Jeff Schoelen, an Oklahoma native and longtime resident of Franklin, Tenn., passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, surrounded by love.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ute Schoelen; his daughters Nicole Brenner and her husband Bernard of Sammamish, Wash.; Lindsey Schoelen of Columbia, Tenn.; Casey Lillegard and her husband Philip of Denver, Colo.; his son Michael Ross of Franklin, Tenn.; and his cherished grandchildren Lauren and Greyson Brenner.

Surviving siblings include Lawrence S. Schoelen (Jeanie), Joan Y. Schoelen, Janie Mercer (Joe) and Mark D. Schoelen. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins and his loyal German Shepherd, Ryker.

He was preceded in death by his parents Louis and Florence Schoelen, brother Michael Schoelen and nephew John Mercer.

One of six siblings, Jeff was raised in Kingfisher where he spent much of his youth working on the family farm, attending school and playing sports.

Growing up in a large family meant there was never a shortage of adventure, laughter or hard work.

After many years working in the Oklahoma oil fields and construction industry, Jeff relocated to middle Tennessee in the late 1980s.

He quickly came to love the rolling hills, wooded landscapes and quiet beauty of the area.

Together, Jeff and his wife, Ute, built and operated a successful business that he proudly continued to run until his passing.

Jeff will be remembered as a compassionate and hardworking man who never met a stranger.

He had a gift for conversation, a willingness to help anyone in need and a deep appreciation for an honest day’s work.

He was a devoted fan of the Oklahoma Sooners, loved cooking ribs for family gatherings and found peace in quiet walks through the woods with his dog in the afternoons.

Above all, Jeff took tremendous pride in his family and found great joy in watching his children and grandchildren grow, succeed and build lives of their own.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27, at Kingfisher Cemetery.

Family and friends are welcome to attend.