Viola Ruth Fullerton

Viola Ruth (Doty) Fullerton, a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, mother, and grandmother, passed away on April 11, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on September 27, 1946, in Big Cabin, Oklahoma, to Samuel Merrill Doty and Loretta Ester (Wilhoite) Doty, Viola grew up in a loving home where faith and values were deeply rooted. Viola was raised alongside three brothers and two sisters, and her childhood was filled with love, laughter, and adventure. After growing up in Tulsa and Claremore, Oklahoma; as well as California and Oregon, as a child, Viola then went on to serve in the United States Army for a short time, where she earned the title of "Queen of Pinball" among her peers. Shortly after obtaining her GED in 1983, a remarkable achievement after having children; Viola embarked on a fulfilling career as a secretary, dedicating several years of service to an insurance company. Her professionalism, dedication, and warm demeanor made her a beloved staple in the office, and she enjoyed a rewarding career until her retirement.

One thread shone brighter than all others in the tapestry of Viola's life, the love she had for her children. As a proud mother of one son, Chris, and two daughters, Rhonda and Esther, they were her pride and joy. Her children were the most important thing in her life, and she devoted herself to nurturing and loving them. Viola's faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. She loved celebrating holidays, especially Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving, which brought her family together and allowed her to share delicious dishes. Throughout her life, Viola created many cherished memories with her family and friends. She also enjoyed vacationing at Silver Dollar City with her family and taking trips to visit her sister-in-law in Wisconsin.

Viola's interests were diverse, and she enjoyed watching British TV shows, collecting Lilo and Stitch memorabilia, admiring butterflies, and camping. Her favorite color was blue, and she often incorporated it into her daily life. She had a special place in her heart for her family and cherished the time they spent together. Later in life, she developed a passion for playing Skibo, baking, reading the Bible, and listening to gospel music. Her heart was always full of kindness, and she loved feeding people and spending time with family.

Viola is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Merle Doty and Loretta Ester (Wilhoite) Doty; sisters, Edna Rawlings and Charlotte Doty; and brother, Lewis Doty.

She is survived by her son, Chris Fullerton of Texas; daughters, Rhonda Fullerton of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Esther Moore and husband Bill of Welling, Oklahoma; brothers, Samuel Doty II of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Joe Doty of Tulsa, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Michelle Bennett of Edmond, Oklahoma, Misty Ashton and husband Daniel of Wagoner, Oklahoma, Micheal Walkingstick of Texas, Jason Norseworthy of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Richard Walkingstick of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Robert Walkingstick of Claremore, Oklahoma; and seven great-grandchildren, Emili Bell and partner Bert of Bunch, Oklahoma, CJ Bell of Welling, Oklahoma, Hunter Womack of Wagoner, Oklahoma, Brantlee Norseworthy of Keys, Oklahoma, Corra Blood of Keys, Oklahoma, Erica Walkingstick of Texas, and Sirius Walkingstick of Texas.

A graveside service for Viola will be held Monday, April 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Crittenden Cemetery, Tahlequah, Oklahoma, with Minister Curt Angel officiating.

The family invites friends and acquaintances to share their memories of Viola and celebrate her life.