Ossie McElhaney

Ossie Clifton McElhaney - Daddy was born December 28, 1919 in Henryetta, OK to James Benjamin and Stella (Hobbs) McElhaney. During grade school the family moved to Fort Smith where he lived until January 13, 2013. At age 19 he began his life-long career at Harding Glass Company. 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 that did not live. I was born in September in 1947. After divorcing he married Lillian “Rita” Dobbs in 1960. “Rita” was a long time 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 until this past November – 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, 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 2:00 PM Saturday, January 19, 2013, at Roselawn Cemetery with Rev. Joe Bagwell officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. There will be a reception following the graveside service at Emeritus at Willow Brook in the Community Room from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. The family will visit with friends Friday, January 18, 2013, at Edwards Funeral Home from 5:00

PM – 7:00 PM. To place online tributes please visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.