April 26, 1934 – April 8, 2026
Leo W. Cravens, a respected Oklahoma advocate and longtime association executive, passed away on April 8, 2026, just shy of his 92nd birthday.
Born April 26, 1934, in Longdale, Oklahoma, Leo lived with an independence and adventurous spirit that defined his life. He was known for his energy, curiosity, and deep loyalty, as well as a larger-than-life personality that left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Ruby Grabow Cravens; brothers, Virgil and Ray Cravens; and his daughter, Sonya Dee (Cravens) Niemi.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, LuAnn Sims Cravens; his sister, Treva Bedwell (Von) of Corpus Christi, Texas; his brother, Clarence Cravens (Linda) of Fairview, Oklahoma; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Leo earned degrees from Southwestern State University and Oklahoma State University and served in the United States Army in Germany. He spent his career in education and advocacy, including many years with the Oklahoma Home Builders Association, where he became one of the state’s most respected voices in public policy and industry leadership.
A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Oklahoma City.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.
For the full obituary, please visit www. smithandkernke.com.
