John Paul “Buddha” Lickliter, resident of Ponca City, passed Monday, October 14, 2013 at the Ponca City Medical Center. He was 32 years of age. 

John was born July 16, 1981 in Ponca City, the son of William Charles Lickliter and Betty Elaine (Rutherford) Lickliter. He graduated from Ponca City High School in 2000 and then attended Northern Oklahoma College. He also took additional courses through the University of Oklahoma. John was involved with supporting the Opportunity Center of Ponca City. 

John’s enjoyments included being a big fan of OU football, spending time with family and friends, playing cards, his truck, Facebook and going to the casino. He also loved playing pool and had won numerous trophies from pool tournaments. 

He is survived by his father, Charles Lickliter; two sisters, Clara Louise Ray and husband Robert of Cabot, Arkansas and Sharla Anette Hays and husband Larry, of Ponca City; one brother, Charlie Lickliter and wife Kristin, of Ponca City; nieces and nephews, Justin, Jarred, Amanda, Keshia, Kelly and Megan; great nieces and nephews, Kaiden, Kinley, Alexis, Will, Braxton, Bently, Sophie and Katheryn; other extended family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Elaine Lickliter on October 10, 2012; his paternal grandparents, D and Louise Snyder; maternal grandparents, Eddie and Clara Rutherford. 

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, October 18, 2013 at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery with Hospice of North Central Oklahoma Chaplain Tom Howard presiding. Arrangements are under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. 

Casket bearers are Jeremy Lewis, Toby Sheets, Troy Sheets, Sam Miller, Zach Miller, Duane Hocker, Dave Williams and Andy Ratliff. Honorary casket bearers are Kelly Lickliter, Will Smith, Justin Ray, Jarod Ray and Evan Parr. 

Memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to the American Lung Association of Oklahoma, 1010 East 8th Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74120.