Minnette Z. Page

Minnette Zak Page, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, June 21st, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, surrounded by her two daughters; Myrna Rae Page and Brenda Ellen Page. She was born August 20th, 1932 in Lawton, Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Homer Edward Page, Jr.; her parents, Mayer and Minnie Zak, and step mother Frieda Zak; and her sisters, Eileen Zak Thomas and Betty Zak Hirschman.

She graduated from Lawton High School in 1950 and the University of Oklahoma in 1954.

Her 32-year teaching career in Lawton Public Schools was marked by compassion, commitment, and a lasting impact on her students. While teaching, she served two terms on the Lawton City Council. After retiring, she served two five-year terms on the Lawton Board of Education.

Her lifelong dedication to civic and cultural enrichment was evident through her tireless involvement in numerous local organizations. She was a passionate member of the Lawton Heritage Association, where she worked diligently to preserve the city's rich history. Her commitment to historic preservation extended to her active role on the Lawton City Hall Preservation Committee, where she advocated for safeguarding the architectural and civic legacy of the community.

She proudly served on the board of the Museum of the Great Plains, helping to promote educational initiatives and cultural programs that brought the region’s history to life. Her love for the arts was equally profound—she was a longtime supporter and participant in both Arts for All and the Lawton-Fort Sill Arts Council, championing local artists and encouraging community-wide appreciation for creative expression. As a true lover of literature, she also held an enduring place in the Shakespeare Club, where she shared her passion for classical works and lifelong learning.

As a member of the City of Lawton Charter Review Committee, she contributed her wisdom and insight to guide the city’s governance with integrity and foresight. She was heavily involved with efforts to restore the Mattie Beal House and old Lawton High and to place Central Fire Station on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2016, she was presented the Lawton Award in Excellence for her professional and volunteer efforts to improve the community. Her service and spirit left an indelible mark on Lawton, and her legacy will be felt for generations to come.

She was survived by her two daughters: Myrna Rae Page of Oklahoma City and Brenda Ellen Page of Dallas, Texas. Her legacy continues through her four grandchildren: Zak Lyon Byrne, Eli Jacob Byrne and his wife April, Sydney Page Byrne, and Page Rebekah Lemont; and one great-grandchild, Oliver Charles Byrne.

Rabbi Levi Alter will officiate the graveside service beginning at 9:00 am, Monday, June 23rd, 2025 at Temple B’Nai Israel Cemetery, 13400 North Kelly in Oklahoma City, OK 73131. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to either the Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF) to help plant trees in Israel or the Magen David Adom (MDA) as part of Israeli relief efforts.