Doyle Lee Drywater

Doyle Lee Drywater, a devoted family man, proud patriot, and kind-hearted individual, passed away on March 26, 2025, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the same town where he was born on October 27, 1965. Raised in a loving home by his parents, Jimmy Lee Drywater and Carolyn Lavern (Gordon) Drywater, Doyle grew up surrounded by his five brothers and two sisters, forming a strong bond with his family that would last a lifetime. Growing up, Doyle was affectionately known as "Nut Jones," a nickname given to him by his big brother Darren. In fact, Darren would only play with Doyle if he agreed to be called "Nut Jones," a testament to the special bond and playful dynamics between the two brothers.

Doyle's life was a tribute to his love for God, his country, and his family. He proudly served his country in the United States National Guard, and his dedication to his community was evident in his work as a sheriff's deputy reserve, marshal, and mechanic. Doyle's career as a mechanic spanned many years, and he took great pride in his work.

Doyle's love for music was also a big part of his life. He enjoyed listening to gospel music, as well as the classic country sounds of Johnny Cash and Tanya Tucker. When he wasn't working or spending time with his family, Doyle could often be found cooking up a storm on his charcoal grill, whipping up delicious burgers, pork steaks, and other tasty treats. He was known to have a sweet tooth, particularly when it came to German chocolate cake. Lasagna was also one of his favorite dishes, and he always looked forward to enjoying a hearty, homemade meal.

In his free time, Doyle enjoyed a variety of hobbies that brought him joy and relaxation. He also enjoyed trying his luck at the casino He also loved sitting on his porch, watching the world go by, and reminiscing about good times with his family. Doyle was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and exploring the beauty of nature. He was particularly fond of taking his kids and grandkids on adventures, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Whether they were hunting crawdads, playing in the hayfield, or enjoying a summer day at the creek, Doyle's love for his family was always evident. He spent countless hours working in the hayfields, and his children cherish the memories of spending their summers by his side, watching him work tirelessly from dawn till dusk. And when the day's work was done, Doyle would take his kids on a special adventure to the creek, where they would spend hours playing and enjoying quality time together. These summer days spent in the hayfield and creek are etched in the memories of his children. Doyle always expressed that his kids and grandkids were his pride and joy, and the sparkle in his eye whenever he talked about them, just a small example to the love and devotion he had for his family.

Doyle was preceded in death by his grandparents, maternal and paternal; nephew Jacob Drywater; two great-nieces, J’Lee Drywater and Everlee Myer; sister-in-law Denise Drywater; and dear friends Blackie Johnson and Mike Moore.

Those left to carry on his legacy include his loving parents, Jimmy Lee Drywater and Carolyn Lavern (Gordon) Drywater; one son, Anthony Lee Drywater; two daughters, Amanda Washington and husband Jimmie, and Erica Nathaniel and boyfriend Will; five brothers, Darren Drywater, Dickie Drywater and wife Belinda, Kevin Drywater, Brian Drywater and wife Jimmie, and Jimbo Drywater and wife Sherry; three sisters, Kathy Cooper and husband Kevin, Terri Kendall and husband, Stacy Laughlin and husband Garie; ten grandchildren, Shae Washington, Blake Washington, Dillen Drywater, Ryder Washington, Casey Bradshaw and husband Tim, Jessalyn Nathaniel, Nikita Drywater, JoVaun McCully, Jenni Drywater, and Ann McCully; seven great-grandchildren, Hope Bohannon, Avery Bradshaw, Draigen Bohannon, Bryar Bradshaw, Hattie Bradshaw, Hakeem Washington, and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Though Doyle's passing leaves a great void in the lives of those who loved him, his legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him. Rest in peace, Doyle. Your life was a gift to us all, and your memory will never be forgotten.

A visitation for Doyle will be held Monday, March 31, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Reed-Culver Funeral Home, 117 West Delaware Street, Tahlequah, Oklahoma. A graveside will occur Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Agent Cemetery, Moodys, Oklahoma.

Doyle will be laid to rest in Agent Cemetery in Moodys, Oklahoma.

Serving as pallbearers are Garie Laughlin, Kevin Cooper, Keaton Myer, Choogie Drywater, Jimmy Drywater, Dillen Drywater, and Darren Drywater. Honorary Pallbearers include TJ Johnson, Jimmie Washington, JoVaun McCully, Blake Washington, Ryder Washington, Brian Drywater, Dickie Drywater, Jimbo Drywater, and Kevin Drywater.