Birdie Langford

Birdie Langford, 98, was welcomed into Heaven by her Lord & Savior Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016. Birdie was born Sept. 11, 1917, the fifth of eight children, to George & Nancy Hogner in Barron, OK. Her father was full-blood Cherokee, and she was very proud of her Indian heritage. As a child she attended boarding school in order to get the education her mother insisted upon. She went on to graduate at 22, from Chilocco Indian Agricultural School with top honors. Birdie married Sammie Ray Langford, June 7, 1943, after about a year of letter correspondence while he was away serving in the Air Force. Together they raised 3 children while moving several times before settling down and making a home in Mertzon. Birdie co-owned and operated the Hillside Café in Mertzon for about 15 years, serving unforgettable hot rolls, pancakes, and pies to all who frequented and passed through. Later, she volunteered her café talents by cooking meals for the Lion’s Club and senior citizens of Mertzon at the Community Center for many years. What Birdie loved most was also what gave her the most strength and joy: Jesus. Her faith was evident to all who knew her. A devout Baptist, she was a long-time member of Mertzon’s First Baptist Church, serving since 1946. Birdie was a Past Worthy Matron of the Rebekah Lodge Order of Eastern Star, a passionate quilter and member of the “Hen House” group, and often visited elderly friends at hospitals and nursing homes, continually serving others. Birdie called Mertzon “home”, until just a few years ago, when she moved into town, residing at Christian Village. She had lived independently until a month ago, when ill health overtook her. She leaves a legacy of love, faith, and a friendly “Howdy Do” to many people, and to her family who know her simply as ‘Gran’. Birdie outlived all 7 of her siblings and her husband of 49 years, Sammie. She is survived by her children- Nancy Landry (husband Duke) of Lake Charles, LA, Kenneth Langford (wife Brandy) of San Angelo, Jerry Langford (wife Susan) of Hutto, and step-daughter Shirley Passmore of Blackwell. She also leaves behind 9 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, as well as 8 (plus 1 on the way) great-great grandchildren to carry on her legacy. Services to honor Birdie will be held Wednesday, March 30, 11:00am, at Harper Funeral Home Chapel (2606 Southland Blvd, San Angelo) and graveside service following at Mertzon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made to: Cherokee Nation Foundation, 800 S. Muskogee, Tahlequah, OK 74464 (contact@cherokeenationfoundation.org) Family and friends can give online condolences for Birdie at www.harper-funeralhome.com