Lonnell Shoals

Lonnell Shoals Sr. was born December 17, 1949, in Idabel, Oklahoma to late Luther Lee Shoals, Sr., and Lois (Scott), Shoals. He passed away at the age of 71, October 16, 2021, at Medical City Dallas Hospital in Dallas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Lois Shoals, and two brothers, Billy J.Shoals and Charley Odell Shoals.

Lonnell grew up on the family farm in Idabel with his parents, four brothers, and three sisters. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Idabel in 1968, the last graduating class at Booker T. Washington before it merged with Idabel High School. Lonnell went on to serve for two years in the United States Marine Corps where he achieved the rank of Corporal. Following his tour of duty with the Marine Corps, Lonnell attended Okmulgee Technical College in Okmulgee, OK, where he received an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering and graduated with honors in 1975. Lonnell then began a long work career as a Machinist at Halliburton, retiring after 40 years in 2016.

Lonnell truly lived life to the fullest. He was an avid bodybuilder and fitness enthusiast. While in his 30's, he competed in several bodybuilding competitions, winning several trophies. He owned a gym for eight years and trained many clients on exercise, healthy nutrition, and body strengthening.

Lonnell was a devoted father and family man. He loved playing dominoes, listening to music (blues), and playing slots at the casinos. He will be remembered for his teasing, (not funny jokes), his unfailing work ethic, his generous smile, and his integrity.

He was united in holy matrimony to Pamala Jean Mathis in 1973. This union was blessed with three children.

Lonnell's memory will be cherished and kept alive by his long-time adoring partner, Kathy Smith of Dallas, TX, two daughters, Sondra Myles of Dallas, TX and Tiffany Dillard (Michael) of Atlanta, GA; two sons, Lonnell Shoals Jr. of The Colony, TX, Anthony Shoals (Keythong) of Dallas, TX; three grandchildren, LeAsia, Anthony Jr, and Keyaira; four sisters Donna F Givens of Dallas, TX, Gwendolyn G. Mainor (Clarence) of Memphis, TN, Delois Holloman (Victor) Houston, TX, Linda R. Shoals of Oklahoma City, OK; two brothers, Larry Shoals of Oklahoma City, OK and Luther Shoals Jr. of Oklahoma City, OK; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.