Dewayne Stamper

Claude Dewayne Stamper, known to family and friends as Dewayne, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026, in Claremore, Oklahoma, at the age of 74.
Dewayne was born on July 6, 1951, in Pryor, Oklahoma, to Claude Wayne and Clarice June (Plake) Stamper. He grew up in Murphy, Oklahoma, where his roots ran deep and where he would later spend his entire life on the Stamper Ranch-a place that reflected his love for the land, horses, and family.
He attended Locust Grove Schools and graduated from Locust Grove High School with the Class of 1969. Dewayne continued his education at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma, earning an associate degree, and also attended Lee College a Church of God Bible Training School in Tennessee and North Dakota.
From a young age, Dewayne worked alongside his father, brothers, and cousins moving houses-hard work that shaped his strong work ethic. He later became self-employed as a cutting horse trainer and ranch hand, earning widespread respect in the horse community. Dewayne was a judge for both the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) and the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) and was a longtime member of both organizations. He judged countless cutting horse shows and deeply cherished the friendships and relationships formed along the way.
A devoted man of faith, Dewayne was a preacher for the Church of God and a faithful member of the Murphy Church of God. He loved sharing the Gospel with others and lived his faith daily through dedication to family, service, and integrity.
Dewayne found joy in tending to the ranch, riding horses, and attending school sporting events. He loved playing games, especially basketball and pool-with his children and grandchildren, enjoyed playing catch with baseballs, and never missed an opportunity for friendly competition. An avid OU Sooners fan, he also loved watching westerns, drinking coffee, and enjoying a root beer freeze from Braum's. Known for his playful nature, Dewayne especially loved games of ZIP and had a way of winning-even if it meant counting a propane tank or a bale of hay.
Dewayne would want to be remembered as he was before Alzheimer's disease quickly changed the man so many knew and loved-happy, healthy, and full of life. He was ornery in the best way, steadfastly dedicated to what mattered most to him: his faith, his family, and his passions.
Dewayne is survived by: 4 children: Holly Pell and husband Ray of Shawnee, Oklahoma, Hayley Vernon and husband Josh of Pryor, Oklahoma, Taylor Stamper and wife Skye of Locust Grove, Oklahoma, and Cutter Stamper and wife Taylor of Strang, Oklahoma; 8 grandchildren: Corey Pell and Chelsi Peacock; Caleb Pell, Connor Pell, Dainie Mamer and husband Mitchell, Cassidy Fisher and Rusty Treat, Beau Fisher, Aspen Stamper, and Ariyah Stamper; 8 great grandchildren and 1 on the way; 3 brothers: Larry Stamper and wife Andrea of Pryor, Oklahoma, Randy Stamper and wife Donna of Chichasha, Oklahoma, and Rick Stamper of Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
Dewayne was preceded in death by: his parents; and 1 sister-in-law: Becky Stamper.
Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Hope Church in Murphy, Oklahoma, with Reverend Jason Jckson will be officiating. Cremation services have been entrusted to Locust Grove Funeral Home. Memories, condolences, and tributes may be shared at www.locustgrovefuneralhome.com.