Vera Mae Gunter, age 96, passed away on Sunday, October 23, 2016 in Tulsa surrounded by her loving family. Born May 19, 1920 to the late Elizabeth Vera (Hollowell) and Richard Elbert Condonier in Watonga, OK.
The Gunter Family lost a bright light, the brightest light of their family when they lost Vera. Vera, also known as Gram, was known for her loyalty to her family and her undying love for her church. She was the owner and power behind the wheel of LAZY G KIDDIES RANCH, on Pine Street, known in Tulsa as the first big day care. There were generations of families who entrusted Vera with their most prized possession, their children. Vera taught them to play, learn, sing, swim, skate, play and learn, learn, learn. The children learned the fundamental lessons, as well as, the sweet, life-long lessons as prayers before every meal, washing their hands and face before meals, and before parents picked them up after work. This was at a time in our nation when many women went back to work to help with their family's needs. In the late 1050's and during the 1960's 70's and 80's, a large number of women lived close to the Lazy G and fit this description. They found the Lazy G as their answer.
Most of the children attending Lazy G lived side-by-side as neighbors and went to the same school with each other. The parents worked at McDonald Douglas, American Airlines or one of the close businesses in town. It was a privilege to attend this day care and been loved by Gram or Mrs. Gunter.
Vera guided each member of her family as needed. She was their compass and had no problem with her position. If asked, Vera would tell you, she loved the color red because it is a color of Christmas and her favorite time of the year. The family now pictures Vera as likely trying to figure out how to decorate the clouds for the holidays. The Gunter family has been blessed to have five generations of their family at the same time that love and learned from her. They wish everyone could have a "Gram" n their life. She will be missed!
Vera was predeceased by her husband, Vernon Joseph Gunter, her parents, 4 sisters, 2 brothers and 2 grandchildren. She is survived by three daughters, Kay Gillard, Karen Ramsey and husband, John, Kathy Harelson and her husband, Jim; son, Vernon "Jerry" Gunter and his wife, Vicki; 9 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Visitation is scheduled for 4-6pm, Monday, October 31, 2016 at Moore's Southlawn Funeral Home. Funeral Service is 11am, Tuesday, November 1, 2016 in Rose Chapel at Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, Tulsa and interment will be 2pm, Wednesday, November 2, 2016 in Eagle City Cemetery, Eagle City, OK. Condolences may be left online at www.moorefuneral.com Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233