Hershley Royal, 96 years young, was called home to be with the Lord while in her sleep on Monday, July 10, 2017 in her home in Muskogee, Oklahoma. With her outspoken humor and honesty, Hershley always had those in her presence smiling, laughing or crying (from laughter of course). She was an amazing cook who made the best grilled cheese sandwiches and most flavor-filled hamburgers with mouth, watering hamburger buns, around. Her dressing, sweet potato and lemon meringue pies were much appreciated at Thanksgiving.

Hershley Royal was born on June 11, 1921 to John (Sam) Wyatt Hooks and Pearlie Fields Hooks in the city of Fame, Oklahoma. She was one four children; William Major Hooks, Pearlie Mae Patillar and Sylvertia Harris. While shopping at Uncle Jake's general store, Hershley met a handsome young man by the name of Sylvester Dewitt Royal.  He would later become her husband (January 2, 1943) and their union created three daughters; Carol LaJean Clinton of Oklahoma City (d. 2016), Debra Ann Royal of Muskogee, OK and Linda Faye Armour of Muskogee, OK. Hershley had a strong faith and was an active member in the choir at Macedonia Baptist Church. Hymns were often heard around the house as Hershley sang under her breath while completing tasks and doing daily chores in the home.

Hershley was a member of The 31 ^st Precinct of the Muskogee County Election Board. She spent many years helping people of color register to vote, and on election day, passed out "I voted" stickers. For over 32+ years, Hershley also operated a successful in home child care center where she nurtured and encouraged the social and physical development of young youth in the community. Preceding Hershley Royal in death are her husband, oldest daughter (Carol Clinton), grandson (Junior Edwards), her parents and siblings. She is survived by two daughters, Debra Edwards and Linda Armour; her son-in-law, Ernest Clinton; her grandchildren, Shawn Edwards Harris (Travelle Harris), Claudia Clinton-Frödin (Mikael Frödin), Chrisson Clinton, Anastasia Armour, Stephanous Armour; seven great grandchildren, Keshon Edwards, TaShawnya Edwards, Trevon Harris, Ziyah Harris, Skylar Frödin, Emmett Frödin, Abigail Frödin and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, July 17, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church, 418 W. Shawnee Street, Muskogee, OK 74401. Burial will follow at Arlington Cemetery.

Her Sacred Farewell will commence on Monday morning, July 17, 2017 at 11:00 AM in the most holy sanctuary of the Macedonia Baptist Church, 418 West Shawnee Avenue in Muskogee.  Her Pastor, Reverend Larry H. Smith, Sr., will officiate.  Burial will follow in the National Cemetery at Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.

You may visit Mother Royal, as she slumbers in sweet repose at the funeral home on Sunday, from 2;00 PM until 4:00 PM.