Leola Mae Makinson's Obituary
Leola Mae Makinson, lovingly known as “Lee,” passed from this life on July 7, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 97.
Lee was born on January 29, 1929, in Henryetta, Oklahoma, to Amos Watson and Minnie (Davis) Watson. She was the eldest of six daughters and grew up surrounded by the love and companionship of her sisters. As a young girl, Lee was naturally creative and full of ideas, often planning activities and adventures to entertain herself and her sisters, Wanda and Iva. These cherished childhood memories reflected her leadership, imagination, and deep love for family.
She attended Haskell Boarding School and later continued her education at Haskell College in Kansas. Throughout her life, Lee held a special admiration and love for her father, Amos Watson. She often spoke of him with great affection and missed him dearly throughout the years. The bond they shared remained one of the most treasured parts of her life.
Lee found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially fishing. Some of her fondest memories were rooted in time spent near the water, whether enjoying peaceful moments alone or gathering with loved ones. Growing up, her family also enjoyed church gatherings and fish fries held near the water, creating lasting memories with their church family and strengthening the values of faith, fellowship, and community that remained important throughout her life.
Lee will be remembered for her enduring spirit, her devotion to family, and the warmth and kindness she shared with those around her. Her legacy of love, resilience, and treasured memories will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Amos Watson and Minnie (Davis) Watson; her husband, Vern Makinson; her sisters, Iva Dean, Betty Mott, and Cheryl Tiger; and her grandson, Brandon Sims.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Jim Zachariae; Cecelia Huggins and husband Robert Huggins II; and Connie Alleman and husband Burley Alleman. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Charity Zachariae, Krista Zachariae, Chuck Zachariae and wife Jessica Zachariae, Angela Huggins, and Robert Huggins III; her sisters, Wanda Byrd and Marie Ramsey; a multitude of great-grandchildren; and many other beloved family members and friends.
Though she will be deeply missed, Lee’s love, wisdom, and the memories she created with her family will remain a lasting source of comfort and inspiration for generations to come.
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