Vaunie Lorece Flynn

Vaunie Lorece Flynn went to be with the Lord on June 23, 2025, at the age of 95, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She was born on November 1, 1929, in Rolla, Kansas. Our precious Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother deeply loved and cherished her family. She always had time for a phone call and was her family's support and cheerleader. She was loved by her many friends and was always the bright light who made you feel special and loved.

Vaunie grew up in Canton, Oklahoma then later moved to Oklahoma City where she met and married Samuel Flynn. In the early years of their marriage they lived in Wichita KS, Gladewater TX then settling back in Oklahoma City where they raised their family.

Vaunie had a passion for life that was evident in her many hobbies. She was an avid bridge player, a skilled golfer, and had a green thumb that made her garden a wonder to behold. Her flair for decorating was renowned, and her ability to entertain made her home a hub of joy and laughter.

She is survived by her loving son, Samuel Terry Flynn and his wife, Cheryl; her daughter, Tamara Runnels and her husband, Barry; and her adored grandchildren, Patrick Runnels (wife Natalie), Barry Kyle Runnels (wife Amanda), Annie Gokey (husband Scott), Corie Hassell (husband Dawain), Stephanie Flynn, and Jennifer Flynn. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Claire, London and Hudson Runnels, Shepherd and Calihan Gokey, Ella Runnels, McKinnlie McIntire, Mason Hassell, River Smith, Zander Munoz and Easton Potts. Her great-great grandchildren, Brinnlie and Dakota McIntire and Hadley Hassell. Vaunie also leaves behind her brothers, Larry Byers (wife Cathy) and Loren Byers, as well as nieces and nephews including George and Mason Byers.

Vaunie is preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Dr. Samuel Flynn, parents George and Dola Byers, sister Verlda Jean Kaye and her brother Meryl Byers.

Vaunie’s life will be celebrated and remembered on July 1st,2025 at 2:00 PM at Smith and Kernke Funeral Home, 14624 N May Avenue, Oklahoma City. There will be graveside at Memorial Park Cemetery following the ceremony.

Song of Songs 2:13 (The Passion Translation):

The budding vines of new life are blooming everywhere.

The fragrance of their flowers whisper,

“There is change in the air”

Arise, my love, my beautiful companion,

and run with me to the higher place.

For now is the time to arise and come away with me.