Oren O'Dell Harkey Jr.

The only boy in a household of sisters, was born on January 28, 1957, in Corona, California, to Oren O'dell Harkey Sr. and Glenda Louise (Thompson) Harkey. Oren grew up in Agra, Oklahoma, where he attended school as a child. His parents instilled in him the values of love and respect that carried on with him throughout his life and shaped him into the kind and compassionate person he became.

Throughout his career, Oren worked tirelessly as a roughneck, mechanic, and arborist. He spent several years working for Goober Drilling and later for West Tree Service out of Fort Smith, Arkansas. He spent his life building a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love. On June 21, 1997, Oren married the love of his life, Sherry (James) Harkey, in Park Hill, Oklahoma. Together, they shared a beautiful life filled with laughter, adventure, and devotion. A devout Christian, Oren lived his faith through his actions, always willing to lend a helping hand or give the shirt off his back to those in need. His generosity, kindness, and compassion inspired countless individuals, and his legacy will continue to touch hearts.

In his free time, Oren pursued his many passions. He was a music lover, enjoying classic rock and old country tunes, with a special fondness for Oklahoma musician Randy Crouch. A talented writer and author, Oren expressed himself through words, leaving behind a legacy of stories, poems, and writings that will be cherished by his family and friends for years to come. He was especially proud of the books he wrote about his children, capturing the memories and milestones of their lives in a way that will be treasured forever. In addition to his many other interests, Oren was a skilled woodcarver and woodworker, often creating beautiful pieces of art in his workshop. He was also an avid hot rod enthusiast, enjoying the thrill of restoring and customizing classic cars. He was a thrill-seeker at heart, loving nothing more than working on his dirt bikes, go-karts, hot rods, and motorcycles. Oren's love for the outdoors led him to become an accomplished arrowhead hunter and rockhound, and he spent countless hours searching for unique rocks and artifacts. One of the family's most cherished traditions was the road trips Oren would take with his uncle Ron. Together, they would scour the countryside, searching for old cars hidden away in barns or fields. They would bring these treasures back home, restore them to their former glory, and sell them. These adventures were more than just a hobby - they were a bonding experience that created lifelong memories for Oren and his family. On Sundays, you could find Oren cheering on his beloved OU Sooners and Kansas City Chiefs. He loved the excitement of game day, surrounded by family and friends. He also had a sweet tooth and loved indulging in his favorite treats, including Red Hots candy, Takis, and Fire Jolly Ranchers. He was rarely seen without a Mountain Dew in his hand, a constant companion that fueled his adventures and quiet moments alike.

Oren's favorite holidays were the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving, which he cherished for the delicious food and quality time spent with loved ones. His infectious enthusiasm and love for life made every gathering a special occasion. Oren also had a creative side, often styling his kids' hair. He was infamous for giving his kids ridiculous haircuts that often left them laughing and shaking their heads. He cherished memories of family outings to Thunder Valley racetrack and Tulsa Speedway, where he watched his kids' faces light up with excitement. One of Oren's greatest joys was spending quality time with his family. His kids fondly remember summer days spent together by the Welling Bridge, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Oren is home now with his father, Oren O'dell Harkey Sr.; granddaughter, Belladonna Harkey; cousin, Debbie Ames; and nephew, Forrest Stol.

Those left to carry on his legacy include his loving wife, Sherry Harkey (James); his mother, Glenda Louise (Thompson) Harkey; sons, Joshua Harkey and wife Sarah of Tahlequah, and Hunter Harkey of Welling; daughters, Jamie Floyd and husband Tim of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Sheyenne Tanner and husband Nick of Welling, Oklahoma, Anna James and husband Scotty of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Sarah Schaffner of Oklahoma City; two men that might as well have been brothers, Terry O'grady and uncle Ron Thompson; two sisters, April Stol of Woodall, Oklahoma, and Terri Hammond of Stillwater, Oklahoma; twelve beloved grandchildren, Daxx Harkey, Drexel Harkey, Malory Turner, Cherokee Hickman, Issabelle Hickman, Xzavier Hickman, Adison Tanner, Stormy Tanner, Jaxx Tanner, Samuel Archer, Chloe Archer, and Gage Schaffner; one great-grandchild, Oaklynn Turner; and his loyal and beloved dog who was always by his side, Tuffy.

Rest in peace, Oren O'dell Harkey Jr. Your love, kindness, and legacy will never be forgotten.