Earl Finton Stoneburner

Earl was born during the Great Depression on May 20th, 1929. He lived a long and blessed life, passing just 5 days shy of his 97th birthday. He was a faithful member of God’s Mountain Church and devoted much of his life to reading the bible, writing sermons, studying biblical timelines and lineages, and sharing the gospel with others. Though Earl was known as a humble, gentle, and kind hearted man, when he preached or spoke about Jesus, it was with deep passion, unwavering conviction, and a fire in his spirit that could be felt by all who heard him. He boldly proclaimed the truth of God’s word and longed for others to come to know the saving love of Christ.

Earl proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1951 to 1955 during the Korean War, where he was awarded two Bronze Stars for valor and heroism. Despite these honors, Earl remained a modest man who rarely spoke of his achievements, carrying himself with quiet strength and humility. Most of his life was spent working with his hands, cutting wood, hauling hay, construction, land clearing, and working as a ranch hand in Colorado in his younger years. Earl believed in honest labor and never feared hard work. Those around him admired his strength and endurance. Even in his later years, Earl continued to amaze those around him, working the chainsaw with the strength and skill of three men. Even running miles to neighboring towns on multiple occasions, one of those being on his 70th birthday.

Earl found great joy in God’s creation - watching birds, wondering the woods in search of honey hives, and listening to the peaceful sounds of nature. He also loved playing the harmonica, a simple pleasure that brought comfort and joy to those around him. In quieter moments, Earl could often be found enjoying an episode of WWE wrestling or watching Swamp People, following the adventures on the bayou on his favorite TV network the History Channel.

Those who knew Earl will remember a simple and humble man whose life reflected his faith. He loved his family deeply, treated others with kindness and respect, and carried a quiet wisdom that came from years of walking with the Lord. His life was a testimony of steadfast faith, humility, and enduring love for Christ. Though he will be greatly missed, his family rejoices in the promise knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of his savior whom he loved so dearly.

Earl is survived by his sons, Joe Stoneburner and wife Rhonda of Tahlequah, Oklahoma and David Stoneburner of Teresita, Oklahoma; brother, Johnny Quick and wife Jackie of Coweta, Oklahoma; sisters, Betty Downing of Springdale, Arkansas, Lula Thompson and husband Robert of Teresita, Oklahoma, and Juanita Tyer and husband Billy Con of Leach, Oklahoma. He also leaves behind grandchildren Jeremy Stoneburner and wife Candia of Checotah, Oklahoma, Jamie Fleming and husband Bobby of Peggs, Oklahoma, Melissa Fry and husband Robert of Pryor, Oklahoma, Donna Gardner and husband Hayden of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, Samson Stoneburner and Morgan of Owasso, Oklahoma, and Ory Patrick of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, along with 15 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence William Stoneburner and Dorothy Quick; his first wife, Jimmie Lou Watson; his second wife, Mildred Stoneburner; sons, Ronald Stoneburner, Donald Stoneburner, and Manoah Stoneburner; brothers, Clarence William “Junior” Stoneburner, Elmer Stoneburner, and Joe “Pete” Skidmore; sisters, Kathryn Seanard, Doris Wilson, and Debra Simms; grandson, Haiden Fleming; nephew, Gary Stoneburner; and niece, Sharron Peavy.