Autumn Fawn Flaherty (née Beard), lovingly known as Fawn, age 51, of Ada, Oklahoma, passed away on June 26, 2025, surrounded by family after a valiant fight against metastatic cancer.
Born on October 28, 1973, in Kansas City, Kansas, Fawn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, nurse, sister, daughter, and friend. Above all, she was the heart of her family-anchored in love for her husband, children, and grandchildren, who were the center of her world and the source of her greatest joy.
A graduate of Delgado Charity School of Nursing, Fawn devoted her professional life to caring for others. Her hands healed, her heart listened, and her steady presence brought comfort to countless patients and families. But the care she gave at work was only a reflection of the deep, unwavering love she poured into her home.
Fawn is survived by her husband, Shelby Flaherty, her steadfast partner and best friend; and by her cherished children: Christian Tarullo (Cristina), Joshua Cheek (Tiffany), Allison Church (Hunter), and stepson Bishop Flaherty. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren—Cooper, Christian, Carly, Cambri, Hayden, Harley, Paisley, and Josephine—as well as a grandson (and great grandson) due to arrive any day, who will grow up surrounded by stories of her love and strength.
She is also survived by her mother, Lynn McDevitt; her dad, John (Dago) Motta; her stepfather, Daniel McDevitt; and her siblings: Michelle Shinghal (Eduardo), Veronica Cockerham (Bryan), Stephanie Gubert (Val), Liz Shenefelt (Brian), Cassy McDevitt, and John Motta V. She was a proud sister, and each of them—along with her many nieces and nephews—held a unique and treasured place in her heart. Fawn is also survived by countless aunts, uncles, and cousins who shared with her a lifetime of memories, laughter, and deep familial love.
Fawn’s life was a testament to strength, softness, and selfless love. She went home to her Lord and Savior where we know she is healed and free of pain. Those who love her will forever carry her in their hearts.
Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 30, 2025, at the Criswell Funeral Home Chapel; Pastor Parker Shenefelt will officiate. Burial will follow at Maxwell Cemetery.
Criswell Funeral Home, Ada
