By Cara Cowan Watts | Cherokee 411
Jan 1, 1932 — Jun 8, 2026
Locust Grove, Oklahoma
Cherokee Nation Citizen
Robert Leon Alberty, a devoted family man and passionate outdoorsman, passed away on June 8, 2026, in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Born on January 1, 1932, in Stilwell, Oklahoma, Robert’s life was characterized by dedication, hard work, and faith.
Robert was the beloved husband of Patricia Alberty, with whom he shared many years together in their home. He was also a loving father to his son, Randy Alberty, and wife Kathy of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, his daughter, Vicky Alberty-Burk, and husband Jerry, also of Locust Grove, and nephew Carl Alberty and his wife Marilyn of Westville, Oklahoma. His legacy extends warmly to his grandchildren: Christopher Alberty and wife Brandi, Alissa Murphy and husband Jacob, Shawnda Barnes and husband Calvin, Jacob O’Neal and fiancé Amanda Burkett, Jessica Turnage, Julie Burk and Justin Burk and wife Keely. He was proud to have great-grandchildren Lincoln Murphy, Grayson Summers, Autumn Alberty, Enoch Alberty, Tyler Barnes, Ethan Barnes, Rylie O’Neal, Nina Burkett, Mike Burkett, Ayden Burkett, and Janis Turnage, as well as a great-great-grandchild, Laramie Barnes.
Robert’s roots were firmly planted in Oklahoma, where he nurtured a deep love for the outdoors. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on September 13, 1951 and was honorably discharged on August 12, 1955 having attained the rank of Airman First Class. He spent much of his military service installing communications lines in Europe (France and Germany) and a short time in Saudi Arabia. Robert retired in 1992 from Stone Container in Sand Springs, OK after many years; starting first in the factory and eventually retiring as the company’s Controller. His favorite advice for his employees was ‘Loose Lips Sink Ships’. From 2004 to 2016, he owned and operated the Crooked Little House Pecan Orchard in Adair, channeling his passion into cultivating the land. Subsequently, he built a log house in Locust Grove, where he spent his remaining years. A hands-on individual, he could often be found working outdoors, whether on the tractor or the mower; staying active was central to his daily life. His commitment to faith was equally significant—he was a faithful member of Ignite Church in Pryor, where he cherished teaching Sunday school, welcoming the opportunity to share knowledge and inspire others. Robert Leon Alberty’s life exemplified dedication to family, faith, and the land he loved, leaving behind a lasting impression on all who knew him. His memory will be treasured by his family, friends, and community.
