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/

Brenda Lee Wilson

In Memory of Brenda Wilson

Brenda Lee Wilson, age 63, of Wilburton, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 in Eufaula, Oklahoma.  The family will greet friends from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Waldrop Funeral Home.

 A graveside service will be held Friday, January 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Center Point Cemetery in Wilburton with Rev. Wayne Scott officiating.  

Brenda was born on March 24, 1961 in Red Oak, Oklahoma to Lee and Viola Kirk. She married the love of her life, Jimmie Don Wilson on April 23, 1986 in Wilburton, OK. They were married 30 years before his passing on November 8, 2016.

Brenda was vibrant and full of life. She helped others find enjoyment and thankfulness in both the large and small things at work and home. Brenda loved and cared for everyone who entered her life. She enjoyed celebrating the holidays. She has always been a hard worker on the job or at home. Brenda was strong and a fighter until the end.   

She is survived by her children: Cora and Joe Calwonsen of Carmen, OK, Terral and Victoria Waldrop of Wilburton, Jerral and Sanessa Waldrop of Wilburton, and  Sondra Howe of Wilburton; grandchildren: Christian and Bre Reeves of Hartshorne, OK, Brendan Waldrop of Wilburton, LeAnn Deshotel of Tulsa, OK, Elizabeth Waldrop of Tomball, TX, Jordan Mullins of Texas, Matthew and Maddie Reeves of Alva, OK,  Cherish Reeves of Alva, OK; Jimmy, Logan and Brooke Collins of Warner, OK, and Gerald, Jessa, Landon, Kateland, and Jimmie Waldrop all of Wilburton, OK; great-grandchildren: Weston Reeves, Wayden Reeves, and Abby Ohern; siblings: Alice and Jay Hickey of Eufaula, OK, Betty and Walter Phelps of Bugtussle, OK , Raymond Kirk of Wilburton, Helen West of Arizona, Linda and James Arnett of Eufaula, OK, Robert and Sheila Kirk of Wilburton, Viola and Donnie Mills of Red Oak, OK, and Don Kirk of Wilburton; sisters-in-law: Retha Wilson of Wilburton, Charlotte Campbell and Brenda Kay Roberts of Blanchard, OK; brothers-in-law: Jesse Wilson of Wilburton, Curtis and Donna Wilson of Wilburton, and Mark Wilson of Blanchard, OK; she also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Lee and Viola Kirk; mother-in-law, Alta Wilson; husband, Jimmie Don Wilson; sisters: Mary Tucker, Shirley Roder, and Helen Arrington; brothers-in-law, Rick and Bill Wilson; sister-in-law, Tilly Wilson; nieces, Lynn Porter and Kayla Wilson; granddaughter, Summer Deshotel; and nephew, David Wilson.

Jeffrey Glen Black

In Memory of Jeffrey Black

Jeffrey Glen Black, 67, of Red Oak, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 surrounded by his family at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday. December 20, 2024 at Waldrop Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Red Oak with Bro. Johnny Montgomery officiating. Burial will follow at Red Oak Cemetery under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Ricky Dester, Mikey Hancock, Shane Hancock, Jake James, Chris Loman, and Danny Dixon.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Tim Payne, Charles Burns, Teddy Burns, Richard Dixon, the Breakfast Crew, Deacons of First Baptist Church of Red Oak, Seth Rogers, Danny Dester, and Scott Harris.

Jeff was born on August 8, 1957 in Bakersfield, California to Leo (Jeff) and Emma (Hodge) Black.

Jeff was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord with all his heart. He was a loving husband to Becky for 41 years, an adoring daddy to his Katy girl, the best Papa to Emma and John, and a beloved, ornery brother to Phyllis.

Jeff was a deacon at First Baptist Church of Red Oak. Prior to the last 3 years of battling with his health, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing pool, attending Rise and Shine at his church on Sunday mornings, and riding his motorcycle. He even got Becky to ride with him a few times.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Becky of the home; daughter and son-in-law, Katy and Seth Rogers of Pocola; grandchildren, Emma and John Rogers of Pocola; sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Richard Dixon of Haileyville; mother-in-law, Jane Stevens of Hartshorne; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Larry Black.

His family is comforted in knowing that he is now walking the streets of gold with Jesus; with a perfect, new body and no bent over back or health issues.

Rutha D. Noyes VanHorn

Rutha D. Noyes VanHorn, 87 years old, known to everyone as Doreen, of Wilburton Oklahoma went to her eternal sleep on December 6, 2024.

Doreen was born on July 24, 1937 in Roseburg Oregon to Huey and Leola VanHorn. She attended school in Sweet Home, Oregon for several years. She met and married her first husband and had 3 children Sandy, Jerry, and Sheri.

Doreen was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in early 1970's.

She met and married her husband Robert Noyes, 1965 and were married in Salem Oregon the same year.

They lived in Oregon most of their married lives, before moving to Oklahoma in 2002, to live closer to her daughter Sandy and her family.

At two years old she was kicked in the forehead by a horse, and even though doctors told her parents that she would die, she surprised everyone. At 6 she lost her sister from severe burns while playing dress up. At 32 years old she lost her first son to a brain hemmorage, at 71 she lost her youngest son to a heart attack, and two months later she lost her husband of 43 years. Through it all she persevered and put her faith in Jehova.

She was preceded in death by her father Huey VanHorn, her mother Leola Lightfoot, her husband Robert Noyes, her son Jerry Hoffman, her son William Noyes, and her sister Helyen VanHorn.

She would let it be known that she sould never love another man after losing her husband. But she truly loved her special son in-law Jerry and would let everyone within ear shot know how special he is and was very proud of their relationship.

She is survived by her daughter and son in-law Sandy and Jerry Sinor of Wilburton, Oklahoma, her daugther and son in-law Sheri and Darrell Terrell of Klamath Falls, Oregon, eight grandchildren, Kimberly Sinor, Matthew Terrell, Andrew Terrell, Justin Sinor, Cole Terrell, Anthony Noyes, and Justin Noyes. Brother and sister in-law Rea and Patty VanHorn of Washington, sister and brother in-law Shirlene and Kirk McKinney of Oregon, sister Sheila VanHorn of Oregon, and a brother Keith Lightfoot of Nevada. Eleven great grandchildren and eight great great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Doreen was a mom, wife, homemaker, model, and interior designer. She was the happiest when crocheting for family and friends.

She will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Satuday, December 21, 2024 at the Kingdom Hall in Wilburton, Oklahoma.

Services under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home, Wilburton, OK.

Matthew William Thomas

In Memory of Matthew Thomas

 Matthew William Thomas, an extraordinary young man and a true follower of Jesus, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2024 in McAlester, Oklahoma. He was 10 years old and resided in Wilburton, Oklahoma with his parents.

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Grace Russell Elementary Auditorium in Wilburton, Oklahoma under the direction of Waldrop Funeral Home. 

Matthew was born on January 23, 2014 in Norfolk, Virginia to Evert and Trina Thomas. He was a 5th grade student at Wilburton Elementary School where he was an “A” student and in the Gifted and Talented Program. He enjoyed playing Fortnite with his friends, building Legos, and collecting Pokémon cards. Matthew loved music, playing the drums and the guitar. His passion was his faith in Jesus and his love for the River Church. Matthew’s light shined bright for the gospel. 

He is survived by his parents, Evert and Trina Thomas; brother, Jonathon Thomas; grandparents, Robert and Rhonda Campbell; along with several other family members and friends.

Matthew is preceded in death by his grandparents, David Thomas, Norris and Janet Paxson, and Arthur Saulter. 

Put on the full Armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ~Ephesians 6:11

Mary Kathrine Culberson

In Memory of Mary Kathrine Culberson,

Mary Kathrine Culberson, age 65, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, passed away in her home on November 3, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born on November 11, 1958, in Mount Pleasant Texas to Jess Ashlock II and Mary Gwen Browning, and then lovingly adopted and raised by the late Mamie Lou Ashlock.

Kathy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was deeply devoted to her family and her faith. A God-fearing woman, Kathy began each day with a cup of coffee and the Lord’s Prayer before she began reading the comforting words of her Bible. Her unwavering belief in God and her kind, generous spirit touched all who knew her.

Kathy spent her life spreading love and laughter to anyone she was around. She was a Dallas Cowboys Superfan, making sure to support them during every game. She also loved playing Bingo with her friends and singing while dancing anytime and anywhere. Her down to Earth nature made everyone feel loved and welcomed. She adored her family and made friends everywhere she went. 

Mary is survived by her beloved husband, Tommy Keith Culberson; her two daughters, Elizabeth A. Culberson and Brenda Lou Newman; her son, Donnie Delmer Culberson; her brothers, Red Browning, Terry Ashlock, Ben Ashlock, Dale Ashlock, and Jessie Ashlock; her sister, Sandra Bloxham; and her cherished grandchildren, Dylan Keith Culberson, Kathrine McKinze Newman, Kason Heath Newman, and Drake Lee Culberson. She was also loved by many extended family members and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Jess Ashlock II, Mamie Lou Ashlock, and Mary Gwen Browning; brother, Mike Ashlock; sister, Ruby Browning; sisters in law, Nita Ashlock and Kathy Ashlock and her niece, Wendy Lee Ashlock.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on December 2nd, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Assembly of God of Wilburton, with her brother Pastor Ben Ashlock and Pastor Lynn Bullard officiating. 

Mary’s wild spirit and deep faith will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Though she has left this world, her deep love for her family and for Christ will live on forever.

Melvin Winegarten

Melvin Archie Winegarten

July 15 ,1928 – October 4, 2024

Melvin Archie Winegarten, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in Branson, Missouri, on October 4, 2024, at the age of 96. Mel was a man of many passions—hardworking, fun-loving, and adventurous—who filled the lives of those around him with joy and laughter.

The viewing will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 11, 2024 at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at Center Point Baptist Church with Rev. Randy Waldrop officiating. The burial will follow at Center Point Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jordan Johnson, Pat Sutton, Jake Goodson, Brennan Bresee, David Winegarten, and Steve Johnson. Honorary Pallbearer is Jack Wekler. He grew up in Kilgore, Texas and LeFlore, Oklahoma, but the adventure really started after being drafted into the Airforce during WWII.  His time in the service instilled in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence. After returning home, he embarked on a successful

career as an electrician, ultimately rising to the position of lead inspector.  He eventually transitioned to help training future journeymen within the local union and continued working independently as an inspector, traveling to whichever state the job took him.  

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mel was known for his vibrant social life. He loved attending community events and could often be found dancing at local dance halls, where his infectious laughter and jovial spirit lit up the room. A dedicated athlete throughout his life, Mel enjoyed playing and coaching softball and basketball, sharing his passion with everyone from young children to senior athletes in the Senior Olympics. His skillful jump shot earned him admiration during countless games at the local YMCA and through his church community.

Affectionately known as “Papa” to his family, Mel maintained close ties with his local community and senior centers, always ready to share a story. He was a traveler at heart, making friends wherever he went, and his zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mel was preceded in death by: Katherine Winegarten (Ellzey), Loretta (Skeet) Vinson, Brenda Welker, Debbie Johnson, Larry Winegarten, Melody Johnson, and Mallory Winegarten.  

He is survived by his son, Kenny Winegarten; grandchildren, Tiffany (Pat) Sutton, Amber (Nick) Fairless, Jade (Jake) Goodson, Jordan (Jeni) Johnson, Misty (Lance) Schroyer, Jason, Rachael, Adam, and David along with eight great-grandchildren. 

Mel Winegarten’s legacy of laughter and adventure will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Nadine "Nana" Draper Basden

Nadine “Nana” Draper Basden

Nadine “Nana” Draper Basden of Wilburton, Oklahoma passed away on Tuesday, October 1st, 2024 at the Latimer Nursing Home.

Viewing is to be held from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Friday, October 4, 2024 at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral Services are to be held at 2:00 P.M at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel on October 5, 2024.

Nadine was born on July 19, 1932 in Wilburton, Oklahoma to True and Mary (McDonald) Draper. Nadine married Carl “Cotton” Basden on June 3, 1953 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas.

Nadine graduated from Wilburton High School in 1953. She loved being a Mother, Wife, and especially a Grandmother/ Great Grandmother. She was a lifetime member of The VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and was known for being a cook at Fern’s, Famous for her pies.

She was of the Baptist Faith, and loved everyone who surrounded her. Nadine was survived by her beloved children: Ernie Basden of Wilburton, Oklahoma, Linda Winningham of Wilburton, Oklahoma, Kay Johnson of Wilburton, Oklahoma, Trudy Lowe of Wilburton, Oklahoma.

Her Grandchildren: Alex Wilks, Heather & Billy Ray Ziverk, Brad Winningham, Bain Durant & Reva, David Durant, Joey Kennedy, Zac & Philisha Lowe, Jacob & Michelle Lowe, Maggie Lowe & Joseph MaLone, Lucas & Lindsey Lowe. Numerous Great Grandchildren. A Host of Several Nieces, Nephews and Friends, and several great grandchildren.

Preceded in Death by her Parents, 3 Brothers, 4 Sisters, and her beloved Husband- Carl “Cotton” Basden.

Preston Leon Green

Obituary 

Preston Leon Green 

Preston Leon Green was born on December 11th 1937 in Wister, Oklahoma.  Preston,  a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away peacefully on Monday, September 30th 2024 in his Residence in Wilburton, Oklahoma. 

Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024 at the Bengal Community Building in Bengal, Oklahoma. 

Pallbearers were be: William Green, Charles Green, Josh Pope, Parker Judkins, Philip Judkins and RC Rees.

Honorary Pallbearers: Donald Green, Larry Heaton, Carl Green and Curtis Green. 

Preston is survived by his Wife: Kay Green, of the home. Daughters, Regina Pope and Husband Wayne, of LeFlore, OK. Tina Judkins and Husband, Phillip of Bengal, OK. His 6 Grandchildren: Josh Pope of LeFlore, OK, Brandi Smith of Prescott, AZ, Kayla Rees of Bokoshe, OK, Chance Judkins of Tuskahoma, OK, Parker Judkins of Bengal, OK, and Kenzie Pope of LeFlore, OK. And 15 Great Grandchildren; Brothers: William Green and Wife Betty of Wilburton, OK and Charles Green and Wife Carlene of Hartshorne, OK. 

Preceded in death by his Father and Mother Charlie & Kate Green; Brothers Robert and Oscar (Duck) Green and Sister, Panzie Morgan.

Preston was a man who loved his family, friends, and especially his Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. He retired after 35 years stocking ponds, amongst other services, with the Soil Conservation Service in Latimer County. 

In his younger years, he and the family spent numerous weekends either on Spring Creek Lake or Long Creek Lake, boating, boarding and water skiing. The number of horseshoe games and tournaments Preston participated in, is beyond measure. Preston was known for his love of the great outdoors with his family, and passed on his love for these simple pleasures of life to the next generation of his family. Preston found a new passion for building several cabins all down the Compton Hollar railroad tracks. 

It’s impossible to speak of Preston without mentioning Kay, with whom he shared over 60 years of marriage. He has left their family with countless happy memories, with many more to share with Kaye. Their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren are the source of their greatest pride. Their love will forever shape their families lives.

Preston Leon Green

Preston Leon Green 86 years of Wilburton, OK passed away on Monday at his home in Wilburton, OK

Services will be Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 2pm at the Bengal Community Building with burial to follow in the Peachland Cemetary in Bengal, OK

Visitation Tuesday, October 1, 2024 5pm until 7pm at Waldrop Funeral Home in Wilburton, OK.

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