Jack L. Gilbreath's Obituary
Mr. Jack L. Gilbreath, aged 83, passed away on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was a beloved resident of Claremore, Oklahoma. Born to the late Mr. Marion Samuel Gilbreath and Myrtle Mae Thomason in Oakland, California on Monday, August 14, 1939, Jack's journey in life was filled with purpose and passion. On June 11, 1966, Jack married the love of his life, Dorothy Oestmann, in Grainola, Oklahoma. Their bond was a testament to the power of love and devotion, and they shared a lifetime of joy and memories together.
Jack graduated from Vian high school. He then attended Connors State College in Warner, OK where he played football and baseball. He finished his education at Northeastern State College, Tahlequah, OK where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Industrial Arts.
Jack loved his occupation as a teacher and coach where he could teach so many students. In 1978, he was selected to coach the Oklahoma All-State football game. In 1985, he was honored as Coach of the Year for his accomplishments in High School Track. In 2009, Jack was honored to be inducted into the Oklahoma Coaches Association Hall of Fame. In 2016, he was once again honored to be inducted into the Connor State College Hall of Fame. Jack has been a member of the Oklahoma Coaches Association for 58 years. A man who dedicated his life to education, Jack was a long-time and cherished teacher and coach. His commitment to his students and players extended far beyond the classroom and sports field, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives he touched. His wisdom, guidance, and compassion earned him the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Mr. Jack L. Gilbreath will be sincerely missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy as a dedicated educator, a caring coach, a loving husband, and a dear friend will continue to live on in the hearts of those he influenced.
As family, friends, and the community gather to remember Jack's life and the profound impact he made, may they find solace in the memories shared and the knowledge that he leaves behind a world made better by his presence. Rest in peace, dear Jack.
Jack is survived by his wife Dorothy of the home, his son Rob Gilbreath and his wife Jeannie of Claremore, and his daughter, Diedra Ball of Wichita, KS. His grandchildren include Tyler and Erin Ball, Mariah, Landon, and Jake Gilbreath, and step-grandchildren, Parker and Wyatt Evans.
Jack was preceded in death by his dad and mom, and his sister Tammy Pierce. He is survived by his brother, Jerry Gilbreath, his wife Joyce of Vian, his sister, Linda Isham, her husband Henry of Vian, and his sister Gailen Beller, her husband Charlie of Muldrow.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Oklahoma Cancer Specialists and Research Institute (OCSR) at https://ocsri.org/locations/
Funeral arrangements have been faithfully entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens located at 6500 S. 129th E. Ave., Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012, and can be reached at 918-252-2518.
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