IN MEMORIAM

by Melissa C. Tidwell

With Richard Lerblance’s passing, our community has lost one of its pillars. Born in an era that valued gentlemen and Renaissance men, Richard embodied qualities of both. Above all, he will be remembered for living with integrity and devoting himself to the service of others.

Richard’s life reflected a deep commitment to service and community. He was an Eagle Scout, a 32nd-degree Mason, a member of the local and state Cattlemen’s Associations, a member of the hospital board, a member of the Pittsburg County Democrats, and an active member of both the Rotary Club and the Elks Lodge. In his hometown of Hartshorne, he established his law office and served as a volunteer firefighter, Chief of the Fire Department, school board member, city councilman, and city attorney.

A proud member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Justice Lerblance served on the Muscogee Nation Supreme Court from 1990 to 2002. He returned to the court in 2012 and continued serving until his death.

In 2002, Richard was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives. The following year, he became a state senator, rose to the position of Assistant Majority Floor Leader, and served on committees focused on education, the judiciary, energy and the environment, and appropriations. He worked to relieve prison overcrowding, advocated for seniors, and raised awareness for Alzheimer’s.

Faith was another important part of Richard’s life. He attended McAlester First Methodist Church, where he shared his beautiful voice as a member of the church choir.

Richard had a zest for life. He loved his family and friends. He raised racehorses, hosted crawfish boils, captained his houseboat and cruiser, flew planes, cheered on the OU and OKC Thunder teams, regaled friends with good stories, found humor in life, and appreciated a fine bourbon. He travelled the world and embraced every opportunity for new experiences. He loved life and enjoyed it well.

As accomplished as Richard was, he walked with humble confidence. He was as comfortable speaking to the man on the street as he was with dignitaries and presidents. Whether in politics, religion, or other often divisive areas, Richard believed in reaching across aisles and working together for the greater good. He lived with integrity. He upheld the sanctity of public service. He believed in upholding the rule of law, was a defender of rights, and a believer in the constitution. He met the responsibilities of his roles to the very end, working to make sure his family and clients were taken care of until he could do so no more.

Richard never forced his wisdom on others but was ever ready to serve as a mentor and leader. He was always there to help when needed. His life was impactful. His best friend, biggest fan, partner in life, the person who knew him best, his wife of over 50 years, Frances, was surprised and touched by the volume of people who reached out with stories of how he touched their lives, stories she never knew about. What a legacy.

If Richard were here to tell us how to live, he would probably paraphrase the song he chose for his funeral, telling us to do it our way. If we lived by his example, we would do it his way by living a life of faith, loving those around us, serving the community, and bettering the lives of others.