Gail Kevin Rawlings

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Gail K. Rawlings from a tragic accident, departing this life on December 5, 2025, at the age of 61. Born April 22, 1964, Gail was raised on a farm in the rural Estherville, Iowa area. He graduated from Lincoln Central High School in 1982. During his high school years, he started his passion career of showing and training Quarter Horses in western riding competitions. Following high school, he attended Connors State College in Warner, Oklahoma, enrolled in their equestrian program. Gail for many years continued showing horses and began training young riders in the art and competition of Western Horsemanship and Showmanship. His proudest moment in his career was winning an AQHA world championship. His career paused while he served in the US Army for a couple of years, stationed in Italy during Desert Storm. Later, when health reasons prevented him from continuing to ride horses, he worked as a ranch manager in West Texas for several years. He left that to settle into his final career of running Twisted R Design, a home décor and printing business, with his wife, Rena, initially in Liberty Hill, Texas, and most recently in Talihina, Oklahoma. His latest initiative was Sasquatch merchandise. His hobbies included CB radio, and his handle was Crosswire. He developed many friendships from that community. He also enjoyed following new and upcoming country western singer/songwriters. Gail is survived by his wife of 16 years, Rena Rawlings; sister Daleen Stamas; son Shane Rawlings; stepson Elijah Dean Watson, granddaughter Kenzileah Cole Rawlings, and his beloved blue-heeler, Harley, as well as several nieces and nephews, and his many friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Bonnie Rawlings, brother Greg Rawlings, and stepdaughter Paige Watson. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, December 12 at Victory Baptist Church in Talihina, Oklahoma, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., a memorial service at 11 a.m., followed by a luncheon at noon. All who wish to pay their respects and celebrate Gail’s life are welcome to attend. His genuine love of people, and his smile, positive attitude and charm will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Tributes

Gail Kevin Rawlings

April 22, 1964 - December 5, 2025