In Memory of Dorothy Mae Loggins Shambra
December 13, 1937 - August 15, 2023 Memorial Services Saturday, September 2, 2023, 1:00 p.m.
Clearview School Auditorium, Clearview, Oklahoma.
Dorothy Mae entered this world December 13, 1937, in Clearview, Oklahoma, the fourth child born to Ruby Lee and Alfred Wendell Loggins, who preceded her in death. Her sisters Opal Inez and Myrtle Marie, along with brother Wallace Berry spoiled their baby sister! Dorothy received her primary education at the Clearview School, however, she graduated with the Class of 1956 from Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa. She continued her education at the Moore-Norman Vo-Tech, earning skills to become the best bookkeeper money can buy! She took pride in her appearance, always wearing the latest fashions and hair styles. Working at “Miss Jacksons Boutique” in Tulsa allowed Dorothy Mae the opportunity to keep up her appearance.
In 1967 she met the love of her life Raymond Shambra. They jumped the broom on May 9, 1968. Raymond was in the US Army, and together they traveled around the county living on military bases. To that union Richard Denton was born on May 8, 1969. Dorothy was proud of Richard and provided him with the best of everything. Raymond also precedes Dorothy in death. After a few years of military base hoping, the family settled in Norman, Oklahoma. Dorothy was employed by the Oklahoma Electric Cooperative for more than 29 years as a work-order coordinator and bookkeeper. She was the “Hidden Figure” behind setting up their computer system, and CWA (Communication Workers of America) Steward for the Linemen for 15 of those 29 years. During her tenure with OEC, she became involved with the Norman Chapter of American Businesswomen’s Association. Dorothy was the President of ABWA from 1980~81, and vice president from 1979 to 1980. She was also a member of the Epsilon Sigma Alpha philanthropic sorority that raised funds for local charities in Norman. Her incredible public service was recognized by the ABWA in 1981 when she was named “Woman of the Year.”
At the urging of her niece Maggie, Dorothy moved from Norman to Los Angeles, California to be the bookkeeper for the Coalition for Women’s Economic Development, where Maggie was the Executive Director. CWED provided loans from the Department of Labor to women starting their own businesses. Dorothy not only kept the books, but she “gently” collected the payments from the women who did not pay their loans on time.
Dorothy confessed her faith at an early age. She was a member of the Historic Vernon AME Church in Tulsa, where she served on the Usher Board and was a Sunday School Teacher. Years later, she never missed the opportunity to worship at the Atkins Opportunities Gardens Sunday service. While a resident of the Charles N. Atkins Opportunities Gardens, Dorothy would make sure all the residents received a birthday card on their birthday. She also sent her siblings, nieces, and nephews, cards on their birthday’s as well.
Never meeting a stranger, Dorothy maintained friendships with classmates from Clearview, Booker T, military bases, OEC, CWED and neighbors on Marlton Avenue in Los Angeles. Her warmth and beautiful smile will always be remembered by friends Jackie and Edgar Reece, and Sissy Alexander. Facing a multitude of health challenges, Dorothy Mae returned to Oklahoma where she was listed in the top ten to receive a kidney transplant. The outstanding example she set of living life to the fullest, overcoming all obstacles and health challenges...with amazing grace and joy is one we can all follow in our lives.
Dorothy Mae transitioned from this earthly life of labor to her heavenly reward on August 15, 2023. She will be remembered by her loving and caring son Richard who made sure his mother received the best of care over the years. Her life’s memory and legacy will be cherished by her sister Opal Inez Loggins Ware Johnson and brother Wallace Berry Loggins; nieces Margaret Bush Ware (aka Maggie), Lancy Shakir and Jada Davis Chavez; nephews Quincy, Ray, Lee, Michael, Mitchell, Jonathan, and Nicholas Prince; grand and greatgrand nieces and nephews; cousins, classmates, former co-workers and friends. Those left behind will remember her laugh. Will remember her sage advice. Will remember her charm and charisma. Will remember and miss her phone calls and cards on holidays and special occasions. Will remember how much she treasured her family and friends. Whether you called her Dorothy Mae, Dot, Cousin, Auntie or Mom you will always remember she loved you!