Lou Flanagan

Mary Lou Flanagan, passed away on November 22, 2025 at the age of 74.

She was born on October 26, 1951, in Enid, Oklahoma, to Norvel and Ruth (Gaume) Ronck. Her early childhood was spent on a wheat and cattle farm near Wakita where she played alongside her six siblings. She attended Wakita High School and was a member of the graduating class of 1969.

Lou attended Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. She met and married Ed Truitt in December of 1971, and they later welcomed two children, Matt and Tiffany. In 1996 she earned a Master's Degree in Human Relations at the University of Oklahoma. Lou dedicated 32 years of her life to public service, spending 14 years as a DHS case manager and supervisor in Child Protective Services. Then, she continued her work supporting children and families as a Program Supervisor at the OU National Resource Center for Youth Services, where she faithfully served for 18 years.

In 2009, Lou married Bill Flanagan, and as the First Lady of Claremore, she became an integral part of the community, leaving a lasting impact throughout his time in office. A steadfast and dedicated partner, Lou’s love for Claremore was evident in everything she did. She was one of the town’s greatest cheerleaders, tirelessly volunteering her time and supporting countless local initiatives. Lou served on numerous boards, including Claremore Main Street, the Claremore Museum of History, the W. Barnes Children’s Advocacy Center, the Rogers County Free Medical Clinic, and the RSU Foundation. Her influence reached far beyond her role as a supportive wife—it became a defining part of her legacy. Whether attending a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Food Truck Thursday, or Dickens on the Boulevard, Lou was always there, encouraging, supporting, and uplifting those around her.

An active and devoted member of First Methodist Church, Lou’s warmth, spirit, and dedication touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. In addition to her local community work, Lou was appointed by the Governor to the State of Oklahoma Post Adjudication Review Board. She also dedicated 25 years to volunteering at New Day Camp, a youth camp for children of incarcerated parents, serving as Dean for many of those years. Lou’s compassion extended further to ministries that helped women reenter society after incarceration, reflecting her deep commitment to helping others and leaving an indelible mark on her community.

Lou's passions truly reflected her deep love for family and the joy she found in connecting with others. She found happiness in gardening, sharing special moments with her loved ones, traveling, and being present at every event involving her children and grandchildren—right up until the very end. Her enthusiasm for life extended to her community, where she was always eager to be involved and never wanted to miss out on anything, affectionately calling it her “fear of missing out.” Her heart was always open, and she embraced every opportunity to create memories with those she loved.

Lou is preceded in death by her parents, Norvel and Ruth Ronck; her husband, Bill Flanagan; and her sister, Rita Smith.

She is survived by her children, Matt Truitt and wife Marcela of Fort Worth, Texas; Tiffany Fitzsimmons and husband Matt of Bartlesville; and bonus son Beau Flanagan and wife Tanja of Silver Spring, Maryland. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Valerie Carvajal, Jaxon Truitt, Romy Flanagan, and Lucy and Alice Fitzsimmons. Lou is also survived by her siblings: Vic Ronck and wife Marci of Missoula, Montana; Ronda Bell and husband Gary of Claremore; David Ronck of Stillwater; Duane Ronck of Enid; and Donna Bingham and husband Bill of Amarillo, Texas; as well as many adoring nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Lou lived a life marked by service, love, and a deep commitment to her community. Her kindness and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone she knew. As she often said, "You help people—it's just what you do." Her influence will be felt for years to come, both in Claremore and in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Those who wish to honor Lou's memory may contribute to The Children's Advocacy Center at P.O. Box 1889 Claremore, Ok 74018 or the Claremore Museum of History at 121 North Weenonah Ave. Claremore, Ok 74017