Burt "BJ" Jay Symons

Burt Jay “BJ” Symons, 68, of Woodward, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was born on April 28, 1957, in Woodward, Oklahoma, to Bill and Martha Symons.

BJ spent his early years in Texas, attending Burleson High School from 1971 to 1975, where he earned numerous awards and distinguished himself in athletics. He later continued his education in Weatherford, Oklahoma, and at Northwestern from 1977 to 1983.

A true cowboy at heart, BJ lived a life defined by hard work, grit, and passion for the outdoors. He was an accomplished all-around cowboy, earning many trophies, buckles, and saddles—most notably in bareback riding. Beyond rodeo, he enjoyed scuba diving, horse racing, and working as a farrier. He found great joy in quail and pheasant hunting, fishing, and raising horses and goats.

BJ made his living in concrete installation and finishing, a trade he dedicated himself to with pride and determination. Known for his unmatched work ethic, BJ continued working until just three weeks before his passing, tirelessly striving to save the family farm he loved so dearly.

On March 28, 2015, BJ married the love of his life, Gwendolyn “Gwen” Symons, in Taloga, Oklahoma. Together they built a life in Woodward, Oklahoma, where they made their home.

BJ was a devoted father and family man. He is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn Symons of Woodward, Oklahoma; his children, Marcus Symons, Sarah Cantrell, Mason Symons, and Georgianna Diley and husband Jake Diley; and his stepchildren, Lee Blackstock and wife Lindsay, Zack Blackstock, and Heath Blackstock. He was a grandfather to Cayden Cantrell, Jayden Diley, Taelyn Price, and step-grandchildren Cade, Cooper, and Presley Blackstock.

BJ also played a significant role in raising Melissa Hutchinson, Kristina Hutchinson, and Jennifer Hutchinson, who lovingly referred to him as their stepfather, along with their nine children.

He is also survived by his sister, Annette Pierson; one niece; and one nephew.

BJ was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Martha Symons.

BJ will be remembered as a hardworking man, a true cowboy, and a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy of strength, resilience, and love for family and the land will live on in all who knew him.