Chaney-Harkins Funeral Home

07/30/2026

Cynthia Michele Basolo, 59, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

A wake service will begin at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 2, 2026 at the Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel, the family will be greeting friends until 6:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 3, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Krebs celebrated by Rev. Kingsley George-Obilonu. The burial will follow at Memory Gardens Memorial Park Cemetery in McAlester.

Pallbearers will be Randy White, Lindsey Grant, Jimmy Russell, Shaney Bennett, Jeff Yount, and Jim Jenson.

Cynthia was born on April 15, 1967, in Atoka, Oklahoma. She graduated from Savanna High School with the Class of 1985 before continuing her education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety and Health. Cynthia faithfully served as a Quality Assurance Specialist for 32 years at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant.
On May 20, 2006, Cynthia married the love of her life, Patrick Basolo, at St. John the Evangelist Church in McAlester. Cynthia treasured every moment spent with those she loved, and especially spending time her grandchildren.

Cynthia is survived by her loving husband, Patrick Basolo; her daughters, Rachael Bernardi and husband, Kyle Bernardi, and Stormi McKay and Johnny Carter; and her cherished grandchildren, Addison Bernardi, Raylan Bernardi, Oaklyn Bernardi, Spencer Carter, and Bostyn Carter.

She is also survived by her siblings, Kevin Mouser and wife, Audra, Ellen Cottier and husband, Bill, Rusty Johnson and wife, Amanda, and Doug Johnson and wife, Christina; her stepmother, Ann Johnson; her mother, Wilma Nail; her mother-in-law, Bernice Basolo; and her nephews, Dalton Mouser and Max Mouser.
To Cynthia, family extended far beyond blood. She was a treasured sister-in-law and aunt who shared a special bond with her many nieces and nephews in the Basolo family. She was also deeply blessed by lifelong friendships, especially with her "Fab-5" sisters—Kathy White, Nancy Yount, Kelly Pate, and Sherry Jenson—as well as her dear friends Julie Grant, Carolyn Bennett, and Pam Russell. Cynthia also held a special place in her heart for Linda and Danny Williams, who loved her as one of their own and became a second set of parents to her throughout her life.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her dad, Leonard Johnson; her sister, Annie Johnson; father-in-law, Bob Basolo; and in-laws: Jerry and LaDonn Burleson.

07/23/2026

Margie Nell Brown, born on November 6, 1928, in Tuskahoma, Oklahoma passed away in Tulsa on July 19, 2026, after a short illness.

Margie lived a long and meaningful life marked by faith, devotion, wisdom, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone blessed to know her. A Christian woman of strong conviction and warm compassion, she carried herself with grace and purpose, and her life stood as a testimony to the power of kindness perseverance, and love.

Margie was a woman of remarkable character, and those who knew her would describe her as spirited, funny, and intelligent. She had a gift for making people feel seen, valued and encouraged, and she used that gift throughout her life with humility and strength. Her presence brought light into a room, and her laughter could lift weary hearts. She understood that a life well lived is not measured only by years, but by the love one gives the truth one speaks, and the hope one leaves behind.

Education was one of the great callings of Margie’s life. She earned a master’s degree in education and devoted forty years to working as a junior high English teacher. She was passionate about teaching and loved her students deeply. She believed in the promise of young people, and she invested in them with patience, discipline, and genuine care. Her classroom was more than a place of learning. It was a place where confidence was built, voices were strengthened, and futures were shaped. She taught with heart, and that is why so many remembered her not only as a teacher, but as a mentor and an encourager.

Margie’s faith in Christ guided the way she lived each day. She believed in the goodness of God, the strength found in prayer, and the peace that comes from trusting the Lord through every season of life. Her life reflected a quiet but steadfast devotion, and she was an example of what it means to walk in faith with courage and gratitude. Even in difficult times, she carried herself with dignity and hope. She reminded others, by both word and example, that God is faithful and that love endures beyond the trials of this world.

She also knew how to enjoy the beauty of life. One of her treasured joys was dancing with her husband, Alfred Brown who passed in 2019. They loved to clear the dance floor and spent much of their free time dressed to the nines and dancing the night away. Those memories were filled with delight, style, and a sense of celebration that reflected Margie’s vibrant spirit. She appreciated the simple and joyful moments, and she knew how to make them memorable. Her love for dancing was another expression of the energy and warmth that made her so unforgettable.

Margie was deeply loved by her family. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Winnie and Tim Webb, her grandsons: Jon and Dustin; her niece, Doreen Conley and her son, Matthew. Each of them carries forward a part of her legacy, and each of them will remember her with love, gratitude, and admiration. She gave her family a shining example of strength, faith, and perseverance. Her influence will continue through the stories told, the lessons remembered, and the love that remains.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Margie’s life continues to speak. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion to family, commitment to education, love for her students, and faith in God. She showed that a person can be both strong and tender, both disciplined and joyful, both wise and full of laughter. Her life was a blessing, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration.

A special thank you to The Good Shepherd Hospice who showered Margie with love and support. Their Shepherd’s Care was remarkable and ensured that Margie left this life with grace and dignity. Porta Caeli House provided elegance and calm with the most amazing staff. Our family will be forever grateful for the love we have received.

07/20/2026

Jeffery Alan Vickers, 61, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026 at the McAlester Regional Health Center.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 19th 2026 at the Southeast Expo Center, McAlester, Oklahoma.

Jeff was born on April 2, 1965, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Jerrold Vickers and Echo (McLain) Vickers. He met the love of his life, Melinda Anderson, on January 17, 1999, and the couple were married four years later on January 17, 2003.

Jeff worked for many years as a journeyman with Pace Heat and Air, where he was known for his strong work ethic. Away from work, he found his greatest enjoyment in the outdoors. Whether deer hunting, fishing, or spending a day on the golf course, Jeff appreciated every opportunity to enjoy nature and the company of family and friends. He was also a devoted fan of University of Oklahoma football and softball, rarely missing the chance to cheer on the Sooners.

Above all, Jeff treasured his family. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, and the moments they shared together will remain cherished memories for those who knew and loved him.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife, Melinda (Anderson) Vickers; his children, Wade Vickers and wife, Lauryn, Amber Nichols and husband, Marcellus, Brandon Vickers and Corinne, and Zachary Smith; his grandchildren, Olivia, Mia, Akira, Ivey Laramie, Jayden, and Logan; his brothers, Lonnie Vickers and wife, Susan, and Curtis Vickers; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerrold Vickers and Echo (McLain) Vickers; and his brother, Jerrold Vickers II.

Jeff will be remembered for his hardworking spirit and the unwavering love he had for his family. As the final whistle has blown on a life well lived, those who knew Jeff can imagine him cheering from the best seat in the house. Until we meet again, Jeff—Boomer Sooner All the Way!

07/20/2026

Louis DeWayne Zummer, 89, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

A Rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in the Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation with the family will immediately follow and continue until 8:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, with the Very Rev. Jovita Okonkwo serving as celebrant. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in McAlester.

Pallbearers will be: Chris Pulchny, Dustin Pulchny, Ryan Moy, Loyd London, Mark Moy, and Donnie Pulchny.

Honorary pallbearers will be: Sergeant Mason Zummer of the U.S. Marines; McAlester Fire Department; and the Knights of Columbus and their wives.

Louis was born on October 14, 1936, to Joseph Leonard Zummer and Vernia Rariden Zummer. He always loved telling his children the classic family story that he was born right on the kitchen table. He spent a great deal of his childhood making memories at the home of his Aunt Leona and Uncle John Heady. When Louis was about 12 years old, his parents converted the family home into a nursing home, fostering a household dedicated to caring for others.

From his father, Joseph, who ran a local carpentry shop, Louis learned the foundational trades of woodworking and masonry. He took great pride in keeping his father’s shop running while he was gone to work. Louis earned his very first official paycheck around the age of 16 working for Dr. Pepper, making deliveries. Throughout high school and college, he was a passionate athlete, playing both baseball and football. During his high school years, his coach, Bob Brumley, served as an incredible role model who shaped much of his early life. Louis went on to attend college in Wilburton, Oklahoma. During his first year Louis met the love of his life, Juanita Addison, at Teen Town in Krebs.

In 1959, at the age of 22, Louis joined the McAlester Fire Department. He spent decades protecting his community as a brave firefighter, ultimately retiring from the department as captain, but maintaining a deep, lifelong brotherhood and fellowship with his fellow firemen for the rest of his days.

Never one to sit still, Louis was a true jack-of-all-trades who lived by the motto, “No job too small, or too big.” Following his fire department career, he worked as a handyman for the McAlester Clinic, where he expertly remodeled offices and fixed just about anything that broke. He was also a deeply faithful community servant and an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council 775 in McAlester and a member of St. John's Catholic Church.

In his younger years, Louis was an avid outdoorsman who loved playing horseshoes, hunting, and fishing. Running a trotline very early in the morning or late into the evening was a daily ritual whenever the Oklahoma weather was warm enough for the fish to run. It was not unusual to find Louis and his family at the lake enjoying a day of camping, water skiing, and fishing. He also enjoyed a competitive game of dominoes with family, friends, and his fellow firefighters. He passionately passed these traditions down to his sons and grandsons, leaving behind a rich legacy of hard work, community protection, and a deep love for the outdoors.

He is survived by his children: Teresa Moy and husband, Mark, of Krebs, Cindy London, of McAlester, Sheila Church and husband, Chuck, of Oklahoma City, Mark Zummer, of Forney, TX, Pam Pulchny and husband, Donnie, of McAlester, and David Zummer, of Garland, TX; his grandchildren: Erin Shoemaker and husband, Jeremy, of Pennsylvania, Ryan Moy and wife, Janae, of Krebs, Loyd London, of McAlester, Toni London, of McAlester, Emily Zummer, of Forney, TX, Chris Pulchny and wife, Kali, of McAlester, Dustin Pulchny and wife, Taylor, of McAlester, Amanda Perry and husband, Tanner, of Hartshorne, and Sgt. Mason Zummer, USMC, and wife, Norika, of Japan; his great grandchildren: Addison, Kayden, Keaton, Fisher, Genevieve, Wyatt, Oliver, Nicholas, Nathan, Macy Kaye, and Niina Louise; sister, Dorothy Berryman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

Louis is preceded in death by his wife, Juanita (Addison) Zummer in 2024; parents: Joseph L. Zummer and Vernia (Rariden) Zummer; and brothers, Rev. Shirley Joe Zummer, and James Zummer.

Louis Zummer lived a full and generous life centered around his family, community, and shared passions. He loved spending time with his wife and friends dancing at Teen Town in Krebs, the local VFW, or traveling to Branson, and took pride in maintaining a large, bountiful garden that could feed the neighborhood. A dedicated provider, Louis worked tirelessly as a firefighter in McAlester and used his carpentry skills to remodel many homes to support his family. He was a talented cook famous for his signature “Fireman’s Delight: Horse Cods” and the large messes he left behind, a trait his family still fondly remembers. Ultimately, Louis is remembered as a loving, hard-working individual who would do anything to help someone in need, and his family takes comfort in knowing he and Juanita are now dancing side by side in heaven.

The family of Louis “Zippo” DeWayne Zummer wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers for the compassionate love, kindness, and exceptional care they provided throughout his journey. Your friendship, dedication, and support brought comfort not only to Louis, but to our entire family. We are forever grateful.

With sincere appreciation to: Diana Sutmiller, La Cressa Tinsley, LifeSpring Home Health, Heartland Hospice, and Belfair of McAlester.

07/14/2026

Elizabeth “Lib” Deann Carney, 50, of Hartshorne, Oklahoma, passed away on July 9, 2026, at the University of Oklahoma Medical Center in Oklahoma City after a courageous battle with cancer.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Paula Carney officiating.

Lib was born on March 22, 1976, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, to Paul L. Carney and Rosie Lee (South) Carney.

Lib was a selfless and caring woman whose greatest joy came from helping others. She loved her work at McClendon's Garden Center in McAlester, where each February marked the beginning of another season doing what she loved most — caring for flowers, plants, and the outdoors. Whether tending a garden or creating beautiful landscapes, Lib found peace and happiness in nature.

Her greatest pride, however, was her family. To her beloved granddaughters, she was affectionately known as “Nona,” a title she treasured. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with them and created memories they will carry with them always.

In 2024, Lib was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and faced the disease with remarkable courage and determination. After successfully overcoming her initial diagnosis, cancer later returned in multiple areas, making treatment increasingly difficult. Throughout her journey, Lib remained resilient, drawing strength from the love and support of her family and friends.

She is survived by her mother, Rosie Carney; her sons: Jordaan Carney, and Adam Cooke and Arianna Boone; her daughter, Ashton Conley and husband, Garrett; her granddaughters: Serenity, Aria, and Harper Fox; bonus granddaughter, Layla; her aunts: Wanda Robertson, Evelyn Carney, Paula Carney, and Lucy Loudermilk; her uncles: Lonnie Carney and Charles South; her brothers: Eugene Hobbs and Richard Carney; and her work family: Billy Lynn and Brenda McClendon and all of her McClendon Nursery co-workers.

Lib was preceded in death by her father, Paul Carney; her aunt, Mary (South) Vermillion; and her uncles: Junior South, Larry South, Bill Carney, Sr., Bill Robertson, and Robert Carney, Sr.

Lib will be remembered for her generous heart, her love of nature, and the kindness she shared so freely with those around her. Her memory will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

07/09/2026

Charles L. Riggs II, 65, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away on July 5, 2026, at Heritage Hills Nursing Home in McAlester, surrounded by his family.

Charles was born on November 13, 1960, in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to Charles L. Riggs and Bessie Lee (Hanna) Riggs. He graduated from Kellyville High School and later married Debra Nadine Tapp.

Together they were blessed with three children and built their life in the Sapulpa, Kellyville, and Tulsa areas, where Charles lived and worked for many years.

Following the passing of his wife, Debra, Charles moved to McAlester in 2010, where he began a new chapter in life with Natalie (Southern) Green. The two shared nearly 17 wonderful years together.

Charles was a loving husband, father, papa, and provider. He was dedicated and hardworking in every career he pursued and took great pride in providing for his family. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time at the lake, cookouts, camping, fishing, and boating with family and friends.

Though he had a quiet presence, Charles made a lasting impact on those who knew him. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Charles is survived by his wife, Natalie Green; his daughters, Mary Watson, Virginia Bryant and husband Steve, and Victoria Hopkins and husband Sam; his grandchildren, Kyle Green, Cody Watson, Adam Bryant, Levi Bryant, Jael Bryant, Madison VanderWaerdt, Bradley Meacham, Westyn Hopkins, and Chase Hopkins; his great-grandchild, Knox Green; his sister, Rhonda McGuire; his sister-in-law, Carolyn Cay; brothers-in-law Rodney Tapp and Mike Tapp; and his extended family, Louis and Inez Leamy, Rodney Leamy, and Donna Wilcox.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles L. Riggs and Bessie Lee (Hanna) Riggs; his wife and the mother of his children, Debra Nadine Tapp; his sister, Vickie Nelson; his brothers-in-law, J.D. McGuire and Ernie Tapp; his parents-in-law, Leo and Clara Tapp; and his sister-in-law, Sabrina Mitchell.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Charles's special friend and caregiver, Angel Henderson, as well as the staff of Oklahoma Healthcare Solutions, the True Living Staff Adult Day Care, and Heritage Hills Nursing Center for the compassionate care they provided.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

07/09/2026

Summer Elaine Hyslop, 41, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away on Monday, July 6, 2026, in Muskogee, Oklahoma.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Chaney Harkins Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Joel Price officiating.

Summer was born on August 28, 1984, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to Ronnie Dale and Ella Hyslop of Porum, Oklahoma.

Summer had a kind heart and found joy in caring for those she loved. Summer attended Quinton and Kinta public schools.

Summer was also a member of the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. She was also a member of the Enterprise Baptist Church. She will be remembered as a loving daughter, sister, and friend.

She is survived by: Shakeya, Chevy, Abigail, and Noah; her mother, Ella Slater; her sisters, LaDawna Hyslop, Carrie Jo and Aaron Rinker and Kelly and Christopher Mathews; her nieces and nephew, LaKayla, Tydale, Ella, Dani Jo, Sirrah, Cheyanne, Alainah, and Kristina; as well as great-nephews and great-niece.

Summer was preceded in death by her father, Ronnie Dale Hyslop; her step-dad, Elmer Slater; her grandparents, James and Georgia Brunson of Enterprise, Oklahoma.

07/08/2026

Mary Matilda Factory Memorial Service 1:00 pm

07/08/2026

07/07/2026

Pastor Betty Jo Brown Riddle, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, faithful pastor, compassionate counselor, dedicated educator, and treasured friend, peacefully entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. While our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing she has been reunited with the love of her life, her beloved husband, Bishop Tommy D. Riddle, Sr., whom she faithfully loved and supported until death parted them.

Betty was born on November 6, 1950, in Ada, Oklahoma, to the late Eddie Lee Brown, Sr. and Lorene Brown. From an early age, she possessed a caring spirit, a compassionate heart, and a gift for making everyone she met feel valued and loved.

On August 9, 1969, Betty married the love of her life, Tommy D. Riddle, Sr. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and ministry. Their marriage was a remarkable testimony of love, commitment, and partnership. As Bishop Riddle faithfully served as pastor, Betty stood faithfully beside him as an extraordinary First Lady. She was his greatest supporter, encourager, confidante, and prayer partner. Together they served God's people with humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication. On April 12th, 2012, after the passing of her late husband of 42 years, she was ordained as pastor of The Bible Church Ministries by the late Bishop John Vincent, Tulsa, OK and Apostle Trixie Morgan of Cedartown, Georgia.

To this loving union were born four children whom she loved with all her heart: Cherie Riddle Battle, Tommy D. Riddle, Jr., Shandell Riddle, and Lakesa Riddle Money. She was the proud and loving grandmother of Jalen, Jasmine, Jayde, Janejah, Tiffani, Payden, Abel, Luke, Shaela, Bubba, Thomas, Alex, Tomisha, Dante, Abiance, and J'Vaughn, and the cherished great-grandmother of Tailayah, Taj, Azaya, Kaceyn, Karceyn, Mekiah, Cali Rose and Tommy IV and one precious great-grandson on the way. Her greatest joy was seeing her family together, sharing laughter, creating memories, and reminding each one how deeply they were loved.

Betty attended Napier High School in Ada, OK and later graduated from Byng Public Schools also in Ada, Oklahoma. She earned both her Bachelor's Degree in Education and her Master's Degree in Counseling, dedicating her life to helping others reach their fullest potential.

For 26 years, she faithfully served as a Special Education teacher at Wilburton Public Schools, where she taught seventh, eighth, and ninth-grade students. She believed every child deserved patience, encouragement, and the opportunity to succeed. Long after her students left her classroom, many remembered her kindness, wisdom, and belief in them.

Following her retirement in 2008, Betty continued serving others through counseling as a candidate under supervision with Rise Psychological Counseling Services. Whether in education, counseling, ministry, or everyday life, helping people was never simply her profession—it was her calling.

Those who knew Betty knew she never met a stranger. She loved talking with people and could strike up a conversation anywhere she went. Her warm smile, gentle hugs, infectious laughter, and genuine concern made everyone feel welcomed. She possessed a remarkable gift of listening without judgment, encouraging the discouraged, comforting the brokenhearted, and speaking hope into those who needed it most.

She had an extraordinary way of making every person feel as though they were the only one in the room. Whether someone was facing grief, illness, disappointment, or uncertainty, Betty always found time to pray, encourage, and remind them that God had not forgotten them.

Betty lived life with authenticity and grace. She was beautifully unique, independent in spirit, and never afraid to be herself. She lived life on her own terms—with bold faith, unwavering conviction, laughter, compassion, and a heart that continually sought to serve others. She believed that love should be demonstrated, faith should be lived, and kindness should never be withheld.

Above all else, Betty loved God, loved her family, and loved people. Her life reflected the words of Christ through every hug she gave, every prayer she prayed, every conversation she shared, and every life she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bishop Tommy D. Riddle, Sr.; her parents, Eddie Lee Brown, Sr. and Lorene Brown; her sister, Erma Brown; her brother, Oliver Brown; and two beloved grandchildren, Faith and Shan Riddle, Jr.

Although our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life that was lived with purpose, compassion, and unwavering faith. Her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, church family, countless students, and the many lives she inspired.

Pastor Betty J. Riddle leaves to cherish her precious memory her devoted children, Cherie Riddle Battle, Tommy D. Riddle, Jr., Shandell Riddle, and Lakesa Riddle Money, who were the pride and joy of her life.

She also leaves behind her beloved siblings: Howard Brown (Annetta) of Norman, Oklahoma; Marilyn Pierce (Leon) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Kathaleen Bitson (Mike) of Tulsa, Oklahoma; David Brown of Homer, Oklahoma; Dennis Brown of Stonewall, Oklahoma; Wanda Brown of Ada, Oklahoma; Jerry Brown of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Johnny Harrison of Omaha, Nebraska; and Eddie Lee Brown, Jr. of Ada, Oklahoma.

She is also lovingly remembered by her fifteen grandchildren: Jalen, Jasmine, Jayde, Janejah, Tiffani, Payden, Abel, Luke, Shaela, Bubba, Thomas, Alex, Tomisha, Dante, Abience, and J'Vaughn; eight great-grandchildren: Tailayah, Taj, Azaya, Kaceyn, Karceyn, Mekiah, Cali Rose and Tommy IV and one precious great-grandson on the way.
In addition, she leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, church family, former students, and countless spiritual sons and daughters whose lives were forever changed by her love, wisdom, prayers, and unwavering faith.
Though her earthly voice has been silenced, the echoes of her love, compassion, laughter, and godly example will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. Her legacy is not measured only by the years she lived, but by the countless lives she touched, the hope she inspired, and the love she freely gave.

Pastor Betty J. Riddle's legacy is one of faith, love, service, and compassion—a legacy that will live on for generations to come.
Her race is finished. Her crown has been received. Her legacy lives on.