Kenneth Ray Rooks

Kenneth Ray Rooks, 76, Tahlequah, Oklahoma. It is with both sadness and love that we announce the passing of Kenneth Ray Rooks on June 6, 2026, in Gore, Oklahoma. Born January 6, 1950, Kenneth was the oldest son of Archie Ray Rooks and Eula Louise Bolding-Rooks. He is survived by siblings, Darlene Kester of Pryor, Oklahoma, and Tony Rooks of Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

Kenneth’s memory will live within the hearts of his children, Andrea Rooks, Brandon Rooks, and Toni Rooks; grandchildren, Nigel Turner, Alec Hutton, Zachary Rooks and fiancé Andi Wayland, Caden Smith, Shenna M. Rooks, Cletha A. Smith, Malisha Rooks; and great-granddaughter Ariyah Turner.

He was preceded in death by both parents; wife Cletha Hayes-Rooks; siblings Shenna L. Rooks, and Mitchell Rooks; daughter-in-law Michelle Hutton-Rooks; and grandson Christian Chambers.

Kenneth Rooks, known by some as “Kenny” attended Cave Springs Elementary and graduated from Tahlequah High School. For most of his adult life, he worked and provided for his family as an independent contractor for such floor covering installation companies as Jim Beaver, Nelson, and Sears. He was nationally recognized as an elite trainer of American Gamecocks. He also had a passion for sports-betting and raising both AKC Chows and Staffordshire Terriers. Kenneth lived a life that ensured never a dull moment yet always maintained a soft spot for those less fortunate.

The burial service for Kenneth Ray Rooks will be held at Hendricks Cemetery in Tahlequah Oklahoma, July 31, 2026, at 2pm.