Howard Thomas Stout

Howard Thomas Stout was born on September 16, 1948, in Cherokee, Oklahoma, to Noble E. Stout and Eva Mae Stout. He was raised in the Lambert area, where he grew up working alongside his family on the farm—a way of life that shaped his strong work ethic and deep connection to the land.

Howard graduated from Lambert High School and went on to attend Alva Vo-Tech, where he completed a two-year program in mechanical studies. He later earned his bachelor’s degree through a combination of coursework from Oklahoma State University and Northwestern Oklahoma State University. During his time at Oklahoma State, Howard worked with friends on Nathan Payne’s property. It was there that he discovered a lifelong passion for horses—roping, riding, and working cattle. That passion never left him, and throughout his life, Howard took great pride in owning and caring for horses, at one time having more than a dozen.

After college, Howard settled in the Carmen area, where he devoted himself to raising and training working horses. He also worked as a cowboy for area cattlemen and found great joy in sharing his knowledge and love of the cowboy way of life with others. Howard was known for taking both children and adults along with him to ride the countryside and help gather cattle, always providing the horses and tack to those eager to learn.

In addition to his work with horses, Howard farmed and began a career in the oilfield in 1978 with Magic Circle/Carmen Field. Through many company transitions, he remained dedicated to his work, ultimately retiring from Chesapeake Energy in 2016.

Howard was married from 1976 to 1986, and from that union were born his two children, Brent and Shay Marie. Later in life, he met his soulmate and the love of his life, Janet Stout, whom he married in 2004. Together they shared 22 wonderful years of marriage. Through this union, Howard was also blessed with his stepdaughter, Amy Spence.

Howard is survived by his loving wife, Janet Stout; his son, Brent Stout of Lambert, Oklahoma; his daughter, Shay Marie (Josh), Fletcher of Wasilla, Alaska; and his stepdaughter, Amy (Bruce) Spence. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth, Tristan, and Lilah Fletcher, and Kyle, Ashley, and Aric Spence.

Howard proudly served his community by supplying horses for parades at the Carmen, Waynoka, Freedom, and Fairview rodeos. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his willingness to share his time and knowledge, and the lasting impact he made on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date and time. Arrangements are by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc. of Cherokee. Facebook: Lanman Funeral Home Inc. Website: www.lanmanfuneralhome.com.