Jewell Atteberry Darst, a woman remembered for her deep love for her community and her dedication to its people, passed away on April 26. 2025. in Duncan, Oklahoma, just a day after celebrating her 95th birthday.
She was born on April 25, 1930, to Bessie Maude (Carnes) and Otto Franklin Atteberry and grew up in the Standing Rock and Wards Chapel area. Jewell graduated from Atoka High School in 1948. Her early life in a close-knit community instilled in her a lifelong love for gardening, quilting, and the joys of small-town life.
Jewell's life was marked by a variety of roles that showcased her love for people. She worked as a soda 'jerk' at Cates drug store, a seamstress at Debbie Ann, a typist/clerk at D1 IS, manager of a home health business, and office manager at the Atoka Chamber of Commerce. In all these positions, she was known for her love of talking, helping, and simply being around others. She also served as a Pink Lady at Atoka Memorial.
Her commitment to the Atoka County Chamber of Commerce was extraordinary, earning her the Lifetime Legacy Chamber Mem her award in 2022. I his award recognizes individuals who demonstrate volunteer and civic efforts that foster community pride, engage others, and create a lasting example.
Chandra Potter, a current board member of the Chamber, emphasized that Jewell embodied all of these qualities. Potter described Jewell as a unique and kind soul who loved unconditionally and intentionally, never meeting a stranger.
As a further testament to her impact, the Atoka County Chamber of Commerce honored Jewell by establishing the Jewell Darst Memorial Scholarship. The inaugural scholarship was presented to Shiv Gandhi during the Atoka Award ceremony.
Beyond her professional life, Jewell had a passion for sharing her faith and loved a good story. She particularly cherished teaching preschool at church and at Elks Crossing, considering the children and Bible study as the highlights of her days.
Jewell was married to Clifford Darst in Hobbs, NM, and they shared 56 years of marriage before his passing.
In her later years, Jewell moved to Duncan, Oklahoma, to be closer to her son Sam and his family. She also formed cherished friendships while living at Elks Crossing Assisted Living Home.
Jewell was preceded in death by her husband, her great-grandson Simon Nelson, her parents, her oldest son Mike Darst, and all of her siblings: Olen Denton Atteberry, Letha Kennedy, Ozella Atteberry, Nora Garrett, Elma Breger, and Drunell Adams.
She is survived by her children: Vonda Miller; Trelia Heise and husband Michael; Clifford (Sam) Darst and wife Linda; Robert (Doc) Darst and wife Arlinda; Walter (Skip) Darst and wife Gail; and Glenda Carnesfix and husband Steve. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as her sister-inlaw, Sue Tate and husband Pete, and brother-in-law Bob Darst.
Jewell Darst's life, which came to a close the day after her 95th birthday, is remembered as a testament to resilience, a deep love for family, and the creation of enduring connections across generations. Her legacy of love, service, and advocacy will continue to inspire the Atoka County community.
