Jesse Gordon Pulliam, 77, of Norman, died on March 21, 2009 in Norman.

Gordon, a man known for his large heart and giving nature, was born on July 16, 1931 in Wellston, Oklahoma to Jesse Hassell Pulliam and Nova Irena Gazaway Pulliam.

He obtained a BS in Engineering from Oklahoma University after honorably serving his country with the 45th Infantry during the Korean War.

He married A. Kay Blackburn Russell on April 14, 1978, and for 31 years they worked, traveled, and lived life to its fullest. Together they built and contributed to four orphanages in Mexico and Guatemala.

He loved fishing, golfing, Nascar racing, and collecting classic cars. He served as President of the Central Oklahoma Chapter of the Studebaker's Drivers Club.

He is survived by his wife Kay, his two sisters, Dr. Lois Evans and Nancy Crosswell, his children, Vickie Longan {Mike}, Gena Kempf {Rick}, Tim Russell {Glenette}, Chris Russell and Bob Russell {Shalana}; his daughter-in-law, Karen Pulliam, his grandchildren, Stanford {Sara}, Jessica, Hollie {Zach}, Rachel, Brent, Daniel, Tanner, Reed amd Jaxsen; and his great-grandchildren, Jordan, Jakob, Roman and Baron.

He was preceded in death by his son, David Pulliam.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Carney Cemetery.

Services are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Service.

Contributions are requested to be made to Good Shepherd Hospice or The American Cancer Society in his name.