Dobson, Wayman W.

Wayman Dobson, photo, a prominent Miami pioneer who served six terms as major and who had been active in municipal affairs at Miami for nearly 40 years, died Aug 13, 1945, age 68, at his home, 106 A Street southwest, at 6:45 am today. He had been in failing health for the past year and a half. Born at Cuba Kentucky, Mr. Dobson first came to Miami, then an Indian Territory trading post, on Nov 10, 1894. His tenure as mayor began in 1906. He was re-elected the following year, being in office when Miami became a part of Oklahoma. While acting as the city's chief executive from 1933 to 1941, he was instrumental in reducing a bonded indebtedness of approximately $705,000 to little more than $100,000 before he chose to retire in the spring of 1941. Mr. Dobson also was park commissioner for more than 10 years and had served in recent years on the city utilities board. Survivors include one sister, Miss Nellie Dobson, and one brother, S. M. Dobson, both of the home. Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at the home. The Rev. Harry W. Curtis, pastor of the First Presbyterian church, will officiate. Burial will be in G.A.R. cemetery at Miami, under direction of the Cooper funeral home. In commenting on the former mayor's record in public and private life, Mayor F. E. Millner today said: "The passing of Wayman Dobson is a loss to Miami and community that cannot be repaired. Most of his life has been spent in Miami as a useful citizen one whose whole life was for the building and advancement of the community. He was a friend to everyone and was always helping to further industries so that employment would be plentiful."