Roy Earl Nokes

Roy Earl Nokes, April 30th 1936 - January 5th 2021

Roy passed away at home in much the same way as he lived his life, independently on his own terms. He was proceeded in death by his wife and best friend Rita Nokes. Roy grew up in Arkansas joining the workforce as a teenager, moving to Illinois to work in the factories where he quickly became a supervisor. Rita Jones who had traveled from a family farm in South Dakota to also work in the factors took a job under his supervision. They moved to Bakersfield, California where he worked helping to construct the California Aqueduct tunnels between Bakersfield and Los Angeles. He eventually started his own very successful business, Nokes Tree Service, with Rita working by his side while the kids were in school. When the boys were old enough he trained them in his trade as they worked along side of him. When Roy and Rita left Bakersfield for Ridgecrest they left the business to their son Rodney. Roy started Ridgecrest Tree Service eventually leaving the business to his son Drake. Roy and Rita spent many hours making memories panning for gold on their claim in Jawbone canyon, where he has requested that his ashes be scattered along side the love of his life Rita Nokes.

Roy was preceded in death by his wife Rita Nokes, Daughter in law Vicky Nokes, Son in law Paul Wheeler and granddaughter Symphony Nokes. Roy is also proceeded by his siblings Bertha Flippin, Cecil Nokes, Thelma Simpson, Leola Polston and Fay Cude. Roy leaves behind his younger brother J.T. Nokes.

Roy is survived by his children Brad and Mary Nokes, Rodney Nokes, Jacqueline and Jack Cummings, Drake and Lisa Nokes, Cindy Nokes and Kindi Wheeler. Roy also leaves behind his grandchildren, Mike, Angela, Michelle, Michael, Steven, Donnie, Joseph, Jonathon, Miranda, Eara, Daniel, Robin, Kenneth, Willie, "Little" Rita and thirty great grandchildren.

Roy will always be remembered for his dedication to his family, his perseverance in the face tragedy and his joy of helping others. A special thanks to Rita and Dan Davis for all the special care that was given to allow Roy to pass at home. Roy requested that there be no services.