Ozema Jean (Avery) Warren

Funeral services for Ozema Jean (Avery) Warren, of Tulsa, OK, were held Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Johnson Funeral Chapel in Sperry, OK. Phil Johnson officiated, and burial was in Rest Haven Cemetery in Sperry, OK.

Ozema, or "Meme" as she was fondly called, was a lively and elegant lady. She was born on Thursday, March 6, 1930, in Turley, OK, to Joe Cyrus Avery and Dollie Mae (August) Avery. With the assistance of compassionate hospice professionals, she was comforted and supported until she took her last breath. She passed away with grace and dignity at the ripe age of 94 on April 29, 2024, in Tulsa, OK.

She was one of 7 children. Meme's childhood was filled with the simple joys of playing out in the countryside with her siblings and friends. They would all eagerly climb aboard Mr. Bell's school bus every day to attend Cherokee Public Schools. She took an interest in playing the clarinet and enjoyed frequenting the Turley roller rink where her older brother Charles worked. Weekend fun included outings to local hangouts such as Latimer's BBQ and Cain's Ballroom. Ozema and Bobby Gene Warren tied the knot in March of 1948 and welcomed their first daughter, Debbie, into the world in December 1950. Bob and Ozema temporarily separated while he was in the Navy. During that time, Ozema and Ed Hosey kindled a nurturing connection that brought her precious gift, Judy, into the family in April 1952. Bob and Ozema reconnected and made many lasting memories: going dancing, playing cards, sightseeing during road trips, camping, and vacationing with family, and having picnics and cookouts. Cherishing moments with her loved ones was her ultimate solace. Countless memorable gatherings were shared together at The Party Barn and "up on the hill" at Barbara Ann's. The intricate web of entwined family trees provided her with quite an extended circle to be surrounded by. As a grandmother, Ozema discovered her true purpose in life, not only for her own family, but for the neighborhood children as well. She radiated love and warmth, making everyone around her feel special and cared for. She was enamored with the purity and innocence of all babies and children and found great joy in their presence. She was gifted with the ability to turn anything into a magical adventure. She thoroughly enjoyed fishing, gardening, cooking, reading, and crocheting. She acquired quite a collection of salt & pepper shakers, bells, and music boxes. Though she wasn't one to shy away from getting her hands dirty, you'd often find her radiating confidence, with her stylishly rolled hair, nails perfectly polished, her makeup flawlessly applied, adorned in fashionable attire and jewelry, exuding an aura of glamour and poise. There is something to be said about her spirit and demeanor. It was a rarity to see her upset. Bob did things like mowing down her flowers when he was mad, just to see if he could get a rise out of her, but low and behold she would shrug her shoulders and plant some more. After Bob's passing, Ozema moved to Texas, where she spent several years, helping raise her great-grandchildren until she moved back to Oklahoma. Meme was very fond of Elvis. She sought entertainment at the casinos as a "Bryan Capps band groupie" with several other family members. She was a devout Christian. She often found solace in reading the bible and kept up with her daily devotionals and guideposts until her little eyes couldn't see them anymore. Holidays and celebrations with loved ones were a surefire way to infuse her life with boundless joy and happiness. The warmth and love emanating from those around her had a transformative effect, effortlessly elevating her mood and filling her heart with pure bliss. During her twilight years, she resided in Tulsa with her daughter Judy. Judy and Ozema's granddaughter Scooter were able to provide Meme with a nurturing environment and attentive care. 

Please have peace in knowing you can visit her anytime, either in your heart or at the cemetery.

She is survived by two daughters; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends. What a legacy! 

She was preceded in death by many beloved family members.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Chief Riley Rescue, Clarehouse, or Porta Caeli House.

Arrangements and services were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, Sperry.

Online condolences to the family can be made at johnsonsperry.com.