Michael Allen Elias' Obituary
Michael Allen Elias died peacefully at his home on March 27, 2025, at the age of 82. He was born in Bristow, Oklahoma, on January 22, 1943, to Jim (Jamil) and Genevieve (Hart) Elias. Michael graduated from Bristow High School in 1961. Michael received his Bachelor of Science Degree from then Central State College in Edmond, Oklahoma.
Michael began his teaching and coaching career in 1966 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. After teaching and coaching for several years, he decided to follow in his dad's footsteps in the steakhouse business. He went to Dallas, Texas, where he built and opened a new Jamil's Steakhouse. His business there continued to flourish for over thirty years.
Upon leaving Dallas, Michael wanted to expand his restaurant business. He and his wife Dolores came to Edmond, Oklahoma, where he designed, created, and built another new Jamil's Steakhouse in the manner of the family tradition.
After retiring, Michael returned to his roots in the Tulsa area, where he could continue to share his many culinary talents and be of service to his family. Many times he could be found at his Dad's - and his brother Tyrone's - original Jamil's Steakhouse, grilling steaks to perfection and telling stories that only he could tell.
Michael didn't know a stranger. He loved life and people. He was always willing to lend a hand to any family member or friend. He will be sorely missed and remembered forever.
Michael is survived by his wife, Dolores, of the home; three children, Lori Elias, Dallas, Texas; Katherine Elias, Dallas, Texas; and Paul Elias (Jennifer), St. Louis, Missouri; one brother, Bernard J. Elias, Tulsa, Oklahoma; and one sister, Karen Graham (Jay), Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is also survived by three grandsons, Hunter and Hayden Elias and Dylan Elias and sister-in-law, Marilyn Hess (Blaine), Paradise Valley, Arizona; brother-in-law, Duane Bond, Newry, Maine. He was proceeded in death by his parents and one brother, Tyrone J. Elias.
A Rosary service at Rivercrest Chapel in Bixby, Oklahoma on Friday, April 4th, at 5:00 PM. Visitation to follow the Rosary service. Graveside services will be Saturday, April 5th, at Bristow memorial Gardens at 2:00 PM. A "Celebration of Michael's Life" will be held at 6:00 PM, at Rivercrest Chapel, 13329 S. Memorial Drive, Bixby, Oklahoma. A reception will follow the "Celebration of Michael's Life".
Donations in Michael's memory may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, ASPCA, Underdog Rescue, Samaritan's Purse and St. Jude's.
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