Hilby Langrall III
1935 – 2024
Edmond, Oklahoma

Hilby “Burke” Langrall III, won his battle with cancer on November 3, 2024, when he stepped over into eternity with Jesus at his home in Edmond surrounded by his family.

Burke was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on November 21, 1935, the oldest of five children of Hilby Burke Langrall Jr. and Ruth Meyers Langrall. Burke's life was a testament to the strength of character, the joy of craftsmanship, and the grace of Jesus.

Burke became a masterful carpenter, and his hands were blessed with the ability to transform simple wood into works of art. He made cabinetry for a local hot spot in Ocean City, Maryland—The Bull on the Beach—and crafted a dollhouse for his mother that was passed down through the family for years. Although Burke had his own deli business in Ocean City for years—Hungry Hilby’s—as well as a hotel complex—the Colonel Arms—Burke was able to finally open his own woodworking business when he moved to Oklahoma in 2004—Custom Woodworking—and he quickly became known for his Adirondack chairs. He believed they were not just seats; they were places of comfort, each one made with intent and care. Burke was also known as a “pattern maker” which made him very successful at his craft. He found great joy in his woodworking business, leaving a tangible legacy of his talent in countless homes—especially his own, creating beautiful furniture for his beloved wife Jean and in the homes of countless grandchildren and great grandchildren—each piece a testament to his love and generosity.

Those who knew Burke would describe him as a true gentleman—a man who gave freely of himself and his talents. He was known for his captivating storytelling; Burke could be found at the Edmond Farmers Market every other Saturday selling his Adirondack chairs and engaging eager listeners. His stories were as much a part of his legacy as his craftsmanship, leaving lasting impressions on those who had the pleasure of his company. His love for golf, storytelling and a home cooked meal was only surpassed by the love he had for his wife, Jean, of more than 32 years. After moving to Oklahoma, Burke and Jean attended Henderson Hills Baptist Church where he made a public profession of faith that Jesus Christ was his Lord and Savior, and he was baptized on August 23, 2009. Burke and Jean recently became members of Quail Springs Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents and two sisters—Carol Dell'Amore and Joanne Culver. Burke is survived by his wife, Jean Langrall; brother Dennis Langrall (Lynn); sister Audrey Galloway (Jim); and then his children: Steven Langrall (Sandie); Bonnie Shearin; Laurie Robey, Michael Langrall (Shari); Karyn Sparhawk Thimmes; Steve Weidman (Rose); Vic Weidman (Deb); Janis Ricks (Bob); and Nancy Jones (Matt). He was further enriched by numerous grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren, dear nieces and nephews—all of whom brought immense joy and pride to his life.

A memorial service will be held on November 12, 2024, at 12:00 noon at Quail Springs Baptist Church in their chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations be made in Burke’s name to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (https://t2t.org/).