Vance Harkins

Vance Jefferson Harkins, 56, went to be with the Lord on March 29, 2020. He is survived by his parents, Tom and Sylvia Harkins; sister Michelle Shepard and husband Rick; brother Marc Harkins; son Shane Harkins and wife Taylor; granddaughters Jennifer, Christina and Brienna; two nieces, one nephew, ten great nephews and one great niece. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Bessie Bennet and Wayne and Mildred Harkins, and nephew Jeremy Potter.

Vance was born on November 21, 1963, in Oklahoma City. He grew up in Moore. Some of his favorite memories include the camping trips he would take with his family in the summertime. Vance loved to fish and spend time outdoors. After high school, Vance served in the Oklahoma Army National Guard. Vance loved cheering for the OU Sooners and watching sports on TV. Vance had a great love for music and playing the guitar. At holidays, he would often play Christmas carols on the guitar as family members sang along. Vance loved his family greatly. He adored his great nephews and niece.

Vance always had a smile on his face and brought joy and laughter to any room he entered. He was very much a social person, which became a great strength as he helped connect people within the recovery community. Vance was known as a hard-working, never-complaining colleague and received many awards at The State Fair Catering. He enjoyed a special bond with his coworkers and loved to tell jokes and make people smile. Vance carried himself with humility and kindness, which allowed him to make friends easily. At the same time, he was not afraid of telling you what he really thought. If somebody wasn’t doing their part, he would let them know. Vance made an impression on everyone he met, whether they were customers at the State Fair, coworkers who loved his jokes, or nurses at the Cancer Center where he received chemo.

Vance’s family is comforted in knowing that Vance is resting peacefully in the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Vance knew firsthand the serenity and strength that comes from trusting in a Higher Power, and now he is experiencing the peace of God and the victory over death that Christ has provided.

*Due to rising concerns of COVID-19, and complying with executive orders of the Governor, we are limiting visitation to 10 people-immediate family only. Please leave a message for the family on the tribute wall on our website.

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