Remembering Tot Calvert
The community of Atoka is mourning the passing of Robert 'Tot' Mahata Calvert, a lifelong resident whose vibrant spirit and captivating stories enriched countless lives. Tot passed away at his home on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the remarkable age of 100. Born on March 7, 1925, on the banks of Muddy Boggy River near Lehigh, Tot's life was a true reflection of the pioneering spirit of Atoka County.
A rancher, cowboy, and a man of many talents, Tot's career spanned various roles, from working with Wilson Meat Company and Abe Zeigel Hardware to training horses at Mullendore Ranch. He also served as a guard at correctional facilities before retiring from Boggy Depot State Park after 15 years. His deep connection to the land and his community was evident in every facet of his life.
Remembering Tot Calvert
Tot's enduring love story with Wanda Lorene (Waggoner) was a cornerstone of his life. They married on December 12, 1946, in Sherman, TX, and celebrated over 78 years of marriage before Wanda's passing on March 15, 2025. Their bond was a testament to enduring partnership.
As Wanda once shared, the secret to their long union was open communication, advising couples to 'fight it out... Talk about what is bothering you, and talk it through with each other.' Together, they shared simple joys like hauling cotton to the gin and Tot's playful role in helping Wanda perfect her famous Halloween popcorn balls.
Beyond his work and family, Tot had a profound love for his horses, considering them his best friends. He spent countless hours riding for miles, exploring the countryside and visiting neighbors. His first horse, 'Sport,' held a special place in his heart. A proud member of the Atoka Trail Riders Club, he eagerly anticipated trail rides, parades, and rodeos, embodying the true spirit of a cowboy.
Perhaps what Tot will be most fondly remembered for is his gift for storytelling and his written contributions. Known as the 'Legendary Storyteller of his time,' he captivated audiences with his unique, humorous, and authentic tales drawn from his extensive life experiences.
His stories provided a living history of Atoka County and Wards Chapel, making him a true 'Pillar of his community.' He was often described as a 'social butterfly who everybody likes,' a testament to his warm and engaging personality.
Tot's talents extended to the written word, sharing his personal adventures and insights with the community. His published works in the Atoka County Times included pieces such as 'Rounding Up Cattle In Florida,' 'Roping Hogs For A Friend,' 'Pipeline Walker,' and 'Horse and Rider Are Still Part of the Story.'
In his own words from 'Horse and Rider Are Still Part of the Story,' he reflected on his lifelong passion: 'I'm a cowboy, who roped off and on for '90' some years. I've roped everything except a jack rabbit and wild turkey, not only for myself. Also, cowboyed for other people... Cowboying has been a lot of company for me. I hope the next young lad enjoys it as much as I have.'
These articles offered glimpses into his cowboy life, his work, and the changing landscape of the area. Further cementing his literary legacy and his dedication to his passion, Tot authored the book 'Cowboy Journey.' Demonstrating his generosity and commitment to the equestrian community, he famously donated all proceeds from the sale of this book to the Atoka Trail Riders, contributing to the construction of their new arena.
Alice McEntire Foran, a representative of the Atoka Trail Riders, offered a heartfelt tribute, saying: 'Robert Tot Mahata Calvert was the epitome of a Cowboy, Member of the Choctaw Nation, an Author, local historian, family man, and rancher who loved the western way of life. He was one 'Heck of a Cowboy and an All Around Great Guy!!'' Foran recalled growing up in Southeastern Oklahoma around people who cherished the western way of life, and described Tot as 'the most humble, gracious, and kind fellows I knew... He was a cowboy through and through.' She praised his commitment not only to telling stories of the area but also to 'writing them down so that his friends, family and other people with similar interests would remember and not let the past go forgotten.'
Foran fondly remembered Tot's admiration for her Grandpap, John McEntire, a World Champion Steer Roper, noting how Tot would describe witnessing him rope 'like it happened yesterday.' She recounted seeing Tot for the first time on an Atoka Trail Riders trail ride in the early 1960s, noting how happy he was to be there with his son Robert, a connection that deepened decades later when his granddaughter, Cindy Calvert, became her daughter-in-law.
Tot and Wanda were frequently honored by the Atoka Trail Riders during their annual rodeo, and Tot was recognized as the oldest living member during his recent 100th birthday celebration.
Tot's greatest joy, after Wanda, was watching his children and grandchildren grow. He leaves behind a loving family, including his children, Jessie Marie Kight and husband Richard of Kingsland, TX, Robert Darrell Calvert and husband Malinda of Wards Chapel, OK, Forrest Calvert of Wards Chapel, OK, and Susan Calvert of Atoka, OK.
He is also survived by six grandchildren, 14 greatgrandchildren, five greatgreat- grandchildren, and two nephews, Don and Lonnie Fink, along with numerous other relatives and dear friends.
Tot was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Bud and Effie Hotama (Williams) Calvert; his cherished wife, Wanda Lorene Calvert; his grandson, Raygan Calvert; and his sister, Anna Jo Fink.
Robert 'Tot' Mahata Calvert's legacy will continue to resonate through the countless stories he shared, the lives he touched, and the enduring spirit of the Atoka community he so dearly loved.
Happy Trails, Tot.
