Loretta Engles

Loretta Graham Engles, M.D. passed away March 14, 2011 peacefully in the presence of her family. She was 84. Loretta Graham was born in Lebanon, OK on June 3, 1926 to Joseph Levi Graham and Leatha Graham. She grew up in Pampa, TX. In 1940 the family moved to Oklahoma City so that there would be more opportunity for higher education for the children. She graduated from Capitol Hill High. She attended the University of Oklahoma. Loretta was a scholarship recipient from her father's employer, City Service, on the basis of her excellent grades. She graduated from OU, then was admitted into the University of Oklahoma Medical School in 1947. The School of Medicine first rejected her application in 1946 because "there were a lot of young men that had come back from the war." Loretta met Charles Engles in her medical school class and they married in 1949. They graduated from medical school in 1951. In 1952, they began a family practice, Engles Clinic, in Oklahoma City, which was Loretta's career until her retirement. Loretta enjoyed her patients and seeing their families grow. She is survived by brothers Vaughn and Bill, four children Charles, Jr., Lily, Eric, and Alex, son-in- law James Reveley, daughters-in-law Clara, Marsha Howerton, and Elizabeth, and 8 grandchildren. After Charles, Sr.'s death in 1979, Loretta continued to practice medicine at Engles Clinic in Capitol Hill. She helped all her children complete college and post-graduate studies, and become successful professionals, 3 in medicine, 1 in business. She married Dr. Peter Casper in 1995. She fully retired in 1999. During her life she enjoyed creative outlets, such as creating clothing for herself and her family, and cake decorating. She loved travel, and visited many countries, as well as much of the United States. She also was a scuba diver, water and snow skier. She played softball, loved to dance, and also ran. She was active with the Oklahoma Medical Association, which honored her with a lifetime achievement award. She was a past president of the Oklahoma Women's Medical Association. She was active in civic organizations. She created a scholarship for students planning to enter the healthcare profession at Southeast Oklahoma State University. Visitation will be on Friday March 18 at Resthaven Funeral Home from 12 pm to 8 pm, family will be present from 5-8. Service will be at Quail Springs Church of Christ on Saturday March 19 at 10 am, graveside service at 12 pm at Resthaven Cemetery. The Family would like to express appreciation for the tender care she received from Good Shepherd Hospice and Epworth Villa. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to: South Eastern Foundation, c/o Loretta Engles Scholarship Fund, 1405 North 4th Ave., PMB 4187, Durant, OK 74701. To share condolences, please visit www.ResthavenOKC.com