George H. Lampton

George H. Lampton, 92, of McAlester, passed away Sunday, March 9, at his home. Graveside funeral services are scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery, with Rev. D. Scott Vandenheuvel officiating. Military honors will be provided by the United States Navy Honor Guard.
George H. Lampton was born on October 4, 1932, in McAlester, Oklahoma, to Leo and Reba Lampton, who were also from McAlester. He attended public schools in the area, graduating from McAlester High School in 1951. He went on to attend the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business. While at OU, George was an active member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity.
On December 26, 1954, George married Eda Sue Loveless of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in McAlester. Upon graduating, he was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. Over the next 23 years, George served on active duty and retired in 1978 with the rank of Captain.
During his naval career, George served on numerous ships and at various bases, including the USS Bremerton (CA-130), USS Independence (CVA-62), Naval Air Station Atsugi, Japan, NATO Command in Naples, Italy, Ships Parts Control Center in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington, Commander Naval Air Forces Atlantic in Norfolk, Virginia, and the Naval Supply Center in Norfolk, Virginia.
A key part of his service was his time aboard the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CVA-34) during the Vietnam War. He made two combat cruises on the ship during the conflict, and his service was marked by bravery and commitment to duty.
Throughout his distinguished career, George earned several decorations, including the Vietnam Cross of Honor (1st Class), Navy Meritorious Service Medal with Gold Star, Navy Commendation Medal, China Service Medal, Naval Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Citations, and the Armed Forces Service Medal.
After retiring from the Navy, George returned to McAlester, where he bought and operated 75 Cleaners, a family business that had been in operation since 1927. On December 7, 1979, he married Claudette M. Schoemann. He continued his work in the dry-cleaning business until his retirement in 1992.
George was an active member of several organizations throughout his life. He was involved in the American Legion and the Retired Officers' Association, and he served on the Board of Directors for the McAlester Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and the Library Board. George was also a member of the McAlester Rotary Club, where he served as President from 1991 to 1992. In recognition of his contributions, he was named an Honorary Rotarian and was a Paul Harris Fellow. Additionally, he served on the Meals on Wheels committee and was a mentor for HOSTS (Help One Student to Succeed).
A committed member of the First Presbyterian Church, George served in various capacities, including Deacon, Elder, and Youth Sunday School Teacher.
Outside of his professional and civic engagements, George was passionate about photography and antique automobiles. He was also a devoted fan of Sooner football. However, above all, George's greatest love was for his family and his country.
George H. Lampton was preceded in death by his father and mother, Leo and Reba Lampton, first wife, Eda Sue Pope as well as his daughter Cheryl Offenberger and grandson Ryan Offenberger.
He is survived by his wife, Claudette Lampton, of Miami, Florida; his son, Gregory Lampton of Oklahoma City; his daughter, Jennifer Dierker, also of Oklahoma City; and his son, John Schoemann of Miami, Florida. George is also survived by his grandchildren: Ashley Boettcher of Frisco, Texas, and her husband David Boettcher; Craig Offenberger of Dallas, Texas; Hope Hunt of Marlow, Oklahoma, and her husband Garrett Hunt; Noah Dierker of Farmers Branch, Texas; and great-grandchildren Avery Boettcher and Cason Boettcher of Frisco, Texas. Additional survivors include Rylan Offenberger, great-grandson of Marietta, Ohio, and Randy Offenberger, son-in-law, of Marietta, Ohio.
The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Hospice of McAlester and First Presbyterian Church of McAlester.