Beverly Ann Galla

Beverly Ann (Joplin) Galla was born on October 14, 1948, in Ada, Oklahoma, to Janie and
Alfred Joplin. She was later lovingly raised by her mother Janie and her stepfather Robert
DeGroat, along with seven sisters and one brother. She was a woman of great strength, joy, deep
devotion to family, and a vibrant spirit that could not be dimmed. Beverly passed away
peacefully on May 18, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, surrounded by the love and comfort
of her family. She was 76 years old.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 28 years, Robert Galla, her fathers Alfred Joplin
and Robert DeGroat, her mother Janie DeGroat, her sister Linell Slater, and brother Ron
DeGroat. Though we grieve her loss deeply, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with
loved ones who went before her.
Beverly leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience through her children: Dino Zaragoza of
Oklahoma City, OK; Jamey Zaragoza of Kingston, OK; Jason Zaragoza of Yukon, OK; and
Cassandra Eppstein of Yukon, OK. She is also survived by her sisters: Elaine Parrott of Aledo,
TX; Samye Young of North Richland Hills, TX; Joellen McDonald of Granbury, TX; Melody
Tomlison of Fayetteville, AR; Cindy Grantham of Eugene, OR; and Laura DeGroat of Edmond,
OK. Beverly's legacy lives on in her twelve cherished grandchildren and her beloved
great-grandchild, as well as many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her
deeply.
Beverly was a proud graduate of Star Spencer High School's Class of 1966, and she carried with
her the values of hard work, love, and resilience throughout her life. Beverly started her career as
a telephone operator with Mountain Bell. She later worked with local companies like
Chromalloy and B&B Grill, and eventually became self-employed. Regardless of her job title,
Beverly brought hard work, dedication, and a bright sense of humor to every role she filled.
Her truest calling, though, was that of mother and grandmother. Beverly found her greatest joy in
family. She delighted in holiday gatherings-none more than the annual family Christmas party,
where her infectious laugh, famously known as "The Beverly Cackle," echoed through every
room and became a tradition of its own.
Beverly was a gifted cook, and poured her heart into every dish she prepared, mastering family
favorites like Jollof Chicken & Rice, Stuffed Bell Peppers, Chicken Fried Steak, and tasty
desserts like her famous Chocolate Sheet Cake, Banana Bread, & Russian Tea Balls. Her meals
were more than food-they were expressions of love always making those around her feel
welcomed and loved.
Beverly found joy in the simple pleasures of life-like reading books, watching movies, listening
to music (especially Elvis Presley), and dancing like no one was watching. She loved to travel as
well. One of the highlights of her life was when she and Bob went out on the road across the
United States in an 18 wheeler rig, where she was able to see many cities and places she had
never been before.
Beverly was also known for her fierce independence and unshakable resilience. She overcame
numerous obstacles and challenges throughout her life with grace, courage, and strength. Beverly
unapologetically spoke her mind, had a spicy wit, and a loving heart, she was always quick to
lend an ear, a hand, or a kind word. She was a woman of deep empathy, great generosity, and
unwavering compassion.
A memorial and celebration of her life will be held at 1pm on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at
Kingdom City Church, 2212 SW 55th Street, in Oklahoma City, OK 73119, with her nephew
Rob Parrott officiating.
Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the beautiful life of our beloved mother Beverly Ann
(Joplin) Galla-a life that touched so many and a love that will endure forever.
"Her laughter, her love, and her spirit live on in each of us. We were blessed to know her, and we
will carry her with us always."
Dino, Jamey, Jason, and Cassandra