Gary Burris

Gary Burris, 66, passed away on July 16, 2023, in Claremore, Oklahoma.  He was born on October 7, 1956, in Arkansas City, KS to Harold and Bobby Jane Burris.

  After attending school at Chiloco, he joined the US Marine Corps in 1974 and then went on to marry Gladys Roughface on November 19, 1982.  Later, in December of 1991 they moved to Tahlequah, Oklahoma where they made their home and life.  He was a dedicated individual who worked with Indian Health Services for 25 years before retiring.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Gary was an outdoorsman with a love for fixing cars, fishing, hunting, and spending quality time with loved ones. He found great joy in the company of his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. These shared moments provided him with lasting memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

 He is preceded in death by his loving wife, parents, three brothers, and three granddaughters. Although his departure leaves an emptiness in the lives of many, his memory will forever be etched in their hearts.

Among those left behind to cherish his memory are, his children: Sevet West of Beggs, OK; Robert and wife Andrea of Ponca City, OK; Hawley Tsoodle of Ponca City, OK; Lea Burris and companion Cory Galvin of Lawrence, KS; Raymond Burris of Tahlequah, OK; Laverne Burris of Eufaula, OK; Helen Burris Tahlequah, OK; Bobby Burris and children of Tahlequah, OK; Gary Burris and family of Cleveland, OK.,  his brother John Burris of Mustang, OK. Also, he leaves behind 41 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, two aunts, two uncles, and numerous other cherished family members.

Services for Gary will be held at 2 p.m. following traditional noon feast and giveaway on July 20, 2023, at the Ponca Indian Baptist Church located at 6001 S. Pleasant View Rd, Ponca City, OK. The Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.gracememorialchapel.net