Athel was born on October 28, 1938, in Wister, Oklahoma, to John Thomas Box and Elsie (Brannon) Box-Oliver. He was the eldest son and the last surviving member, now reunited with his immediate family. Affectionately known as “Rusty” by family and friends because of his reddish auburn hair, he was a beloved part of his family and will be remembered for the life he shared with those closest to him.
In July 1968, Rusty married Doris Carney, and together they built a life centered around love and family. Throughout his 87 years, his family remained one of his greatest treasures. He was immensely proud of the family they created and the generations that followed, finding joy in watching his loved ones grow and in the memories they made together.
Rusty was a quiet man with a stubborn streak, a sweet tooth, and a deep love for those closest to him. He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, especially spending time surrounded by family and enjoying something sweet to eat. Though he may not have always expressed his feelings in words, his love for his family was evident in the life he lived and the bonds he cherished.
He is survived by his wife, Doris Box; his daughters, Deborah Ann Box-Billy and her husband, Simon, and Sheila Renee Box-Steelman and her husband, Ron; his grandchildren, Brittany Billy-Rice and her husband, Shannon, Kayla Billy, Shyla Rae Rowzee, Ronald Steelman Jr., and Shannon Ludington and her husband, Kristian; and nine additional beloved great-grandchildren.
Rusty was preceded in death by his parents, John Thomas Box and Elsie (Brannon) Box-Oliver; his brothers, Eldred E. Box, Jimmy L. Box, and Eudell R. Box; his sister, Christine (Oliver) Glenn-Bacon; and his grandson, Matthew Colton Billy.
Rusty was deeply loved, will be dearly missed, and will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His family is especially thankful that he accepted Christ later in life, and they find comfort and peace in the promise of seeing him again. Though they must say goodbye for now, they hold firmly to their faith and the hope of a joyful reunion in Heaven.
Graveside Service for Athel Ray “Rusty” Box, 87, of Fanshawe, Oklahoma, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Fanshawe Cemetery in Fanshawe, Oklahoma, with Donald Gullick and Simon Billy officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home of Poteau, Oklahoma.
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