Milford Dean Messer

Milford D. Messer, PH.D., former Registrar at the University of Oklahoma, passed from this earthly existence on February 19, 2026. Dr. Messer, known as Mel by all his acquaintances, was the youngest of seven children and was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and three sisters.

Milford was awarded a doctoral degree in Higher Education Administration in 1973 at the University of Oklahoma. He held a master’s degree and B.A. degree from Fort Hays State

University in Hays, Kansas. Prior to coming to the University of Oklahoma in 1969, Dr. Messer held positions as a high school English and Spanish teacher and debate coach in Kansas high schools. In 1964, Mel started his career in administration as a high school principal. He was appointed Director of Placement and Alumni Affairs at Fort Hays State in 1967 and moved to Norman in 1969 as principal of University High School. Milford took the

position of Registrar in the Office of Admissions and Records in 1975. He also taught as an adjunct professor in the College of Education. Mel was active in various professional organizations and held numerous offices at the state and local levels.

He was fortunate to meet Judy Elaine Darling, the love of his life, while teaching in Norton, Kansas. They were married Christmas Eve morning in December 1960. Their two daughters, Carmen and Gina, were born in 1961 and 1965. Carmen is married to Greg Vlahos and are the parents of Connor (Megan) and Grant (Kristen). Gina is married to Ward Witherspoon, and they are the parents of Hannah (Jacob Hague) and Sam (Meaghan Moore). In addition, Mel is survived by two great granddaughters, Nora Laine Vlahos and Logan Marie Hague.

Mel and Judy traveled extensively in and out of the country because of his desire to see and understand the various cultures of the world. He loved to play golf and had four hole-in-ones on three different courses. In later years when he couldn’t drive because of macular degeneration, his dear wife would take him to the OU golf course to follow his ball. He played golf until the age of 89. After retirement, Mel continued teaching Spanish at the Norman Public Library as a volunteer because as he often stated, “It is good for my brain.” Recently, Mel and Judy relocated to Coppell, TX to be near their family.

Growing up, Mel understood early the value of an education. He was influenced by many teachers and mentors over the course of his lifetime. In lieu of flowers please direct memorial donations to Financial Aid Scholarships at the University of Oklahoma (#31198).

Checks made payable to the OU Foundation can be mailed to: The University of Oklahoma Foundation, P.O. Box 258856, Oklahoma City, OK 73125-8856.

Services will be scheduled at a later date.