Robert James Wofford

Robert James Wofford, also known as "Chooch," passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in Salina, Oklahoma, at the age of 85. Born on March 20, 1939, in Claremore, Oklahoma, he was the youngest of 10 children in the Wofford family. Robert's early life was spent in the Salina and Locust Grove areas, where he developed a strong connection to his roots and cherished the beauty of the outdoors.

A resilient spirit characterized Robert's life, which included moving to California during the Indian Relocation Act of 1956 alongside his brother Joe. After a brief time on the West Coast, he returned to Oklahoma, where he worked various laborer jobs throughout his life, including stints in the oil fields, hay baling, construction, and even corn field work in Kansas. For the last 35 years of his life, Robert resided in Salina, where he faced significant challenges after a tragic train accident resulted in the loss of both of his legs.

Despite these challenges, Robert was defined by his unwavering inner strength and determination that guided him through his life. Family and community were essential to him, and he found joy in the company of his last living sister, Helen Maxine Gaddis, of Claremore, OK, and the many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who visited him through the years.

Robert was a fluent speaker of Cherokee and took pride in his cultural heritage. He held a particular fondness for family gatherings, where he would celebrate special occasions with traditional foods and share stories infused with his vibrant sense of humor. His passion for storytelling and ability to deliver a joke made him a beloved figure among those who knew him.

In a testament to his spiritual journey, Robert accepted the Lord as his savior five years ago, under the guidance of Pastor Lorne Beck of Blue Springs Church, and was baptized in his home. This milestone marked a significant chapter in his life.

Robert's legacy continues through his surviving sister, Helen Maxine Gaddis, along with many nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will remember his warmth, laughter, and the indelible impact he had on their lives. He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Nancy (Canoe) Wofford; his siblings, Albert Wofford Sr., Joe Wofford, Katie Backwater, Nellie Mae Wickliffe, Betty Jane Cabrera, Lela Mae Wofford, and infant Sandy Wofford.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 26, 2025, in the Little Rock Indian Cemetery with Reverend Willis Backwater officiating. A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in the Shipman's Funeral Home Chapel in Pryor. Terry Manis, Clifford Wofford, Gerald Wofford, and Harold Wofford will serve as casket bearers. To leave a message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.