Margaret Alice Abel

Margaret “Nanny” Abel, age 87, of Broken Arrow, OK, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, surrounded by friends while playing “Bingo,” one of her favorite games.

Margaret was born on August 28, 1938, in Claremore, OK, to Tyler Augustus (Gus) Harrell and Alice Annabelle Clubb. She grew up in Jenks where she attended school until the 7th grade, when her family moved to Red Fork. On September 24, 1955, she married the love of her life, Eldie Abel, in Coweta where they built a life and raised their family. Together they shared 54 years of marriage, family, ministry, and love until his passing in 2010.

Margaret was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother (who everyone lovingly called Nanny), sister, and friend. She was also a pastor’s wife for many years, faithfully supporting her husband’s ministry and joyfully serving in her church. Known for her deep faith, powerful praise, and joyful shouting during services, she never hesitated to lift her beautiful, strong voice in song and love for Jesus.

She worked hard throughout her life, holding a variety of jobs such as a nursing home, St. Francis Hospital, Northwest Elementary, and cleaning houses. In the late 1970s, she partnered with her son to do final cleanups on newly constructed homes. At age 41, she proudly earned her GED alongside her son Tom, showing her determination.

Athletic and full of energy, Margaret loved softball, volleyball, and all kinds of games. She grew up a tomboy, never shying away from fun or adventure. In her 40s she even played in a softball tournament, and in her 50s she was still climbing onto sleds with her children. On the court or the field, everyone wanted her on their team. She also had a gift for arranging flowers, and no one could ignore her whistle when she wanted attention.

Margaret never met a stranger. With her warm smile, big personality, and unforgettable laugh, she made friends everywhere she went. She loved big, lived big, and left an impression on every heart she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Eldie, her son Eldie Ray, her grandson Brandon Ray Abel, her brother Gary Lee Harrell, her brother-in-law Rusty Shipley, and her dear companion Don Campbell, with whom she shared a special friendship.

She is survived by her children, Audie Abel and wife Charlene of Broken Arrow, Thomas (Tom) Abel and wife Rena of Haskell, Annetta Self and husband Jim of Broken Arrow, and her daughter-in-law, Donna Abel.

Her grandchildren include Brandi Yocham and husband Johnny, Sidney Abel, Audie Abel and wife Eliza, Athena Rainbolt and husband Brandon, Adam Abel and wife Crystal, Tommy Abel and wife Autumn, Dustin Abel and wife Mandy, Alesia Posey and husband Jeremy, Jerod Self and wife Amber, and Jake Self and wife Shaylee.

She is also survived by 21 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren with one more on the way; her beloved siblings Margie Shipley, Tyler Raye Harrell and wife Glenna, and Geraldine McCoy; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Margaret’s legacy is one of faith, family, and love. Though her voice will be missed here, her shouts and praises now ring out in Heaven.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Brown Funeral Home in Coweta, OK. Services celebrating Margaret’s life will be at 1:00 PM on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Community Baptist Church in Coweta, OK with Rev. Curtis Cherry officiating. Margaret will be laid to rest at Vernon Cemetery in Coweta, OK.

Family and friends are invited to share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Margaret Alice Abel entrusted her care and services to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.