"Joe and Cora Jean lived across the street from my mom and dad, Ed and Glenda Horton. They were some of the most awesome people I've ever met. Both hard working, caring and fun. I know when I say this, that my mother and father feel the same way, Cora Jean and Joe were among our favorites and we loved them. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time."
In loving memory of
Cora Jean Van Tuyl
September 27, 1926 - July 30, 2018
Cora Jean Van Tuyl was born on September 27, 1926 during the Great Depression. The daughter of Blaine and Audie Sessions; and the sister to Beryl Sessions and Josephine Burgess. She was instilled with hard work and as a Depression era child, knew how to do a lot with very little.
Cora Jean fell in love with Joe Van Tuyl at first sight under the Oklahoma sky. Once married, she and Joe would move to California for a short time and raise their daughter, Sherry.
Upon moving to Bixby, Oklahoma, Cora Jean and Joe ran a 120-acre farm, where they were responsible for all operations including: feeding cattle, vaccinations, birthing, and planning and harvesting the crops each season. All of this while caring for Sherry and their young son, Joe.
The hard-working mother not only helped in the field, she was also an expert at canning fruits and vegetables, to which she shared her craft for many years. Her preserves were second to none.
Cora Jean's priority was always her family. No matter the circumstances, there was always a meal on the table and clean clothes to wear. She prided herself on making sure her children were well-mannered, respectful of others and pursued a great education.
When Joe went to college, Cora Jean continued to work hard and be a staple in the community. She spent time as the head cook for Bixby Public Schools and was a cashier at Doc's Market.
Cora Jean had strong faith and as a member of the Riverview Baptist Church, she often volunteered in the nursery and with Bible school.
A devoted wife, loving mother and proud grandma and great grandma; her family knew they could always expect her to deliver baskets of produce to their house and looked forward to her famous homemade ice cream. She was always the first fan in the stands for sporting events, dance recitals and any activity her grandchildren participated in. You could not miss her when she would cheer on the team on or when she would yell at the referees. Cora Jean knew the rules of the game.
Cora Jean and Joe were married for seventy-two years, raised two children, six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. She is now reunited with her true love in heaven to cheer her family on from above.