John Ruben McCracken was born on October 16, 1944 in Hardtner, Kansas to Charles Tipton and Florence Hazel (Harris) McCracken, he completed his earthly journey on July 12, 2024, at the age of 79 years. John was raised on the family farm fifteen miles northwest of Alva, Oklahoma. His school years began in the Capron, Oklahoma, school system, and he was a proud member of the graduating class of 1962. Active in the FFA program during his school days, John attended numerous stock shows, showing his pigs with great enthusiasm.

Following graduation, John attended Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, Oklahoma, where he earned his bachelor's degree in math and science. In January 1968, John was inducted into the U.S. Army, serving his country in Vietnam. He attained the rank of SP5 and was honorably discharged from active duty on March 27, 1970.  After his military service, John continued his education at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, earning his master's degree. On June 2, 1972, John married the love of his life, Lorena Tylene McLean, in Nardin, Oklahoma. Their home was blessed with a son, Stell. John pursued a career in education, touching the lives of many students. His teaching career included two years in Cunningham, Kansas, and twenty-eight years in Midwest City, Oklahoma. They established their home in Midwest City. Despite his commitment to education, John never lost his passion for ranching and caring for cattle, often spending his summers in Kansas and the school year in Midwest City. After some time, the family moved to Choctaw, Oklahoma. John finally moved to Leedey, Oklahoma, in 2000 upon retiring from education. After retiring and moving to Leedey, he continued to enjoy caring for his cattle.

John was a member of the Oklahoma Education Association, the National Education Association, and the Leedey Methodist Church. He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Tylene, a sister Ruth Ann Reeg, and other loved ones. He is survived by his son Stell McCracken, his brother Charles McCracken and wife Carol, and his sister Jean Sneary. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Harvey Reeg and Barbara, a sister-in-law Lana Carpenter and Steve, other relatives, friends, and a host of former students.

Memorial donations may be made to the Roger Mills County EMS or Leedey Methodist Church
c/o Shaw Funeral Home
P.O. Box 276
Vici, OK 73859