My Blues Story


Ben Earl McDade, Sr. was born May 8, 1941 to Clarence Sr. and Maggie McDade in Vernon, Oklahoma. One of six born to this union, Ben was the baby boy and everyone's pride and joy especially to his sister Corine. She spoiled Ben Earl just like he was her own.

Ben Earl attended Dunbar High School in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. He loved life and the people around him. Ben Earl and his best friend, Dorothy, found enjoyment in each other's company and have shared many, many memories. He also enjoyed sitting around with family and friends reminiscing about old times. Ben Earl also enjoyed sports, playing card, dominos, listening to blues and fishing to name a few.

Talking was his hobby, so you can just imagine his conversations with God; if you know Ben Earl, he probably hasn't stop talking since his departure.

I love my children, I know they love me too…….

Although some where miles away, I know this to be true
Ben Earl was blessed in his lifetime to have 7 children, Harold, Karen, Cynthia, Ben Jr (deceased), Rita, Ernest Sr. and Margie. He had a UNIQUE relationship with each and every one of them. Some people allow distance and space to keep them away from loved one, but not Ben Earl; he talked with and talked about his children all the time.

There was a time that I thought I wouldn't last for long…… But I know by God's grace, it was Him who helped me carry on.

Ben Earl accepted Christ at an early age. He was a member of the New Salem Baptist Church, where he sung in the choir and was a part of the Usher Board. Although Ben Earl didn't attend church regularly, he knew and loved the Lord.

It's been too hard living and I'm not afraid to die……..Because I know what's up there beyond the sky.

Ben Earl had been on a roller coaster ride with his health for many years, but upon one of many visits to the hospital, his daughter Rita Walker made sure she shared the Plan of Salvation with him. So if you are wondering about his Salvation, IT WAS SECURED!

Ben Earl was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Maggie McDade, two brothers, James McDade, Clarence McDade Jr.; three sisters, Mattie Lyons, Geraldine Dixon, Corine Allen, a son Ben McDade Jr and a grandson Jarmelroe.

It's been a long, long time coming…...But I know my change has come

Ben Earl McDade departed this life on June 25, 2016. He leaves to cherish his memory; his best friend Dorothy Fisher, two sons- Harold McDade of Tulsa, OK, Ernest McDade, Sr. of Brooksville, OK; three daughters- Karen McDade of Los Angeles, CA, Cynthia Allen of Okmulgee, OK, Rita Walker of Oklahoma City, OK and Margie McDade of Brooksville, OK; Grandchildren- Theopolus, Kejuantae, Brian, Khristian, Danika, Brooke, Eric, Ryane, Joe, Mark, Ernest Jr., Shawniece , ; Great-Grandchildren- Denim, Tyshawn, Ceriyah, Nathaniel, Freuny Andres, Camrie, Nevaeh and Rodney; and a host of relatives and friends.

The Final Hour with Mr. McDade will be on Saturday, July 2, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. in the most holy sanctuary of the St. Matthew Baptist Church of Okmulgee. Reverend McKinley Rice is the gracious host pastor and Dr. K. Gerone Free, Pastor of the Greater Mt. Carmel Baptist Church of Oklahoma City, will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Vernon Cemetery, Vernon, Oklahoma.

You may visit Mr. McDade, as he slumbers in peaceful repose at the funeral home in Okmulgee on Friday from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM.