Rusty Elkins

Rusty Elkins was born in Waurika, Oklahoma on October 21, 1949, to Woodrow and Madeline Elkins. The Lord called him home on September 26, 2021 at the age of 71. He is survived by, wife of 49 years, Sherry Kafer Elkins of Waurika, son Justin Elkins, and grandchildren, Charity and Harper Hinds, Logan and Cadence Elkins; one great grandchild; siblings, Linda Nicholas, Dutch Elkins, Judy Burns of Waurika and Ricky and wife Tracy Elkins Humble, TX, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by son Matthew Elkins; parents Woodrow and Madeline Elkins; and in-laws Nicholas Nicholas, Jimmy Burns and Carolyn Elkins.

At the age of 17, Rusty enlisted in the United States Navy. He valued his service to our Country highly and achieved the rank of Senior Chief. Rusty received many commendations and medals during his time in service to his country. These include the Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Commendation with Operational Device, Navy Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Ribbon, and Navy Overseas Service Ribbon.

During his military service Rusty served on one of the Navy’s largest aircraft carriers, the USS Shangri-La. Rusty’s military career took Rusty, both with and without his family, to several other ships, and both international and domestic ports.

After 20 years of service in the US Navy Rusty retired and relocated his family to their hometown of Waurika, Oklahoma, where he was a member of the First Baptist Church. He began his civilian career and was employed first by Halliburton in Duncan, OK. and later by Napa Auto Parts – Johnson Auto & Tractor Supply of Waurika. He enjoyed numerous activities with his two sons, including fishing, golfing and watching OU Football. He experienced extreme joy spending time with any and all of his grandchildren.

While family meant everything to him, the metaphor “a dog is a man’s best friend” was true for Rusty, and you often saw Rusty driving the streets of Waurika with Boomer, his four legged side-kick. Rusty was entrenched in the Waurika community and you’ll find records of his legacy in both the Waurika Veteran’s Park and the recently completed Sorosis Park.