‘Yet We’re Still Standing’: Oklahomans Mark 1 Year Of State’s First COVID-19 Death

It’s been one year since the first Oklahoman died from COVID-19. His name was Merle Dry.

Since then, a man has built thousands of crosses to signify each death from the virus. The memorial is now open to let those who lost a loved one to the virus take a cross in remembrance.

The widow of Merle Dry was given the first cross from the memorial.

Across the lawn of Forest Park Christian Church, more than 5,000 crosses each memorialize a life lost from COVID-19.

Each tells a story.

"They come and just walk about and reflect and mourn," said Pastor Bill Hemm at Forest Park Christian Church.

Toby Gregory started building the white crosses and placing them in his front yard to visualize just how many people were impacted by the virus. After running out of space, he moved the memorial to the church.

Gregory said people sit and reflect here for hours.

"Just listen. That's what this was to me is to listen," Gregory said. "They could be here in silence and were listening as well."

Exactly one year ago on March 18, 2020, Dry became the first Oklahoman to die from COVID-19. He was a pastor, beloved husband and father.

"365 days ago, my husband Merle Dry stepped out of this life and into the pages of Oklahoma history as the first fatality on the state," said Carrie Dry.

His wife Carrie said she holds onto his hobbies, his photos, his favorite iced tea, and the Lord to get through an unimaginable time.

"Our losses have been profound, and yet we're still standing," Carrie said.

Toby remembers Merle and knows exactly where his cross was standing. During Thursday's ceremony, he took Merle's cross and gave it to Carrie.

Now, others can claim their crosses.

"This a memorial not of the dead but for the living, for all the families rocked by this," Gregory said.

Oklahomans who lost loved ones from COVID-19 are encouraged to take a cross from the memorial any time. It will be taken down by April.

Dry was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, who held a memorial Thursday night to honor the 106 Cherokee citizens who died during the pandemic.

Related Story: Cherokee Nation Holds Memorial Service For Tribal Members Lost To COVID-19