Elzie Hanley Himes

Elzie Hanley Himes, age 52, of Wanette, Oklahoma, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in McAlester, Oklahoma.

Elzie was born on February 15, 1973, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Earl Lee, Sr. and Carol Louise (Cole) Himes.

He grew up in Wanette and Macomb and attended Wanette schools. Except for a short time living in Alabama while working alongside his father, Elzie spent most of his life in Wanette, the place he proudly called home.

On June 4, 1993, Elzie married the love of his life, AvaChristeen Choat, and together they built a life rooted in love, family, and hard work.

Elzie worked for Bryan Richards Tire Shop and spent several years working with his father framing and cornicing houses. He later joined Rainbow Motors recovering vehicles, which eventually led him to start his own business, Himes Towing, and build his recovery company known as “Creepin Recovery.” Elzie took pride in his work and the reputation he earned through dedication and perseverance.

In his spare time, Elzie loved riding his Harley and chasing the open road. The freedom of the ride brought him peace and joy, and it was one of the ways he truly felt most himself.

Above all else, Elzie loved people. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, instantly becoming friends. He was known for his kindness, his loving heart, and his genuine care for others—qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Lee, Sr. and Carol Louise (Cole) Himes.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, AvaChristeen Himes, of the home; children, Elzie Lee and Brittan Himes, Geirad Lee and Taylor Himes, Bryan Levi and Madi Himes, and Cole Himes; grandchildren, Taegan Dawn, Elzie Hanley Himes III, Lawson Levi, BlakeLee Rainn, Lilah Olivia; brothers, Earl Lee and Laura Himes, and Otis and Allison Himes; sister, Kasey and Cliff Hood; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home in Tecumseh, Oklahoma, continuing until service time. The family will be present to greet friends and loved ones from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverend Jim Adams officiating. Burial will follow at Tribbey Cemetery in Tribbey, Oklahoma, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home of Tecumseh.