Richard Lee Wharton

Richard Lee Wharton, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, in Collinsville, Oklahoma, at the age of 80. Born on August 8, 1945, in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, Richard lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and deep love for his family.

Richard spent many years working as a truck driver, faithfully providing for those he loved. His final employer before retirement was Affiliated Food Stores in Tulsa, where he was respected for his reliability, strong work ethic, and quiet dedication. Though his career carried him across countless miles and highways, home and family were always the center of his world.

On November 14, 1975, Richard married the love of his life, Linda Jean Robertson Wharton, affectionately known as Sue. Together they shared more than 50 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, loyalty, and family. Their enduring bond was an example to everyone who knew them.

Richard found his greatest joy in spending time with his grandchildren and great-granddaughter, who meant everything to him. He especially loved watching OU football, softball, and baseball, cheering passionately for his favorite teams and sharing those moments with family whenever he could.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Linda Jean “Sue” Wharton; his children, Laura Ivey, Gina Wharton, and Steven Ivey; his cherished grandchildren, Ashlyn and Skip Shannon, Caden Ivey, Austin Ivey and Rylee Bryson; and his bonus grandsons, Hunter Claxton and Malachi Sanders. His great-granddaughter, Crimsyn Shannon, brought immense pride and happiness to his life. He is also survived by his sister, Charlene Nelson, along with several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Babe and Cleo Wharton; his brother, Lon Wharton; two sisters-in-law; one brother-in-law; and his mother- and father-in-law.

A memorial gathering celebrating Richard’s life will be held on May 22, 2026, at the Collinsville Dolton Funeral Home Chapel, 1302 West Main Street, Collinsville, Oklahoma 74021. A brief service sharing memories of Richard’s life will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial video presentation. The casket will then be opened for viewing for the remainder of the gathering, which will conclude at noon. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor and remember a man whose kindness, devotion, and love left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Richard’s life was a testament to steadfast devotion, quiet strength, and the importance of family. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.