Winnie and Ray DeBoard had been junior-high school sweethearts in Drumright OK. When Ray learned of Joe's passing from his sisters living near Tulsa OK, he contacted Winnie and they reconnected. They were married at Ray's parents home in Tahlequah OK on February 10, 1973. With Ray living in Liberty TX, Winnie moved 500 miles away from her family. Winnie's children came to love and respect "Papa Bear" as he was the best second father anyone could want.