Patsy J Glass

Patsy Gunsaulis–Shafer–Glass, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM, December 6, 2025 at the Tribute Memorial Care Event Center, 4300 W Indian Hills Rd., Norman, OK 73072.

She was born on May 25 in Fairview, Oklahoma, to Floyd Gunsaulis and Luella Lennon, one of six children — four boys and two girls.

Patsy lived a life that was as full and vibrant as her personality. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sons, Dickie Dean Shafer and Dirk Shafer; and siblings Dale McCoy, Jay McCoy, and Roy Lee Ake.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Deidra; beloved grandsons, Fain and Ewing Kistler, who affectionately called her “Oma”; her brother, Lennon Gunsaulis; sister, EmmaLou Derrick; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who adored her dearly.

Her greatest joy in life came from being “Oma” to her grandsons. She moved to Norman in 2010 to be close to them, a decision that brought her immense happiness and countless cherished memories. Patsy had a gift for making everyone around her feel loved and celebrated — especially through her legendary “Happy Birthday Group” gatherings, which she organized faithfully each month to honor her friends and family.

A proud educator and artist, Patsy earned three master’s degrees — 2 in education and 1 in art from Northwestern State College and Oral Roberts University. Her career as a teacher was marked by compassion, patience, and creativity. She began teaching in Sand Springs Elementary and later worked with youth at the Oklahoma Children’s Hospital before spending the last 25 years of her career teaching kindergarten at Oakdale Public Schools. She inspired countless young minds and left an indelible mark on generations of students.

Patsy’s artistic talent was extraordinary. She created beauty through many mediums — acrylics, pottery, watercolor, commercial art, and sculpture — expressing her boundless imagination and love of color.

When she wasn’t teaching or creating, Patsy could be found enjoying life’s simple pleasures: visiting her brother’s farm in Siloam Springs, Arkansas; playing spirited games of Spinner; working in her yard; or sharing laughter with family and friends. She also served her community proudly as a clerk for the Cleveland County Election Board for 11 years.

Patsy will be remembered for her radiant smile, generous heart, and joyful presence. She was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, and Oma — a woman whose warmth, humor, and creativity brightened the lives of everyone she met.

Her love for family and life itself will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.