Clara Bushyhead

Clara Jennifer Bushyhead, beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2023, in Ponca City, OK. She was a longtime resident of Newkirk, OK. She was born Clara Jennifer Nez on July 3, 1935, in Ft.  Defiance, AZ. Clara's legacy is defined by her love for her family and her unwavering dedication to her husband Victor Allen Bushyhead. 

Clara's first job was as a young child with her sister Marie herding sheep from pasture to pasture going up and down hills in Ft. Defiance. She often recalled memories of herding those sheep. After she graduated she took a job in Concho, OK. It was in Oklahoma that she met Victor and they began their life together; married 64 years strong.

Victor and Clara were married on December 30th, 1954 in El Reno, OK. They established their first home in El Reno and later moved to Concho. They moved to Chilocco, OK, in 1960, where Victor worked for the department of agriculture, and Clara was a Navajo translator for a school of Native Americans. Also, Clara worked as the matron in the girls’ dormitory. They left when the Chilocco school closed in 1980. They moved to Arkansas City, where they resided until 1986, and finally moved to Newkirk, OK, living there until Victor's passing.  

Clara was a proud Navajo woman of many talents and passions. She found joy and peace playing bells in her church and crocheting beautiful blankets and creations for her grandchildren. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles and cooking. She particularly loved making fry bread that was enjoyed by all who tasted it.  However, her favorite thing in the world was simply spending time with her family. She enjoyed cookouts, reminiscing with her grandchildren, and creating cherished memories.  You would always find Victor and Clara in the front yard on the porch swing listening to the oldies, on Victor’s little radio as they watched the neighborhood kids play. Clara was called “grandma” by many family and friends alike.

Clara lived a life full of love and devotion alongside her husband of many years, Victor Bushyhead. Their bond was unbreakable, a testament to their unwavering  commitment to one another. Together they built a foundation of love and faith that  will continue to inspire their family for generations. 

Clara was preceded in death by her husband Victor Allan Bushyhead, her infant son, Jerome Allen Bushyhead, daughter Shineesta Emily Adams, son Dennis James Bushyhead and two grandchildren, Maizie Lansford and Jayden Don Bailey; and a son in-law, Bryan E. Logan. 

Clara is survived by four children: Deborah Kay Logan, Darwin Allen Bushyhead, Victoria Marie Frank Bushyhead, Stenson Price Bushyhead; as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Clara's unconditional love touched the hearts of all who knew her, leaving an undeniable mark on each generation that follows. 

A celebration of Clara's remarkable life will begin with a viewing at Millers Stahl on Aug 24th from 6pm – 8pm in Newkirk. The funeral services will be held on August 25th at the United Methodist Church in Oklahoma at 10:00  AM. Directly followed by the burial at the Newkirk City Cemetery. Please join us as we gather to honor and remember this extraordinary woman. 

Clara Bushyhead will be dearly missed, but her memory will forever reside in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her kindness, compassion, and unwavering love will continue to guide and inspire her family and friends through all their days. As we say our final goodbyes, let us find comfort in knowing that Clara now rests peacefully, surrounded by the warmth of heavenly light. May her soul find eternal peace.