Orin Ray Elliott, a cherished husband, devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, at the age of 81 in his hometown of Yale, Oklahoma. Born on May 29, 1943, to George and Mittie Belle (Huffman) Elliott, Orin Ray's life was one marked by dedication, service, and the love of his family.

Orin Ray's early education took place in Yale, where he attended Eagle and Harding Elementary schools, and later graduated from Yale High School in 1961. His academic journey continued at Oklahoma State University, where he not only earned a bachelor's degree in Agricultural and Applied Sciences but also demonstrated his commitment to his country by participating in the ROTC program.

After college, Orin Ray honorably served as an officer in the United States Army. His military career spanned over two decades, with active duty from 1967 to 1972 and continued service in the National Guard until 1991. He bravely served his country in Vietnam, earning numerous citations including the Bronze Star. Orin Ray's dedication to his country was matched by his commitment to his community, as he worked for the Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture. His expertise and leadership led him to serve as Division Director until his retirement in 1998.

Orin Ray's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional one. He married Samie Brown, on May 25, 1974, in Oilton, Oklahoma. A blessed and happy union for over 50 years. With that union, he also committed to becoming a dedicated father by adopting Samie's daughter Gina in 1975. Orin Ray and Samie's journey together was filled with joy, as they traveled across the United States, sharing a love for adventure and each other's company.

A man of many interests, Orin Ray was able to experience the great outdoors with his love of hunting and fishing, but especially with his yearly elk hunts in Colorado. He took great pride in his yardwork and tending to house plants, skills that showcased his nurturing spirit. His hands were skilled in carpentry, a testament to his ability to create and fix, a metaphor for his approach to life's challenges. As a lifetime member of the OSU Alumni, Orin Ray's loyalty to his alma mater was unwavering.

Family was the cornerstone of Orin Ray's life. In addition to his loving wife and daughter, he is survived by his two grandchildren, Bobby Laramy and his wife, Kelci, of Ponca City, OK, and Destiny Kappel of Ponca City, OK; six great-grandchildren: Jhett, Elliott, Lettie, and Rhett Laramy, Lexi, and Caleb Kappel, and a nephew, Donald Ray Elliott of Tulsa, OK.

Orin Ray was preceded in death by his parents, George and Mittie Belle Elliott, and his brother, Delbert Elliott. His memory will be carried on by his loving wife, Samie Elliott of Yale, OK; his daughter, Gina Elliott and significant other, Thomas J. Winterbottom of Yale, OK; and his extended family.

Those who knew Orin will remember him as an intelligent, generous, and courageous man. His presence brought comfort, his actions inspired respect, and his legacy will continue to influence those who were fortunate enough to know him. Orin Ray Elliott lived a life of purpose and passion, and his memory will be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home.  A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Palmer Marler Funeral Home in Cushing.  A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025 at the Crossroads Community Church, 52787 W. OK-51, Jennings, OK 74038, with Pastor Mike Clark officiating. Interment will follow immediately at Lawson Cemetery.