In Braggs, Oklahoma on February 22, 1936, Willie and Rachel Baldridge Nave were blessed with a precious son. He was given the name, Willie Nave, Jr. His favorite aunt, Viola Baldridge, gave him the nickname, “Boots”, because as a kid he always kept his boots on and would dare you to take them off. He attended school in Ft. Gibson, graduating from Lincoln High School, where he was an excellent basketball player on the schools team. After high school, he entered the construction industry and in his spare time worked on any and all cars. Boots met and was united with Miss Clementine Simpson and to this union one son, Tony Willie Nave was born. During his later years Boots was slowed down by ill health but it never diminished his spirit or personality. He never gave in or gave up.
On March 2, 2010, Boots was called home. The family preceding him home were his parents, one brother, Charles Nave and two sisters, Mildred and Lucille Nave. Those he leaves behind to thank the Lord for the celebration of his live include his son, Tony Nave, of Hodgins, OK, six grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and dear friends.
Homegoing services for Boots will be held on Saturday, March 13, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. in the Ragsdale Chapel of Respect with Rev. David L. Ragsdale, Jr. pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, officiating. A private burial will be held at a later date. Visitation hours are today from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Services are under the direction of Ragsdale Funeral Center.
