Cecil Eugene Covel

Cecil Eugene Covel, 82, of Foster, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on March 25, 1943, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Aaron Crutcher “Slim” Covel and Erma Betty (Young) Covel.

Cecil lived a life defined by service, dedication, and love for family. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5). During his service in Vietnam, he was stationed at Chu Lai, where he displayed courage and resilience in the face of battle. On September 24, 1966, Cecil was wounded by shrapnel from a hand grenade in combat and was awarded the Purple Heart on October 2, 1966. His valor and sacrifice as a Marine remained a point of pride and honor throughout his life.

After returning home from the war, Cecil began working for Chris Oil Service and later embarked on a 30-year career with Helmerich & Payne (H&P). Through hard work and determination, he advanced to the position of tool pusher, overseeing drilling operations across Oklahoma and South Texas until his retirement. He was admired for his work ethic, leadership, and the respect he earned from those who worked alongside him.

On December 19, 1969, Cecil married the love of his life, Linnie V. (Martin) Covel. Together they shared 55 years of devotion, building a family grounded in love, loyalty, and faith. Cecil was a proud father and grandfather, finding his greatest joy in time spent with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of the home, Linnie; his son, Donnie Covel of Lindsay, OK; his daughter, Connie (Covel) Hamilton and son-in-law Wade Hamilton of Washington, OK; and his four treasured grandchildren, Tate Covel, Connor Hamilton, Ty Covel, and Calvin Covel. He is also survived by his siblings, Carolyn Ann Covel of Oklahoma City; Dean Covel and wife Mary of Norman, OK; and Nancy (Covel) McDonald and husband Jay of Greeley, CO. Cecil is further survived by in-laws Mildred (Martin) Williams, sister-in-law Clara Martin, and D.L. & Gail Martin, sister-in-law Karen Martin as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives he touched.

Cecil was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents, John Henry Covel and Lessie Arrinda (Gibson) Covel; and his siblings, LaVonna Jo Covel, Wayne Allen Covel, Mildred (Covel) Gokey, Charles Alvin Covel, Mary Ellen Covel, and Robert “Bob” Covel.

A funeral service with full military honors will be held Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at 2:00pm at First Baptist Church in Lindsay, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of a life marked by courage, hard work, and devotion to those he loved.

Cecil Eugene Covel will be remembered as a proud Marine, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a man whose life embodied strength, honor, and love. His legacy of service and family devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family wishes for any donations to be made to The First Baptist Church, Lindsay, Kitchen Fund or The American Heart Association.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at The First Baptist Church in Lindsay, Oklahoma. Burial at Green Hill Cemetery in Lindsay, Oklahoma under the direction of John W. Williams of Winans Funeral Home in Maysville, Oklahoma. Words of comfort may be sent to the family on this website.