Johnnie Donelson
Johnnie “John” Franklin Donelson, 90, departed this world on the 28th of June, 2021.
Johnnie was born on March 31, 1931, to Homer and Lillie (Gilstrap) Donelson in Braggs, Okla. His early years were spent in the depths of the Great Depression, where he and his family lived in Okmulgee County and Muskogee County, and where he learned the value of a comb after burning the family’s only comb at the age of four.
Johnnie finished his formal schooling in the eighth grade when he left school in order to assist his family, later earned his GED, and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Army. Johnnie served with merit and distinction through the Korean and Vietnam wars and was awarded a Bronze Star Medal for valorous and meritorious service. He finally retired from military service in 1973 with an honorable discharge. Johnnie then began a second career with McLoud Telephone Company, from which he retired in 1995.
After Johnnie lost his wife, Joyce, in 1994, he pursued his interest in country and western dancing, playing computer games, bowling and visiting casinos. In the late 90s, he met Janice, whom he married on July 23, 2003. They had a happy and loving home until his death.
He leaves his wife of nearly 18 years, Janice Donelson, of Stigler; his son, Gerald Donelson of Moore; his daughter, Sheryl Goodin and husband, Anthony, of Muskogee; a daughter acquired by marriage, Nonie Marley and husband, Phillip, of Shawnee; four grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; 13 stepgreat-grandchildren; his sisters-in-law, LeVeta Carter and Francille Ross of Stigler; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends.
He was preceded in death by his first wife of 31 years, Juanita “Joyce” (Barton) Donelson, in 1994; his father, Homer Donelson in 1985; his mother, Lillie (Gilstrap) Donelson in 1994; his brother, Claudie “Chief” Donelson and wife, Erma “Jean” (Chisum) Donelson; his brother, Watie “Dop” Donelson and wife, Nellie (Webber-Wildcat) Donelson; his sister, Colleen (Donelson) London and husband, Albert; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends.
Long known for being kind, friendly, and funny, with a dry wit and wonderful sense of humor, Johnnie always made time for his family, and doted lovingly on his wife, children and grandchildren. He will be dearly missed.
Viewing was held at Mallory Chapel in Stigler from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, June 30 and July 1; with family visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 1.
A memorial service was held on July 2, 2021, at 10 a.m. at the Mallory Chapel in Stigler, Okla., in which Johnnie received full military honors. Interment followed at the Quinton City Cemetery under the direction of Mallory-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory of Stigler.
Pallbearers were Gerald Donelson, Anthony Smith, John Donelson, Phillip Marley, Anthony Small and Ryan Ferguson.
Honorary pallbearers were Jerry Weeks and Earl Oldham.