Lawrence Eugene Testa
Lawrence Eugene Testa passed away peacefully at his home in Hugo, Okla., surrounded by loved ones, on Aug. 1, 2026. Born on Feb. 25, 1940 in McAlester, Okla., to Italian immigrants Sara (Giacomo) and Joseph Testa, he was the youngest of five children.
Lawrence attended St. John’s Catholic School, graduating in 1959 before pursuing his higher education at Okmulgee Technical School, where he studied refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning. After completing four semesters, he worked in a heating and air conditioning business in Dallas, Texas, to finance his final semester. After graduating, he joined the United States Navy and served on active duty from July 9, 1962 to July 21, 1964.
Shortly after his honorable discharge, he began a career with Public Service of Oklahoma in Hugo. He married the former Juanice Helms on Sept. 4, 1965. For many years, he owned and operated Testa Oil Company, a wholesaler for Texaco. He later owned and operated a car wash and finished his career owning and operating a backhoe service with his business partner and long-time friend, Jim Hanson.
Lawrence was adventurous and often traveled in an RV with his wife, Juanice, and their daughter, Carol –– sometimes also joined by close family friends. They enjoyed witnessing the beautiful countryside, especially the mountains, creating countless memories together during their travels.
Lawrence was known for his charismatic personality and had a remarkable ability to connect with others. Everyone who met him felt his warmth and kindness, often quickly making him a beloved figure in their lives. His visionary spirit was evident in the beautiful cabin he constructed in the Kiamichi Mountains, along with his final home in Hugo, both located in previously undeveloped areas. These properties stood as a testament to his creativity and hard work, embodying a beauty that is best appreciated in person.
He and Juanice often retreated to their mountain cabin, escaping right after closing the office on Friday evenings and returning late on Sunday nights. Lawrence had a profound appreciation for wildlife, particularly deer, and he spent his final days enjoying their presence. A cornerstone of his life was his circle of friends, who regarded him as a source of strength and support. Lawrence cherished his friendships and would do anything for those he loved. He was also known for his patience; anyone who worked alongside him learned something valuable. He took the time to teach and re-teach until they truly understood, ensuring that everyone around him benefited from his knowledge.
After the death of his beloved wife, Juanice, in January 2025, Lawrence briefly lived in Marietta, Okla., before returning to the friends and town he loved in Hugo. Among his closest companions were Jim Hanson, with whom he shared countless projects, and David Dyer, who affectionately called him the “Italian Stallion.” Lawrence considered them both as family, and they provided significant support to him, especially in his later years. Lawrence will be remembered for his integrity, helpfulness, storytelling and a mild dose of stubbornness.
Lawrence Testa is survived by his daughter, Carol Testa; and bonus daughter/swamper, Carole Carter, both of Moore, Okla., along with his brother, retired USAF Colonel William J. Testa of Montgomery, Ala.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sara and Joseph Testa of McAlester; his wife, Juanice (Helms) Testa of Hugo; his brother, Sylvester Testa of Dallas, Texas; his sister, Phyllis Lambert of Stillwater, Okla.; and his brother, Albert Testa of Sanger, Texas.
Arrangements are being handled by Miller and Miller Funeral Home, 3121 East Jackson, in Hugo, where a Rosary was prayed on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. A funeral Mass was held on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 196 Bearden Springs Road in Hugo, with internment with military honors at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Hugo.
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