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.