Marvin Vincent Dale, Jr., of Atoka, Oklahoma, entered into heaven on July 18, 2025, at home, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 26, 1950, in Atoka, Marvin lived a life rich in laughter, hard work, and deep relationships. Marvin graduated from Atoka High School in 1968 and soon after served his country with pride in the United States Air Force as a jet engine mechanic. Following his military service, he began a long and respected career at Ethan Allen, where he worked as a purchasing manager from 1972 until its closing in 2006. He also served his community in many roles - as a firefighter, a wrecker driver for Donnie Allen’s Body Shop, and later in security for the Choctaw Nation. In 2008, Marvin was elected Atoka County Commissioner for District One, a position he held with pride and dedication until his retirement in 2023. After retiring, he still kept busy working for Southeastern Truck and Trailer - because Marvin was never one to sit still for long. Marvin married Doris Jean Smith on April 25, 1970, and together they raised their two sons and most prized possessions, Marvin Vincent Dale III and Brian DeWayne Dale. Through his two sons he gained his “favorite daughter in law” Kasey or Robin, whichever happened to be present at the moment, had the bragging rights and honor of the title. Though Marvin and Doris later divorced, they remained dear friends until his very last days. On May 27, 2005, Marvin married Helen Jeanie Rector, and together they built their dream home on the ranch north of Atoka. There, Marvin lived his best life - working cattle, enjoying the open land, and creating memories with their kids, grandchildren and friends. Marvin lovingly cared for Jeanie in sickness and in health until she preceded him in death on November 24, 2021.

Marvin was a proud and loving grandfather to four grandchildren: Luke Vincent Dale and wife Kelsee of Guthrie, Oklahoma; Beau Dale and fiancée Kyra of Guthrie, Oklahoma; Nolan Brian Dale and Ella Cate Dale, both of Lucas, Texas. His heart was big enough to hold many more - including Heather, Taw, and their rowdy three who loved their time with “Marv” as much as he loved them.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Vinson Dale, Sr. and Katie Lou Umsted Dale; his brother, Martin Glenn “Sticks” Dale; and his beloved wife Jeanie. He was survived by his boys and their families and his sister Linda Phipps of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

He was a man of many talents and even more stories. Marvin had a sharp sense of humor, a strong work ethic, and an unmatched generosity of spirit. Whether he was bailing hay, hunting, fishing, mowing the lawn, ranching with his buddies Taw and Parker, or cheering on his grandkids at their games, he lived fully and joyfully. He loved going to the casino with Jeanie, drinking Cokes, snacking on Little Debbies, and talking endlessly about county roads. He never met a stranger, and those who knew him became lifelong friends. His neighbors, Sharon and Parker, were like family, sharing life’s seasons in a bond of unwavering love and loyalty. Marvin’s grandkids will always remember his signature greeting: “Guess what? I love you!” - a phrase that turned into a beloved game of who could say it first. And whenever a story got especially colorful, he’d laugh and say, “Excuse my French,” right before delivering another one of his legendary tales. He was the life of the party, the heart of every room he entered, and the kind of man people were drawn to - joyful, magnetic, and kind to his core. There’s no way to capture the fullness of Marvin’s life in a few short paragraphs, but it’s clear he lived his dream. He loved well, worked hard, and brought light to everyone around him. He will be missed deeply and remembered always.

DATE OF SERVICES: 10:30 AM Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 PLACE OF SERVICES: Brown's Funeral Chapel, Atoka, Oklahoma OFFICIATING: Beau Dale, Harvey E. Smith INTERMENT: Green Meadows Cemetery, Atoka, Oklahoma CASKETBEARERS: Luke Dale, Taw Griggs, Alford Parker, Mark Benson, Travis Carroll, Emmitt Wilson, Ed Isom,Chad Isom, Gary Isom, Robby Isom, Kenny Layton, Michael Washington, Heath McCool HONORARY CASKETBEARERS: Clay Wyrick, Benny Wyrick, Doug Howard, Ronnie Moore, Bill Cherry, Jim Carr, Jim Miller, Jim Rice, Donnie Allen, Randy Mashburn CONDOLENCES MAY BE SENT TO THE FAMILY BY EMAIL TO: [email protected]. PLEASE REFERENCE THE NAME OF THE DECEASED IN YOUR CORRESPONDENCE FAMILY NIGHT WILL BE HELD MONDAY 6PM8PM SERVICES UNDER THE DIRECTION OF BROWN’S FUNERAL SERVICE - ATOKA, OK