T.L. Solomon

T.L. Solomon, aged 87, of Emmet, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025. Born on August 1, 1937, in Elk City, Oklahoma, he was the beloved son of Thomas Lester Solomon and Mattie Lou (Boyette) Solomon. On April 19, 1956, T.L. married Ollie Darlene Gentzel, and together they raised their son, Tommy Jay Solomon.

T.L. dedicated many years of his career to Phillips 66, working in Borger, Texas, and later in West Columbia, Texas, where he excelled as a production operator and Stillman at the Sweeny/Old Ocean refinery. Known for his strong work ethic and leadership, he took great pride in his work.

After retiring, T.L. and Darlene traveled across the country in their motor home, eventually settling in Grove, Oklahoma. An avid fisherman, T.L. enjoyed countless hours fishing the waters of Grand Lake of the Cherokees, sharing stories and laughter with friends and neighbors.

Following Darlene’s passing in 2015, T.L. continued to travel and cherished spending time with his son and family in Arkansas.

He is survived by his sister Helen (Solomon) Lusby, sister-in-law Doris (Gentzel) Barber, son Tommy Jay Solomon (Melanie), grandsons Thomas Jason Solomon and Joel A Bender Jr., granddaughter Katherine E Montes, and great-grandchildren Gabriel Montes, Claudia Montes, and William Bender. He will be particularly missed by his loyal dog, Minnie.

T.L. is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Darlene, and two brothers and six sisters.

He will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep love for his family, and the peaceful joy he found in nature and simple pleasures. His legacy will live on through those who loved him.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday, July 22, 2025, 11 a.m., at Ethel Reece Cemetery in Barnsdall, Oklahoma.

Brazzel-Oakcrest Funeral Home of Hope

Online condolences can be made at www.brazzelfuneralhomes.com