Harry (Jr) Claphan

Harry Vernon Claphan Jr. known to everyone as “J.R.” was born on October 10th 1965 and departed this life on December 25th 2020. He was born in Stilwell, Oklahoma and was the son of Jack Claphan and Carolyn (Doublehead) Claphan.

J.R. was truly loved by all and never met a stranger in his life. In his youth, he was a Zion Jet and graduated a Stilwell Indian in 1983. He attended Northeastern State University and graduated with a bachelors of science in criminal justice with emphasis in law enforcement. His passion was helping the troubled youth of his community. He worked as a youth probation officer and later, a truancy officer. He coached his daughter’s softball team for 8 years. The youth was truly his passion.

In 1988, he married Shawna James and together they brought a daughter, Shy-Annah, into the world in 1997. He was a beloved husband, father, and son. His family was the most important thing in his life. He could always be counted upon and would go out of his way to help anyone.

He was preceded in death by father Jack Claphan, brother Sammy Jack Claphan, brother-in-laws Roger Hatfield, and Sanford Bean.

He is survived by daughter Shy-Annah Claphan, mother Carolyn Claphan, sisters Brenda Bean, Wanda Hatfield, brother Larry Claphan, nieces Meghan Claphan, McKenzie Lopez and husband Danuel Lopez, Tasha Privett and husband Mike Privett, nephew Eric Claphan, as well as four great nieces and two great nephews.