Lynn Edward Hooten was born on July 8, 1948, in Hinton, Oklahoma, to Verneta Frances (Taylor). He later embraced his stepfather, Harry Monroe Knisley, as his father. Lynn entered into rest on December 16, 2025, in Watonga, Oklahoma, at the age of 77.

Lynn grew up in Hinton, Anadarko, and Oklahoma City. He cherished his youth spent playing in the creeks and canyons of Anadarko alongside his brother and many cousins.

At the age of 17, Lynn joined the United States Army. By 18, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he survived the Tet Offensive. He proudly served his country for more than 20 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. During his military career, Lynn earned numerous honors, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

After retiring from the Army, Lynn returned to western Oklahoma and made Watonga his home. He joined the local police force and faithfully served the community he loved for 22 years.

Lynn enjoyed horses, westerns, and two-stepping. He understood the nuance of humanity, and when asked what he wished to be remembered for, he simply said he hoped people would see him as “fair and just.” He offered others grace, generosity, and humor—and yes, he could be a little ornery.

Most importantly, Lynn loved his family unconditionally.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Verneta Knisley, and his brother, Robert Hooten.

Lynn is lovingly remembered and celebrated by his daughter, Julia Costello; her husband, John; and their children, Lauren and Ian, along with Ian’s fiancée, Samantha, all from Plano, Texas. He is also celebrated by his Sister-in-Law,  Joyce Hooten, nephews, Dale Hooten and Robert Hooten; his niece, Robin Manly; and their families, as well as many beloved cousins and their families.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are encouraged to Wheatheart Nutrition, 212 N. Spiece Ave., Watonga, OK 73772, as Lynn deeply cared about feeding the community.

A private family ceremony will be held at St. Paul Episcopal Chapel in Oklahoma City, where Lynn was baptized and welcomed into the church family. 

A public graveside military memorial service honoring his life will be held on Armed Forces Day, May 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Hinton Cemetery in Hinton, OK.

Services are under the direction of Turner Funeral Home of Hinton. Condolences may be sent to the family at turnerfuneralhomes@gmail.