Lajauana G. Milam

Lajauana G. Milam, a woman of selfless love and gentle optimism, passed away peacefully on Sept. 18, 2024 in Ardmore, Okla., losing her courageous battle to Parkinson’s Disease and Metastatic Breast Cancer. She fought these battles like she lived her life, one day at a time, although they slowed her down, she never gave up. Born on Feb. 20, 1951, in Denver, Colo.

Lajauana was a cherished wife, mother, granny, sister and friend. Her unwavering devotion to her family was evident in every aspect of her life. She is survived by her loving husband, Phil Milam, of Ardmore, Okla., with whom she shared a beautiful journey since their marriage on Dec. 31, 1985. Other survivors include: her daughter, Ladonna McQuistion and husband of Ardmore, Okla.; son, Chris Houston and wife of Stigler, Okla.; her brother, Billy Jack Wilkerson of Antlers, Okla.; and her sister, Karen Ivy of Wister, Okla.; eight grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Lajauana was preceded in death by her parents, Willard Wilkerson and Edna V. (Brown) Wilkerson; her daughter, Lynnetta Houston; her sister, Linda Barnes, and her first husband, Lynn Houston. A long-time resident of the Spencerville/ Hugo area, Lajauana’s professional life was as rich and varied as her personal life. She met the love of her life, Phil, while working as a butcher at Ford’s Grocery in Hugo. Her career path also led her to manage Dairy Queen and the new McDonald’s upon its opening, as well as the Walmart deli. Lajauana loved working in public, serving and helping others; she had a work ethic that was above and beyond, she believed in getting up, going to work, and putting in 110% everyday even if that meant staying late. That work ethic she instilled in her children.

Graveside services were be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23, 2024 at Springs Chapel Cemetery, under the direction of Prater-Lampton-Mills & Coffey Funeral Home.