Sarah Ann Gariss

Sarah Ann Gariss, age 86, resident of Broken Arrow, OK, passed into eternal rest on Saturday, December 27, 2025. She was born on April 3, 1939, in Seminole, OK and was the cherished daughter of Page Poindexter Cummings and Hazel Wilma (Griggs) Cummings. Sarah's life was a rich tapestry of adventure, love, and unwavering faith, woven with the threads of her many passions and the love she had for her family and friends.

Sarah's early years were spent in the embrace of the Oklahoma oilfields, where she developed a deep connection with nature and a knack for befriending all creatures great and small. Her sixth birthday brought her a lifelong companion, her beloved sister Gail, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. Sarah's childhood was filled with laughter, mischief, and the warmth of family gatherings that would leave an indelible mark on her heart.

As she grew, Sarah's love for the arts and academics blossomed. She excelled in theater and had a keen interest in science and math. Her high school years were marked by her active participation in clubs and her love for the outdoors, often accompanying her father on squirrel hunts or fishing trips. Her faith took root at the First Christian Church, where she was baptized and found solace in music and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Sarah's professional journey began at Taylor Lumber, where she honed her skills in accounting. Her commitment to justice and equality was evident early on, as she and her colleagues at H.S. Kress & Company ensured that all customers, regardless of their background, were treated with dignity and respect.

The wanderlust in Sarah's soul took her across the United States, but her heart remained tethered to Oklahoma. It was there that she met and eloped with the love of her life, Chester Gariss. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the roar of race cars. Sarah's adventurous spirit shone brightly as she supported her husband's trucking endeavors and later became an oversized load escort, making friends and memories along the way.

Sarah's role as a mother extended beyond her four sons to include countless others who were welcomed into her heart and home. Her love knew no bounds, and she became a mother figure to many, offering guidance, support, and a listening ear.

Her professional achievements were many, including her tenure as vice president of Dale Moody Company. Sarah's courage and tenacity were on full display as she stood up to the FBI, defending her integrity and that of others with unwavering resolve.

In retirement, Sarah dedicated herself to her grandchildren, nurturing them with the same love and care she had shown to all the children in her life. Her home was a sanctuary of love, where animals and people alike found comfort and healing.

Sarah's faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through every challenge and triumph. She was a devoted member of Garnett Road Baptist Church, where she forged lasting friendships and continued to uplift those around her.

She is survived by four sons, Keith Gariss and his wife Debra Cook of Tulsa, OK, Kevin Gariss and his wife Lori of Catoosa, OK, Kenny Gariss and his wife Brandi of St. Paul, AR, and Kurt Gariss and his wife Stacy of Coweta, OK; her sister, Gail Ramsey; 25 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Chester Joseph Gariss, her parents, Page Poindexter and Hazel Wilma Cummings, her beloved granddaughter, Kalley, her brother-in-law, Bill Ramsey, and one she called her son, David Stephenson.

Visitation will be from 4;00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at Brown’s Funeral Service in Coweta, OK. Services celebrating Sarah’s life will be at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 2, 2026 at Community Baptist Church in Coweta, OK with Pastor Bob Wall officiating. She will be laid to rest at Vernon Cemetery in Coweta, OK.

Family and friends are invited to share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Sarah Ann Gariss entrusted her care and services to Brown’s Funeral & Cremation Service, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.