Elsie was preceded in death by her infant son, “Lil Raymond” Miller; stepson, Mark Burkman; her parents, Russell H and Jocie (Robison) Bingley; three sisters, Evelyn Bingley, Dollie Knauth and Carol Baldwin.
Elsie and Sam shared a 30 yr marriage during which they enjoyed gardening, RV’ing, fishing, traveling and rooting for their favorite sports teams. With age, Elsie would reflect on highlights in her life such as trips taken and work experiences. Memories like those of an extended stay in the Virgin Islands, a road trip to California with Josh, a trip to Branson with Sam, concerts with Tracy, trips to Texas to visit her best friend of 50 yrs, “Kitty” Larsen, just to name a few. Elsie had a passion for American History, country music, old cars and antiques.
Elsie’s life was one of hard work, adventure, travel and relationships. She had worked as a Correction Officer for The Dept. of Corrections in McAlester, Oklahoma. She once partnered with her brother, as a restaurateur, when they opened a delightful Mexican restaurant, Casa Del Rey, also in McAlester. Elsie also worked many years in the oil industry as a Permit Agent, a job that she so loved. Later in life she and husband, Sam, established Ray’s Pest Control in Ft. Smith, Arkansas before eventually retiring to be near her beloved daughter and grandson.
Those who knew Elsie will remember her as a proud mother and grandmother. She was generous, determined, fun-loving and loyal. Her love and enjoyment of family and friends was genuine. She shared her enthusiasm for cooking and valued family gatherings, celebrating graduations, birthdays and holidays.
No services are scheduled at this time. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Dowden-Roberts Funeral & Cremation Center of Poteau, Oklahoma. “LeFlore County’s Only On-Site Crematory”
To sign Elsie’s online guestbook, please visit https://www.dowdenrobertscremationcenter.com
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