Oklahoma Senate mourns the passing of David ‘Coach’ Myers

(Archived digital audio available at www.oksenate.gov under “Media”)

            The Oklahoma Senate is mourning the loss of Sen. David Myers.  The Ponca City Republican had been fighting pneumonia for the past three weeks.  He passed away early Friday morning at the OU Medical center in Oklahoma City surrounded by his family.  Myers was first elected to the Senate in 2002 and was the Senate Appropriations Chairman.  He was 73 years old.

            Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman said Myers would be greatly missed.

"The loss of Senator David Myers is one that will be deeply felt by so many at the State Capitol and across Oklahoma. He was the standard by which any public servant should be measured; humble, selfless, and dedicated beyond question. But most important of all, he was a great friend,” said Bingman, R-Sapulpa.  “David's strength of conviction and uncompromising values will be remembered by all who had the honor of serving alongside him. Simply put, Senator Myers made a difference. The thoughts and prayers of the state Senate are with David's wife, Sara, and his family. He will be greatly missed."

            Incoming Senate Democratic Leader Sean Burrage also expressed his loss upon hearing the news.

            “We are saddened by the news of the passing of Senator David Myers.  Senator Myers was a gentleman and known as a man of great intellect, character and integrity.  He was the go-to Senator on many of our most difficult issues, including the state budget.  It is Oklahoma’s loss and he will be missed by the entire State Senate family.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones.”

            In addition to his nine years of service in the Oklahoma State Senate, David Myers was a family man of many accomplishments.  A chemical engineering graduate of Oklahoma State University, Myers had a successful career as an executive with ConocoPhillips in Ponca City, retiring after 33 years and then becoming a consultant in the oil industry.

            Myers was also a pilot and was an antique car enthusiast, rebuilding many classic models which he drove in local parades in his district.  He also loved working on his farm.

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            Admired for his statesmanship on the floor of the Senate, he had just as much admiration from fellow members for his leadership on the ball field.  For several years he served as coach and manager of the Senate “Redhots” baseball team, leading them to victory more often than not over the House of Representatives in an annual charity baseball game with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society.  Many members often referred to Senator Myers as “Coach” on the floor and in committee.

            David Myers is survived by his wife Sara, his son Craig, Daughter Cheryl and her husband, Glen Hazelbaker, grandchildren Shelby, Josiah, and David, Tiffany, Jonathan, Miguel Najera and their mother Monya.  Deeply proud of all his children and grandchildren, the newest addition to the family and apple of his eye is great-grandson Caleb Myers.

            Sara Myers expressed her appreciation for the many kind words and prayers for her husband.

            “I have absolutely enjoyed the nine years I have been by David’s side as he served in the Oklahoma Senate.  We’ve come to know and love so many wonderful people at the State Capitol and here in the district,” Sara said.  We are deeply grateful for the tremendous outpouring of prayers and love.”

            Services have been set for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, November 15 at the First Baptist Church in Ponca City at 5th and Oklahoma, with arrangements by Trout Funeral Home.  The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Marland Children’s Home in Ponca City.

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