Obituary

Earl Leonard Stripling, Jr., affectionately known as “Big Earl,” was called to his eternal rest on January 29, 2026, at the age of 69. His life was marked by excellence, humility, faith, laughter, and a remarkable gift for helping things grow, whether in soil, in skill, or in spirit.

Born on October 13, 1956, Earl lived a life grounded in hard work, curiosity, and generosity. He was known for his warm smile, playful humor, and steady leadership, and he had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Earl loved fishing, storytelling, laughter, and lending a helping hand. He was the kind of man who could fix what was broken, grow what seemed impossible, and encourage anyone who needed it.

Earl was a proud alumnus of Booker T. Washington High School, Class of 1975, where he ranked in the top quarter of his class and distinguished himself as a standout athlete. From 1973 to 1975, he was a three-year starter for the Hornets football team and a key contributor to the historic 1973 undefeated state championship season. This was the last undefeated championship team in Tulsa Public Schools and the first televised high school football team in the city. He earned All-City honors for three consecutive years, as well as All-State and Oil Bowl honors in 1975. In addition to football, Earl competed in the state wrestling tournament each year of his high school career. His contributions later earned him induction into the school’s Hall of Fame.

His academic and athletic achievements earned more than 30 scholarship offers nationwide. Earl’s football talent led him to opportunities with the Kansas City Chiefs and training camps with the Denver Broncos and the Pittsburgh Steelers. After an injury redirected his path, he returned home and built a 39-year career as a machine operator with Borden, retiring honorably in 2019.

Gifted with his hands and guided by curiosity, Earl mastered many trades: architecture, photography, electrical work, music, and construction. Yet it was gardening that became his signature. What began as a pastime transformed into a living classroom and a place of inspiration. Visitors traveled from across Tulsa, the United States, and as far as Australia to witness the beauty and abundance he cultivated. His work was highlighted in the Oklahoma Eagle, Tulsa Green Legacy, Life’s Vintage News Magazine, the Tulsa World, and on multiple local news stations. Earl delighted in teaching others how to plant, tend, and harvest.

Earl is survived by his loving wife, Rhondia Gaines Stripling, who was not only his wife of six years but his confidant for 18 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Ashlee Marie Stripling and Cedric Terrell Stripling (children: Deaunte, Stephone, Loyal, Taydric, Braiylan, and Samiyah); his step-daughters Rasheena Gaines, Jasmine Gaines (children: Zaniylah and Jeremy; significant other Darren Mansker), and Brenda Gaines (child: DeMetris). He is also survived by his mother, Bessie Lee Rowe; sister, Felicia Kelli Ann Stripling (children: Jasmine, Brandon, and Tristyn); step-sisters, Katéya Rowe and Elayna Rowe; aunts and uncles Christine Barber, David Barber, and Michael Barber; along with nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and countless friends. Earl was preceded in death by his father, Earl Leonard Stripling, Sr.; his uncle, Merle Stripling; and his uncle, Charles Barber.

Earl’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the seeds he planted, both in the ground and in people.

Visitation
Monday, February 9, 2026
1:00pm – 5:00pm
Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home
2103 E. 3rd St Tulsa, OK 74104

Homegoing Service
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
10:00am
Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Memorial Chapel
2103 E. 3rd St. Tulsa, OK 74104

To watch this service live, click the link listed below
https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/TYQRE4