Billie Alvin Harkins

Billie Alvin Harkins went to his heavenly home on Dec. 28, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born on Sept. 21, 1939 in Swink, Okla., the son of Alvie Lee Harkins and Laura Jane (Miller) Harkins. Billie was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Barbara Ann “Skeeter” Fells; brothers: Harold “Chock” Harkins and Ronald Lee Harkins; sister, Dixie Diane Widing; his mother-in-law and his best friend, Bob Winters.

Billie was a graduate of Fort Towson School, Class of 1957 and proudly joined the United States Army in 1959. He worked his way up in the ranks, receiving one of the highest awarded ranks, Major 0-4. Billie worked as a combat engineer and a security assistance officer for more than 15 years. He earned several commendations for his service, including Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Combat Infantryman Badge, Army commendation Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Bronze Star Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Sir Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, and Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Honor.

Beyond his professional career in military, Billie was a man of many talents and used those talents to pursue several occupations. He worked for several years in the oil fields in Borger, Texas, and later as a truck driver for many local companies, where he was able to travel the country. Billie was even able to obtain his LPN licenses throughout his many occupations. Beyond his professional career, Billie found joy in the outdoors –– working outside on his place, golfing, camping and fishing with his family at Lost Rapids Park. He would even go to the dam at Hugo Lake before daylight to make sure he had the best opportunity to catch all the fish he could. Billie was also nominated as Fan of the Year in Wright City for attending all the basketball games during the playing season. He was also an amazing cook; his pecan pie and Christmas candy were some of the few favorites of his family and friends, even earning him the nickname “Candyman.” Above all else, Billie was a man of God, and his family was the truly greatest joy in his life, especially his children and grandchildren.

Billie is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Kathy Harkins of the home; daughters: Ann Thomas of Broken Bow, Okla., and Jan Christian of Valliant, Okla.; son, Jason Harkins of Florida; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a special sister-in-law, two nieces, along with a host of other family, friends and loved ones.

Arrangements are under the direction of Miller & Miller Funeral Home.