Elizabeth (Joseph) Naifeh

Elizabeth Jo- seph Naifeh, a beacon of warmth and

strength, left us on February 12, 2024, at the age of 98 years, 5 months, and 30 days. Born in Drumright, OK, on August 13, 1925, to Henry Joseph and Nora (Dumit) Joseph, Elizabeth's life was a testament to love, resil- ience, and faith.

Elizabeth grew up in Drumright, OK, and tragically lost both of her parents by age 12, causing her to have to grow up fast. She started working to help provide for her family, all while remaining in school. She graduated from Drumright High School in 1943. After graduating, she accepted a job at Tidewater Oil Company. She later met the love of her life, Glen T. Naifeh, and they were married on June 25, 1950. Together, they settled in Tulsa, OK, and over the years, they welcomed six children into their lives: Bill Naifeh (Helen), Tricia Naifeh Parker (Jack), Kaye Naifeh-Lakey (Ron), Joe Naifeh (Kathy), Glenda Naifeh Brown, and Thomas Glen Naifeh. Her heart was always with her family. She found her greatest joy in being a mother, immersing herself in her children's lives through school, scouts, and sports. Her home was a hub of love and activity, with her role as a homeroom mother bringing her particular joy. Glen died suddenly in 1963, when Elizabeth was pregnant with their youngest, Tommy. Amidst this profound loss, Elizabeth's resilience was steadfast. Only 20 years later, she would also lose her son, Tommy. Her strength in continuing to nurture her family was a source of inspiration for all who knew her. Some might wonder how she persevered after the loss of her parents, her husband, and her youngest child, but those who knew her already know-it was her faith in God that kept her going.

Elizabeth's Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life, an unwavering force that guided her in every aspect. Her deep devotion to her Catholic faith was beautifully refl ected in her weekly mass and adoration attendance, as well as praying the Rosary, practices she embraced with heartfelt reverence and unwavering dedication. She had an active role in the St. Mary's Altar Society, where her dedication and service were not just acts of faith but expressions of her deep love for her community. Elizabeth's house was a home for many, especially the priests who she took under her wing, treating them as her own sons. Her generosity of spirit and unwavering faith earned her the a ectionate nickname "Saint Elizabeth" among those who knew her. This deep spiritual connection was a source of strength and inspiration, not only to Elizabeth herself but to everyone whose lives she touched. Her legacy is not just one of familial love and community service, but also of profound faith and spiritual devotion, traits that will continue to guide and inspire long after her passing. Her love extended to her 10 grandchildren and 21 greatgrandchildren, to whom she was known as Sitty. They created endless memories during their special summer weeks together. Each grandchild cherished their time with her, fi lled with laughter and undivided attention, and Elizabeth lit up every time they came to visit, especially in her fi nal months. Elizabeth was a pillar in her community, and she dedicated countless hours volunteering with the Drumright Hospital Auxiliary, Drumright Human Needs Council, and St. Mary's Altar Society as treasurer. She also served as a poll worker during many elections-ensuring that every voter had an opportunity to cast their ballot. Even after retiring, she continued to be a familiar, friendly face at her son Joe's restaurant and later at his deli. She loved handing out bubble gum at the register and would always sneak Andes mints to her grandkids. She continued working with her son into her early 90s. Each week, patrons would come by the deli to see what "Momma says…" Elizabeth's Lebanese heritage was a proud part of her identity. She embraced her culture, sharing it with her family and community, enriching their lives with her heritage and traditions and food! She was a master at rolling stu ed grape leaves and cabbage rolls, and her perfect kibbeh, laban, Easter cakes, and "Sitty cookies" will be missed. After making just about anything, she loved telling everyone, "Oh, this isn't a good batch!" with a twinkle in her eye, knowing she never cooked a bad dish in her life. Elizabeth loved cooking and baking and especially loved making cakes. She never missed the chance to make Billy his special German chocolate birthday cake, or a coconut-covered Baptism/First Communion/ Confi rmation cross cake, and her granddaughters were always thrilled to see how she would decorate their angel food Barbie birthday cakes. Elizabeth made countless friends over the years. Among her favor- ite memories were her trips across the world from Portugal to Rome to Alaska with her dear friend Bea Harris. She also loved playing penny slot machines (somehow always winning), cheering on OU and OSU football and basketball teams, taking her chances at lottery scratchers, and visiting the beauty shop every week. Elizabeth enjoyed talking on the phone with friends and family, and always looked forward to visiting with her longtime friend Nancy Kelley. For over 50 years, Elizabeth lived just minutes from her older sister, Adele Salem. Their bond of sisterhood was deep, and they were truly best friends. One of the running jokes between them was that whoever died with the most kitchen gadgets wins. The judges have declared a tie. As Elizabeth's health started to decline, her daughter Kaye spent many hours caring for her needs and driving her to appointments. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated caregivers who supported Elizabeth in her fi nal years and months: Becky Thompson, Emmie Mapemba, Liz Dorsey, Misty Walls, and the team at Traditions Hospice. Their kindness and care made a signifi cant di erence and will always be remembered.

Preceded in death by her husband Glen, son Tommy, sons-in-law Ron Lakey and Jack Parker, and grandson Austin Parker, as well as all of her siblings and in-laws, Elizabeth leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and faith. We will remember her for her unwavering spirit, her heart full of love, and her hands always ready to comfort and create. Elizabeth Joseph Naifeh's life was a beautiful tapestry of devotion and joy, and her memory will forever be cherished.

Elizabeth's funeral mass will be celebrated at the same church where she was baptized, married, grieved her own losses, and celebrated her children's unions: St. Mary's Catholic Church in Drumright, Oklahoma. The Rosary service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 23. The funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, with internment to follow at 3:30 p.m. at Rose Hill Cemetery in Tulsa, OK. In lieu of fl owers, those wishing to honor Elizabeth's memory are encouraged to make donations to St. Mary's Altar Society at P.O. Box 828, Cushing, OK 74023, the Fred Joseph Memorial Christmas Dinner c/o Drumright Community Fund at P.O. Box 790, Cushing, OK 74023, or to a hospice care of their choice, in recognition of the compassionate care she valued. Funeral services are entrusted to the care of Michael's Funeral Home of Drumright, Oklahoma. Visit www.michaelsfuneralservices.com for additional information or to leave online condolences or share a memory.