Cleburne Max Fails, a cherished resident of Mangum, Oklahoma, passed away on September 12, 2024, at Mangum Regional Medical Center at the age of 89. Born on October 14, 1934, in Jester, Oklahoma, to Cleburne and Vivian (Pugh) Fails, he was raised and educated in Mangum, where he excelled as an accomplished football player, graduating with the class of 1952.
Following high school, Cleburne briefly worked as a floor manager in border Texas before pursuing higher education at Northeast Louisiana State University, where he earned a starting position on the college football team. After graduation, he settled in Monroe, Louisiana, embarking on a lifelong career as a life insurance agent. A dedicated professional, he achieved numerous accolades and became the top agent for Globe Life in 1999.
A man of faith, Cleburne cherished his relationship with Jesus Christ and embraced the values of love and kindness. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting with his best friend, Bert Kirk. Known for his warm personality and remarkable gift of conversation, he never met a stranger and loved sharing laughter and stories with those around him.
Cleburne is survived by his son, Robert Fails; daughters, Sage Fails Hutchinson, Gina Lumpkin, and Elizabeth Winn; sister, Sherry Avery; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Cleon Fails, sister Gina Fails, and best friend Kirk Wade, who passed just thirty minutes before him.
His legacy of love, dedication, and hard work will be cherished by all who knew him.
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