The Norman Transcript
July 22, 2005
Winnie "Dee" Harp Rubottom, 101 , of Carmichael, Calif., died
Tuesday, June 9.
Mrs. Rubottom and her twin Minnie Lee, were born Oct. 10, 1903,
in Sulphur in Chickasaw Nation Indian Territory, the third of 11
children born to Charles Henry Harp and Minnie Vernon Harp. Her
siblings were Eva Dora, Eunice Bell, Minnie Lee, Lena Esther, Florence
Laura, Carl Henry, Vida Marie, Jennie Pearl, Marguerite Joyce and
Josephine Myrl. In 1924, she began her career in teaching. She
taught many subjects, but what her students remember most is the
love of art she inspired in them. Several of her family members were
once her students. In 1943, she received a bachelor of science and
education degree from the University of Oklahoma. She continued her
teaching career in Guam in 1953 where she met and married Patrick
"Pat" Patton Rubottom. Pat and Boats (Pat's nickname for Dee)
spent another year in Guam before Pat was stationed in San Diego
and later Midway Island. In 1959, Pat was stationed in Okinawa and
Mrs. Rubottom returned to Norman where she taught six more years.
The Rubottom's then moved to San Diego. After Mr. Rubottom died
in 1972, Mrs. Rubottom moved to the Sacramento area to be near
her sister Marguerite and her family. Family members say Mrs.
Rubottom was an incredible visual artist whose creative spirit
inspired others to explore art as well, and her hands were rarely
idle. Through her 90's she was still expressing her gift, whether by
crocheting a blanket or making a collage. This creative process
rejuvenated her and family members say she absolutely glowed
when sharing her latest creation. When not at work on an art project,
Mrs. Rubottom played bridge, worked on crossword puzzles and
enjoyed sports games, especially when the OU Sooners played.
Family members remember Mrs. Rubottom was a beautiful, independent,
strong, intelligent woman who loved her family and friends deeply. Her
family and friends are thankful to have known such a beautiful spirit
and cherish their memories of her.
Mrs. Rubottom is survived by her sisters Vida Marie Smith adn Marguerite
Joyce Sullivan; nephews and nieces Jack Charles Colville, John Robbins,
Colleen Rosemer Richardson, Bill Holmberg, Ronald Dee Sullivan,
Constance Harriett Clifton, Joyce Marguerite Hughes, Gerry Odell Wood,
Michael Wood and Biil Wood; and many great-nephews and great-nieces.
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