June 4, 1936 – May 9, 2023
Lila Jane Claywell Kimber passed away on May 9, 2023. Lila was the second of seven children born on June 4, 1936, to Otis and Ruby Claywell. Lila spent her early years in Breeding and Columbia, Kentucky, graduating from Adair County High School in May of 1955. Lila married Jack Kimbler on her 19th birthday. June 4, 1955. Lila was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. She was a wonderful cook and enjoyed being a hostess and entertaining and making every occasion beautiful and special. Lila also found pleasure caring for her garden and potted plants, what a green thumb.
Lila loved the Lord and lived her days pleasing him. She was devoted to raising her family and grandchildren, to love the Lord, like she did. She attended Bible Study Fellowship, then became a leader so she could take 3 of her grandchildren with her so they too could learn the word of God.
She was active at Edmond’s First Baptist Church until she could no longer attend on her own. She and Jack were especially involved with Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children, where together they raised money to build a new cottage at Boy Ranch Town that holds their name, The Kimbler Cottage.
Lila is preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, Jack, whom she has missed terribly since his death in 2020, her parents, brothers: Lyman and Irving; brothers-in-law: Bobby Kimbler, Joe Kimbler, Don Cook, Harry Kimbler and Phil Estes; and her son-in-law, Scott Curry. She leaves behind her children: Greg, Brad and wife Monica, and Staci. Grandchildren: KelsiJo Kimbler, Braden Curry, Kendyl Kimbler, Levi Kimbler, Morgan Curry, Faith Kimbler, Clay Kimbler, and Grace Kimbler, and great-grandchildren: Lily Kimbler, Andrew Kimbler, Cade Kimbler, Emery Curry and Wrenley Curry. Sisters: Elaine and Jan, and brothers: Doyle and Leon; 7 sisters-in-law and too many nieces and nephews to count.
Services will be held on Thursday, May 11 at 2:00 pm at Mathew’s Funeral Home, in Edmond, OK. A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 13 at Freedom Cemetery in Columbia, KY.
In lieu of flowers, we request memorials/gifts be made to Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children. Donations may be made by following the link: https://www.obhc.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/honor-memorial/
We will be live streaming this service in an effort to accommodate those people that wish to attend but are not able to. To watch the service CLICK HERE to go to our YouTube page. Click on ‘Videos’, then ‘Live Streams’.
Lila was loved by so many because she gave so much love to others and wanted to share Jesus. Her friendship has been a blessing to me for so many years.
Lila radiated the love and light of Christ. She had a beautiful smile and was so kind. Very determined as well! I always enjoyed visiting her while working with hospice. Staci, I’m sorry I missed her service- I was not aware she passed, or would have been there. I’m happy for your Mom, but I know you have been through so much loss. May you find comfort in the everlasting and strong arms of the Lord Jesus Christ. If you happen to still have my personal cell number I texted to you shortly before I left hospice, please feel free to reach out. Love, Chaplain Paula Farley