Ethan Wyatt Girdner

Memorial services for Ethan Wyatt Girdner, 18, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Eastside Baptist Church in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Ethan was born on October 1, 2007, in Fort Hood, Texas, to Elizabeth Ann (Ayres) Girdner and JP Girdner. He passed away on September 13, 2026, in LeFlore County, Oklahoma.

Ethan was a proud 2026 graduate of Sallisaw High School, where he represented the Black Diamonds as a member of both the soccer and football teams. Following graduation, he began a new chapter at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton, where he was a student and a member of the Mountaineers Soccer Team.

Though Ethan's life was far too short, he had already discovered so many things he loved and had so much more he was looking forward to experiencing. He was an avid fisherman who loved being outdoors and was learning the art and skill of becoming a farrier. He loved music and had begun teaching himself to play the guitar. He enjoyed playing pool and had recently developed an interest in team roping, with hopes of continuing to learn and eventually competing in rodeos.

Ethan lived with determination and courage. He was not afraid of a challenge and believed that, with enough effort and tenacity, there was little he could not accomplish. Whether he was on the soccer or football field, learning a new skill, working with horses, or simply pursuing something that captured his interest, Ethan gave himself wholeheartedly to the things he loved.

Above all, Ethan loved the Lord and was strong in his faith. His relationship with God was an important part of who he was and gave him strength and direction as he faced life's challenges. His faith and his family held the greatest places in his heart.

Ethan had a way of making an impression on the people around him. In just 18 years, he touched the lives of family, teammates, classmates, coaches, friends, and many others. He leaves behind not only the people who loved him, but also the countless memories, stories, laughter, and moments that will continue to be carried by those whose lives he touched.

Ethan's life was far too brief, but it was full of life, love, determination, faith, friendship, and dreams. He was just beginning to discover the man he would become and all that his future might hold. While we will never have the opportunity to see where that future would have taken him, the mark he left on those who knew and loved him will remain forever.

Survivors include his parents, J.P. and Elizabeth Girdner of the home; one sister, Kaycie Girdner of the home; grandparents, Tom Ayres and Pat Bohan of Cle Elum, Washington, John Girdner of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, and Donna Brown of Sallisaw, Oklahoma; great-grandmother, Betty Girdner of Sallisaw, Oklahoma; three aunts, Laura Ayres of Cle Elum, Washington, Terri Johnson of Magazine, Arkansas, and Desiree Girdner of Sallisaw, Oklahoma; uncle, Harlen Johnson and Shelley of Poteau, Oklahoma; and numerous other relatives, teammates, classmates, coaches, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Lynn Ayres; and one uncle, Brad Johnson.

A vigil honoring Ethan's life will be held at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the Sallisaw High School Football Field in Sallisaw, Oklahoma.

Friends are also invited to come by Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday after 10:00 AM to share written memories of Ethan.