Tulsa County man first Oklahoma death from COVID-19
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A 55-year-old church employee in Tulsa and father of two was the first Oklahoman to die from complications caused by COVID-19, according to health officials and co-workers.
Merle Dry, who worked at the Metro Pentecostal Church, tested positive for COVID-19 on Tuesday and died on Wednesday. He apparently had only been ill for a few days.
The Tulsa Health Department announced the death but didn't identify Dry, describing him only as a man in his 50s.
“It is with great sadness that I confirm that a Tulsa County resident has passed away due to COVID-19,” said Tulsa Health Department Executive Director Dr. Bruce Dart.
“This is a tragedy for our community. In these unprecedented times, everyone feels the weight of this loss. COVID-19 has impacted our community on a monumental level, but today I ask you to take a moment to pause and recognize that a family has lost their loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
Robert Whalen, of Edmond, said Dry, was a "dear friend" and his secretary for the OK District Children's Ministries. Whalen said Dry left a wife and two children. In a Facebook post, pastor Don Martin said Dry's wife, Carrie, and family were under quarantine.
"He was so loved by the Metro Pentecostal Church," Martin wrote of Dry.
Whalen, who pastors at New Life UPC in Edmond, said he didn't know how Dry was exposed or whether he had underlying health conditions. Dry felt sick Sunday morning and didn't go to church, and was admitted to a hospital on Sunday night after his symptoms worsened, Whalen said.
Many church leaders and members are under self-quarantine, Whalen said.
"The reality hit that it is spreadable and it is dangerous," he said.
The state on Thursday reported 44 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with five of those in Tulsa County.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of Oklahoma’s first death from COVID-19," Gov. Kevin Stitt said.
"Sarah and I send our sincere condolences and ask Oklahomans to join us in praying for his family and loved ones. My highest priority is the safety and well-being of every Oklahoman and I will deploy every resource available to protect the health of all of our families, friends and neighbors.”
