Claudetta May Tapley

Seminole resident Claudetta May Tapley, 88, passed away peacefully at her home on September 19, 2026.

Claudetta was born July 20, 1938, in Wetumka, Oklahoma, to A.J. “Buster” and Flossie “Pruitt” May. She grew up in the Wetumka area and graduated from Wetumka High School before continuing her education at East Central University.

On December 21, 1957, Claudetta married Bill West in Seminole. Together, they built a life centered around family, hard work, and the community they called home. Bill preceded her in death in 2002. On November 5, 2011, Claudetta married Bob Tapley in Wetumka.

Throughout her working years, Claudetta was employed at Blue Bell and later at Wrangler. She took pride in her work and in caring for those around her.

Claudetta was a woman who found joy in the simple things in life. She loved keeping her home neat and orderly and took great pride in making her house a welcoming place for family and friends. She especially enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether gardening, camping, or fishing. Above all, Claudetta cherished her family and the time she was able to spend with those she loved. Her family and friends will remember her for the life she shared with them and the many memories created over the years.

Claudetta was preceded in death by her parents, A.J. “Buster” and Flossie “Pruitt” May; her husbands, Bill West and Bob Tapley; and her siblings, Devo May, Roger May, Jerry May, Obie Osborn, and Shirley Osborn, Judy Collier, Janie Mize and Barbara Whittern.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Billy and Peggy West of Seminole; three sisters, Jeanie Jones of Shawnee, LaDonna Nutter of Seminole, and Mary Brawdy of Seminole; along with many other relatives, friends, and loved ones who will miss her dearly.

A memorial service for Claudetta will be held Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole, with Ernest Cowden officiating.

Cremation services are under the direction of Swearingen Funeral Home in Seminole.

Claudetta will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.