Galen Driskill

(From Lawson's Funeral Home)

Galen Robert Driskill, 80, of Disney OK, was ushered into the presence of his Lord Jesus Christ on the morning of June 6, 2024. Galen was born on September 20, 1943 in Yates, Center, KS to Howard Mac Driskill and Alberta Nadine (Dill) Driskill. His childhood home was in Chanute, KS where he graduated High School in 1961.

On August 31, 1961 Galen married the girl down the road, Joy Marie Broughton. They made their home in Lee’s Summit, MO and together raised 2 sons and 1 daughter; Bill, Dave and Jill.

Galen spent most of his professional career as an electro-mechanical engineer. He was employed for many years at Western Electric where he was a draftsman and designed printed circuit boards. Later he was promoted to the research and development lab where he was involved in several projects that included one of the first picture phones and calculators.

After moving to Skiatook, OK he was employed by Century Geophysical where he designed their logging trucks and downhole logging tools used for oil and gas exploration. He then gained employment with Hathaway where he designed electric motors for some of the first weed-eaters and snow blowers. Next he worked for Dowell. He was the first non-degreed engineer to ever be hired and worked in their research and development department. One of his many proud moments occurred later while he was employed at Jero Manufacturing, a division of Daylight Donuts, where he designed an infrared donut fryer that later received a patent for his design. Always an automotive genius, he continued his career at Auto Zone and O’Reilly’s selling automotive parts and doing what he did best, talking to people and building relationships with customers and coworkers alike. Just before retirement he worked as a shop Forman for OK Tire and Lube. Finally, after semi-retiring, and moving to Disney, OK, he worked as a security guard for GRDA.

Galen served as an Alderman for the city of Lee’s Summit, MO. During his tenure on the city council the City of Lee’s Summit saw improvements to the police and fire departments, as well as the waste water treatment interceptors at Raintree Lake, just to name a few accomplishments. Galen also served several years as a school board member for Skiatook Public Schools, and also on the Board of Directors for Teen Challenge.

Galen was an avid hunter and a gunsmith. He could often be found reloading ammunition or repairing and restoring firearms. He loved his family and his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a deacon at Mount Zion Baptist Church, and First Baptist Church in Lee’s Summit, Mo as well as Immanuel Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, and also at First Assembly of God in Skiatook, OK. Galen used his God- given ability to bless several Skiatook Area Churches, by designing some of their facilities.

Galen was proceeded by death by his parents, 2 brothers; Milford and Mike Driskill, and a grandson; Todd Driskill.

He is survived by his wife Joy of 62 years 9 months; his 3 children Bill Driskill, and wife Amy of Reeds, MO; David Driskill and wife Stephanie of Sperry, OK; and Jill Underwood and husband Jeremy of Locust Grove, Ok; One sister, Carol Johnson and husband Chet. Galen, also known as Grampy, Pappy, or Pap Pap, depending on who you ask, leaves behind 16 grandchildren, 2 “adopted” granddaughters, and 12 great grandchildren.

Galen was known for his kindness to others, his quick wit, and willingness to help others. He will be missed by his many friends, family members, and especially his wife Joy.

Galen’s Celebration of Life Family Visitation to greet friends will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024 from 5:00-7:00pm Lawson Funeral Homes Chapel, 311 W. Gray St., Jay, OK 74346.

 

Galen’s Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, 2:00pm, June 15, 2024 at First Assembly of God Church. 908 N Main St Jay,OK 74346

Arrangements are entrusted to Lawson’s Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 311 Gray St, Jay, OK 74346 with Shaunda J. Lawson, 3rd Generation Owner/Funeral Director and Staff.