Richard Lee Cartmell Sr.

Richard Lee Cartmell, Sr., was born on May 27, 1933, to Eldon and Gladys Johnson Cartmell in Pawnee, Ok. He passed away on March 11, 2019 at the age of 85. Richard was raised in Pawnee and graduated from Pawnee High School with the class of 1951. He was a 3-year starter for the Pawnee Black Bear football team. He married his high school sweetheart, Arlene Berg, and they celebrated 67 happy years together. Richard served his country in the army during the Korean Conflict. After returning from the war, he began a career in masonry. He spent 40 years of his life strengthening and beautifying homes in Pawnee and surrounding communities with his special gift of construction. Some of his proudest accomplishments include the Walk of Honor, perfect reconstruction of the Lone Chimney, revitalizing the BathHouse, and restoring the Statue of Colonel Walters and Chief BaconRind located in Skedee, OK. He was also blessed with the gift of making music and singing, which he never gave up. He shared music locally his entire life. While in Korea he performed for the troops. Richard formed the band Richard and the Ramblers in the early 60’s and continued to entertain for many years. He eventually composed his own lyrics and melodies, cut a record, and was a member of the Broadcast Music, Inc. out of Nashville. Richard is survived by his wife, Arlene, of the home, 3 sons, Richard Cartmell, Jr., and Nadya, of Pawnee, Randy Cartmell and Cindy, of Pawnee, Steven Cartmell and Melissa, of Kellyville, and 1 daughter, Sonya Barnett, and Gene of Drumright. 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Richard made family a priority in his life and enjoyed getting together as often as possible. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Gladys Johnson Cartmell, 3 brothers, Donald Cartmell, Gerald Cartmell, Larry Cartmell and 1 sister, Linda Jackson.