Frankie Joe Hurlburt
Frankie Joe Hurlburt, known affectionately to all as Joe or PA, embarked on his final adventure on Dec. 24, 2023, at the age of 78. Born on Nov. 27, 1945, in the quaint town of Honey Grove, Texas, Joe’s life was a tapestry woven with laughter, love, and the kind of mischief that leaves a lasting smile. He took his last breath in Hugo, Okla., after a valiant dance with dementia and lung disease, but not before he had left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
Joe’s journey through life was shared with his faithful wife, Pauline Hurlburt, for more than 57 years –– a testament to enduring love and the occasional need for earplugs, as Joe was known for his playful banter. Together, they raised two daughters: Mona Lynia Earthman (and husband, Mike) of Spencerville, Okla., and Charlotte Meyer (and husband, Travis) of Purcell, Okla. Joe’s legacy continued to blossom with two grandchildren: Nicole Hill (and husband, Buck) of Antlers, Okla., and Colby Earthman of Spencerville, Okla., and was further enriched by the arrival of two AWESOME great-grandsons: Haze and Hank Hill of Antlers.
Joe was a man who wore many hats –– though none as proudly as that of a family man. He was preceded in death by his dear parents, Lonzo Loyd and Jewel Francis (Sharp) Hurlburt, who undoubtedly instilled in him the values of hard work and humor. A proud graduate from high school, Joe served in the Army National Guard at 18, an experience that honed his discipline and his ability to sleep anywhere, anytime. He then channeled his strong work ethic into a career as a carpenter, building homes and occasionally, the odd birdhouse or 17, as the whims of his family dictated.
Joe’s hands were rarely still, as he was a master craftsman in woodwork and carpentry. If he wasn’t building, he was fishing, his red Dodge faithfully towing his boat to the nearest lake for a day of peace, quiet, and the occasional fish tale that “you wouldn’t believe.” His love for camping, traveling, and sightseeing was only surpassed by his devotion to his family. Joe was the patriarch of the family cookouts and the commander of holiday cheer, always the last to let go during a hug and the first to suggest a game that would have everyone in stitches.
Those who knew Joe understood that his teasing was a language of love. As a true comedian at heart, he lived by the words of the great Robin Williams: “You’re only given a little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it.” Joe indeed never lost his spark, fanning it into a flame that warmed all around him. He was an aggravator, a jester, and the life of the party –– a man who could find humor in the smallest of things and taught us all to do the same.
Joe’s absence leaves a void that can never be filled, for he was loving, adventurous, and funny –– a trio of traits that made him the unforgettable soul he was. His family’s lives will forever be touched by his presence and now, by his absence. They will miss his laughter, his impromptu dance moves in the living room, and the way he could light up a room with just a wink and a grin.
In the words of another beloved humorist, Mark Twain, “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” And so, as we bid farewell to Frankie Joe Hurlburt, let us take comfort in knowing that he’s gotten ahead to wherever the next party is, probably already telling the angels how to improve their harp-playing technique with a well-placed joke. Joe, you were one of a kind, and you will be deeply missed.
Online condolences can be made at praterlampton. com. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Prater-Lampton-Mills & Coffey Funeral Home.
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