Gwen Rhoden

Gwen Rhoden, 91, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma was born September 28, 1934, in Fort Gibson to Ira and Pearl Electra (Rhoden) Cordell and passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at her home. Gwen pursued her education at Northeastern State University, where she earned her degree and followed her calling to become a teacher. Gwen dedicated her career to special education through the State of Oklahoma. She met and married the love of her life, Harold McElmurry, Sr., and together they built a strong and loving family that remained at the center of her life until his passing in 2000. She was a passionate educator who dedicated her life to teaching children essential life skills that extended far beyond the classroom. Her encouraging nature inspired countless students, instilling in them the confidence to thrive in all aspects of life. An avid coffee drinker, Gwen found joy in simple moments, often savoring her coffee while immersed in her books, particularly those that deepened her love for the Lord. Above all, she cherished the precious time spent with her beloved family and her loyal dog, Tola, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love. Gwen now rests in eternal peace, embraced by the divine presence she cherished throughout her life. Gwen is lovingly survived by her son, Stanley McElmurry of Broken Arrow, OK; her daughter, Gail Curtsinger of Portugal; her daughter-in-law, Connie McElmurry of Okay, OK; her grandsons, Gary McElmurry and wife Sheila of Okay, OK, Kyle McElmurry of Muskogee, OK, and Wesley McElmurry and wife April of Muskogee, OK; her granddaughters, Jennifer Schneithorest and husband Craig of Yukon, OK, Kendyll Steele and husband Rob of Muskogee, OK, Tarrah Young and husband David of Muskogee, OK, Mandy Coffey of Tulsa, OK, and CieCie Curtsinger of Owasso, OK; many great-grandchildren, cousins, nephews, nieces, loved ones, and many friends. She is now reunited with her husband, Harold McElmurry, Sr; her sons, Eulis McElmurry, Harold McElmurry, Jr., and Gary L. McElmurry; her grandsons, Trae McElmurry, Brian McElmurry, and John McElmurry; her parents, Ira Cordell and Pearl (Rhoden) Cordell; her sisters, Billie Jean White, Sonja Pennington, and Kathryn Cookson; and her brothers, Tony Cordell, Carl Cordell, Jackie Cordell, and Donald Cordell. Gwen's family is honoring her wishes with no formal services scheduled at this time. The family of Gwen Rhoden has entrusted her care and entombment to Clifford D Garrett Family Funeral Home & Crematory, Muskogee. 918-910-8883. Online condolences may be left for the family at clifforddgarrettfamilyfh.com.

Gwen Rhoden

September 28, 1934 - March 25, 2026