Donald Lafoy Reading

Donald Lafoy Reading, 94, was born January 2, 1930, in Wynnewood, OK to William and Lula (Campbell) Reading, and entered eternal rest on Saturday, December 28, 2024, in Muskogee, OK. After Donald’s birth, his family relocated to Haskell County to raise their children. He attended Rose Hill Elementary, Kinta High School, and went on to further his education at Connors State College. After graduating from Connors, Donald enlisted in the United States Air Force on January 6, 1951, faithfully serving our country for 4 years before receiving an honorable discharge on January 5, 1955, discharging with the rank of Sargent. He was instrumental for our country in the Korean War, serving as an aircraft mechanic. Donald attended Panhandle State University after his military discharge, receiving his bachelor’s degree in life and animal science. After graduating with his bachelor’s degree, he taught science for Porum Public Schools for two years. Going back to school, Donald attended Northeastern State University and obtained a master’s degree in education. Upon graduating, he went back to teaching for 2 years for Adair Public Schools. Donald and Reba then found themselves moving to Corcoran, CA where Donald taught middle school. Donald took charge of the Federal programs for the school, helping the teachers of the district with science as a science instructor. He served proudly as the president of Corcoran Teachers Association. Donald spent 34 years as an educator in California. He and his wife moved back to settle into retirement life in 2003, and then back to Fort Gibson, OK in 2005. When life slowed down, Donald enjoyed being outside in nature. He loved tending to his garden and loved a calm day out on the water fishing. Donald enjoyed camping in the Sierra Mountains, Yosemite and Sequoia in the summer, and loved the coast of Pismo beaches in the winter. He was passionate about his family, especially his grandchildren. Donald cherished every memory with his wife, children, and grandchildren, especially enjoying fellowship with them when he took them to church. He was a faithful member of First Freewill Baptist Church in Fort Gibson and had a true heart for Jesus. Donald leaves behind a legacy of dedication, love, and wisdom. He will be missed by all. Donald is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Melvin Reading, Ealis Reading, Herbert Reading, Delbert Reading; and his sister; Sybil Reading. He is lovingly survived by his wife, Reba L. Reading of Fort Gibson, OK; two sons, Ronald Reading of Muskogee, OK, and Jeffrey Reading of Bakersfield, CA; grandchildren, Ronald Allan Reading, Sarah LeAnn Reading, Aaron Lafoy Reading, and Andrew William Reading; and great-grandchildren, Shaina Marie Stout, Sarah Catherine Stout, Nicholas Wayne Stout, Gracie Virginia Stout, Kent Alexander Reading, Asher William Reading, Eliza Jade McCoy Reading, and Bentley Eli - Troy Reading; extended family and many friends. A viewing will be 10:30AM-11:45AM, Thursday, January 2, 2025 at First Freewill Baptist Church in Fort Gibson. A celebration of Donald’s life will be 12PM, Thursday, January 2, 2025 at First Freewill Baptist Church in Fort Gibson with Pastor Tommy Honeycutt officiating. Committal prayers and interment will follow at Fort Gibson National Cemetery with military honors being observed. The family of Donald Lafoy Reading has entrusted his care, service, and burial to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com

Donald Lafoy Reading

January 2, 1930 - December 28, 2024