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Gerald David McPhail, born Jan. 15, 1936 in Oklahoma City, OK, the fifth child of John Alvan and Grace McPhail, passed from this life on Sept. 20, 2020. He was a graduate of Central High School where he was a letterman in three sports and met the love of his life, Clara Robertson. They graduated together from the University of Oklahoma where he pledged Kappa Alpha, played football under Bud Wilkinson during the NCAA 47 consecutive game winning streak record (1953-1957) and was a part of two national championships.
He and Clara were married at St. Luke’s United Methodist, Watchorn Chapel on Nov. 24, 1957. When he graduated in Jan. 1959, he became a 2nd Lieutenant serving for a time in the U.S. Army at Ft. Benning. His teaching career began with coaching football, his life’s passion, but was cut short by a life-altering heart attack on Nov. 14, 1967. This event forever colored his view of life, making every day thereafter a cherished blessing during which he bestowed upon his wife and sons, David and Mark, all the love and attention they could ever have wanted.
Continuing to teach and coach golf at Putnam City West High School, he retired after 31 years in 1990, and he and Clara traveled extensively, as they had long dreamed, to such far-away places as France, England, and Scotland where he played the Old Course at St. Andrews. His family and friends know well that he never met a stranger and was kind to all. Some of his happiest times were spent with his special high school classmates, dear Bridge Club friends and Lighthouse buddies. Never was there a greater fan and supporter of OU Football.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Clara; sons, David (Marilyn) and Mark (Valerie); and beloved grandchildren, Courtney, Sarah, Hunter and Scott. Other survivors include sister, Mary Jo Matlock (Herb); sister-in-law, Liz Robertson; special niece, Pamela Burks; and many other nieces and nephews. A husband, father and grandfather of great faith, he was a lifelong member of St. Luke’s and the Builders’ Class, serving for many years with Skyline Urban Ministries and Mobile Meals. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mobile Meals at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. A memorial service is planned for the future.
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