Mark Layne McElroy

Mark Layne McElroy, known affectionately to friends and family as Smokey, passed away on January 20, 2025, at the age of 65, due to complications from a stroke. Born on November 21, 1959, in Alamogordo, New Mexico, Mark's life journey concluded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where he was surrounded by the love and warmth of his close-knit family.
Mark was a beacon of joy and laughter, bringing light into the lives of everyone he encountered. He inherited a vibrant spirit from his late parents, Jack and Billie McElroy, and shared a lifetime of memories with his brother, Rob McElroy, and sister, Vicki Gelona. More than anything, Mark cherished his role as a father to his daughter, Sarah McElroy, and son, Casey McElroy. His grandson, Dillon Prichard, was the apple of his eye, and Mark instilled in him the same zest for life that he carried in his own heart.
A proud graduate of Edmond Memorial High School in 1978, Mark set out to make his mark in the world with a career as a financial advisor and salesman. His professional achievements were many, but he often said that his most significant accomplishment was being a father. Mark's dedication to his family was paralleled only by his commitment to his community, where he served as a volunteer firearms instructor, sharing his expertise and passion for safety with others.
Mark's interests were as varied as they were intense. He was never happier than when he was in the company of others, a man who never met a stranger. His laughter and stories were the highlight of any gathering. An accomplished musician, Mark's love for music was infectious, and he took great joy in passing this passion on to his children and anyone willing to enjoy a tune. Mark was also an avid motorcycle enthusiast, relishing the freedom of the open road, whether he was navigating lake trails or embarking on epic road trips to the Pacific Coast.
Sports played an integral role in Mark's life, and he was a fervent supporter of his beloved Oklahoma Sooners, the New York Yankees, and the Oklahoma City Blazers. Hockey held a special place in his heart, a sport he introduced to his family in 1995 and which remains a treasured tradition. At home, Mark could often be found relaxing by the pool or enjoying a movie, cocktail in hand, always ready to share a laugh or impart a bit of wisdom.
Those who knew Mark will remember him as a man who was loving, funny, and generous. His ability to make others feel valued and welcomed was unparalleled, and his generosity knew no bounds. Mark's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the joy of sharing life's simple pleasures with those around him.
As we bid farewell to Mark Layne McElroy, we celebrate the indelible imprint he left on our hearts. His spirit and the memories he created will continue to inspire and comfort us. Mark's life was a testament to the power of love, the beauty of friendship, and the joy of family. He will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.
Mark's life will be honored with a memorial service at Crawford Funeral Services in Edmond, OK, on Thursday, January 30th, at 2:30 p.m., with a reception to follow. His legacy will live on in the stories shared, the music played, and the love he gave so freely. We take solace in knowing that Mark's melody will forever resonate in the hearts of those who loved him.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Marks name to The Brass Ring Center for the Performing Arts