Ava Webster died suddenly on July 9, 2011 at her home in Bokoshe, OK. She was born Avarilla Mae Wingo on January 27, 1932, in Paul's Valley, OK. Ava was the eldest daughter of William and Agnes Wingo's eleven children and was affectionately known as "Sis". She married Virgil "Bunk" Webster on December 21, 1946. They moved to California, settled in Santa Maria and there they raised a son, Rick and a daughter, Holly.
Ava had a true servant's heart, quickly giving her time, talent and resources to help those less fortunate. She was especially fond of animals and rescued many abandoned cats and dogs. Her greatest love, however, was helping children. Ava spent many happy years as a teacher's aide at Arellanes Elementary in Santa Maria, CA and in the Bokoshe schools in OK. Always willing to volunteer, she served as a Cub Scout den mother, sports coach, Girl Scout leader, PTA leader, Parks and Recreation leader, and special member of the Santa Barbara County Planning Commission. Another great love was reading, and Ava delighted in being Bokoshe's librarian these past few years.
She passed from us peacefully, surrounded by her beloved animals, books and mementos. Ava was preceded in death by her husband, who passed on March 31, 2007. She will be dearly missed by friends, family, current- and former students. Her survivors include her son, Rick Webster and his wife, Betsy, of Bay St. Louis, MS; her daughter, Holly Webster, of Raleigh, NC; 8 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 4 brothers, 3 sisters and numerous nieces, nephew and cousins.
Cremation will take place under the direction of Evans and Miller Funeral Home in Poteau, OK. A celebration of her life is planned for this fall in Bokoshe, OK. In lieu of flowers, please remember Ava by donating to your local animal rescue organization.