DON KINNAMON

DON KINNAMON November 21, 1937 - January 18, 2025 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Don Kinnamon, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He passed away peacefully on January 18 at the age of 87. Born as one of 10 children, Don grew up with humble beginnings, working with family as sharecroppers developing a strong work ethic that would define his life. His stories from those days - whether it was driving a truck with his brothers to pick up farm workers or breaking up a fight over blackberries - were always told with the same humor and warmth that endeared him to everyone who knew him. Don started his career as a Rainbo bread man. In 1968 he bought a small market and meat processing plant in Stroud, Okla., where he has been a faithful member of St. Louis Catholic Church. Through determination and a keen business sense, he grew that small venture into four grocery stores and also managed a large 1,300-acre farm. On the farm, he raised several hundred head of cattle, a pony, two horses, two ducks, and countless dogs - true to his nature, a little bit of everything. In 1988, Don made the decision to enter politics, where he would become a respected and influential figure in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. He served District 32 for 12 years and, from 1993 to 1997, he chaired the House Rules Committee. He knew nothing could be accomplished in politics without compromise. "I'll scratch your back, and you scratch mine". He was also known for his compassion and the emotional depth he showed when it came to his family. His time in the state legislature culminated in his election as Executive Majority Leader, a role that showcased his leadership and dedication to his community. He was a huge supporter of FFA Premium Sales and served on Lincoln County Fair board for many years. One of the defining moments of his political career came on April 19, 1995, when he was in his Capitol office during the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building. Without hesitation, he and his wife, Lavonna, collected donations from various businesses and went to the site to assist rescue efforts, offering their support to first responders in the aftermath of the tragedy. Beyond his career and accomplishments, Don was a man of deep convictions, strong values, and unwavering loyalty. He was a strict father who didn't hesitate to voice his disappointment but equally wasn't afraid to show his love and pride. His children and grandchildren were his greatest source of joy and he cherished time spent with family above all else. He adored his grandchildren: Annie, Travis, Christopher, Zoe, and Maggie, and his great-grandchildren: Brady, Linley, Wyatt, Brantley, and Baylor. He found great joy in watching them grow and his legacy will live on through them. Don also had many close friends including his best friend Bob Schmitz, with whom he shared countless hours of conversation, laughing with and at each other. His connection to his community was undeniable and many will remember him as a mentor, a teacher, and a guide - especially in his years running his stores, where he taught so many how to be skilled butchers and managers. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Robert and Annie Kinnamon, eight siblings, brothers Robert, John Lee, James, JD, and Tommy, his sisters, Wilma Lackey, Anna May Enochs, Roseberry Honeycutt, and his infant son Robert Linley. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 68 years, Lavonna Kinnamon, his children Keith and Anita Kinnamon, Janell Kinnamon and Tony Roper, Patty and Ryan Reid, his sister Betty Barrett, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a host of other family and friends. In honoring his memory, the family requests that you celebrate his life just as he would have celebrated yours - with laughter, love, and a good story. Rest in peace, Don. You were deeply loved and your legacy will never be forgotten. A Funeral Mass was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at St Louis Catholic Church of Stroud. Burial followed at Stroud Cemetery. Services were under the direction of Parks Brothers Funeral Service of Stroud. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.parksbrothers.net.