Sybil McNabb

Sybil McNabb passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026 at the age of 95. She was born on July 5, 1931, in Catoosa, Oklahoma, a 3-pound preemie whose strength and determination would become a hallmark of her remarkable life.

Sybil was born to Edward and Ruby Morrow Harris and raised by Jack and Della Harris, whose care and guidance shaped the woman she became. She graduated from Catoosa High School in 1949, where she was honored as the school's first Homecoming Queen.

Following graduation, Sybil began her career performing bookkeeping and general office duties for the McNabb Coal Company. On April 28, 1952, she married the love of her life, E.L. "Bud" McNabb. The couple eloped to Bentonville, Arkansas, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with devotion and shared purpose. They made their first home in Catoosa, later spent a short time in Muskogee, and ultimately settled in Claremore in 1959, where they built a life and community together.

Sybil was deeply committed to her community. She was a member of a local investment club and the Aladdin Club, where she remained active since 1960. She served as the first American Cancer Society cancer drive chairwoman in Rogers County and was one of the founding members of the Claremore Hospital Auxiliary. She also supported education through her involvement with the Claremore Public School Foundation. A voracious reader, she was a longtime member of The Friends of the Library. Known for her sharp mind and warm spirit, Sybil was an avid bridge player, belonging to at least four different bridge groups. Sybil was a beloved friend to many in the Claremore community, and was known to spend her afternoons chatting with friends over a glass of chardonnay.

Sybil was a woman of faith and a longtime member of First Methodist Church, where she actively attended Sunday School, Bible Studies and the Stephens Ministry classes, reflecting her heart for serving and caring for others.

She was preceded in death by her husband, E.L. "Bud" McNabb; her son, Michael Lee McNabb; her parents; and her siblings, Juanita LeBlanc, Louise Hill, Rosalie Rush, and Walter Rush.

Sybil is survived by her daughter, Patricia Jarolim (Kirby); her granddaughter, Megan Beck (Marcus Huck); and great-grandsons, Henry and Peter Beck, all of Tulsa. She also leaves behind an incredible circle of friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, humor, and enduring friendship.

Sybil has said for years that at her funeral she would like to have "lots of flowers and lots of tears." In her honor, we invite those attending to bring a flower to place in a basket.

Sybil will be remembered for her resilience, her dedication to family and community, and the grace with which she lived her life. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Memorial contributions may be made to Claremore Library, Claremore Public Schools Foundation, First Methodist Church, or a charity of the donor's choice.