Bonita Ethel Wood of Okmulgee died Jan. 25, 2024, in Henryetta after a long illness.
She was the first-born of four children, followed by George, Joyce and Billy Jack.
She grew up in Hanna in rural McIntosh County around a host of aunts, uncles and cousins on both the Mouser and Nunn side who lived nearby. She had a special relationship with both her close and extended family. This was especially true with many of her cousins, with whom she shared a unique bond that lasted a lifetime.
Bonita attended Hanna Public Schools and graduated from Hanna High School in 1970. She lived in several places as a young adult, including Norman, Oklahoma City, Edmond and New York City, which was quite the departure from Hanna.
On Nov. 16, 1979, she married Charles Floy “Shorty” Wood and had to adapt to life as his part-time ranch hand.
On March 12, 1982, their son Sloan was born, and Bonita quickly got to work becoming the best Mom she could be.
She was a devoted and proud Mom, who worked tirelessly to support Sloan through ev-
Feb. 2, 1952 – Jan. 25, 1924
erything. She showed up to all of his school events beginning at daycare and continuing at Oklahoma State and beyond. She treated his childhood friends like family and was patient beyond measure with all of them.
This loving and inclusive spirt continued into Sloan’s adult years and when he brought Hannah home, Bonita didn’t miss and beat, welcoming her with open arms.
Bonita had an unbreakable bond with her sister Joyce, who was committed to her care until the end. Joyce no doubt developed her incredible caretaking skills from the years she spent alongside Bonita lovingly caring for their mother. They were much more than sisters.
Bonita was loved by countless friends, many of whom she met through her long career at CP Kelco in Okmulgee, where she worked for over 35 years, beginning in 1977. She loved getting together with her friends whenever possible.
She had several passions, including gardening, music, animals, politics and sports, particularly the OSU Cowboys.
Her greatest passion, however, was her grandchildren, as all who knew her can attest. Bonita loved spending time with them. There were many trips to zoos, parks and aquariums where she was always thrilled to load them up with souvenirs and snacks, the really good and messy snacks that parents frown upon. She was an excellent gift giver and thoughtful beyond measure. If she came to visit on a windy day, she’d show up with kites. If there was a chance of show, she’d bring a sled. She was made to be a grandmother.
She was predeceased by her parents, Logan and Billie Mouser, brother Billy Jack Mouser, father-in-law Dink Wood, brother-in-law Wendell Wood, sisterin- law Nancy Mouser and nephews Winston Wood and Michael Miller, along with her grandparents and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
She is survived by her husband Shorty Wood, of Okmulgee, son Sloan, daughter-inlaw Hannah Hawkins, and grandchildren Hazel and Alex Wood of Edmond, sister Joyce Mouser of Henryetta, brother George Mouser of Eufaula, moutherin- law Ruth Wood of McAlester, sister-inlaw Vickie Wood and nephew Troy Miller of McAlester, aunt and uncle Darlene and Jack Mouser of Krebs, aunt Della Nunn of Newkirk and aunty Edith Nunn of South Carolina, along with many other friends and relatives.
Bonita was devoted and loyal to her family and friends. She was a free spirit, compassionate and kind. She will be missed by all who knew her.
A service is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 9 at 2 p.m. at Integrity Chapel in Henryetta. Visitation will take place from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., also at Integrity Funeral Service, with a graveside service to follow at the Hanna Cemetery.
