Cemetery Photo

Adair County, Oklahoma

© by: Martha Real

Theodore Fletcher CURTIS

© The Stilwell Democrat Journal

Thursday, June 22, 1933

Submitted by: Wanda Elliott

Theodore Fletcher CURTIS, 22, a member of a prominent Stilwell family and popular member of the young social set was accidentally shot to death late Wednesday afternoon by Eugene SANDERS 17, of Dahlonegah community.
The tragedy occurred near the SANDERS home where CURTIS at the time was engaged in pulling up forms for concrete work. Standing bent over, CURTIS endeavored to straighten up just at the time the 22 caliber rifle with which SANDERS had been shooting at birds was accidentally fired, the shot taking effect in the top of CURTIS' head and ranging backward and downward. The victim was rushed to the City where doctors made strenuous efforts to save his life; but owing to the nature of the wound, he died at 7:20 p.m. at the Stilwell Hospital despite medical assistance.

CURTIS was a young man of especial accomplishments, having won renown as an athlete and having behind him an unusual scholastic record. He finished high school here, and was a graduate of Bacone College, Muskogee, where he won a scholarship to a northern university while a student of that school.

On August 20, 1932 at McAlester he was united in marriage to Miss Maxine WHITAKER, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L.K. WHITAKER of this city. This union was kept a secret up until the evening of the tragedy. Miss WHITAKER for the past three years has held the position of Social Editor and assistant linotype operator for the Adair County Democrat.

Theodore CURTIS is survived by his wife and a brother, Orville, of this city. At the time of decease, he was making his home with his grandmother, Mrs. B.G. FLETCHER. Other survivors are: an uncle, Mr. C.L. FLETCHER of Fletcher Hardware Co.; an aunt, Mrs. J.T. WORSHAM; an aunt, Mrs. Maggie SANDERS, and an uncle Mr. Ellis FLETCHER.

Funeral services are to be held at the M.E. church here at 2:30 o'clock this afternoon with Rev. J.E. MACK officiating, after which interment will be made in New Hope Cemetery.
The Democrat joins with a host of Stilwell friends in extending condolence to the bereaved relatives.