Dee Ann (Mcneal) Quarles

Dee Ann Quarles, a cherished wife, loving mother, and pillar of her community, passed away peacefully at her home in Hominy Oklahoma on January 3, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on March 14, 1940, in Covington, Oklahoma, Dee Ann was the beloved daughter of Bud and Golda Mae (Pool) McNeal, both of whom preceded her in death.

Her family relocated to Skiatook, Oklahoma in 1954, and Dee Ann being an excellent scholar, graduated with the Bulldog’s class of 1958. It was in high school where she met the love of her life, Don Quarles, and the two married on September 24, 1959, at the Skiatook Presbyterian church, thus embarking them on a journey of love, laughter, adventure and companionship that would span 65 years. Together, they traveled the world, enjoying life and making lasting friends from South America, Alaska, Texas and Florida before returning to Oklahoma. Dee Ann lived her life in such a way that everyone she knew felt her love and compassion and embraced her spirit of joy. Together she and Don raised two wonderful daughters, Kristi Quarles-Rochon, along with her husband Scott, and Karen Quarles-Hassell, with her husband Jason. Dee Ann's family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones. Known for her gentle spirit and caring nature, but also her sense of playfulness and spontaneity, Dee Ann dedicated her life to making her home a sanctuary of warmth, kindness and celebration. Wherever she was, she created an environment where family and friends always felt welcome and knew they were a part of joyful memories in the making. Dee Ann had a true love of the outdoors that was evident in her beautifully tended yard and spectacular flower gardens filled with color and whimsy. She never missed an opportunity to travel where she enjoyed nature, golfing, snow skiing, snowmobiling, camping, horseback riding, swimming, strolling a path, or getting into a little mischief with family and friends along the journey. When the weather wouldn’t cooperate, Dee Ann enjoyed painting, working with stained glass, arts and crafts, and journaling. Her love of the outdoors was matched by her compassion for animals that she adored as much as she did people. Dee Ann never hesitated to rescue and raise any animal in need, caring for both the feathered and furry, and a few finned and shelled she ensured they all found the love and shelter they needed. Her ambitions to care for others extended well beyond her home and family and she was always active where she lived in a church family, and her surrounding community. Her philanthropic spirit always led her to share what she had, and she dedicated many years to community programs such as Meals on Wheels, Pink Ladies for St Francis Hospital, teaching at The Little Light House, and helping at the Tulsa Women’s shelter to name a few. Her commitment to service and her ability to bring comfort to those in need is what gave her boundless joy. She also loved to pour her heart into church functions, where she was a devoted Sunday School Teacher, leader in mission work, volunteer in summer programs, and sponsoring youth group trips with both of her daughters. Eventually, she and her husband became the founders and benefactors of Camp Rock. Over the years, this non-profit program grew to be an eight-week summer camp held on their ranch in Hominy, designed to enrich the lives of underprivileged children. During camp she served as a proxy mom, nurse, “ambulance driver”, cook, Bible Study leader, zookeeper and moreover a beacon of hope and light to campers and staff alike, exemplifying selfless giving and abundant faith. Dee Ann's legacy is one of love, service, and the infinite joy she brought to the lives of everyone she touched. While her physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the memories of those who were blessed to know her.

Dee Ann leaves behind her husband Don, their daughters Kristi and Karen, sons-in-law Scott and Jason, Pete Anderson and wife Danielle and an extensive family of relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Her life was a testament to the beauty of kindness, the strength of family bonds, and the power of compassion for people and faith in God.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Dee Ann Quarles will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, surrounded by her loved ones, as they say their goodbyes to a remarkable woman whose impact will be felt for generations to come. Dee Ann's story is not one of an end but a lasting influence that will continue to inspire kindness, love, and warmth in the hearts of all who knew her.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in the memory of Dee Ann Quarles to the charity of your choice.

The family of Dee Ann Quarles entrusted her care and services to Sien-Shelton Funeral Home Skiatook, 918-396-9500.