As Oklahoma enters 2026, the year is expected to bring major political change and heightened uncertainty, and state leaders and community figures are reflecting on a profound loss felt throughout 2025, the passing of an entire generation of influential Oklahomans who helped shape the state’s political, civic and business landscape.
Scott Mitchell described 2025 as marked by farewells to leaders whose decades of service left a lasting imprint on Oklahoma’s institutions, communities and public life. While attention now turns to upcoming elections and transitions in state leadership, Mitchell paused to acknowledge the collective legacy of those who are no longer here.
Leaders who shaped Oklahoma politics
Among those remembered are former governors George Nigh and David Boren, whose leadership spanned eras of growth, reform and national recognition for Oklahoma.
Oklahomans remember ex-Governor George Nigh, a beloved figure who embodied the ‘Oklahoma Standard’. Look back on his decades of service.
The state also lost former statewide and judicial officials, including Steve Burrage, Larry Ferguson, Billie Floyd, Neal McCaleb, Don McCorkell, Bill Nations, Wes Watkins and Marvin York.
Business, philanthropy and civic life
Several prominent business and philanthropic leaders were also remembered for their impact beyond government. Those include Bob Funk, Herman Meinders, H.E. Gene Rainbolt, Judy Love and Pat Potts.
Longtime friend of Funk, Doug Sauter, who also coached the Oklahoma City Blazers for 14 years, said Funk was a kind and generous man.
Losses were also felt in the faith, education and nonprofit communities, including Father Joseph Jacobi, Terri Walker Cornett, Richard Morrissette and Bobbie Burbridge Lane.