We are beyond proud to celebrate the incredible accomplishment of our very own Cathy Cato-Stewart! On August 18, 2025, Cathy passed the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) exam. Cathy holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Nursing Education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. She currently serves as a Clinical Registered Nurse at the Oklahoma City VA, where she provides dedicated care to our nation’s veterans. This latest achievement expands her ability

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our newest little handsome prince, Krewe Roman! Born on August 11, 2025, at 8:47pm, Krewe weighed 7 lbs 7 oz and measured 20 inches long. Congratulations to proud parents Taren and Dilly, and to big brothers Kaden and Kash! Lineage: Krewe is the son of Taren Patterson; Grandson of Charlena Patterson; Great-Grandson of Charlene “Shorty” Patterson & Vaughn Patterson, Sr.; Great-Great-Grandson of Warren “Fred” Alford; Great-Great-Great-

A Historic Milestone for the Alford Family On July 31, 2025, the Alford family witnessed a proud and historic moment. Our very own was officially promoted to Colonel in the United States Air Force, a remarkable achievement reached by only 2% of officers. The honorable promotion ceremony was held at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi, inside the Don Wylie Auditorium. In a touching and symbolic moment, Colonel Storey was pinned by both of her proud parents, Glenda Jennings-

Yeehaw! Our Alford family has welcomed a new little cowboy! Please join us in celebrating the arrival of Kashton Caden Cato, born on August 8, 2025 at 9:00 AM. This future bull rider made his debut weighing 7 lbs 8 oz. Congratulations to proud parents Shala and Jayston, and to big brother Y’Lear on their newest blessing! Lineage: Kashton Caden Cato is the son of Jayston T. Cato ( JT Cato ) and Shala Allen; Grandson of Yolanda R. Cato ( Yolanda R. Cato ); Great-Grandson of Ber

Alford Family Class of 2025 With joy in our hearts and pride in our voices, we extend a resounding congratulations to the 26 remarkable...

March 1, 1982 – July 10, 2025 Raymond "Ray Gee" Bell, Jr. With profound sadness, the family announces the passing of our beloved Raymond...

The Alford family is overjoyed to welcome its newest blessing! Congratulations to proud parents Celia Marie Tibbs and Jerry Martin on the arrival of their beautiful daughter, Araya Skye Martin, born on June 30, 2025 at 2:20 PM. She made her grand debut weighing 6 lbs 1 oz and measuring 20 inches long—a perfect little princess.  Join us in celebrating this precious addition to our family legacy! Lineage: Araya Skye Martin is the daughter of Celia Tibbs ( Celia Tibbs ) and Jer

Welcome to the world, princess Journee Lynn Scott! Born June 9, 2025, this sweet little blessing weighed 6 lbs 9 oz and measured 19 inches of pure joy. Congratulations to proud parents Tranae and Steven, and to big brother Dmauri on the arrival of his new baby sister! Lineage: Journee is the daughter of Tranae Brazille; Granddaughter of Tracy Alford; Great-Granddaughter of Amos Junius Lee Alford & Willie Malone-Alford; Great-Great-Granddaughter of Willie Lafayette "Cracker"

The Alford Family proudly congratulates our own Dr. Emily V. Patterson-Harris on her upcoming retirement from Langston University, effective June 30, 2025. After more than 40 years of extraordinary service in education and leadership, Dr. Patterson-Harris leaves behind a powerful legacy marked by excellence, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to student success. As Dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences, she has mentored generations of educators, inspir

Welcome Back to the Flavor! The House of Smoke BBQ is back and smokin’ stronger than ever! Big congrats to our very own Mose Johnson on the grand re-opening at their new home: 1100 N. Wood Drive | Okmulgee, OK From slow-smoked brisket that melts in your mouth to ribs so tender they fall off the bone, The House of Smoke is where tradition meets taste. It’s not just BBQ—it’s a homegrown legacy, seasoned with soul and served with pride.  Open Monday – Saturday | 11 AM – 8 PM  Cl