Joe Cephus Christie

Joe Cephus Christie, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2024, surrounded by family.  Joe was born September 24, 1945 to Marjo and Cephus Christie near Valliant, Oklahoma.  Joe was extremely proud of his Choctaw heritage.Joe was raised around Valliant and Broken Bow area and was very close to his cousins and relatives.  After graduating from high school, he attended Southeastern Oklahoma University at Durant.  Upon completing college, he joined the Army and became Sergeant, “C” Company (Charlie) 1st Battalion, 32nd Armored Regiment (Elvis Presley Battalion) 3rd Armored Division where he commanded a tank.  Upon discharge, he attended Grand Canyon University to obtain a teaching certificate. Joe always had a compassion for all children especially Native American children. His first teaching job was with Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) at John F. Kennedy Day School on the White Mountain Apache Reservation. He moved within BIA from various positions and locations eventually entering the Senior Executive Service. Once retired, he developed a close relationship with then Assistant Chief Greg Pyle. This friendship developed into a close working relationship once AC Pyle became Chief helping the Tribe.

Joe married the love of his life, Stephanie, on March 1, 1980.  They had three children. He had many passions some of which are attending church, reading the Bible, spending time and teaching his grandchildren (and other children) how to play golf, playing golf with his family and golfing buddies at Tanoan Country Club and cruising to all the places he wanted to see.

He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, children, Mike (Shawn), Traci Pepper, Cephus (Melissa), Katherine (Jesse) Henson, Neal and Joe Jr. (Brandi). He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents Cephus and Marjo (Davis), stepfather Howard Davis, Robert Christie (brother) and Blossum Christie (sister-in-law).

A Celebration of Life will be held for Joe in March of 2025. Specific date, time and location will be announced later.