Beverly (Bev) Elaine (Vance) Holsten

Beverly Elaine (Vance) Holsten

“Bev”

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Beverly “Bev” Elaine (Vance) Holsten, of Wilburton, OK, who passed away at home, surrounded by family on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 at the age of 81 years.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children: Eric Holsten, Tim Holsten and wife Lori and Todd Holsten; grandchildren: Ashley Cooley and husband D.J., Eric Holsten Jr., Andy White and wife Kirby, John White, Brittany McIninch and husband Zeth, Travis Holsten and wife Cheyenne, Ethan Holsten and Jacob Holsten; Sister-in-law Jeanne Holsten; Brother-in-law David Holsten and wife Lynda; 15 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of almost 63 years, Theodore “Ted” Holsten; brother Jack Vincent Vance Jr. and her parents: Jack Vincent Vance Sr., Mae Villa (Ritchie) Buss and husband Carl.

Bev was born in Goshen, New York on August 29th, 1943 to Jack and Mae. She attended Middletown schools and was a graduate of MHS class of 1960. She then went to work for Lloyds of London Insurance Co. Shortly afterward, Bev met and fell hard for airman Theodore “Ted” Holsten. They married in Middletown, New York on June 4th, 1961. The couple lived in New York, California, Texas, South Carolina and finally found their dream property and built their home in Wilburton, OK where they settled in 1988.

Bev was a kind, giving person who always put others needs before her own. She enjoyed riding dirt bikes with her husband in California, camping in their travel trailer in South Carolina, sailboating and riding jet skis in Texas and going on cruises. She loved watching football and was an avid 49er’s fan! Most of all, Bev loved her family. She not only raised three boys but also her granddaughter, and even became a foster parent. Bev had a heart of gold and was loved by all.

A public viewing will be from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Friday, February 21st, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home in Wilburton, OK.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Randy Waldrop officiating.

Sharon Kaye Aaron

Sharon Kaye Aaron Obituary

Sharon Kaye Aaron was born September 23, 1945 in Walls, Oklahoma to Martha (Bench) Tyler and Albert (Ras) Tyler.

She went to be with the Lord February 10 th , 2025 in Tulsa, Oklahoma surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years Bob Aaron, her beloved daughter Brenda (Aaron) Sharp, Parents Martha (Bench) Tyler and Albert (Ras) Tyler, and Brother Charles (Cotton) Tyler all of Wilburton, Oklahoma.

Sharon is survived by Daughter Patty Hickman, Wilburton, Oklahoma, Daughter Tammye and husband Kevin Gwin of Durant, Oklahoma, Grandson Trevor Mullins and Fiancé Christine Mason of Durant, Oklahoma, Grandson Aaron and wife Jacklyn Sharp of Kingston, Oklahoma, Granddaughter Jessica and husband James Stipe of McAlester, Oklahoma,  Grandson Shane Hickman of Poteau, Oklahoma, Grandson Tanner Gwin of Durant, Oklahoma, Great Grandsons, Jack and Boen Sharp of Kingston, Oklahoma, special Granddaughters Allison and Eliana Mason of Durant, Oklahoma, Sisters Mary Slocum of Wilburton, Oklahoma and Bernice Nelson of Lane, Oklahoma, Son-In-Law David Sharp of Wilburton, Oklahoma, her special fur baby daughter Ofi July of the home. 

Sharon was a lifelong resident of Wilburton, Oklahoma and was known to be quick witted, some say outspoken (“tell you like it is”) and a lot of fun to be around.  She married Bob Aaron in 1965 celebrating 49 years years of marriage (3 weeks shy of 50 years) and settled raising their three girls on Lutie Road.  She went to work at Panola School in 1987 and retired in 2010 as a Teacher’s Aide after more than 20 years of service leaving many life-long friends.  After retirement she because very active in the Choctaw Nation District #6 Seniors.  She enjoyed their Wednesday dinners and special events, traveling on their group trips with Charlotte & Bob Holt and Mary Jane, chair volleyball, and Indian Taco Sales.  She was very proud to be named Choctaw Nation District #6 Outstanding Elder in 2018 and enjoyed wearing her traditional Choctaw Dress.  Her favorite past times were quilting, crocheting, and playing Bingo!  She loved her family and her dog Ofi more than most and looked forward to every family celebration so she could visit her grandkids.   Sharon was known as Mama and Nanny and was the heart and soul of the Aaron family.  Memories will be cherished and she will be greatly missed.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., February 14, 2025 at Bowers Baptist Church in Wilburton, Oklahoma with Rev. Randy Waldrop and Choctaw Nation #6

Councilwoman/Choctaw Tribal Council Chaplin Jennifer Woods officiating. The burial will follow at Center Point Cemetery under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Pallbearers: Grandsons Trevor Mullins, Aaron Sharp, Tanner Gwin, Grandson-In-Law James Stipe, Son-In-Laws David Sharp and Kevin Gwin.

Honorary Pallbearers:  The Hammons Family of Panola, Oklahoma (Wanda, Robert “Red”, Danny, and Roger) and Choctaw Nation District #6 Seniors

Deborah "Debbie" Sue Cantrell

In Memory Deborah Cantrell

Deborah “Debbie” Sue Cantrell was born to Margaret Free on December 14, 1957, in Magdalena, New Mexico. She passed away at her home in Wilburton, Oklahoma on February 4, 2025 at the age of 67.

The family will greet friends from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Willard Francis officiating. The burial will follow at Fanshawe Cemetery in Fanshawe, Oklahoma.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Cantrell Jr, Jesse Cantrell, Payton Lyons, Nathaniel Thomason, Keith Carshall, and Clifford Cantrell.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Tyler Cantrell, Ellis Scott, Jess Wilson, Mikey Thomason, Sonny Thomason, Loyd Lawson, and Paul Cantrell.

Debbie was a fun loving, and caring mother who loved all her babies very much. She enjoyed taking rides to count deer, fishing, and being outdoors. After high school she went to college to become a dental assistant. She then married Jerry Cantrell Sr. She worked at Franklin Electric for many years, where she retired and became a homemaker.

Debbie is survived by her children: Jerry Cantrell Jr of Wilburton, OK, Beth Cantrell of Wilburton, OK, Becky Cantrell and husband, Ellis Scott of Fanshawe, OK, Taelyn Cantrell of the home, Savanna Cantrell of the home, Tyler Cantrell of the home, Megan Cantrell and husband, Jonathan Demackiewicz of Tulsa, OK, and Jesse Cantrell of Wilburton, OK; her great-grandchild, Oaklynn Demackiewicz of Tulsa, OK; sisters-in-law: Gale Lawson and husband,

Loyld of Wilburton, OK, Donna Cantrell of Wilburton, OK, Susie Thomason and husband, Mikey Wilburton, OK, Dorothy Shutler of Stigler, OK, Judy Fletcher of Hartshorne, OK, and JoAnn Cantrell of Wilburton, OK; brother-in-law, Paul Cantrell of Wilburton, OK; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Cantrell Sr; mother, Margaret Free; and brother, Sonny Harris.

Steven Wesley Harden

In Memory of Steven Harden

Steven Wesley Harden a resident of Stigler, Oklahoma passed away January 29th 2025 at the age of 63. He was born on April 18 th , 1961 in Bakersfield, California to Clarence and Martha Harden. His family moved to Wilburton, Oklahoma, where he grew up and began working in the oilfield. He enlisted in the military in 1980. Steve went on to be a boilermaker for most of his adult life.

Steve is survived by his 3 children: Mandy and Dustin Grammar of Clayton, Oklahoma, Kayce and Ashley Harden of Talihina, Oklahoma and Layce Harden and Drapper Impson of Ada, Oklahoma; his 8 grandchildren; and 3 sisters: Karen and Mike Shuman of Eufaula, Oklahoma, Susan Holt Harden of Adamson, Oklahoma and Donna and Wayne Enyart of Admore,Oklahoma.

He is proceeded in death by his father, Clarence Wesley Harden; his mother, Martha Harden; and his two siblings, Shelia Dover Harden and Lisa Marlene Harden. 

Steve was a simple man, he worked hard the earlier part of his life and was a wonderful father, brother, husband and son. Steve enjoyed spending time with his family and loved his children very much. He enjoyed walking his two little dogs, Cowboy and Buddy. Steve will be greatly missed. 

A memorial service will be held at Cravens Cemetery in the coming weeks.

Arrangements entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home.

Carol Ann Cushman

In Memory of Carol Ann Cushman

Carol Ann Cushman, 76, of Mustang, Oklahoma passed away at her home on January 26, 2025.

A viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home in Wilburton, OK.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Center Point Cemetery with Rev. Randy Waldrop officiating.

Carol was born August 30, 1948 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to George and Dorothy (Williams) Rice. She graduated from Classen High School in 1966. She married James Edgar Cushman with whom she had her three children. Carol began her career as a secretary/accounting clerk having worked with various companies over the years. After nearly a decade of service to the FAA, she retired in 2022 due to health reasons. Although, she would have loved to continue working. Her favorite pastime was going to casinos, but more so, she loved spending time with her family. Carol was called home to be with the Lord, but she will be deeply missed.

Carol is survived by her brother, James Rice of Clinton, TN; daughter, Christina Ray of Midwest City, OK; son, James Cushman and wife, Mariela Cushman of Mustang, OK; son, Brian Cushman of Noble, OK; grandchildren: Ashley O’Toole of Lake Charles, LA, Lacey Foster of Noble, OK, Damon Cushman of Stillwater, OK, Dawson Cushman of Moore, OK, Dillon Cushman of Charlevoix, MI, Kacey Cushman of Noble, OK, Kaleb Cushman of Noble, OK, and Ryan Ray of Midwest City, OK; as well as eight great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Dorothy Rice of Oklahoma City, OK and sister, Gloria Johnson of Lafollette, TN.

Loyd W. Parker

In Memory of Loyd W. Parker

Loyd W. Parker, 68, of Red Oak, Oklahoma passed from this life January 25, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Red Oak First Baptist Church with Rev. Johnny Montgomery and Rev. Charles Watkins officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home.

Honorary pallbearers will be Rocky Whittaker, Rick Goshorn, Bob Ingles, Jericho Rutledge, Billy Howard, John Jolley, Randy Jolley, and Jay Raynor.

Loyd was born December 2, 1956, in Santa Paula, California, to Loyd and Joan Parker. He married Jarita Hutson Parker on September 25, 1996 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Loyd worked for several years in the oil field then he and Jarita drove trucks as a team cross country for JB Hunt Trucking until his retirement.

He is survived by his wife, Jarita Parker of the home; daughter, Jessica Zavala and husband, Auggie of Santa Paula, California; stepson, Jericho Rutledge of Red Oak; sisters, Rebecca Watkins and husband, Charles of Red Oak and Tracy Parker of Red Oak. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a host of friends.

Loyd is preceded in death by his parents, Loyd and Joan Parker; father-in law and mother-in-law, J.C. and Joyce Raynor; and brother, Jeffrey Parker.

Jim Smith Prock

Jimmie Smith Prock was born on October 13, 1932, in Cedars, OK. He passed away at his home in Cedars, OK on January 19, 2025.

He was born to Robert (Derb) Prock and Ethel George Prock. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Lorraine Prock, brothers Lester, Brutus, Billy, Floyd, and Jack. Sisters Mildred, Irene Bahr, and Imogene Sardis. Also, a very special nephew, Robert Leon Prock. Stepchildren Jeff Turney, and Rhonda Aumock.

He is survived by his daughter, Shaunda Noah and husband Derrick of Red Oak, grandsons Chaise Noah and wife Sadie of Checotah, and Chance Noah of Red Oak. He is also survived by stepdaughter Saundra Eaves and husband Donnie of Red Oak, Adam Eaves of Ft. Smith, and Jewelie Bentley and husband Humberto of Poteau.

Jim was a retired Army veteran, serving in Korea and 2 tours in Vietnam. He retired on December 31st, 1973. He moved back home to Red Oak, where he spent his retirement as a cattleman and rancher. He was a member of the Cedars Church of Christ and was a song leader and teacher. He was known to sing frequently, and loved music.

Pallbearers: Chaise Noah, Chance Noah, Derrick Noah, Donnie Eaves, Joe Smith, Bubba Allen, Brayden Allen, Landon Allen.

Services will be Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 2pm at the Red Oak Church of Christ with burial to follow at the Cedars Cemeterary North of Red Oak, OK.

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

Jim Jack Labor

In Memory of Jim Jack Labor

Jim Jack Labor, 90, of Red Oak, Oklahoma passed away peacefully at his home on January 1, 2025 surrounded by his family.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Cedar Baptist Church in Red Oak with Rev. Randy Holmes officiating. The burial will follow at Cedar Cemetery under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Cory Labor, Garrett Oliver, Easton Oliver, John Labor, Fred Oller, and Colton Labor. Honorary Pallbearers will be Zac Rosebure, Cody Holmes, Matt Oller, and Terry McGee.

Jim was born on February 27, 1934 in Miller, Oklahoma to William Henry and Mary (Tyler) Labor. Jim married Shirlee Hawthorne on December 21, 1956 in Inglewood, California.

Jim served in the United States Navy. He was a hard worker that took pride in taking care of his family and cattle.

Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Shirlee Labor; daughter, Kelly Oliver and husband, Kevin; his boy that named him Pawpaw, Cory Labor and wife, Maxine; grandchildren: Garrett Oliver and wife, Nicole and Easton Oliver and fiancé, Jessica; and his great-grandchildren: Gracie Labor, Colton Labor, Corie Labor, Corbin Labor, and Liem Oliver.

He is preceded in death by his parents: William Henry and Mary Labor, siblings: Neta Faye Wade (sister), Opal Oldbam (sister), Will Labor (brother), Orble Labor (brother), Chester Labor (brother), Roy Labor (brother), John Labor (brother), and Peachy Labor (brother); and his great-grandson, Cayson Labor.

Roberta Gayle

In Memory of Roberta Gayle Guthrie Roberta Gayle Guthrie, 75, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, passed away December 29, 2024 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Center Point Baptist Church with Bro. Bud Vinson officiating.

Roberta was born on February 9, 1949 in Wright City, Oklahoma to Kathleen Harcrow and Elam Columbus. Following the death of her biological father, Elam, her mother Kathleen married Orville Vaughn who raised Roberta from the age of 10. The family moved to Valliant, Oklahoma where she lived until adulthood. 

Roberta spent most of her adult life in Wilburton. She worked for many years at the Latimer Co. Abstract Office. Then retired from the Choctaw Nation Healthcare Center where she was known as “Miss Berta”.  Roberta had many names: Berta, Mom, Meme, Nana Bert, Ole Buzzard, and Budda (Boston Accent). She loved to spend time with her family and friends. She enjoyed sitting in the sun while reading, playing cards with the "Hens" and sneaking off to play the slots.

Regardless of what Roberta thought, it was no secret that she loved to frequent the casino. Miss Berta was known and loved by many. 

Roberta is survived by her sons: Gary Guthrie and wife, Chrissy of McAlester and Rick Guthrie and wife, Tracy of McAlester; grandchildren: Hailey Guthrie, Gavin Guthrie, Trevor Kennedy and wife, Kamra and Chase Kennedy and wife, Ashtyn; great-grandchildren: Raylee, Huck, Livy and Baby girl on the way; special niece, Kathy Duckett and husband, Terrence; great-niece, Kaylee; and the hens: Reva Tyler, Wanda Hodge, and Debbie Brown.

She is preceded in death by her parents: Kathleen and Orville Vaughn; biological father, Elam Columbus; sister, Sue Wright; brother, Baby Jerry; along with many aunts and uncles. Services entrusted to Waldrop Funeral Home.

David "Earl" Shero

David “Earl” Shero, a man whose life was defined by perseverance, determination, and a
profound commitment to community, moved to eternal life surrounded by his beloved family on January 1, 2025. Earl lived a life rooted in service, faith, and the enduring belief that one
person could make a difference.

Born June 15, 1960, in McAlester, Oklahoma, Earl spent his formative years working on the
family ranch in the Wilburton, OK community. He married his high school sweetheart, Cynthia “Cindy” (Davis) Shero, in August 1980. After graduating from Oklahoma State University in 1982, Earl and Cindy set out to build a life filled with love and purpose.
As a tireless advocate for justice and transparency, Earl’s actions always spoke louder than
words. Never demanding credit or the spotlight, his work was driven by his deep love for history, his community, and his unwavering drive to champion those who could not fight for themselves.

Whether it was serving up steaks at his restaurant, giving tours of the Butterfield Trail, raising money for local crisis centers, or lending a hand to neighbors, he approached every challenge with courage and integrity, always striving to leave the world better than he found it.

In recent years, Earl and Cindy found their greatest calling as co-pastors of Salt of the Earth
Church. Together, they poured their hearts into their congregation, spreading love, hope, and
the message of God’s grace. They have much gratitude for the support and encouragement of
their church family.

Earl was “tough as nails” and demonstrated the perseverance described above through
remarkable feats in the last four months of his life. He survived two unexpected brain surgeries and made significant physical progress, allowing him to be home for Christmas and even speak at his church, declaring praise to the Lord. His strong and loving wife, Cindy, stood by his side, joining her faith with his to share these precious additional months with their family.

Earl’s surviving family includes his beloved wife of 44 years, Cindy, and their children: Jessica
Cash and spouse Jordan with their children Norah and Miriam of Bentonville, Arkansas; Jill
Shero-McDaniel and spouse Caleb of Oklahoma City. He is also survived by his identical twin
brother, Gerald Shero, and spouse Anita of Hartshorne, and two sisters, Patricia Heflebower,
husband Craig of Sallisaw, and Lynette Lambert, husband Gary of Muskogee.

A celebration of Earl’s life will be held at Wilburton High School Auditorium on January 4, 2025, at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Salt of the Earth
Church or The Edwards Store (historical Butterfield Trail stop), reflecting Earl’s lifelong
dedication to his faith, history, and community.

David Earl Shero’s life was a reminder of Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is
good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk
humbly with your God.” He will be deeply missed but always remembered. May his life’s work inspire future generations.

Donations Can be sent to:
Salt of the Earth Church
PO Box 562, Wilburton, OK 74578

Online Donations: https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/2370859

The Edwards Store, Inc.
℅ Michael Duncan, Treasurer
1329 Classen Dr. OKC, OK 73103
Online Donations: https://edwardsstore.com/