Wayne Hooker

Wayne Hooker of Norman was born on June 30, 1945 to Thomas Roy and Lola Angeline (Turner) Hooker in Pinetree, AR. He passed at the age of 71 on Sunday, May 21, 2017.

After graduating from Des Arc High School in 1963, Wayne discovered he was a gifted salesman, first selling shoes and men’s clothing and then insurance, before enlisting in the Air Force in 1966. He proudly served his country until 1970. In January of 1973 he met the love of his life and best friend, Kathy Taylor, and the two were married in Little Rock, AR on October 6, 1973. The newlyweds moved to Norman, OK in 1974 and started Kanco Screen Printing, which he owned and operated for over thirty years.

Wayne and Kathy were devoted members of Goodrich Memorial United Methodist Church in Norman, where he became a member of the “GCG’ers”. He also loved driving the church vehicles to various events and outings.

When he wasn’t working, Wayne enjoyed hunting, fishing, and attending ball games, regardless of the sport. In his later years, spending time with his grandchildren became one of his favorite activities.

Wayne was preceded in death by: parents Roy and Lola (Turner) Hooker; first wife Evelyn Dougan; brothers Preston, Merle, and Denford Hooker; and sisters Emogene Ingram and Freeda Cummings.

Wayne is survived by: his loving wife of 43 years, Kathy Taylor Hooker; son Darren Hooker and wife Cecily of Ruidoso, NM; daughter Karen McMullen and husband Ronnie of Norman; grandchildren Kailee Jo McMullen of Norman, Joshua Hooker of Titusville, FL, Morgan Winnett of Portales, NM, and Grace and Griffen Hooker of Ruidoso, NM; siblings George Hooker of LaFayette, IN, Lee Joyce Turnage and husband Linville of Cabot, AR, Mable Lynn and husband Kenneth of Rogers, AR, and Janice Martin-Toll and Frank Fiore of Cabot, AR; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations in Wayne’s name may be made to Goodrich Memorial United Methodist Church (200 W. Hayes, Norman) or to the charity of your choice.