Theodore "Ted" Lex Lawrence

Theodore Lex Lawrence, 77, of Braggs Oklahoma, passed away on August 22nd, 2024. Ted was born December 15th, 1946, to Edith (Howard) and Theodore Lawrence in Lawton, Oklahoma. He grew up on his grandad’s original Indian allotment in Stephens County and was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Ted married the love of his life Susie on August 14, 1982, in Muskogee. They shared 42 years of love, laughter, and adventure. Together they had 4 daughters. Ted graduated from Bray High School in 1965, attended Cameron College in Lawton and graduated with a dual bachelor’s degree in history and sociology. He joined the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 1969 at Marlow, Oklahoma. He began his career as a Police Officer in 1970 in Duncan, Oklahoma, where he worked for 2 years. In 1972 he transferred to Norman Police Department, and served Norman as a patrolman, undercover officer, Detective Sergeant and Headquarters Sergeant. He retired from the NPD on February 6th of 1992, after 22 years of service. One week later, he moved from a public servant career to a full-time military career as, Active Guard & Reserve (AGR) at Camp Gruber, where he would serve until he turned 60 years old, the Army’s mandatory retirement age. Ending his career as a Master Sergeant with 37 years of military service. He was an active member of the Braggs American Legion Post 233. Susie says Ted was born 400 years too late, as he would have been one of the explorers that we read about in history books. He loved to explore Camp Gruber, Cherokee County Game Refuge or the mountains of Colorado. He wasn’t a hunter as he was just too soft hearted, he just enjoyed “wandering”. Ted was an avid arrowhead hunter and over the years he amassed a huge collection, most found within 5 miles of his home in Braggs. This passion evolved into learning the craft of flintknapping. As a proficient Flintknapper, he elevated this ancient craft into fine art and was a registered Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Artist. He won many awards at Native American Art shows around the county with the beautiful pieces he created. Ted and Susie traveled extensively. Whether it was by car, RV, motorcycle, ship or plane they had probably been there, and if they hadn’t, it was on their list. The Howard Cousin’s reunions held all over the US in beautiful destinations fueled their travel itch even more. Ted is survived by his loving wife Susie of the home; his brother, Mike and his wife Judy Lawrence, of Duncan OK; his 4 daughters, Dawn Elizabeth, Heather Rene, Dawn Christine, and Jennifer Rebecca; 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, many cousins, and a multitude of very close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger sister, Deleta Ann Vorpagel. Open viewing will be Tuesday August 27, 9am to 8pm at Cornerstone Funeral Home, 1830 North York Street Muskogee, Oklahoma 74403. Services will be, Wednesday August 28, 2024. The family would like for everyone to join them at Camp Gruber, Braggs, Oklahoma. A valid ID may be required. 10:00 AM - Chapel Fellowship Hall for visitation, donuts and coffee. 11:30 AM - Services will be held at the Camp Gruber Chapel with dear friend John Stephenson officiating. Burial will be at the Fort Gibson National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers will be the American Legion Post 233. Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the Folds of Honor Foundation, at foldsofhonor.org or by phone at (918) 274-4700.

Theodore "Ted" Lex Lawrence

December 15, 1946 - August 22, 2024