Funeral services for Weldon Drew will be held Friday Nov. 30, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Huber-Benson Funeral Home Chapel located at 100 S. Barker; El Reno.

Weldon Drew of Stillwater  was born in Silsbee, Texas to Frank and Ruth (Stubblefield) Drew.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Lillian Rachal and mother-in-law, Pollye Buford-Selectman of El Reno.  

From an early age, Drew was an active participant in sports and was destined for success.  He received his B.S. degree from Fisk University in 1957 and M.S. from Texas Southern University in 1973.  Drew received numerous awards and honors during his exemplary career.  He began with his basketball career at Kashmere High School, Houston, Texas, where he achieved a 78 game winning streak.  Afterwards, he relocated as assistant basketball coach of New Mexico State University under Head coach, Ken Hayes.  After four short years Drew accepted the position of Head basketball coach of NMSU’s Aggie’s men’s basketball team.   Drew held the distinguished honor of being one of 13 Black head coaches of the 276 NCAA Division 1 basketball teams during that time.  Drew furthered his career as assistant coach at Oklahoma State University under Paul Hansen and Leonard Hamilton.  His last career move was to the position of Head coach of men’s basketball at Langston University.  During his eighteen year tenure Drew became the second coach in Langston’s athletic history with the highest winning record.

Although he retired in 2005, he remained an avid sports fan.  You could always find him watching TV sports, reading newspapers, magazine sports articles, and listening to games on the radio, often simultaneously.

Drew was a humanitarian who positively impacted many lives throughout his life.  Players and fans respected and admired him.  His character and compassion made him a living legend.  

In March 2010 Ralph Cooper’s radio show SportsRap on station KCOH 1430 AM in Houston, Texas hosted Roland “Link” Lattin, brother of basketball legend David “Big Daddy D” Lattin.  Ralph proposed that Link create a list of the “Top Five - All Time Great High School Basketball Coaches.”   Link’s list included Coach Weldon Drew of the Houston Kashmere’s.   

A one-liner made by Coach Drew regarding his basketball team’s performance has become legendary across the Internet, referenced in Sports Illustrated, ESPN and numerous scenarios as a humorous and inspirational sports quote:    “We have a great bunch of outside shooters.  Unfortunately, all our games are played indoors.”  - Weldon Drew

Drew departed this life Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012.  All that knew and loved him will fondly remember him for his integrity, kindness, and friendship.  We entrust his spirit to God believing he will rest in everlasting peace.  

Drew is survived by:  his devoted wife, Clara Jean (Jeannie) Drew of Stillwater; daughter, Rhonda Drew,  two sisters, Frankie Simpson, and Susan Sylvester; two brothers, Tommy Swead, wife, Ocie and Frederick Douglas Swead, all of Houston, Texas;  sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and a host of  relatives and friends.   Drew is deeply missed by his B.F.F. (Best Friend Forever), dog, “Champ.”

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in his honor to Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) at 825 N.E. 13th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73104, telephone, (405) 271-7400.