GARRY WALLACE O’MEALEY

On Monday June 13, 2022, Garry Wallace O’Mealey passed away of natural causes at the age of 81. He leaves behind his wife Ann of the home, son, Jason Farias and wife April, and grandson Holden, daughter Anna Lena Kashirskiy and husband Alexander. Garry is survived by his brother Dr. Gerald O’Mealey and wife Peggy of Tonkawa, OK sister Elma Jean Danford and husband Jerral of Fort Morgan Colorado, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and a few great-great nieces and nephews. Ann and Garry were together over 23 years and celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary on April 7th, 2022.

Garry was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and LaFreda Jones O’Mealey, his older sister LaRieta Hayes and husband Bill of Riverside, CA and a great nephew Richard Hayes of Tucson, AZ

Garry Wallace O’Mealey was born May 10, 1941, in Lyons, KS then moved with his family to a farm west of Tonkawa, OK. He attended Tonkawa High School where he graduated in 1959. During his school years, he was active in sports and music. After high school Garry attended NOC for two years on a football scholarship then on to SWOSU in Weatherford where he received his degree in education.

After college Garry was drafted into the Army and stationed in Germany for several years. Upon his return he went back to SWOSU and received his Masters Degree. After graduation he began his career as an educator and coach in Newkirk, OK, where he worked from 1966 to 1974. The majority of his career was spent in Tonkawa Public Schools as a teacher, counselor, coach, athletic director and assistant principal for a time. Garry was passionate about education and sports and was best known by his students and colleagues as “Coach O”. After retiring in 1998 he continued to farm with his brother Gerald raising wheat and cattle.

Garry was a man who enjoyed spending time with his family & friends, watching old westerns, doing newspaper crossword puzzles, and attending local sporting events. Garry’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. Let us all remember forever his entertaining stories, funny sense of humor, and his infectious smile. For those who want to pay their respects, there will be a Memorial Service Thursday, July 23 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tonkawa High School Event Center. In lieu of flowers the family has set up a Memorial Fund for scholarships in Garry’s name. Donations can be sent to the “Garry O’Mealey Memorial Fund” and mailed to 107 KOB Drive, Tonkawa, OK 74653.

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