Obituary

On January 9, 1909, a beautiful baby girl was born to the Buchanan family and mother Mattie in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I completed my education in Tulsa Public Schools and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. At a young age, I gained a passion for cooking fine meals to warm the souls of my loved ones. I worked at Betty’s Chat and Chew Restaurant for many years. I then married my husband Homer Figures and we then had four children of our own: Etta Jackson, Doris Washington, LaHomer Dixon, and Michael Figures all who welcomed me at heaven’s gates. I was a dedicated member, since and early age, of Vernon Chapel AME Church for about 90 years. Being the oldest member of the church, “The Mother” is what they called me. I also served the Lord while being a part of the missionary committee. But not just my church family called me “Mother.” Everyone that I touched called me that, but because my loving, caring, and sharing spirit was just as a mother’s. Yet I was no stranger to disciplining those who needed disciplining. Just ask my grandchildren about my cane. Yet, I could fill the room with laughter, with my uncanny sense of humor and way with words. Those welcoming me at heaven’s gate are my father and mother Mattie Buchanan, husband Homer Figures, brother Bill Figures, all four children, two grandchildren: Rhonda Hawkins and Gregory Figures, three great-grandchildren: Brandon Dixon, Jacquelyn Dixon, and Gregory. I leave to cherish my memory my grandkids: Craig Figures (Ft. Worth, Texas), Homer Dixon (San Antonio, Texas), Renetta Taylor (Tulsa, Oklahoma), Harvey Dixon (Tulsa, Oklahoma), Byron Dixon (Tulsa, Oklahoma), and Chell Figures (Tulsa, Oklahoma); 33 great-grandkids; 64 great-great-grandkids; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 Although I was the last one to live that survived the 1921 race riot here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, my journey was one-of-a-kind and greatly appreciated. Now, I have eternal life, which is more grand than any earthly life. “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.” – John 14:1 – 2 Please sign the guestbook and share a memory.