Jewell Edna Oliphant

Mother Jewell Edna (Luster) Oliphant was born November 9, 1926 in McKinney, Texas to the late Elder Joe (Papa) Luster and Henrietta (Mother) Wilson Luster after her family moved from East Caney (Sulphur Springs). She passed away to her heavenly home at the age of 92 on Sunday morning, April 28, 2019 in McKinney, Texas. She was a life-long resident of McKinney.

Under the leadership of her father, Elder Joe Luster, Mother Jewell accepted and professed Christ in her youth. She served the Lord with her whole heart all the remaining days of her life! She served faithfully as a life-long member of the Shiloh Church of God in Christ (COGIC) in McKinney on Lindsey Street in the Rockwall community, where her parents were founding leaders.

One of fourteen (14) children, Mother Jewell was preceded in death by her parents, 6 sisters – Bobbie Lee, Verdlene, Sallie, Clovis, Goldie Mae and Zepher; 6 brothers – Cleatus (Son), Bruce, Joe (Boomer), Albert (Jack), Bertnell and LA and grandsons Chris Cobbins and Dwayne Oliphant.

Mother Jewell is survived by devoted sons, Bobby Joe Oliphant, Sr. and Charles Edward Oliphant, Jr.; beloved grandchildren in Texas, Michigan, Florida the UK and across the country- Bobby, Jr., Charles, Nekold, Chikan, Deandre (Bo), Mia, So Nae, Casondra, Jacqueline (Jackee); her sister Janie Hargraves of Alamogordo, New Mexico (the youngest and last living of the fourteen Luster children); 17 nieces and nephews; a host of grand nieces, nephews and grandchildren to the 5th generation.

Mother Jewell served as a church musician at Shiloh COGIC in McKinney and wherever there was a need. For many years, she worked for the families of Dr. John and Mrs. Hooper and Al and Gerry Ruschhaupt, and they loved each other dearly. She also worked for Vent-A-Hood and retired from Fisher Controls. She provided home healthcare following her retirement.

On November 9, 2016, Mother Jewell was blessed to witness her 90th birthday. The City of McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller proclaimed the day as Jewell "Mother" Oliphant Day! Mother Oliphant loved sharing the Word of God and teaching young women. She praised God by singing songs from "the Old Time Way" and loved to testify about the goodness of the Lord! Mother Jewell lived her life as an example through good, quality friendships to many in the McKinney community, throughout various COGIC Districts and across the country.

As a student of E S Doty School, lifelong friendships with Mary Lou "Top" Douglas and Julia (Jup) Merle Evans were established. Ruth Roberts and Wessie Harrison were also devoted friends for many years.

Mother Jewell loved the Lord, and He loved her!

The family of Mother Jewell (Luster) Oliphant will receive family and friends during a viewing on Friday, May 3, 2019 from 5-7pm at Charles W. Smith and Sons (601 S. Tennessee Street; McKinney, TX 75069). A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at 12:30pm at Shiloh Church of God in Christ in Melissa, Texas (1707 Harrision Street; Melissa, TX 75454).

Elder Paul Jackson of Shiloh COGIC Melissa will serve as the Officiant. Supt. Jessie Owens of Owens Chapel COGIC will deliver the eulogy