Richard Dallace “Dick” Ward
Richard “Dick Ward” Dallace Ward, 85, of Wetumka, Oklahoma, passed away on September 1, 2023. Born on November 27, 1937, in Wilson, Oklahoma, Richard was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend.
Richard led a remarkable life, leaving behind a legacy of accomplishments and cherished memories. He gradu- ated from Oklahoma University Gail Jackson Barnett was born January 25, 1948 to Sandy J. and Johnnie Mae (Washington) Barnett. He departed this life at the age of 75 on September 21, 2023 at 12:36 A.M., at OU Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father; his brother David Ray Baker; sister Fredricka English; nephew Christopher Barnett; and niece Sherri Lynn Barnett.
Gail J. Barnett attended Holdenville High School in Holdenville, Oklahoma. He was a jack-of-alltrades and loved to help everyone he ran across. Gail worked for Oklahoma County for 20 years in Oklahoma City. He was also in ministry and a dedicated man of God. He worked hard at everything he did, he loved to read and he kept his Bible in his hands. You could ask him any scripture and he would recite it to you. He also loved to learn new things. He loved his family and all of his siblings and friends.
Gail J. Barnett was a member of New Jerusalem Temple, Church of God in Christ in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He married one wonderful woman, Rosa Lee (King) Barnett, in Holdenville, Oklahoma in 1966, right after high school. They have been together for 57 years strong and true love they in Norman with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Richard’s career in the aerospace industry spanned several prestigious companies, including North American Aviation, MacDonald Douglas, Boeing, General Dynamics, and Lockheed Martin. He played a vital role in the design of numerous aircraft, such as the X-15, XB-70 Bomber, F-108, F-4 Phantom, F-15 Eagle, F-18, various variants of the F-16 Falcon, and the lead designer of the Taiwan IDF Fighter. Richard’s expertise in Russian Military Studies was instrumental in preparing the US Military to combat Russian Military Aircraft. He also provided invaluable assistance to the CIA in the analysis of foreign military aircraft. Richard also wrote many articles published in various aviation magazines,
Richard Dallace “Dick” Ward
books, and various military aviation conferences.
Outside of his professional endeavours, Richard had a passion for various hobbies. He enjoyed embarking on long-distance bike rides and was an avid wood carver, creating intricate bird sculptures, wooden ship models, and furniture. Richard’s love of photography led him to capture breathtaking images of aviation, nature, and his beloved family. He was also an avid collector and reader of aviation books from around the world. Additionally, Richard found solace in the outdoors, indulging in activities such as fishing, gardening, and building birdhouses for different bird species.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Sue Lynn, and their two sons, Richard D. Ward and William Scott Ward. He is also survived by his brother Mike, sister Carol, and brother Brad. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Lee.
A private memorial service will be held for family members later this year.
Richard will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His remarkable achievements, kindhearted nature, and zest for life will forever be cherished in the hearts of his loved ones.
shared. Gail loved to sing and was very musically inclined, he could play all types of instruments including the piano. He was a great dancer and was as light as a “feather” on his feet!
When he played football for Holdenville High School, he was one of their best runners on the team. He accomplished everything that he put his name on. He was a part of the 32nd degree Masons in Holdenville. He loved his country right and loved his family. He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife Rosa Lee Barnett of the home; daughter Hillary Gail Barnett; granddaughters Aysh’Jah Lee Barnett and Aaliyah Shy’Ann Barnett; new greatgrandchild; and a host of nieces and nephews. Funeral service was held 11:00 am, Saturday, September 30th, at Hudson-Phillips Funeral Home Chapel with Overseer John T. Berry officiating. Interment followed at Buckner Cemetery, Holdenville, Oklahoma.
Pallbearers were Keith Florie, Drexle Mewborn, Ronnie Harmon Jr., Walter Brown, Greg Brown and Daryle Baker Services were under the direction of Hudson-Phillips Funeral Home, Holdenville, Oklahoma.
