It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Lee Redbird, 89, who left this world April 18, 2025. Born Feb. 29, 1936, in Lawton, Okla.
Native American artist and proud member of the Kiowa tribe, Donald was able to support his family by painting leather shields and drums, loved to babysit and play with his grandchildren. He NEVER complained and he was always a “glass half full.” He was humble, he was happy, and he could always make you laugh, had a great sense of humor, was loved by all and always called “Grandpa!”
Donald is survived by his beloved daughters, Melva, Beatrice and Violet; and his cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, whose legacy lives on through Donald’s life and art.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Bernice Marie Redbird; sons, Ronald and Virgil; parents, Ernest Stinchun Emhee Redbird and Violet Hawzipta Redbird; paternal grandparents, John Henry Emhee Redbird and Tsa Tone Gope; maternal grandparents, James Hawzipta and Ella Toma Twohatchet; and his siblings, Ramona, Geraldine, Aileen, Carol, Sonja Kay, Maxine, Robert, John Henry, Melvin and Marvin.
Funeral services were held April 29.
Owens Livingston Mortuary of Holbrook handled the arrangements.
