Vera Lou Looper

Vera Lou Looper, 68, was born July 11, 1957, to Columbus Andrew Shahan and Betty Jo (Cole) Shahan. She passed away on August 08, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Vera and her husband, Pete, were always helping everyone; they would take kids in by feeding them and giving them a place to stay. Although they struggled with money, they still helped these children and would affectionately refer to them as "their own kids". They were known as "Momma, Daddy, Nana, and Papa". They were known to help those whom they didn't care a lot for and never complained while doing so. Vera Lou lived her last few months in Sequoyah Manor Nursing Facility in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, where she enjoyed walking around the facility so much that she earned the nickname "Twinkle Toes" due to her habit of "busy walking". Vera enjoyed playing Bingo, and joking around with everyone. She really enjoyed spending her time with family and friends. If she ever saw a sad face or someone having a bad day, she would make it a point to put a smile on their face and bring some laughter into their life, no matter how poorly she may have felt herself.

Vera Lou is survived by her children, Vera Marie Martin (Toots), and Clifford Looper (Junior); her sibling, Joy Shahan McCabe; her grandchildren, Joshua Martin (Joshie), Brian Martin (Bree), Elyssa Martin (Baby Girl); her great-grandchild, Zoe Martin (Pumpkin); very special friends, Evalyn Megah and Pee Wee Means; bonus son and daughter, Stuart Martin and Amy Michelle Price. She cared very much for her two stepsons, six step-grandchildren, and ten step-great-grandchildren, whom she loved like her own. 

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, Clifford Looper (Pete); her son, Vernon Dewayne Looper; her parents; her siblings, Danny Shahan and Steve Shahan; her sister, Betty Roberts (Bunny); and one stepchild.

There will be a graveside service for Vera on August 16, 2025, at 10 am at Akins Cemetery Pavilion. Please send cards, flowers, etc. to 463609 E. 1044 Road, Sallisaw, OK 74955. 

Vera Lou will be greatly missed by so many; she made a big difference in many people's lives. She was the light that shined bright.