Our Staff

Meet Our Caring Staff

Our staff is comprised of dedicated and licensed professionals with the experience to answer all your questions regarding our services. Please feel free to contact any of our staff members at any time.

Eight formally dressed people posing together against a dark studio backdrop.
Staff Photo

Chris Whinery

Owner & Funeral Director

Chris Whinery, son of Brad and Glenda Whinery, and a 3rd generation funeral director and embalmer grew up in Sayre, Oklahoma and moved with his family to Elk City in 1996. He graduated of Elk City High School in 1999 and continued his education at the University of Central Oklahoma where he completed his bachelors degree in Mortuary Science in 2004. Upon graduation, he returned to Western Oklahoma to carry on the family tradition of caring and service to the people of Western Oklahoma. In the summer of 2000 he was married to Kaylynn (Church) Whinery and they have two sons: Kyron and Keaton. Chris grew up in and around the funeral industry watching his grandfather and father serve and care for the people of western Oklahoma his entire life. He has served as the OFDA Chairman of District 4 and also been an Elk City Chamber of Commerce Board member. When the opportunity presents itself, Chris enjoys watching his boys participate in the sports they are passionate about. He is also a member of the 2nd & Adams Church of Christ.

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Tara Shockley

Office Manager/Funeral Assistant

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Rob Crews

Funeral Director

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Denise Eitenmiller

Funeral Assistant, Office Staff

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Russ Eitenmiller

Funeral Assistant

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Judy Mills

Office Staff/Funeral Assistant

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Jerry Smith

Grounds/Maintenance


Dirk, you will forever be a part of our team.

Portrait of a smiling man in a navy pinstripe suit, white shirt, patterned tie, and round glasses on a dark background

Dirk Clay

October 19, 1956 - April 19, 2023