J C Awtrey

Services for J C Awtrey, 96, of Ringling, are scheduled for 10:00 A.M. Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Ringling with Dan Standifer and John Spradlin officiating. Interment will follow at the Ringling Memorial Cemetery.

J C was born May 10, 1928, in Ringling at his family farmhouse, to the late Mr. Baron Steuben Awtrey and Mrs. Vida E. (Ezzell) Awtrey. He went to his heavenly home, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at his home north of Ringling.

J C was raised in the warmth of a family farm and received his education at Mountain Home Schools, where he excelled and graduated with pride. In February 1951, J C responded to his country's call and was drafted into the United States Army. He served in the Korean War and returned home honorably discharged, a testament to his courage and commitment to his nation. On June 2, 1952, he married the former Ms. Dorothy Ragan in a ceremony held in Waurika, marking the beginning of a partnership filled with love and mutual support. They briefly traveled together before establishing their home back in Ringling, where they embraced the life of farming and ranching. J C began his professional journey at Allen’s Feed Store in Ringling, marking the start of a life devoted to both work and community. His commitment to serving others was evident throughout his life; he joined the Ringling American Legion, maintaining his membership for over 70 years. His leadership was further demonstrated when he was appointed as a Jefferson County Commissioner, a role he honored through two terms of service. Additionally, J C dedicated years to the Ringling School Board and contributed his expertise as a member of the ASCOG board until just recently. His involvement with the Cattlemen's Association further showcased his dedication to agriculture and community welfare. A true pillar of the community, J C was a faithful member of the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where he began attending as a young boy. For approximately 70 years, he served as a deacon and the song leader, guiding his congregation with devotion and faith. His love for Ringling and its residents was apparent, as he continually sought opportunities to serve where he was needed. J C resided in the family farmhouse on the family farm, a proud legacy from his father and grandfather, and nurtured it with care until 1963 when he made his home on the other side of the farm.  His life was an embodiment of hard work, dedication, and a selfless spirit that aimed to uplift those around him.

Preceding him in death are his parents, Baron and Vida; wife, Dorothy in 1985; his 2nd wife, Peggy Gentry in 1990; daughter, Alisa J Gunnels; daughter, Connie Lyle; great grandson, Chase Greenwood; brothers, Lyndal Awtrey and Oran Awtrey.

Survivors include his children, Debra Balch and husband Jerry of Burneyville, OK, Roger Awtrey and wife Patricia of Noble, OK, Lacy Osborne and husband Joe of Austin, TX; grandchildren, Jayme Koch and husband Michael, Amber Hicks, Rebecca Chambers and husband Devin, Thomas Hicks, Katie Clark and husband Chase, Erin Awtrey, Mattie J Stillman and husband Bobby, Carson Osborne and husband Dylan Cox, Peyton Osborne, and Jeremy Willis and wife Payden; great grandchildren, Rylie Lunsford and husband Chance, Ryanne Richardson, Jameson Muller, Alyson Muller, Cole Greenwood, Connor Cain, Isabel Hicks, Zara Hicks, Ethan VanBrunt, Alisa Elizabeth Willis, and Amyra Clark; great great grandchild, Carter James Lunsford; faithful friend, Joyce Skelton; numerous nieces, nephews, other family, and many friends.

Pallbearers will be Thomas Hicks, Jeremy Willis, Cole Greenwood, Connor Cain, Chance Lunsford, Bobby Stillman, Chase Clark, and Dylan Cox.

Honorary bearers are the ASCOG board, the men of the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, and the R.J.’s coffee shop crew.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 P.M., Friday evening, at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Ringling.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.