Benny Ray Haddox, Longtime Educator and Community Fixture, Passes Away at 86

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Benny Ray Haddox, a longtime educator and community figure in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, passed away on March 1, 2026, at the age of 86. Haddox taught at South Coffeyville Elementary for 27 years before retiring in 1991 and was known for his involvement in coaching youth basketball and football, as well as his interests in dirt track racing, pulling ponies, fighting chickens, racing horses, and show goats.

Why it matters

Haddox's passing marks the end of an era for the Sallisaw community, where he was a fixture for decades as an educator, coach, and agricultural enthusiast. His commitment to youth development and his diverse range of hobbies made him a beloved figure in the area.

The details

Benny Ray Haddox was born on January 4, 1940, in the New Hope community of Muldrow, Oklahoma, to Ules and Rosa (Wylie) Haddox. He graduated from Central High School in 1957 and went on to obtain his bachelor's degree in education from Northeastern State University. Haddox taught at South Coffeyville Elementary for 27 years before retiring in 1991. In addition to his teaching career, Haddox was known for his involvement in coaching youth basketball and football, as well as his diverse agricultural hobbies, including dirt track racing, pulling ponies, fighting chickens, racing horses, and show goats.

• Benny Ray Haddox was born on January 4, 1940.
• Haddox graduated from Central High School in 1957.
• Haddox taught at South Coffeyville Elementary for 27 years before retiring in 1991.
• Haddox passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in Coffeyville, Kansas.
• Funeral services for Benny Ray Haddox were held on Thursday, March 5, 2026.