Rebecca "Becky" Cartwright's Obituary
Rebecca “Becky” Colleen Cartwright, age 56, of Claremore, Oklahoma, passed away on March 21, 2026, at Hillcrest Hospital in Claremore. She was born on April 22, 1969, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to John Frederic Krueger Jr. and Dorthey Colleen McKinney‑Krueger.
Becky met the love of her life, John M. Cartwright Jr., while they were in high school. Their bond only deepened as they continued dating throughout college, and after graduating, they married in June of 1991 in Claremore, Oklahoma. Their marriage was built on deep affection, shared dreams, and a lifetime of unwavering devotion.
Becky attended Oklahoma Baptist University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. She began her career in Labor and Delivery, a field that perfectly matched her compassionate nature. Over the years, she advanced into leadership roles, serving as Charge Nurse, Supervisor, and eventually Nurse Manager. Her dedication to excellence and her ability to guide and support others made her a respected and trusted leader.
In addition to her clinical and managerial work, Becky became an educator, teaching Labor and Delivery practices to both paramedic and nursing students. She encouraged and pushed her students and fellow nurses to exceed their own expectations, always believing in their potential even when they doubted themselves. Becky had a gift for reassuring and coaching those who felt overwhelmed or ready to give up, helping them find confidence and strength during challenging moments.
Becky also took on the role of Risk Manager for a period of time. Her education, experience, and deep knowledge of Labor and Delivery practices made her a specialist in this position. She approached the role with the same dedication and professionalism she brought to every part of her career, always striving to improve safety, quality, and patient care.
While the exact number of new lives she helped bring into the world was not readily available, it was clear that the total reached into the thousands. Her hands, her voice, and her steady presence were part of countless beginnings, leaving a legacy that will continue for generations.
Outside of her professional life, Becky enjoyed the simple peace of being outdoors. Before starting a family, she and John could often be found at the lake, fishing together and enjoying the quiet moments they shared.
Becky had a love for motorcycles. As a child, she rode dirt bikes in the fields, fearless and full of energy. As an adult, she rode on the back of a motorcycle twice before deciding that wasn’t for her—she wanted to be the one in control. So the next ride was on her own new Harley. She spent countless hours riding, taking trips, and for a time even used her motorcycle as her daily transportation to and from work. The freedom of the open road brought her joy, peace, and a sense of independence she cherished.
After their family began to grow, life naturally shifted. Although she still loved fishing, and biking, her new favorite pastime became supporting her children in their many activities. Softball quickly became her top passion, and during the season she could always be found at the fields—helping with practices, cheering during games, and offering encouragement to every child who needed it.
As the family grew, so did the list of sporting events: soccer, football, baseball, and more. Becky attended as many games as life would allow, always present, always cheering, always supporting. She treasured every moment spent with her children and embraced every opportunity to be part of their world.
And of course, we cannot leave out Mickey Mouse. Becky’s fondness for Mickey grew into a full‑blown obsession over the years. As a child, family trips to California meant treasured visits to Disneyland, where her love for Disney first took root. That joy stayed with her throughout her life. She collected anything and everything Mickey—Clothes, Luggage, collectable glasses and dishes, Beanie Babies, décor, and countless other items that brought her delight. Even her car tag was abbreviated Mickey Mouse. Anything Mickey was welcome… but not Minnie. Perhaps, in her playful way, Minnie was simply the competition.
Her love for Disney continued well into adulthood. Becky shared that passion with her family, taking many vacations to both coasts so they could experience the magic together. Whether it was Disneyland or Walt Disney World, those trips became cherished memories filled with laughter, excitement, and the childlike wonder she never lost.
A Final Gift
During her last days, Becky spoke openly about the events and milestones she regretted she would not be able to witness—graduations, births, and many of the moments she had looked forward to sharing with her family. One of the things that weighed most heavily on her heart was the upcoming expansion of the Labor and Delivery unit. She had dreamed of it, planned for it, and worked toward it for so long, yet she knew she would not live to see the groundbreaking.
When the hospital’s Executive Staff learned this, they refused to let that dream slip away from her. Within just a few hours, they organized a special groundbreaking ceremony—one created entirely for Becky.
That same day, surrounded by friends, family, doctors, executives, and coworkers who gathered in loving support, Becky donned a hardhat, took a hammer in hand, and struck the wall with a mighty thud. The room erupted in cheers. In that moment, she broke ground on the project she had poured so much of herself into.
This meant so much to her. Words cannot express how deeply appreciative she was for this final act of kindness, honor, and love.
Becky is preceded in death by her parents, John Frederick Krueger Jr. and Dorothy Colleen McKinney-Krueger, and by her brother, Mike Krueger.
She is survived by her husband, John Cartwright; her daughter, Ashlynn, and her husband, Jacob Williamson; her sons, Nathan, Hayden, and Alex Cartwright; her sister, Judy, and her husband, Jim Clemmens; her brother, Dewayne Krueger; and numerous nieces, nephews, great‑nieces, great‑nephews, and many more who loved her dearly.
Becky’s life was rooted in love, resilience, and a heartfelt commitment to the people she cherished. Those who knew her will remember her quick wit, her generous spirit, and the warmth she brought into every room. She carried her Oklahoma roots proudly and built a life filled with meaningful connections, laughter, and unwavering loyalty to her family and friends.
She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to share in her life and her love.
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