Bob & Minnilou Jessup

Bob & Minnilou Jessup resided outside of Oklahoma City until their untimely deaths in December, 1993.

Minnilou died on December 1st and Bob died on December 2nd and they both left a legacy worth remembering.

Bob was a cattle buyer for my family for many years during the 70s, 80s & early 90s. He was responsible for

the renovation of the OKC Stockyards and is in the Cowboy Hall of Fame for his efforts in the cattle industry.

Minnilou was one of the elite antique dealers in the State of Oklahoma. I learned so much from her for so many

years on markings and the value of silver. I started collecting silver butterdishes at a very young age and have

one of the largest collections in the country. She encouraged me to collect in the Victorian era 1860's to 1895.

I told her one day, my entire collection would be displayed in a plantation house for all to see. Minnilou was a

one of kind unique lady with a dream and we got along very well.

Included in my collection is a silver punch bowl complete with 12 cups which survived the Civil War. This was

the same punch bowl that I served from when Governor David Boren was in office in Oklahoma for a number

of parties. This is one of my prized possessions as it is the only one known of in existence today that is

complete and in mint condition. Most did not survive the civil war as they were melted down and used for bullets.

At their estate sale, I purchased an extensive number of antiques even bidding against my own family members

for items. We knew this family well and I wanted to be able to remember her and keep some of the items she

valued the most as at that time, her own children were not interested in antiques or these possessions.

Both Bob and Minnilou were good friends of our family and for most of my life. For this, they are the Star Award

winners for the month of December and the only couple ever to receive. Since, they are in a better place, I will

have their names engraved on a plaque that is located in the cupola called In Rememberance. It is located in

the cupola as you one can see the heavens - May God keep you in the palm of his hand.     

You both will always be remembered in my heart.

Jacqueline R.