Charles Robert Pursifull
Charles Robert Pursifull, a man loved by all, passed from this life at age 90 on Saturday, May 2, 2020. “Charley Bob,” as he was affectionately called by family members and old friends, was born January 5, 1930 in Maude, Oklahoma to Robert and Esther Pursifull. His childhood years were spent in the Three Sands oil community and Tonkawa, Oklahoma, where he developed a love for music, played basketball, and shined shoes at the local barber shop. He played tuba in the US Navy band for four years, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a BBA and MBA. He went on to enjoy a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant for multiple companies including Arthur Anderson, Gulf South, Horseshoe Development Company, and Grant Thornton, and also served in one of his most proud roles as President of John Roberts Manufacturing Co. He found a passion for teaching in his second career as a Professor of Accounting at the University of Central Oklahoma, and worked as a devoted Broncho until his retirement in 2014.
In 1963 he married Barbara Darlene Lankford, and together they raised two daughters, Robye Kay and Pamela, making special memories in Austin, Texas and Edmond, Oklahoma. Charley was an active Methodist, and was a member of New Covenant UMC and First UMC of Edmond. His favorite pastimes were watching golf, cheering on his Sooners, playing big band music on the string bass and piano, writing songs and above all, helping the students he adored. His pride and joy was founding the UCO Accounting Club Golf Tournament, and this year would mark its 25th Anniversary if not for COVID-19.
Charley’s biggest passion in life was the people he met on the journey, and he was known for his positive personality, encouraging and motivational words, listening ear, and everpresent smile. He lives on as the song in the hearts of many, and his sharing and caring approach to life will never be forgotten.
Charley was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Esther Pursifull, two brothers Leroy and Wilbur, and one sister Ona Mae. He is survived by his “dear ones,” including wife Barbara, brother Victor Lee, daughter Robye Kay husband Kevin Jackson, daughter Pamela and husband Brian Wood, grandchildren Andrew, Phillip, Christian, Jessica, Jenny and Jaci Kay, great grandson Ashton, and numerous nieces, nephews, precious family members and beloved friends.
The family would like to thank the caregivers at The Veraden, OU Medical Center Edmond, and Companion Care Hospice for the excellent care and love shown during this difficult time.
Public visitation will be Friday, May 8, from 8 a.m.-8 p.m., at Matthews Funeral Home, 601 S. Kelly Ave., Edmond. A celebration of life will be held in early July.
In lieu of flowers, please con sider a donation to The Charles Pursifull Endowed Scholarship in Accounting, supporting UCO students. Make a one time or recurring donation here: www.centralconnection.org/charlespursifull, or mail a check payable to: The UCO Foundation at 100 N University Drive, Campus Box 133, Edmond, OK 73013. Include a note stating that the donation should go to the Charles Pursifull Endowed Scholarship in Accounting.