Leon Oliver Beckham of Blackwell, Oklahoma, died Monday evening, December 9, 2013, in the Hillcrest Manor Nursing Home in Blackwell at the age of 82 years.

Leon Oliver Beckham was born on August 3, 1931, in Blackwell to John Franklin and Nettie Mae (Olmstead) Beckham. He grew in Blackwell attending Blackwell Public Schools and graduated from Blackwell High School. Following his education he entered the United States Navy serving during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. He was stationed in Hawaii, Guantanamo Bay, San Diego, California, and Jacksonville, Florida. He also served on the U.S.S. Essex. After twenty years of service he retired from the White Sands Missile Range. He later worked for Fey's Grocery Store in Blackwell. He was a member of the First Christian Church and the American Legion. He enjoyed genealogy research, art and bird watching.

He is survived by his sister, Fern Beckham of Blackwell; a nephew; and a great niece.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, J. C. Beckham; and a nephew, Jeff Beckham.

Services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Thursday, December 12th in the Roberts and Son Funeral Home Chapel in Blackwell with James W. Roberts officiating. Burial will follow at 12:00 p.m. in the Grace Hill Cemetery in Perry, Oklahoma. Military honors will be presented by the United States Navy.

A memorial has been established in his honor with the Salvation Army in c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 W. Padon, Blackwell, Oklahoma 74631.