Kit Coughran

(From Nichols-Stephens Funeral Service)

Kit L. Coughran, affectionately known as “Mr. C” by his students, aged 46, passed away on March 31, 2026, in Grove, Oklahoma. Born on January 2, 1980, in Jay, Oklahoma, Kit was an adored educator, artist, and advocate for Native American culture, leaving a lasting impact on his community and beyond. 

Kit graduated from Grove High School and pursued his passion for art at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, before obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Ft. Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. He furthered his education with a Master’s degree in library science from NSU in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. 

Kit dedicated his life to teaching, beginning his career at White Oak School, Moseley School and for the last ten years, at Jay Public School. Investing in education, Kit was a passionate Art Instructor and assisted in enriching the school's programs with E-Sports, Robotics and Cherokee studies. 

A man of faith, Kit was a member of the Foundation Freewill Baptist Church in Grove, Oklahoma. His commitment to his Cherokee heritage was significant and he worked tirelessly to promote and preserve his culture. Kit’s artistic talents were recognized statewide, with his artwork displayed at the Oklahoma State Capitol, various schools as well as tribal buildings. The community will continue to enjoy the murals he painted for years to come. 

Spending time at the creek and in nature for were some of the activities that Kit relished the most, as well as chess, song writing and publishing pod cast. He also enjoyed reading and had a thirst for learning and expanding his mind. Some referred to him as “the most interesting man in the world.” 

What Kit will be remembered for the most was his remarkable ability to make meaningful connections with others and encourage them to pursue their passions. 

Kit developed an interest in boxing after his father, a Golden Glove boxer, inspired him. He eventually served as president of the American Boxing Association. 

Kit is preceded in death by his grandparents and father, Curtis Leo Coughran, Jr. 

Left to cherish his memory is his mother, Elizabeth “Jan” Long (née Coleman) and her spouse Bobby; daughter, Bella Coughran; brother, Cody Coughran; Sister-in-law Sandra Coughran; and cherished nieces and nephews Karen Phelps (fiancé Bryan Burns), and Naylela and Zaryah, Chase Coughran (Kadynce) and Capron, and Kurtis, Justus, Josey, and Angelo Coughran. 

Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Nichols-Stephens Funeral Service, Grove, OK. Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 PM on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Jay Bulldog Basketball Arena. Arrangements entrusted to Nichols-Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services.
Donations to the Kit Coughran Memorial may be made in his memory at https://square.link/u/5EaoMW4u .