HD Blankenship

In Loving Memory of: HD Blankenship

HD Blankenship was born in Bengal, Oklahoma to Harrison and Cecil (Crims) Blankenship. He passed away in Wilburton, Oklahoma on January 12, 2026.

Affectionately known as “Pa” to his children, grandchildren, and chosen family, HD always had a smile and a quick wit about him. He had no hobbies except working and always seemed to run into someone he knew—or knew their family. He was deeply loved by his community, where he worked his entire life, often holding multiple jobs at one time. HD worked at Pate’s Grocery as a butcher, both banks in Wilburton, Waldrop Funeral Home, repairing refrigerators and air conditioners for anyone who needed it, painting on weekends, and his “real” job, where he served in many capacities for over 40 years at Eastern Oklahoma State College. He was a

member of Red Oak First Baptist Church and a member of the Red Oak Fraternity Masonic Lodge.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Norma Blankenship and Phyllis Blankenship; sons, Joe Thornburg and Howard Blankenship; daughter-in-law, Leah Moody; granddaughter, Amy Blankenship; great-grandson, Tristan Blankenship; brothers, Donald Blankenship and Johnny Blankenship; and sisters, Vesta Wooten and Doreatha Scholer.

He is survived by his daughter, Thelma Fletcher of Wilburton; sons, Clint and Tammy Blankenship of Council Hill, Randy Moody of Red Oak, Poncho and Angie Moody of Red Oak; daughters-in-law, Jennifer Blankenship of Red Oak and Joyce Thornburg of McAlester; sister, Dorothy and Don Wright of Ramona; sister-in-law, Margie Blankenship of Dallas; along with 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and a special loved one, Betty Lowder.

Pallbearers include Vaughn Blankenship, Shawn Blankenship, Trey Blankenship, Redick Blankenship, Adam Coleman, and Travis Moody.

Honorary pallbearers include Jentzen Coleman and Tyius Blankenship.

A viewing will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Waldrop Funeral Home.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Peachland Cemetery in Bengal, Oklahoma, with Rev. Johnny Montgomery and Rev. Willard Frances officiating.

Services entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home.

Allen Wayne Tohkubbi

In Loving Memory of Allen Wayne Tohkubbi

Allen Wayne Tohkubbi was born on April 9, 1953, to Alex and Louise Tohkubbi in McAlester, Oklahoma. Wayne loved to regale family and friends with stories from his adventures growing up, always bringing laughter and memories to those around him.

After high school, Wayne enlisted in the United States Navy Reserves. He completed boot camp in the Great Lakes area and was later chosen for service in Vietnam. Wayne proudly served two tours as a Machinist Mate aboard the USS Haleakala.

After returning home from the Vietnam War, Wayne worked many different jobs throughout his life. His work included positions at Big V Feeds, the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, as a handyman at Arrowhead Estates, on offshore drilling rigs, at a service station in Kiowa, Oklahoma, and at one time, he owned and operated a chainsaw repair shop.

In 2005, Wayne met Loretta Ann Stewart, and the two were married in 2006. They made their home in McAlester, Oklahoma, where they shared twenty years together. Wayne loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycles and took great pride in participating in Gourd Dancing at the Choctaw Labor Day Festivals.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Louise Tohkubbi; his sister, Carol Tohkubbi; his brothers, Donald and Charles Tohkubbi; and three special friends, Farris Griffin, Charlie Brown, and Bob Belknap.

He is survived by his loving wife, Loretta Tohkubbi of McAlester, Oklahoma; his son, Michael Tohkubbi of East Carondelet, Illinois; his grandson, Aaron Tohkubbi of Illinois; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and one special friend, Jim Harvey.

Wayne will be remembered for his stories, his service to his country, his love of family, and the joy he brought to those who knew him.

A Memorial service will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11 am at The All Saints Episcopal Church in McAlester, Oklahoma. Arrangements entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home. 

Donald Ray Scott Sr.

In Memory of Donald Ray Scott Sr.

Donald Ray Scott Sr. was born on June 15, 1942, in Wilburton, Oklahoma, and passed away at his home on December 19, 2025.

Donald was a lifelong resident of Wilburton and a faithful member of Center Point Baptist Church. He spent most of his working life in the oilfield, employed by Eastern Tank Truck Service and Big Mac Tank Trucks.

Donald loved spending time on his farm raising cattle. He enjoyed attending all types of auctions and took great pride in collecting and rebuilding old tractors. He was also a devoted fan of the Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Everett Scott and Addie Smith Scott of Wilburton; his brother, Leroy Scott of Wilburton; and the mother of his children, Martha Templeton Williams.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Etchison Scott; his sister, Gwen Scott Cook of Moore, Oklahoma; and his sister-in-law, Kathryn Edington Scott of Wilburton. He is also survived by his sons and daughters-in-law: Donald Ray Scott Jr. and wife Tina of Haileyville, Oklahoma; Ronald Dale Scott and wife Michele of Edmond, Oklahoma; and Clovis Duane “Bam” Scott and wife Tammy of Wilburton. His stepchildren include Stephen Smith and wife Stacey, and Stacy Gideon and husband Clint.

Donald was a proud and loving “Papa” to his grandchildren: Dustin Wayne Scott and wife Hayley of Wilburton; Matthew Dale Scott of Moore, Oklahoma; Brittani Dawn Strader and husband Ryan of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; Dakota Kay Morgan and husband Joseph of Gowen, Oklahoma; Chelsea Rene Dilling and husband Andrew of Edmond, Oklahoma; Deric Duane Scott and wife Jennifer of Wilburton; and Rachel Lynn Scott of Edmond, Oklahoma.

He is also survived by several great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and a host of dear friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Center Point Baptist Church, with Rev. Bud Vinson and Rev. Willard Francis officiating. Donald will be laid to rest at Center Point Cemetery alongside other family members.

Pallbearers will be Matthew Scott, Dustin Scott, Deric Scott, Joseph Morgan, Ryan Strader, and Andrew Dilling. Honorary pallbearers include Rex Cathey, Larry Williams, Mike West, John Grego, Jim Allen, Dan Miller, Steve Smith, Curtis Scott, Randy Scott, Brad Cook, Tony Smith, Doc Cooper, Eugene Dill, and the Acts 3 Sunday School Class

Services under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Donna Eulene Holbird

In Memory of Donna Holbird

Donna Eulene Holbird, age 66, of Tuskahoma, Oklahoma, passed away on November 29, 2025.

Donna was born on May 1, 1959, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Joseph McCann and Gladys Lee McCann.

She loved her family deeply and had a true heart for taking care of others. Her grandchildren and animals brought a special light to her face, and she found great joy in spending time with them.

She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Holbird of Tuskahoma, Oklahoma; her children, Regina Loffer and husband William of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, Robert Holbird Jr. (Bub) and wife Kathryn of Wilburton, Oklahoma, and Lori Bullock and husband Nick of Viroqua, Wisconsin. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Brianna Loffer, Evan Loffer, Maycee Loffer, Sarah Durant, Ember Loffer, Aiden Holbird, Ragyn Holbird, Bruce Hensley, Katelynn Montgomery, and Allie Long.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel.

Linda Sue Amaral

In Memory of Linda Amaral

Linda Sue Amaral, age 67, was born on September 1, 1958, in Modesto, California, and passed away peacefully at her home in Wilburton on December 1, 2025.

Linda was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend who always made the best out of every situation. She cherished time spent with her loved ones, and if she couldn’t see you in person, you could be sure she would be calling. Linda loved to have a good time and had a special gift for making people laugh. She was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and even during her illness, she continued to help others whenever she could.

She is survived by her mother, Wanda Cooke; her brother, Greg Bird; and her sisters, Kelly Wynn and Cindy Davis.

Linda is also survived by her children: Leanna Nichols, Shawna Amaral, and her partner Brandon Mendes; William Monges and his partner Emily Fite.

Her grandchildren include Charles Robert Castleman III, Halie Mendes, Haven Mendes, Buddy Mendes, Ian Nichols, Sye Nichols, Stanton Jacobs and wife Jenna, Ivan, Athena Bauer, Christopher Jacobs, and Darian Davis.

Great-grandchildren are Freya Castleman, Xander Monges, Yuki Jacobs, Kiana Vegas, and Keoni Vegas.

She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews: Skylar Bird, Shyanne Bird, Jaden Yacyszyn, Elijah Moses Yacyszyn, Jeremy Bird, Brandon Bird, Britney Vernon, Derek Vernon, Jennifer Bringhurst and husband Josh Bringhurst, and Christina Grant and husband.

Her grandnieces and grandnephews include Russell Lee, Jersey Bauchamp, Jessie Preble, Allie O’Hern, Jake Taylor O’Hern, Beau Brice O’Hern (to be born), Dakota Bringhurst and sister, and Cedric Grant and siblings.

She was preceded in death by her father, Johnny Vernon; her brothers, Terry Vernon and Rusty Bird; and her stepfather, Terry Cooke.

The loved ones she leaves behind will miss her immensely. One day, we will be reunited again. Her love and memories will live on through us all.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept my faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Linda’s Celebration of Life, which will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, December 12, 2025, at River Church, 298 S.W. 9th Street, Wilburton, Oklahoma.

Clarence Robert “Robby” McCabe II

In Loving Memory of Clarence Robert “Robby” McCabe II

Clarence Robert “Robby” McCabe II passed away on the morning of Tuesday, November 25th,

at his home with his wife, Sissy, by his side.

Robby was born in Hinton, Oklahoma, on November 22, 1962. His family moved to Wilburton

in the 1970s, where they built a home. He attended school in Wilburton and graduated from

Wilburton High School in 1981. It was there he met the love of his life, Trish. They were married

that same year and built a life together until her sudden passing in January of 2022.

A hardworking man, Robby spent his life in construction and the oilfield. He loved the rodeo,

riding his horses and later in life, his Harley. He had a strong faith and deep love for the Lord. He

loved going to church. It was there he met Sissy, and later remarried.

He is survived by his wife, Sissy McCabe of the home; his son, Robert McCabe and wife Rachel

of Wilburton; his daughter, Amy Powell and husband Travis of Wilburton; his grandchildren:

Alyssa Powell, Dylan McCabe, Lucas McCabe, Raylan McCabe, Zoey Powell, Zachary

McCabe, Logan Arnold, Hunter Arnold, and Jackson Arnold; and his great-grandson, Tanner

McCabe. He is also survived by his brothers: Gary McCabe, Byrel Austin, and Glen Dale Austin,

and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Robby was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Robert McCabe; his mother, Audrey

McCabe; his wife, Patricia (Roberts) McCabe; his son, Matthew McCabe; his brothers: Darrell

Austin, Jerry Austin, Pee Wee Austin, and Tony Austin; and his sister, Rozetta Shuffield.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 2, at Kiamichi Country Cowboy Church in

McAlester, Oklahoma. The burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in

Wilburton. Services are under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Anna Bailey

In Memory of Anna Bailey

Anna Bailey, 81, passed away on November 16, 2025, in Bengal, Oklahoma.

She was the beloved wife of John Bailey Sr., with whom she shared 65 years of marriage. Born in Wilburton, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of Herman and Phyllis (Pitcock) Freiling.

Anna is survived by her husband, John Bailey Sr. of Bengal, OK; her children: Rosemary Petty of Talihina, OK; Phylis Bailey of Leflore, OK; John Bailey Jr. of Bengal, OK; Brenda and Jack Scarberry of Del City, OK; Gordon Bailey of Bengal, OK; and Jan Jones of Oklahoma City, OK. She is also survived by her siblings: Dean Guinn of Tuskahoma, OK; Maudie McCullough of Wister, OK; Ed Pitcock of Buffalo Valley, OK; and Sandra Little of Buffalo Valley, OK.

Anna also leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Phyllis (Pitcock) Freiling; her brother, Doyle Gene; her son, Eugene Bailey; her sisters, Marva Pierson and Melzoila “Pony” Mathews; her granddaughter, Ruth Ann; and her grandsons, Jimmy Bailey and Johnathan Hudlow.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Red Oak Cemetery in Red Oak, Oklahoma, with Rev. Bobby Finley officiating. Services are under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Joe Bill Aaron

In Memory of Joe Bill Aaron

Joe Bill Aaron, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, at the age of 84.

Born in Wilburton, Oklahoma, on January 21, 1941, Joe Bill lived there all his life, never feeling the need to leave the place he proudly called home. He lived a life full of laughter, hard work, and love for the people around him. He especially cherished time with his grandchildren—teaching them to fish, hunt, and even drive while they were still toddlers. Those moments by the water or in the truck will forever be treasured memories.

Joe Bill is survived by his sister, Thelma Crowder of Marietta, OK; his children, Keith and Donna Montgomery of Red Oak, OK; Tamara Brassfield of Tahlequah, OK; Brian and Jackie Montgomery of Ardmore, OK; Ronald and Mary Aaron of Wilburton, OK; and honorary son, Tommy Bias of Wilburton, OK. He is also survived by multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends—he truly never met a stranger.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Iva; brothers Dan, J.W., Willie, Clarence, and Kenneth; sisters Dorothy and Lee; his devoted wife, Paula; his son, Joe Wayne; and his grandson, Jaden Jackson. He greatly missed them all, and his family is comforted knowing he is celebrating with them again today.

A true supporter of local youth, Joe Bill loved helping FFA students with their show animals. He proudly raised and bred goats and sheep, bragging endlessly (and rightfully so) about the animals he gave to kids to raise and show. He had a special knack for working with animals—and an even greater gift for making people laugh while he did it.

An avid coon hunter and lifelong wheeler and dealer, Joe Bill was well known for his business cards that read “Honest Joe’s Used Dogs.” He had a gift for finding a bargain, and folks around town would say, “If you’re buying, bring Joe Bill—you’ll pay half the price. But if he’s buying from you, run! He could talk down the price on a piece of free gum.”

Joe Bill’s humor, generosity, and unmistakable spirit left a mark on everyone who knew him. One of his favorite sayings—and perhaps his most famous—was a heartfelt “Yeahhhh buddy!”

His family and friends will miss those words, and the man who said them, more than words can express.

He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and honest deals—and a reminder to all of us to live life with a smile and a hearty “Yeahhhh buddy!”

A celebration of Joe Bill’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Calvary Baptist Church in Wilburton, with Rev. Willard Francis officiating. Graveside services will follow at Centerpoint Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to share memories and celebrate the life of a man who truly never met a stranger.

Loretta Mae Wood

In Memory of Loretta Mae Wood

Loretta Mae Wood passed from this life on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Tidwell Living Center. She was born on August 21, 1946 to Raymond Lester Kennedy and Lucille Juanita Kennedy in Wilburton, Oklahoma. She graduated high school in Stanton, Texas in 1964.

Throughout her life, Loretta held a variety of occupations, including sewing machine operator, bookkeeper, and waitress. She loved sharing stories of her waitressing adventures while working at Herman’s Steak House, which are still a great source of laughter for her family and friends. Later in life, Loretta served as Human Resource Supervisor for Country Style Home Health, where she retired at the age of 72.

Loretta will be best remembered for her unwavering faith and love. Through all of life’s challenges, she remained steadfast in her relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was a devoted prayer warrior, praying continuously for her family, friends, and even strangers.

Years ago, Loretta taught Sunday School at Son Shine Fellowship Church then later became a member of Old Glory Church. Most recently, she attended The River Church with several family members and cherished every opportunity to worship there.

Her hobbies included reading books, working crossword puzzles, and collecting stamps.

Loretta is preceded in death by her loving husband, Roger Wood; her parents, Raymond and Lucille Kennedy; and her brother, Roger Dale Kennedy.

She is survived by her five children: David Stewart and wife Teresa of Sherman, Texas;

Lawrence Wood and wife Beth of Wilburton; Gary Wood of Wilburton; Loretta Tohkubbi and husband Wayne of McAlester; and Juanita Johnson and husband Rocky of Wilburton. She also leaves behind thirteen grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren, all of whom were deeply loved and brought her great joy.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the River Church in Wilburton, Oklahoma. Arrangements have been entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home.

Mary Ellen Ganger

In Memory of Mary Ellen Ganger

Mary Ellen Ganger, 74, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Mary had been a resident of the Spanish American War Veterans Colony for the past 18 years, a place she proudly called home. She was a dedicated member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 145 for 16 years, an organization that held a special place in her heart.

She is survived by her children:

Sons: Caleb Ganger of the home; Dallas Knight and Vicki Levett of McAlester; and Sam Samples and Charlotte Smith of Cashion, OK.

Daughters: Tami Goldman of Shawnee, OK; Christy and her wife Michelle Ware of Eugene, Oregon; and Casey Ganger and Keith Porter of Cushing, OK.

She also leaves behind 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eugene; her parents, Oliver and Belva Williams; and her brothers, Willie Williams and Jimmie Williams.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 2:30 PM at Foster Hall, located at the USWV Colony, 831 S.E. 172nd St., Wilburton, OK.

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