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Obituaries
At Cherokee 411 with Cara, we honor the lives and legacies of our Cherokee community members by providing a dedicated space to share obituaries and remembrances. We believe in recognizing those who have made a lasting impact on our people, culture, and history.
Honoring Our Cherokee Veterans and Treasured Elders
To show our deep appreciation for those who have served and preserved our heritage, Cherokee 411 offers free obituary services for:
Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band (UKB), and Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) citizens who served in the U.S. military.
Cherokee National Treasures, individuals recognized for their contributions to Cherokee culture, language, and arts.
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Subscribers to Cherokee 411 with Cara will also receive free obituary services for themselves or their loved ones. This is our way of ensuring that every Cherokee family has the opportunity to share and preserve the stories of their loved ones without financial burden.
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How to Submit an Obituary
Families and loved ones can submit obituary notices by Submitting this form.
Submissions should include:
-Full name, birth, and passing dates
-Tribal affiliation (CN, UKB, or EBCI)
-Military service details (if applicable)
-Recognition as a Cherokee National Treasure (if applicable)
-A short biography and a high-resolution photo
At Cherokee 411, we are committed to honoring our people with dignity and respect. We encourage all Cherokee families to take advantage of this service to share the legacies of their loved ones with the community.
Tatum Renee Grayson
January 31, 2001- February 8, 2025
Cherokee Nation
Tatum Renee Grayson the daughter of Natasha Storm and Daniel Joe Grayson was born January 31, 2001, in Stilwell, Oklahoma and departed this life on February 8, 2025, in Stilwell, Oklahoma at the age of 24 years and 8 days.
Tatum was a loving sister and mom. She loved spending time with her new niece Kailani. She enjoyed hanging out with her sisters who she adored, going swimming, cooking on the grill and going to the mall. She also enjoyed hanging out with her friends, going floating and spending time at the river. Tatum also loved going to concerts with her mom. Tatum was the kindest, sweetest girl you could ever meet. She touched the hearts of every person she came across. Most of all, she loved being a mom to her son Kyzer Wayne. He is her world. She is going to be greatly missed.
She was preceded in death by her papa Jimmy Wayne Storm; Duda Sam Smith; Doodledo Joe Grayson and her Big Granny Mary Glass.
She is survived by her friend Justin Mannon of Sallisaw; her mother Natasha Storm of Stilwell; her father Daniel Grayson; her son Kyzer Wayne Grayson of Stilwell; her sisters Reagan Longbird Smith, Harley Dawn Smith, Redcloud Smith of Stilwell and MaShayla Jo Kelley of Jay; her mamma Jennie Mae Storm of Stilwell; her granny Nan Girdner and PaPa Doug of Tahlequah and too many family and friends to count. Tatum will be missed dearly.
CHARLES THOMAS CATES
November 18, 1944 - January 4, 2025
Cherokee Nation
Charles Thomas Cates born Nov. 18, 1944 passed away on Jan. 4, 2025. He was a loving Husband, Father, Brother, Grandfather and Friend. Tom was a Marine Vietnam Veteran . He enjoyed being involved with the community.
Bryce Alan Benshoof
March 15, 1992 — January 19, 2025
Chouteau
Cherokee Nation
Bryce Alan Benshoof, 32, of Chouteau, Oklahoma, left this world far too soon on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Born on March 15, 1992, in Claremore, Oklahoma, Bryce was known for living life with an adventurous spirit, a heart full of love, and a laugh that could light up any room. Bryce’s true passions were rooted in the outdoors. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or simply exploring nature, he found peace and purpose under the open sky. He had a knack for tinkering, always eager to take things apart and put them back together with a curiosity and ingenuity that amazed those around him. His warm personality and infectious laughter created lasting memories for everyone fortunate enough to know him. Above all, Bryce valued the people in his life. He was a devoted father to his son, Bentley, who was his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. He cherished every moment spent with his family and friends, leaving behind countless memories of love and laughter. Bryce’s legacy of kindness, humor, and a zest for life will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May Bryce find eternal peace, surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors he so deeply loved..
Bryce is survived by his mother, Michelle Cochran Bell of Chouteau, Oklahoma; stepfather, Randall Bell of Ingram, Texas; son, Bentley Benshoof of Chouteau, Oklahoma; sisters, Ashley Chee and husband Everson of Chouteau, Oklahoma and Dakota Dye and husband JR of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; brother, Tyler Benshoof of Verdigris, Oklahoma; nieces and nephew, Cheyenne, Everson, Jr., and Brayden; uncle, Terry Cochran of Fontana, California; grandparents, Jess and Susan Cochran of Chouteau, Oklahoma; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Herbert Benshoof; grandmother, Helen Benshoof, niece, Faith Anna Dye, and nephew, Jayce David Dye.
Janice Carol Dugan Smith “Squeek"
Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025
Cherokee, N.C
Janice Carol Dugan Smith “Squeek”, age 73, of Cherokee, N.C., passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who found immense joy in watching her children and grandchildren play ball. Squeek never missed a game, always cheering them on with pride.
A retired nurse, Squeek dedicated her life to caring for others both professionally and personally. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, quilting, camping, fishing, growing flowers, gardening, attending retreats, and traveling. She was a member of Antioch Baptist Church. Her warm heart touched everyone who knew her.
Squeek is preceded in death by her parents, Boyce Dugan and Jesse Owle Dugan; sisters, Jane Thomasson and Jackie Queen; and brothers, Jerry Dugan and James Todd Dugan.
Squeek is survived by her husband of 53 years, Sheridan “Sonny” Smith; her two devoted daughters, Cher Smith and Myra Smith; her grandson, Trae Bradley and his wife Kelsi; two great grandchildren she adored, Eli and Levi Bradley; sisters, Joyce Sneed (Pineknot), Judy Hyatt, Jewell Fischer; brother, John Dugan (Kathy); as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and honorary daughter and son-in-law, Chickie and Tee Trejo.
Squeek’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered support and love during this difficult time.
Mary Lillian Holt
October 21, 1936 — January 13, 2025
Claremore
(Cherokee Nation)
Mary passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the age of 88.
Mary was born on October 21, 1936, in Talala, Oklahoma, to Chester and Olive (Clark) Willis-Trissell. She grew up in Talala and attended school there, graduating with the class of 1954. That same year, while cruising Main Street in Nowata, she met Harley Holt. After a year of courtship, the two were married on May 29, 1955.
The newlyweds began their life together in Nowata but soon moved around the country, following Harley’s work opportunities to California, Arkansas, and Oklahoma before settling in Claremore in 1967. As her children grew older, Mary entered the workforce. She worked as a nurse's aide at Aunt Carrie’s Nursing Home, as a clerk at Christine’s Flower Shop, and as a sales clerk for B & K Clothing and its subsidiary Direct Sales. She retired from her career in 1994. Even after retirement Mary continued to serve as the secretary/treasurer for the Talala all school reunion a job she was honored to do for many years. She always enjoyed visiting with all of her class mates.”
After retirement, Mary and Harley embraced their love for travel. Among her favorite destinations were family visits in California, adventures in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, and exploring the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.
Mary had a passion for creativity and took joy in sewing, photography, and scrapbooking. She also had a remarkable talent for gardening, always maintaining an immaculate yard that brought her great pride. She also enjoyed selling her hand made embroidery items at the local craft shows along side her husband Harley's knife booth.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Olive Willis-Trissell; her beloved husband, Harley Holt; and her brothers, George, Robert, and Henry Willis.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and a family that adored her. Mary will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and devotion to her family, as well as for her creative spirit and love for life.
She is survived by her daughters, Mary Jane Anderson and husband Danny, Brenda Stonebarger and husband Charles, Kathy McDoulett, Susie Rains and husband Eddy, and Harla Moore and husband Phillip, Grandkids Kris Stonebarger, Angie Hamilton, Reggie Anderson, Earl McDoulett, Amanda Carlson, Alicia Nees, Blake Rains, Shelby McCurdy and Sean Moore and Heather Moore; 26 great grandkids and 10 great-great grandkids; many friends.
Mary’s family and friends take comfort in knowing she is reunited with her loved ones who went before her, and she will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Janice Gayle (Smith) Wilnoty
Jan. 13, 2025
Big Cove Community NC
(EBCI)
Janice Gayle (Smith) Wilnoty, age 53, of the Big Cove Community, passed away on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025 at Mission Hospital. She is the daughter of the late Vaughn Smith and Malinda Smith-Mahan
She enjoyed her culture, which included weaving baskets and making pottery. Her biggest passion was being able to help revitalize Cherokee Women’s Stickball, and she loved spoiling her grandchildren.
Janice is survived by her children, Ashley Smith, Ashford Smith, Thomas Wilnoty, and step-son, Laranzo Wilnoty; six grandchildren, Malakai Fourkiller-Raby, Maria Fourkiller-Raby, Isabella Fourkiller-Raby, Kaizer Smith, Thaydon Murphy, and Mary Murphy; and sisters, Sandra Smith, Frances Smith and Deborah Smith.
In addition to her parents, Janice is also preceded by her husband, Loranzo Wilnoty
Tom Queen Jr.
Dec. 31, 2024
Cherokee, N.C.
(EBCI)
Tom Queen Jr., 63, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Florida surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 28, 1961, in Cherokee, N.C. to the late Tom Queen Sr. And Julia Sherrill Queen. Tom was a character and loved by many he never met a stranger. His family was the most important thing to him on this earth.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son Hawk; uncle Henry; sister Becky; and nephews, Little John and Justin.
He is survived by his children: 41 Allen, 32 Marlene, 26 Jesse, 25 Gary(Jalynn), 22 Rajun(Rosa); grandchildren, U-sgwa-ni-gdi, Ta-wo-di, A-ge-yv, U-wa-du-ga-da, Wa-le-la; special grandchildren, Tivan, Shawnee, Bella, Abby and Tori; great grandsons, Tristen Jr., Matthew, A-gv-yi; siblings, Mary, Tammy, Kina, and Jasper; special nephew, Josh; and many nieces and nephews.
John Phillip Prather
June 26, 1933 — November 4, 2024
Claremore
John Phillip Prather passed away on November 4, 2024, at the age of 91.
Born on June 26, 1933, in Claremore, Oklahoma, he was the son of James Luther and Beulah Martha (Phillips) Prather. John grew up in Foyil and graduated from Foyil High School in 1952, where he enjoyed playing basketball. After high school, he worked until being called to serve in the U.S. Army. He served until his discharge in May of 1955.
Upon returning from military service, John married Nancy Sue Hough on September 10, 1955. The newlywed couple made their home in Tulsa. There he worked for W.C. Norris Company making oil field supplies. Eventually, John moved his family to Claremore. He then began a career with American Airlines, from which he retired in 1995. John was passionate about many hobbies, including raising cattle, traveling with his wife in their RV, and going 4-wheeling with family. He also enjoyed NASCAR, boating, and cheering on the Tulsa Oilers hockey team, but his favorite pastime was dancing. He was actively dancing for the past few years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Sue, and siblings Jerry Prather, Bobby Barnes, Evelyn Payne, Jo Hellen Odell, Betty Jones, and Anna B. Prather.
Survivors include his children, Jenny Prather and John Prather and wife Sherry; grandchildren, Derek and wife Emily, Kendall, Micah, and Nick; and his great-grandson, Elijah. He is also survived by his brother Jim Prather and wife Donna, Sisters Carol Walker and husband Dan, Mary England, Myrtle Prather, and Donna Sue Weaver and husband Doug. Also surviving him are his brother and sister in law JT Hough and wife Lois, and many nieces, nephews and cousins as well as a host of friends. John will be remembered for his devotion to family, love of adventure, and zest for life.
Mary Jean Carrell
December 18, 1949 — October 13, 2024
Claremore
Mary Jean Carrell passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024, at her home in Claremore. She was 74 years old.
The daughter of Elmo and Jean (DuPriest) Tanner was born December 18, 1949, in Tulsa. She grew up and attended school in Claremore, graduating with the class of 1968. She met her husband, James Carrell at a dance, and they were married in September of 1968. This union was blessed with two daughters, Kathleen and Kimberly.
Mary spent her entire working career as a nurse at Claremore Hospital. She loved people, and this showed in her caring nature. She retired after 33 years of dedicated service. In her spare time, Mary had many hobbies that she enjoyed, such as singing in the choir at church, and bird watching, with hummingbirds, painted buntings, and bluebirds being her favorites. She also volunteered her services at the Claremore Health Department.
By far, Mary's favorite thing to do was spend time with friends and family. She loved lunching with friends, and enjoying the company of others. She was a caring, compassionate wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her nephew Mike Milliser.
She is survived by her husband James Carrell, daughters Kathleen Hill and husband William, and Kimberly Carrell; Sister In Law Barbara Tracy; grandchildren Stephen Hill, Amber Cowan, Brooke Hill, and Abigail Cowan; great-grandson Presley Wortham; siblings James Tanner and wife Cindy, and Nancy Welch and husband Mike; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.