Christopher Henry Heckathorne

Word has been received of the death of SSG (Ret) Christopher Heckathorne, 54, of Lawton, OK.

Mr. Heckathorne passed away from lung and lymph node cancer on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Oklahoma City, OK.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lawton Ritter Gray Funeral Home.

No services are planned at this time.

Chris was born on September 13, 1971 in Saint Joseph, Michigan to John Lee and Jacalyn Kay (Leach) Heckathorne. He grew up and graduated from high school. After graduation, Chris joined the United States Army and served two tour of duties in Afghanistan. Mr. Heckathorne honorably served for 30 years until his military retirement. His latest employment was with Wal-Mart where he worked in the automotive department. Chris married Teresa Herrera in Bering Springs, Michigan and the two made their home in Lawton. He enjoyed shooting guns for target practice and playing video games.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Teresa Heckathorne; his sister, Martha Dierickx and her husband, Shawn; his uncles, Joe Leach Jim Leach and Jerry Leach; his aunt Jeannie Scharnowske; his nieces, Anthena Palmer, Katerina Baldwin, MaKayla Hechtl; and many other loving family members and friends.

Mr. Heckathorne was preceded in death by his parents; his uncle, Tom Heckathorne.