Kenneth (Ken) Lee Valenzuela

In Memory of Kenneth (Ken) Lee Valenzuela

Kenneth Lee Valenzuela known as Ken to his friends and family, passed away on April 2, 2025, in Adamson, Oklahoma.

Ken was born on January 18, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois.  Ken was Cynthia Valenzuela’s loving husband. They married on January 26, 2002. On August 18, 2009, they were blessed with a baby boy, Steven, who resides in the home. Ken also had three grown children whom he adored: his son James and Rotha of Stockton, daughter Sarah and Chris of Adamson, and daughter Veronica of Stockton, California. He had two grandchildren: Ellie of Stockton, California, and Ace of Adamson. Ken had three brothers: Edward and Barbara of Mount Shasta, California, Alford and Jen of San Ramon, California, and Tom of Hayward, California. 

Ken’s journey on this earth was marked with love, adventure, fun, and eagerness to help others.  He worked as a technician at Pacific Bell in California. Ken pursued his dreams and used his skills to start his own company Val Communications. His ambition and technological intelligence put him on the groundbreaking floor of the .com industry. Life led Ken to Oklahoma, where he expanded his skills and began landscaping. His desire to be a stay-at-home dad led him to his next adventure, which was starting Val Landscaping. Ken’s loving and supporting nature brought him to Adamson, Oklahoma, with his wife Cynthia, and their son Steven. They moved to help Steve and Norma. Upon coming to this area, God led Ken to the education field. He became a paraprofessional at Haileyville Public Schools, where he quickly became known as “Mr. Ken.” Any student who came in contact with “Mr. Ken.” felt his love and dedication to them. He was a member of the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and the Elks Lodge 533.

He is preceded in death by his parents Ida and Edward Valenzuela. 

A memorial funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Krebs, Oklahoma.

Joshua (Josh) David Champion

Joshua (Josh) David Champion

On March 25, 2025 Joshua David Champion passed away at his home in Wilburton, OK at the age of 56 after a long battle with illness.

The family will greet friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 31, 2025 at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel.

Pallbearers will be JD Champion, Zac Royer, Brody Royer, Brady Champion II, Aubrey Champion, Nate Champion, and Joe Risso.

Josh was born on September 9, 1968 to Paul James (Jim) Champion and Latha Winona (Nona) Phelps Champion in Garland, TX. Josh was the second born of seven siblings.

Josh lived in Texas until the age of 5. In 1973 his family moved to Tulsa, OK. Josh attended Jackson Elementary until the 4th Grade. He carried fond memories of his time in Tulsa and the friends he made while playing sports there. In 1977 he moved with his family to Haileyville, OK, his mother’s hometown. The town he would forever call home. He excelled in all sports while attending Haileyville High School. Football quickly became his favorite sport. He graduated with the HHS class of 1987. Josh was very proud to be a Haileyville Warrior. He cherished the memories and friendships he made while attending Haileyville School.

After High School Josh worked at National Oilwell in the machine shop. Then his career took him into the oilfield for over 25 years. Josh worked in many different states and enjoyed meeting new people. In his free time, he enjoyed watching all sports, OU football being at the top of his list. He enjoyed shooting pool, playing poker, and visiting the casino. His favorite pass time was fishing and visiting with his friends and family.

His most prized accomplishment in life was his children and grandchildren. He spent a lot of his time attending his grandchildren’s events, he was a proud Papa.

Josh is survived by his daughter, Jessica Royer and husband Zac of Wilburton, OK; his son, JD Champion and wife Katie of Wilburton, OK; two sons he raised as his own, Michael Lott and Jacob Lott of Scipio, OK; six grandchildren, Allie Lowe, Jaylee Sosa, Brody Royer, Emersyn Royer, Jaxon Champion, and Greyson Champion, all of Wilburton, OK; three brothers, Ira Champion and wife Lori of Columbus, GA, Brady Champion and Amber of Haileyville, OK, and Matt Champion of Haileyville, OK; one sister, Latha Risso and husband John of La Crescenta, CA; sister-in-law, Audra Champion of Haileyville, OK; nine nephews, Brady Champion II and wife Trei, Aubrey Champion and Hannah, Briar Champion, Caden Champion, Jack Risso, Joe Risso, Nate Champion, David Zozula, and Jimmy Zozula; two nieces, Brylee Champion and Ella Risso; great nephew, Kallen Champion; two great nieces, Karlynn and Kimbree Champion; special Friends, Eddie “Coot” Wilson, and Bill; along with a host of friends and family.

Josh is proceeded in death by his parents, Paul James “Jim” Champion and Latha “Nona” Phelps Champion; his brother, Paul Champion; and his sister, Emily Champion. The family would like to say thank you to DaVita Dialysis Center of McAlester, Carol with Choctaw Nation Tribal Transit, Melissa Thornburg and Reva Tyler with WHA.

Jayne Marie Wilmoth

In Memory of Jayne Marie Wilmoth

Jayne Marie Wilmoth, 75, of Antlers, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home with Rev. Randy Waldrop officiating.

Janie was born on August 31, 1949 in Portage, Wisconsin to Harold and Ima Gene Zander. She attended a Catholic School and then obtained a degree in nursing. She worked as a nurse for 45 years.

She is survived by her sister, Dianna Ekis of Oregon; children: Dana Woodruff of Wilburton, Shelly Wackerly of Wilburton, Lisa Wilmoth and Elijah Jackson of Antlers, and Austin Wilmoth of Wilburton; grandchildren: April Roldan, Bridget Jackson, Sarah Martin, Debra Riley, Tyler Wackerly, Christopher Roldan, Shannon Roldan, Jonathan Roldan, Tabitha Decker, Corey Roldan, Lashan Jackson, Brea Jackson, and Anthony Ellis; along with her 21 adored great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Imogene Lorraine Gregory; father, Harold Thomas Zander; husband of 46 years, Bill Wilmoth; and son, Melvin John Roldan.

Those who knew Janie will remember her as a loving, generous, and faith-filled woman. Her love was a constant, comforting presence in the lives of her family and friends. Her generosity was boundless, always ready to lend a hand or offer support to those in need. Her faith was the bedrock of her life, guiding her life, guiding her actions and decisions, providing her with strength and comfort in times of difficulty. Jayne Marie Wilmoth will be deeply missed but her memory will live on as a beacon of love, generosity and faith. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the remarkable life she led and the profound impact she had on those fortunate enough to know her.

Doris "Ann" Southard

In Memory of Doris “Ann” Southard

Doris “Ann” Southard age 93 of Wilburton, Oklahoma passed away Monday, February 10, 2025 at McAlester Regional Hospital.

Ann was born January 11, 1932 in Seminole Oklahoma to George and Hellen Hays. Upon moving to Wilburton where she attended Eastern Oklahoma State College, she met and married Mitchell “Slim” Southard. They made EOSC their home. Ann lived on campus for the next 43 years. She had a deep gratitude and appreciation for her EOSC family.

Ann was the proud Mother of 3 wonderful boys, Ricky, Keith and Michael. They were the light of her life. She was a devoted Christian. She could always be found quoting scripture every chance she got. She loved every kind of animal and was known for taking in every stray cat that came along. Ann will truly be missed by all that knew her.

Ann is preceded in death by her husband Slim Southard and her sons Ricky Lee and Keith Compton.

She is survived by her son Michael Compton and Stella the Wonder Dog, 11 Grandchildren, and 14 Great Grandchildren along with her special girls Ginnie Justice and Alaina Harvey and 6 bonus grandsons.

Per Ann’s final wishes there will be no funeral services.

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.