Nicole Howlingbuffalo Racelis

Nicole Howlingbuffalo Racelis, age 45, of Clinton, passed away at her home on Monday, July 7, 2025. She was born on October 13, 1979, in Clinton, Oklahoma, to Leslie Pewo and Ima Jean Howlingbuffalo.

Nicole was raised in the Clinton and Hammon areas, attending Hammon High School before completing Job Corps in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She was a proud member of the Native American Church and deeply valued her heritage, frequently attending powwows and cultural celebrations. She enjoyed playing volleyball and softball and was known for her athleticism and vibrant spirit.

Nicole was employed most recently at the Lucky Star Casino. Her greatest joy was her family—spending time with her children, and helping to care for her nieces and nephews brought her happiness and fulfillment.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters: Lisa Fox, Fiona Osage, Tabatha Osage, and Helen Osage.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Jason Racelis of Oklahoma City; her sons: Jared Cable of Clinton, Jason Racelis Jr. of Clinton, and Jaron Racelis of Oklahoma City; her daughter, Jayla Racelis of Clinton; her sisters: Sonya Racelis of Clinton, Melvina Osage of Clinton, and Melinda Goose of Arapaho; her brothers: Hiram Zachary Howlingbuffalo of Tulsa, Johnny Chavez of Tulsa, and Carlos Chavez of North Dakota; along with many extended family members and friends.

A traditional all-night wake will be held beginning at 7:00 PM on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the Hammon ERC Building. Funeral services will follow on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the same location, with Gerald Panana officiating. Burial will conclude at the Hammon Mennonite Cemetery.

Services are under the direction of the Lee Hometown Funeral Home of Clinton.