Harley Lee Matlock

October 22, 1925 - November 25, 2021

Harley Lee Matlock was born on October 22, 1925 to John Quince Matlock and Pearl Mae Cain-Matlock of Hungry Mountain. He parted from this life on November 25, 2021 at the Jack C. Montgomery Veteran’s Hospital at the age of 96. Harley is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Erma Lee Jennings-Matlock, one son, Glen Dale Matlock, his son-in-law, Dean Hakes, and siblings Effie Clark, Ruby Nesbitt, Jesse Matlock, Harvey Matlock, A.G. Matlock, and Ray Matlock. He is survived by his sister Ada Keys, five children Judy Brackett and husband Frank, Linda Nelson, Larry Matlock and wife Stacey, Karen Hakes, and Shannon Golloway and husband Charles; fourteen grandchildren Frank Jr., Regona, Janiece, Angie, Heather, Michael, Traci, Brandy, Bo, Kortney, Jamie, Amanda, Justin, and Jessica; fourty-seven great-grandchildren, thirty-five great-great-grandchildren, and two great-great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews. On September 10, 1947, Harley married Miss Erma Lee Jennings. Erma passed from this life on September 29, 1995. He was baptized at Caney Creek by Brother Allen Moss in 1981. Harley enlisted in the Navy in 1944, serving two years during World War II and discharged on January 15, 1946. On February 16, 1946, he lost his left eye when a butt line snapped and hit him, splitting it open. It was a distinguishing feature in his appearance, but didn’t slow him down in the least. In 1949, he attended maintenance classes at NSU, receiving his certificate in 1950. In turn, he worked at NSU receiving a meager wage of $120 per month. He then attended OSU Okmulgee from 1950 to 1952, receiving certification in carpentry. As a carpenter, he remodeled Gruber’s old prison barracks which had held German soldiers; he also built his family home in Welling, OK, where he resided until death. Harley worked as a carpenter throughout his lifetime, until retiring in 2007, after the death of his son Glen. In retirement, Harley enjoyed watching Westerns and fussing with anyone who would fuss with him. He was a tough and stern man; however, he cared deeply for those around him and would help anyone who was in need. In fact, when someone would pass from this life, he was adamant about helping with the expense, as it was their “time of need.” When he would recall memories, they were often followed by “he said ‘what’ and I said, ‘yeesss!!’.” He enjoyed having visitors and frequently greeted them with “Make yourself at home,” but you better wash your hands! Harley lived a long and prosperous life, with everything that can be expected during a time well lived on this earth. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.