JOHNNY LEE PATTY

This is the story of Johnny Lee Patty. John was a loving man, role model, and inspiration to many and will always be cherished.

John's life began on May 2, 1944, as the third child to Raymond Patty and Carmen (Smith) Patty in Lamar, TX. He was teased by his brothers as he was the only one who was not an Okie. As a small child, the family moved to Bryan county and was raised south of Bokchito where he would grow up, learning the value of family, Jesus, and hard work. He attended school at Bray as young child and graduated from Bokchito High School where he made many lifelong friends. After high school, he intended to follow older brother's footsteps in the elevator business but suspiciously his request for job was denied as the family had other plans for him. He was the first Patty to graduate college. He graduated from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and spent the next 30+ years encouraging, educating, and inspiring young minds. He enjoyed his teaching and administrative duties at Caddo, Hugo, Bennington, and Sam Rayburn in Telephone, Tx. John never liked to talk about it much, but he served in the Vietnam war. He was always proud and appreciated those who serve for our country.

He met June Percell and married on April 7, 1975. They shared 36 wonderful years together at their home in Bennington, OK. They raised three children: Ronda Akins of Mansfield, TX, Katrina Buchanan of Bennington, OK, and Amanda Vandenburg of Bennington, OK. His 6 grandchildren brought smiles to his face: Wyatt Rhodes, Elaina Buchanan, Matthew Buchanan, Bryce Vandenburg, Cole Vandenburg of Bennington, OK and Jesse Akins of Mansfield, TX. He loved his brothers, they were very important to him: Russel Patty of Leonard, TX, Buddy Patty of Bokchito, OK and Danny Patty of Bokchito, Ok. Loneliness was replaced with happiness when John and Marsha (Haddock) Cunnigham married on February 27, 2015. They raised some very spoiled animals together in Caddo, OK. Their time although short has been a blessing.

John loved to spend his time in the pasture with his cows, although at times it wouldn't seem that way if you would see him upset set at a bull or broke down tractor. A cold morning in a deer stand or pulling in a catfish always made for a good day. Music was also dear to his heart, beginning at a young age from the guitar lessons from his mother. He liked food. Good food: like Mrs. Knights fried pies, flat head catfish, fresh deer meat, or a good old moon pie.

Johnny Lee Patty lived a wonderful life, filled with precious memories to those who knew him. In his words, "He had fought a good fight and was ready." On February 16, 2017, at the age of 72, in Denison, TX, John closed his eyes and opened them to a land our eyes cannot imagine. He is in the presence of our Lord and loved ones who have went on before.

His life will be rejoiced on Tuesday February 21, 2017 at 2pm located in Bennington, OK gymnasium. Services led by Roger Speers and musical celebration by Bro. Mark Wesley and daughters. Family night will be from 6-7pm on February 20, 2017 at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. His final resting place will be the Bennington Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Chris Dill, Albert Haddock, Brody Haddock, Dean Jestis, Stephen Patty, and Josh Redwine.

Family and friends may send online condolences and view tributes at www.holmescoffeymurray.com.

Services are under the direction of Holmes Coffey Murray Funeral Home, Durant, Oklahoma.