William Slinkard Obituary

William Hershel Slinkard, Jr., age 86, known to family and friends as Hershel, passed away on June 27, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and hard work. Born in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, to Hershel and Opal Slinkard, he was the second son in a family that instilled in him strong values and a deep appreciation for life.
Hershel graduated from Nelagoney High School before enlisting in the Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country for four years. After his service, he pursued higher education at Northeastern State University, majoring in Accounting. It was during his time at NSU that he met the love of his life, Roberta Sue Mounts. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage just three months later, on September 3, 1966. This September, they would have celebrated 59 wonderful years together.
Hershel built a career as an accountant and insurance salesman before returning to his roots in Pawhuska, where he raised Limousin cattle and managed oil leases. He had a sharp mind for business and a passion for the land. He also had a love for playing cards and was known for his keen attention to how the game was played-ensuring that every participant followed the rules with precision.
Above all, Hershel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and Sue raised two daughters, Lisa and Debbie, who brought immense joy to his life. His family was his greatest pride, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Hershel was preceded in death by his father, William Hershel Slinkard, Sr.; his mother, Opaline (Welch) Slinkard; and his brother, Billy Lee Slinkard.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Roberta Sue Slinkard; his daughters, Lisa Wheeler (Lloyd) and Debbie Long (John Jr.); and his cherished grandchildren: Lindsey (Long) Davidson (Jared), John Paul Long III (Jordan), Lauren (Long) Redeagle (Braxton), Jack Long, Austin Wheeler (Hayley), and Allie Wheeler. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Duke Davidson, J.P. and James Long, Bronson, Lennox, and Lorelei Redeagle, and Harrison and Avery Wheeler.
Hershel's life was one of service, love, and unwavering dedication to his family. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
The family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 1, 1:00 - 3:00 PM.
A service to honor Hershel's life will be held at Kendrick McCartney Johnson Funeral Home at 10:00 AM on July 2nd, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to 4 Paws (https://4paws.dog/) Pawhuska Animal Shelter, or the Pawhuska Public Schools Foundation, PO Box 1501, Pawhuska, OK 74056.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of William Hershel Slinkard, Jr., please visit our floral store.