Tina Youker

Tina Rae Youker, born on July 9, 1955, in Wichita, Kansas, departed this earthly realm on August 4, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy rich with love, compassion, and an indomitable spirit. Tina’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering faith in Jesus and her deep-rooted connection to her family and community, which she cherished above all else.

As a devoted housing director at the Otoe Missouria tribal of Red Rock, Tina's commitment to her people was evident in every facet of her life. She worked tirelessly to ensure that others had a place to call home, embodying kindness and care to all who crossed her path. Her education at Chilocco Schools in Oklahoma laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service and support within her community.

Tina was known by many as a loving mother and grandmother, characterized by her sweet nature and compassionate heart. She found joy in cooking for her family, weaving nurturing warmth into every meal shared around the table, where laughter reverberated against the walls of their home. A proud descendant of the Buffalo Clan, her heritage was not just a part of her identity but a source of inspiration that guided her throughout her life.

Tina’s immediate family includes her son Mark Baker of Tulsa, her sons Baptiste DeLodge, and Antoine DeLodge and wife Katherine of Red Rock, and her daughters Ella DeLodge and her husband Adam Harjo of Red Rock, Latasha Youker of Ponca City, and Shala LeClair of Ponca City. Her love extended to her grandchildren—Tanisha Lambeth of Woodville, Unique Youker, Teresa Yuker, and Kaylee Yuker of Ponca City, as well as her grandson Azariah Tipton of Ponca City. She was also blessed with a great-grandbaby, Itty Bitty Lakota Rhodd, whose laughter brought even more light into her life. Tina cherished a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews, reflecting the ever-expanding circle of love she nurtured throughout her life.

Tina's siblings, Iris Gooden of Stillwater and Teresa Zazueta, stood beside her, sharing fond memories that will forever echo in their hearts. Close friend Morgan Grass was a good friend, sharing in the joys and sorrows of life with a bond that transcended mere friendship.

Tina is preceded in death by her father, Robert Thompson, stepfather Antoine LeClair and her mother, Rosetta Armond Arkeketa. She was also preceded in death by her son Houston Primeaux, Jr. Their guiding presence in her life shaped the remarkable person she became, and their memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A funeral service to celebrate Tina's beautiful life will take place on August 7, 2025, at the Otoe Missouria Cultural Center. As we gather to honor her memory, we will reflect on her legacy of love, her dedication to her values, and the enduring warmth she brought to everyone around her.

In the tapestry of life, Tina Rae Youker’s thread is woven with breathtaking vibrancy, a testament to her nurturing spirit and boundless love. May she rest in peace, comforted by the knowledge that her legacy will continue through the lives of those she touched.