Bernadette Whitlow

Bernadette "Bernie" Whitlow of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 9, 2024, at the age of 69. She was born on January 2, 1955, in Claremore, Oklahoma, to her loving parents, Charles and Betty (Monday) Campbell.

Bernie grew up in Morris, Oklahoma, where she graduated from Morris High School in 1973. During her high school years, she was a spirited cheerleader, always supporting her team with enthusiasm and grace. In 1983, she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from Tulsa Community College and went on to have a fulfilling career as an emergency room nurse at Okmulgee Hospital, serving with dedication and compassion. Her skilled care and calm demeanor brought comfort to countless patients, and she also worked in various hospitals throughout the county.

Outside of work, Bernie was deeply committed to her faith. She served as the treasurer at Big Cussetah United Methodist Church, where her presence was cherished by her church community. Bernie had a variety of interests that reflected her vibrant personality-she enjoyed visiting casinos, proudly supported the Lady Legends Basketball Team within the Muscogee Nation, and was known affectionately as a "pool shark" for her skills at the pool table. Despite her quiet and loving demeanor, Bernie had a competitive streak that her friends and family admired. She also had a lifelong love of reading, a passion that extended back to her childhood, when she would bring books with her even while playing softball in the outfield.

Bernie is preceded in death by her beloved mother, Betty Campbell. She leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories with her devoted family: her son, Tirell Whitlow, her daughter, Tamera Whitlow, their father, Samuel Whitlow her father, Charles Campbell, and her brother, Louis Ray Monday. She will be forever missed by her grandchildren: Trace McCarthy, Samantha McCarthy, Madison Harjo, Caidence Whitlow, and Nox Kirby, along with a host of extended family members and dear friends who were touched by her kindness.

A Wake Service will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Big Cussetah United Methodist Church, 20566 Prairie Bell Road, Morris, Oklahoma, with Wotko Long officiating. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 2:00 PM, also at Big Cussetah United Methodist Church, with Pastor Jesse Wind and Wotko Long officiating. Pallbearers will be James Holata, Matthew Holata, CJ Harjo, Daniel Baker, Kerusso Baker, Brandon Barnes, Ryan Benvidez, and Dustin Golightly.

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

Bernie's gentle spirit, dedication to her family and profession, and quiet strength will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.