Mildred Delores (Kinnett) Gouker, of Shawnee, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the age of 97. She was born on April 18, 1928, in Meeker, Oklahoma, to Amos Robert and Twyla Mae (Webb) Kinnett.

Mildred was raised in Meeker and attended Meeker Public Schools, graduating with the Class of 1946. On October 26, 1946, she married the love of her life, Elvin Lorn “Brandy” Gouker, in Meeker, Oklahoma. Together, they built a life centered on family and raised two sons, Carl and Earl.

Mildred dedicated many years of her life to the communications industry. She began her career as a telephone operator with Southwestern Bell and continued her work through the company’s transitions with Lucent before ultimately retiring from AT&T. She was known for her strong work ethic and commitment throughout her career.

Outside of her work, Mildred found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She had a fondness for buying shoes, enjoyed photography, and loved spending time bowling. She was known for her spirited and sometimes ornery personality, which brought laughter and warmth to those around her. Above all, Mildred cherished her family and the many friendships she formed throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Elvin Lorn “Brandy” Gouker; her sons, Carl Gouker and Earl Gouker; her sister, Georgia Miller; and her great-grandson, Tate Anders.

Those left to cherish her memory include her brother, Dan Kinnett and his fiancée, Carol Walker; her nieces, Shelly Durham and Marla Stasyzen; her nephews, Robert Files and Mike Kinnett and his wife, Angela; her grandchildren, Brandi Lynn Stevenson Fowler and Deanna English and her husband, Chad; her great-grandchildren, Balin Fowler, Braxton Fowler, and Vivian Mills English; along with a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Mildred will be remembered for her strength, her wit, and the love she shared so freely with those around her. Her legacy lives on in the lives of those she touched.