Leo Christie-Hooper

Leo Christie-Hooper was born on March 12th, 1953 in Tahlequah, OK, the son of Sam and Lizzie (Christie) Hooper. Leo had one sister, Narcie, and was the youngest of three boys, Jessie, Richard and Bobby. He was a bit of a “Jack of all trades”, wearing the hat of entrepreneur, landscaper, musician, and mechanic; you name it, he could probably do it. He would often stop off at yard sales for a good bargain or local car lots to see what old Buick or Cadillac he could get to fix up. However, his greatest passion was for music. He never turned down an opportunity to play drums; joining in with many local band throughout the years. He was a huge Elvis fan, so much so that he fashioned himself after him, with his slick hair, never leaving the house without a comb in his back pocket. For Leo, it was about enjoying the simple things in life and doing things he loved, with the people he loved. He never missed a holiday or family get-together, especially if food was being served. There wasn’t much better than beans and fry bread, some hot peppers and oh, how he loved his sweets. His gradkids were his pride and joy. He was excited to tell everyone around he was going to be a grandpa and cherished the memory of when his first grandbaby finally arrived on December 3rd, 2012. It was never a dull moment at grandpa's house. They had blast a playing and cutting up together. He loved to spoil them with whatever they ask for and he always found a way to make sure they were taken care of. He had a great sense of humor, always joking around with his big grin and unmistakable laugh that everyone knew and loved. Even when Leo’s health began to fail, he brought joy to so many around him. This good ole’ boy was called home on Wednesday, July 12th, 2023 at the age of 70 years old. His legacy of music and love for his family will never be forgotten.

He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Jessie Lee Hooper, Richard Hooper and Bobby Hooper Sr., one sister, Narcie Holcomb, along with close friend and mother of his children, Mary Frances Waterdown.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Lisa Waterdown of Tahlequah, OK and Christine Waterdown of Tulsa, OK, three adored grandchildren, Harmony, Naashon and Adrian Waterdown, his dear friend, Levi Jones, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous friends and loved ones.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, July 20th, 2023 at 2:00pm at Barber Cemetery in Welling, OK with Pastor Gil Hooper officiating.

Serving as pallbearers are Duke Hooper, Johnny Hooper, Manuel Hooper, Randy Hooper, Michael Hooper, and Walter Hooper. Honorary pallbearers include Ricky Holcomb, Charlie Holcomb Jr., Jonathon Holcomb, Jess Crow, Daniel Hooper, Samuel Hooper, Naashon Waterdown and Bobby Hooper Jr.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 19th, 2023 from 1:00pm until 5:00pm with family present until 3:00pm at Reed-Culver Funeral Home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.reedculver.com for the Christie-Hooper family.