Oleta Ream

On October 3, 2024, Oleta (Whitaker) Ream, 87, departed from this life. She was born in Leach, Oklahoma, on December 23, 1936, to Charles and Esther Whitaker. She grew up in Beckham County, close to Sweetwater, Oklahoma.

On July 4, 1953, Oleta wed Joe Ream at Sweetwater, Oklahoma's First Baptist Church. She resided near Sweetwater on the Ream Family Ranch with Joe. After that, they relocated to Enid, Oklahoma, and then, in 1961, to Amarillo, Texas, where they remained until her passing.

Oleta was known for her generous spirit and culinary talent. She found joy in the kitchen, creating meals that not only nourished but brought people together. Family meals became cherished traditions, where her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren shared laughter and stories and her delicious desserts. The dessert table was always laden with multiple pies (her chocolate pie was unmatched) and cakes. She always made sure to make everyone’s favorite.

She had a special gift for caring for others, often preparing meals for families facing difficult times. Whether delivering a warm casserole and dessert to a neighbor in need or cooking for friends grieving a loss, she understood the power of food as a source of comfort and love. Her heart was as big as her kitchen, always open to those in need.

Oleta was preceded in death by her daughter Laquita Baker and her son David Ream. She leaves behind her husband, Joe Ream, daughters Janita Hopkins and her husband, Jerry; Joleta Boyles and her husband, Bob; Lorita Bishop and her husband, Jerry; and son Jerry Ream and his wife, Linda; son-in-law Dick Baker; daughter-in-law Janie Ream; 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 4 great–great-grandchildren; special neighbors of 64 years, Jackie and Earl Felton; and her special four-legged baby, Little Bit.

Oleta was a member of Trinity Baptist Church of Amarillo. For years she and Joe counted offerings on Monday mornings, and she belonged to the Sunday school class and quilting circle.