Claremore Daily Progress

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Obituaries

January 8, 2013

Harold “Randy” Reavis

Staff Reports Staff Reporter

CLAREMORE — A celebration of the life of Harold “Randy” Reavis will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at the Cowboy Gatherin’ Church in Inola, Okla., under the direction of Rice Funeral Service.   

Randy passed Friday, Jan. 4, 2013. He was 61.

Born in Claremore on May 5, 1951, to Richard and Mildred (Kennan) Reavis, Randy received his education in his birth community.  Following graduation from Claremore High School he earned an associate degree from Claremore Junior College.   

Throughout his school years, Randy excelled in baseball.  He also really enjoyed rodeo, FFA, and later, team roping — setting the stage for what would become, as others said, “A Cowboy at Heart”.  He knew the cowboy way of life and lived it.

In 1971, two established Rogers County families were blended when Randy married Lavonne Collins in a Nowata, Oklahoma ceremony.  

Their union was gifted with two children.  A legacy in the American Quarter Horse industry would continue.            

Because he was gifted with insight and knowledge of cattle and horses, Randy remained tirelessly involved with that work throughout his life.   Affectionately referred to as the “Rain Man”, he was an encyclopedia on horse racing, possessing an unmatched ability to recall blood lines, races won, and the sire and dam of colts all across this country.  Colts Randy raised are still successfully racing.

He was a member of the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Racing Association, Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association and a lifetime member of the American Quarter Horse Association.  Though his greatest passion was never-ending, his work with both Terra Nitrogen and American Airlines did come to a conclusion after 37 years as a faithful employee.

Randy was a mentor to many youth, and under his watchful eye, he helped them walk away proudly displaying those blue ribbon prizes. Rachelle and Ryan did great at shows and fairs with his help choosing the animals.  

When his own grandchildren came along the sound of “Poppee” fast became his favorite thing to hear. He shared his knowledge of livestock with them and had a fine tuned ability to help them choose top horses, cattle and show stock.  

Their quality time frequently consisted of weekends at ranch rodeos and fairs.   Several weeks ago, he and grandson Parker attended a show prospect sale. They came in laughing, Parker saying “Poppee’s still got it.”  

He had picked the high selling stock.  Granddaughter Tori even got to name two of his prized colts “Otch” and “Ookin Atcha”, which translated would be “watch” and “lookin’ at you”.

As Randy’s health declined and a battle against cancer was waged, family and friends became even more treasured. He even said that Tori’s prayers prolonged his life — numerous times she gathered family, joined hands and said “you in my heart, Jesus in my heart, and I pray for you”.  Randy believed that Tori’s simple and pure spirit brought them all closer to the face of God.      

This son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend will be missed by all whose lives he touched.   He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Lavonne of their Claremore home; children: Rachelle  Renfrow of Welch, Ryan Reavis of Claremore; grandchildren: Parker and Victoria Renfrow; Mother: Mildred Reavis; Siblings: Rick Reavis and wife Donna, Karen Reavis, Ray Reavis, Audrey Kallenberger and husband Barry, Raquel Williams and husband Charlie and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

In honor of Randy, all are welcome to wear their cowboy attire to this celebration of his life.   

In lieu of flowers or other condolences, please consider sending a donation in Randy’s name to Cowboy Gatherin’ Church at 30707 S. 4240 Road, Inola, OK 74036.

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