In a solemn display of honor within the marbled corridors of the Oklahoma County Courthouse, Cleo Fields — a shoeshine man cherished by the community for his amiable presence over three decades — received the posthumous distinction of lying in state. Fields, recognized posthumously yesterday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second floor of the courthouse, became the first individual to be awarded this tribute, a testament to the high regard in which he was held by the county officials. The honor was marked by the presence of a flag-draped casket, attended by the sheriff's office honor guard, as reported by The Oklahoman.
Commissioner Brian Maughan, leading the Board of County Commissioners in establishing the tradition of lying in state for county officials just weeks earlier, akin to the equivalent of Broadway dimming its lights, was filled the courthouse. Officials, from judges to elected representatives alongside Fields' family, gathered to honor the man whose work polishing shoes became secondary to his role as a confidant and friend to many. In a statement obtained by KFOR, Maughan remarked, "Everyone was in total agreement and thought it was a fitting tribute to an amazing man."
Not only was Fields' service recognized in such a momentous manner, but also former Governor George Nigh will be given the same honor in a separate ceremony. This move highlights the Oklahoma tradition of paying final respects to influential figures, reflecting the indelible impact they've made on the community. Despite their differences in life, the respect afforded to both in death serves as a unifying factor. As noted by News 9, this dual honor underscores the deep value Oklahomans place on dedication and service, whether by a public servant or a courthouse shoeshiner.
Transitioning from a revered courthouse fixture to a figure memorialized amongst the pantheon of state icons, Fields' passing called forth deep emotions. Oklahoma County District Judge Natalie Mai described him as "everybody's best friend and a ray of sunshine," an emotion echoed in the ceremony that saw not a dry eye in the house. The entire Oklahoma County court system and government ceased operation momentarily, acknowledging the enormity of Fields' influence, as reported by KFOR.
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