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Submitted: 10/2/23 • Approved: 10/2/23 • Last Updated: 10/5/23 • R1504699-G0-S3
December 28, 1919 - January 18, 2013
Ossie Clifton McElhaney "Daddy" was born Dec. 28, 1919, in Henryetta, Okla., to James Benjamin and Stella Hobbs McElhaney.
During grade school, the family moved to Fort Smith, where he lived until Jan. 13. At age 19, he began his lifelong career at Harding Glass Co. He worked in the box shop for 37 years until the plant shut down and he was chosen as watchmen until the plant was sold. Harding was an enjoyable conversation.
He married Beulah Ellen Haley in 1944, and a son was born in January 1945, who did not live. After divorcing, he married Lillian "Rita" Dobbs in 1960. "Rita" was a longtime companion before their marriage, and she died in 1974. Later in life, he married Jimmie Lee Valentine and made a home on Woodland for 33 years. Jimmie had two daughters, Nita Bagwell and JoAnn Mounce. He enjoyed their boys, Ronnie and Randy Bagwell and Kevin, Barry, Kendall and Britt Mounce. After Jimmie passed, he lived independently in his home until this past November. He was known for his well manicured lawn and meticulous housekeeping. He was 93 years old.
Daddy spent many hours with grandson, Randy Bagwell, who was Sunday faithful to share a cup of "Joe" and chat. Depending on nieces Patsy Stem and Danalene Porter made staying in his home possible, which was his dream to the end. Thank you will never be enough to you three. Daddy and I lived in different states and he didn't get as much contact with his own grandchildren, Allison Hoberg and Tyler Abbott. He loved us with great joy and called almost daily checking if we were OK and being safe.
Daddy, Grandpa Mack, Uncle Ossie — we all loved you so and miss you each day. Your character was unique and your love for us honest and true. Thank you for all you've shared with us, Alice A. McElhaney Abbott.
Graveside service will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Roselawn Cemetery with the Rev. Joe Bagwell officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
Photo courtesy of Frances Allen Titsworth
Contributed on 10/2/23 by Billsully060
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Record #: 1504699