Ardella Cato

Ardella Vaughntella Cato, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the age of 85.

Ardella was born on October 16, 1939, in Schulter, Oklahoma, to Thomas and Ida (Hollins) Tarwater. She graduated as valedictorian of her class from Schulter High School in 1958, a testament to her dedication and brilliance. Ardella's compassion and strong work ethic led her to a fulfilling career as a phlebotomist at Okmulgee Hospital and as a dedicated assistant to Dr. Malati in Okmulgee, where she positively impacted the lives of many.

Ardella was a faithful and devoted member of Second Baptist Church of Okmulgee, where she found strength in her faith and actively participated in mission trips to Oregon, Colorado, and St. Louis. These trips were an expression of her deep commitment to serving others and spreading love and kindness.

She was passionate about many things in life. Ardella loved collecting owls, quilting, and sewing, creating beautiful, handmade pieces that will be cherished forever. A gifted cook, she was known for making the best food, which brought warmth and joy to every gathering. An avid reader, Ardella spent countless hours immersing herself in books, always seeking knowledge and new adventures. Above all, Ardella adored her grandchildren, and they were a constant source of joy and pride in her life.

Ardella is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Ida Tarwater, and her brother, Danny Edward Tarwater.

She is survived by her children: Mark Allen Hawk and wife Kathy of Boston, Massachusetts; Ronald Lee Hawk and wife Catina of Mounds, Oklahoma; David Eric Hawk and wife Stephanie of Warner Robins, Georgia; Mary Ann Hawkins and husband Robert of Bixby, Oklahoma; Dawn Renee Militar and Tony of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and her siblings: Janet Raefield of Okmulgee, Oklahoma; Pat Wood of Mansfield, Texas; Karen and Jerry Henderson of Jenks, Oklahoma; and Robert and Elaine Tarwater of Schulter, Oklahoma as well as 24 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Second Baptist Church of Okmulgee at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Adam Heitt officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Schaudt Okmulgee Funeral Service & Cremation Care, 220 S. Alabama, Okmulgee, OK 74447. Family and friends are invited to leave kind words of comfort, special memories, and condolences for the family online at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com.

Ardella's legacy of kindness, intelligence, love for her family, dedication to her faith, and the simple joys she cherished will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.