Kelly L. Flindt: Christ follower, wife, mother, educator, friend. Lover of people and animals, sometimes the latter more than the former. Champion of education, especially science. Fighter of cancer, which she would not tolerate anyone saying she “lost” a battle to— she always hated that cliché. Life of the party, light of our lives, prayer warrior, gift giver, frog dissector, daily Bible reader.
She made her grand appearance on July 9, 1959 to her mother Merle Hail who knew immediately she would never want another child because in Kelly was pure perfection. While older sister Kimberly was not so sure of that, she was relieved to have someone to blame all the mischief on. But it was Kim who was often the brunt of Kelly’s pranks. She even locked Kim out of the house in the freezing cold when she badly had to use the bathroom. Our precious Kelly watched with delight as Kim peed all over herself.
That’s right students, you’re not the only ones she lacked sympathy for when needing to go to the bathroom.
Kelly was subjected to all of the traditional 1960’s rituals like being in Campfire Girls and wearing handmade jumpers. She cartwheeled into East Central High School where she was affectionately called The Lung by her Chemistry teacher Mr. Ward for her endless talking in class. Head cheerleader, synchronized swimmer, gymnast, and member of many clubs like yearbook and French Club. It was obvious when she was crowned Miss East Central. Years later many of her “subjects” still bowed down to her when they ran into her around town. She was spoiled by her stepfather Wayne Hail whose dealings would land Kelly a new car every few months. While she was never seen without a hot hunk or herd of friends by her side, all of that was soon replaced by the dark-haired football throwing “garbage disposal” (nicknamed for eating everyone’s leftover food at lunch) Matt Flindt. Their love affair was and is the envy of all. She sunk her claws into him and didn’t let go. And so she followed him to Northeastern A&M Jr. College, Southwestern OK State University, and finally Oklahoma State University where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science, but more importantly convinced Matt that he could never get rid of her. And he didn’t. They married on August 1, 1981. The bride wore a lot of lace and a large white hat—even though her mother-in-law didn’t approve of hats at a wedding. The groom wore pride, knowing he married way out of his league.
Kelly and Matt worked as engineering assistants at Occidental Petroleum in Tulsa for 10 years. During this time they produced two children, Cory Flindt and Amber McMath, who are quite certain she was the best mother in the entire world. She could be found at Girl Scout outings, soccer and football games, cheerleading booster club meetings, recitals, band concerts, and numerous other places she attended to embarrass and/or brag about them.
When Occidental closed, Kelly found the second love of her life—teaching science. At Haskell Middle School in Broken Arrow her internship turned into a long-term sub job which led to being hired in the fall of 1991. Kelly’s accomplishments as an educator are so many they would far outnumber all the classroom pets she had. Suffice it to say, her kids loved science and they loved her. She was a frequenter of the teacher’s lounge where the filter was removed and many laughs were had. Joining the faculty of the Owasso Seventh Grade Center in 2007, Kelly continued to leave her mark on countless students—no physical marks though since her evil stare was a far worse punishment than paddling.
Matt surrendered to the ministry in 1996. Kelly, being of solid faith and in a strong relationship with God, asked Matt if this meant she had to be a typical preacher’s wife. She was not. She was, however, a faithful servant in any capacity He called. Whether it was waking up the Falls Creek campers with a silly song or taking the youth girls out toilet papering houses, Kelly was in constant service of her Savior. Both Sequoyah Hills Baptist Church in Tulsa and Central Baptist Church in Owasso are proud to add her to their hall of faith.
All that should be said of her battle with breast cancer is the following: Cancer Treatment Centers of America is world-class. Hair is overrated. Wigs are torture. Friends are valuable. Family is essential. Grandsons are a blessing. God is good. And all the thank you notes in the world are not enough for her to thank everyone who helped her keep that fighting spirit.
On March 27, 2014 Kelly went home and was greeted by her dear mother Merle Hail, many other relatives, and we can only hope a whole slew of pets. Those mourning her passing are husband Matt Flindt of Owasso, daughter Amber McMath and husband AJ McMath of Owasso, son Cory Flindt and wife Aundrea Flindt of Claremore, sunshine of her life and grandson Hudson Flindt, stepfather Wayne Hail of Tulsa, sister Kim Raptou of Sedona, AZ, and many other friends and family who all want to grow up and be just like her.
As Kelly worships in the presence of God with a Cherry Limeade and something chocolate, the family invites you to celebrate with them on Tuesday, April 1st. Her family, friends, and community will remember her and praise God for the goodness that was and is Kelly Flindt.
