Edwina Ruth McKellips

Edwina Ruth McKellips, 89, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025. Born in Fowler, Colorado, Edwina Ruth lived a life marked by love, service, and unwavering faith.
Edwina graduated from high school in 1954 and was married to her first husband at age 18. Together, they built Dawson's Feed Company, ran a dairy farm, and raised four children. She was known for her strong faith, generous heart, and determination. Edwina even held a CDL license and could drive nearly any vehicle on the road. She later worked for Athenian Marble Company, where she oversaw office operations and worked closely with contractors. After retiring at 65, she continued her servant-hearted lifestyle by working as a caregiver for 10 years.
A woman of many talents, Edwina was gifted in singing, sewing, and playing both the piano and organ. She taught her daughters three-part harmony starting when the youngest was just four years old, equipping them with a rich repertoire of gospel songs. She guided them in holding revivals, camp meetings, and mission trips. She led youth choirs, taught Sunday School, and was a missionary president. As part of a women's trio, she traveled across Oklahoma and Arkansas, sharing music and ministry in concerts and revivals.
Alongside her second husband, Rev. Dallas McKellips, she taught blended family classes for many years at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene.
A skilled seamstress, she ensured her children were always well clothed, often sewing for them herself. Her sharp mind and eager spirit made her a lifelong learner and a source of wisdom to many.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. J.V. and Ruth Langford; her brother, Eldon Langford; her sister, Paula Nance; and her loving husband of 31 years, Rev. Dallas McKellips.
She is survived by her four children; Terri Cobb of Bethany, Oklahoma, Tinka Willard and her husband Don of Springdale, Arkansas, Tobbi Dixon and her husband Kevin of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Jim Bob Lunsford of Wheatland, Oklahoma. Her legacy continues through 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Edwina also leaves behind her stepchildren; Ruthanne and Ira Pound, Jeanne and James LaCroix, and Dallas and Diane McKellips, Jr., along with a host of step-grandchildren who loved her dearly.
Edwina is deeply loved by her family and friends. Though her presence will be dearly missed, her loved ones rejoice in her life well-lived and celebrate her eternal homecoming.
The service was recorded and may be viewed on this obituary page.