Obituary of Jean Newton Tate

Jean Newton Tate was a strong and fiercely independent woman from Oklahoma.

Born on March 1, 1930, in Miami, Oklahoma, to Pauline Fullerton Wright and John Newton, Jean was instilled with a passion for life, learning, philanthropy, and community. She often reminisced about her early years on her grandfather’s ranch, the San Cristobal, in New Mexico, where she rode alongside the ranch hands and forged lasting bonds with her cousins.

As the valedictorian of her class at Holland Hall, Jean later attended Pine Manor Junior College and graduated from the University of Oklahoma. She became an ardent Sooner fan, often joking that she might jinx the game if she watched it. A devoted volunteer, she served as president of the Junior League and was active on the boards of Holland Hall and Up With Trees. Her professional career began in disaster services and development at the American Red Cross, where she was honored as a top fundraiser.

Jean maintained a social calendar that few could match, filled with PEO, bridge, Durant Book Club, Investment Club, Bible study, and more. Tap dancing with the Stepsisters brought her immense joy, continuing until her 94th year. She loved gathering people in her home to connect, share, and socialize. Her curiosity and quest for knowledge enabled her to converse on almost any topic. A common phrase among those who knew her was, “Ask Jean! She’ll know or it will be in her infamous book of ‘notes.’”

Known as Oma to her family and friends of all generations, Jean welcomed everyone into her life. She is survived by her sister, Joan Fleetwood of Oklahoma City; three children: Joan Allen (Brian) of Portland, OR; Julie Allen (Philip) of Tulsa, OK; and John Tate (Tammy) of Portland, OR. She adored her seven grandchildren—Catherine, Joe, and Sam; Ashley and Samantha; Adam and Ben—as well as her 12 great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She proudly shared stories and photos of them with her patient friends. Jean embraced her step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson, all of whom enriched her life.

Jean loved deeply and lived a life of gratitude, inspiring those around her to do the same. Her legacy will continue through the many lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 26 at St. John's Episcopal Church, 4200 S Atlanta Pl, Tulsa, OK. Lunch will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Holland Hall School, 5666 E 81st St, Tulsa, OK 74137, or St. John’s Episcopal Church, 4200 S Atlanta Pl, Tulsa, OK 74105.