Obituary of Richard Haskell Winfrey

Richard Haskell Winfrey, 93, went home to his Lord Jesus and to be reunited with his wife and family again on July 28, 2020 at 12:15 pm. Richard, a native Tulsa citizen and teacher, was born July 7, 1927 to James and Miller Winfrey. He was welcomed home by an older sister Martha E. Winfrey also. Richard attended school in Tulsa graduating from Central High School in 1945. He then enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed in San Diego and the Philippines’ during WWII. He did not learn to swim until he was in the Navy. He returned home to earn both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from University of Tulsa in Music Education. He taught instrumental music in Okemah, OK 1950 to 1956 and then at Tulsa‘s Edison Junior High School for 26 years. He retired from teaching to become an independent contractor and finish carpenter. He also taught private music lessons in his home during the summer months, and played trombone performing in the Tulsa Philharmonic, various churches and for Starlight Concerts which were held at Skelly Stadium at University of Tulsa. This talented man married his wife, Clarice Bailey Hemphill, in Tulsa on June 4, 1949 at First Baptist Church of Tulsa by Pastor J. W. Storer. They were married 65 years and long-time members of Sothern Hills Baptist Church. The couple had three children, Cynthia, Keith and Susan. Richard is predeceased by his wife, parents and sister. He is survived by his children, Cynthia and her husband, Gary Purcell of Stillwater, OK; three grandchildren and spouses; and three great grandchildren. Keith and his wife, Jean of Tulsa, five grandchildren and spouses and twelve great grandchildren. Susan and her husband, James Griffin of Tulsa, four grandchildren and spouses and seven great grandchildren. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed by his children and their families. The family held a private service. Ninde Funeral & Cremation (918) 742-5556