Dolorasa 'Dee Dee' Spooner-Ervin

Dolorosa "Dee Dee" Spooner-Ervin, 84, died peacefully on Feb. 21, 2013 in her sleep at her new home in Missouri, where she had recently moved to be with her children and grandchildren. She was born on Nov. 15, 1928 in Okla City, Okla. Preceded in death by her loving husband of 39 years Richard J. Spooner in Jan of 1994, whom she married in 1955. Also by her parents Robert W. Steinke and Mary E. Steinke, a brother, Robert Steinke III, a sister, Carmelita Kitzelman as well as her brother-in-law Charles R. Spooner. She graduated with her RN from St. Anthony's School of Nursing in 1949. Though her years as an RN she became supervisor in OB, worked for many doctors and even worked as a school nurse at Central High School where she graduated from the class of 1946 where she was still very involved as alumni. She was very proud of being a "Black skirt" pep club member and loved playing the mandolin in the string band. She was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church since 1955, and had started attending Epiphany of the Lord in her later years. Her first priority and devotion though was always to her two children. She was active in all their activities and interests throughout their educational years and beyond. She tirelessly cared for both friends and family members in nursing home facilities all her life. For years she volunteered at St. Ann's Home, The Oklahoma Blood Institute, and the United Way. She is survived by her husband John W. Ervin, a longtime friend, whom she married in 2000. His five daughters and their husbands, and especially their beautiful children became a special part of her life. She is also survived by her daughter, Marykay Spooner-Matheny and Dennis Matheny of Webb City, MO; and her children, Rebekah Rose Spooner-Raney and Patrick Richard Walsh; Her son, Dr. John Richard Spooner and Misty Divin-Spooner of Bolivar MO; a sister, Quintina Brininstool and her husband Joseph William of Midland TX; Her sister in law Joan Spooner of Kansas City, MO and also many nieces and nephews. She leaves behind many loving friends that will always remember her for her smile, her excitement for life, her constant willingness to do for others, and the unconditional love she had for her family.