John Charles Polk

John Charles Polk, 35, of Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, was born August 7, 1990, in Muskogee, Oklahoma to Daryl and Lucy Polk and passed away at home on January 26, 2026. John lived a life marked by love, loyalty, and a deep devotion to the people who mattered most to him. First and foremost, John loved his family fiercely and without reservation. His family was his heart. He also loved his animals, his friends, and the home he created, pouring himself into everything and everyone he cared about. John had a gift for people; he never failed to leave a smile or spark a laugh in the life of anyone he encountered. Every day, with every person, he brought warmth and genuine kindness. John was truly a character, in the very best sense of the word. John worked as an electrician for ICO for 15 years, a craft he took great pride in. He was skilled, dependable, and known for his strong work ethic. Even in his work, John showed the same dedication and care that defined the rest of his life. John loved music, playing guitar and piano. He enjoyed listening to music, playing video games, skateboarding, and spending time with friends. He was an athlete in his younger years, participating in football, baseball, and winning state in wrestling while attending Fort Gibson schools. More than anything, he cherished being with his family. John loved life deeply, but above all, he loved his brother James. After losing James 11 years ago, John carried that grief quietly and courageously. He spoke of him often, missed him daily, and dreamed of the day they would be reunited. For the last 11 years, John fought hard, with love, with perseverance, and with hope, doing the only thing he knew how: loving his brother fiercely. And he fought well. In the end, John finished his race. It brings comfort to know that John fell asleep at home, on his couch, with his beloved cat, Howard, curled on his chest and his dogs, Little Dude, and Nemo, close by, surrounded by peace and love. Scripture tells us, “Jesus said, ‘Enough.’” And we believe that John was gently called home, where his brother, James, was waiting for him. John awoke not in pain or sorrow, but in paradise. John is survived by his parents, Daryl Polk and Lucy Polk of Fort Gibson; his sister, Stephanie Ballard of Tahlequah; his niece, Riley Austin of Fort Gibson; his nephew, Eli Ballard; and his grandnephew, Hudson Austin. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends who loved him deeply. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John Polk and Barbara Epperson; his brother and best friend, James Polk; and his sister, Jamie Polk. John’s life will be celebrated 2PM, Monday, February 9, 2026, at Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home Chapel in Fort Gibson with Brother Justin Kinman officiating. The family of John Charles Polk has entrusted his care, cremation, and service to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home, Fort Gibson. 918-478-2555. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

John Charles Polk

August 7, 1990 - January 26, 2026