thursday, October 16th at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1500 N. Miami in Okmulgee. The public is invited to attend. Rev. David Burks is the Prayer Band Pastor.
Spaghetti Dinner Benefit
Spaghetti dinner Saturday, October 18th at 5:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church gymnasium, 311 West 5th for Edwin McBee for medical expenses. He is undergoing chemotherapy. $5 per plate.
OHCE Crochet Club
The OHCE Crochet Club will hold its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, October 21st at 1:00 pm. at the OSU Extension Office at the County Fairgrounds complex. The agenda will consist of membership, new officers and planning upcoming projects and events. All skill levels are welcome to attend! Please call 918-756-0723 for more information.
St. Anthony's Fall Festival
St. Anthony's Catholic Church will be having their annual Fall Festival on Saturday October 25 from 5-9pm in the gym. Bingo will begin at 6pm. There are many carnival games with great prizes! No one walks away empty handed! Be sure to try your luck at the cake walk. There will also be a concession stand with chili dogs and frito chili pie with award winning homemade chili. This is a great family friendly event and a wonderful alternative to trick or treating.
Methodist Men ‘s Bean Dinner
The Okmulgee First United Methodist Men will be holding their bean dinners this month on Tuesday. (October 21 and 28th). Come out for scrumptions beans, coleslaw, cornbread, wonderful pies and cakes. Service time is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for kids.
Volunteers Jewelry, Book Fair at MCN Rehab Center
The Muscogee Nation Rehab Center Volunteers will host two fundraising events:
JEWELRY SALE - Tuesday 10-21 : Time 10a-1p
BOOK FAIR - Wednesday 10-22 :Time 9a-4p
America Legion Post 103
The American Legion Post 103, 800 N. Wilson, will meet on Tuesday, October 21st at 6:30 p.m. All members are asked to be present to election officers for the year.
Okmulgee County Democrat Meeting
Thursday, October 16th at the Headquarters located at 505 East 6th Street between the Tag Office & Bailey Motors. We will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. and our meetings are informal and family friendly. Be sure to come, bring a friend and find out where the candidates stand on the issues that concern you the most.
33rd Annual Christmas Craft Show
Prairie Bell OHCE will be hosting their annual Craft Show from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov 15, 2014 in the Morris High School Gym at 307 South 6th St, Morris,OK. There will be lots of booths and unique items for sale. A beautiful handmade quilt will be raffled off. The money from the quilt will be donated to a local charity. Tickets will be available at the Craft Show. You do not have to be present to win.
There are still some vendor booth spaces available. If all booth space is not filled by Nov 1st then commercial vendors will be accepted on a first come first serve basis. If you would be interested in a booth at the Craft Show or tickets for the quilt contact Laura at 918-812-7201.
Stonebridge Fundraiser
Stonebridge Academy will hold an Oktoberfest celebration on Friday, October 24th. There will be German Food, German Beer and German Music. It will be held at the McClendon-Winters Life Celebration Center, 320 E. 6th Street in Okmulgee. All proceeds will be donated to Stonebridge Academy. Tickets are $60. COME CELEBRATE, HAVE A GOOD TIME, SUPPORT A GOOD CAUSE. Purchase tickets at the front desk at Stonebridge at 209 W. 8th Street
Okmulgee Toastmasters
Toastmaster meetings are held on the campus of OSU-IT in Student Union First National room on the first and third Thursdays of each month. 6:30 to 8:00 PM. You're welcome to join us. Everybody could use a little polish. Come, let’s work on it.
For more information please contact :
Lindsey Williams at 918-902-5103 PRES
Cassandra Northington at 918-830-1628. VPPR
Maci Reed at 918-7521736 VPM
Fur Takers Fall Meeting
The Fur Takers of Oklahoma Inc. will be having their Fall meeting October 18th at the Okmulgee County Fairgrounds. There will be vendors, demos, fellowship and a potluck lunch. Everyone who plans to attend is encouraged to bring a side dish. Doors open at 8 a.m..