R. Perry Beaver facts for kids

Robert Perry Beaver (born December 13, 1938 – died July 11, 2014) was an important leader and football coach from the Muscogee people in America. He served as the main leader, called the Principal Chief, of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation for seven years, from 1996 to 2003. He was also a talented football player and a successful high school coach.

Robert Perry Beaver: A Life of Leadership

Robert Perry Beaver was a respected figure who made a big difference in both sports and his community. He was known for his dedication, whether on the football field or leading his nation.

Early Life and Football Star

Robert Perry Beaver was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma. He grew up and went to Morris High School in Morris, Oklahoma. He loved football and was very good at it.

After high school, he attended Murray State College. There, he became a "junior college football All-American" in 1958. This means he was recognized as one of the best college football players at his level. He later earned a degree in mathematics from Central State College and a master's degree in education from Northwestern State University.

Playing in the NFL

In 1961, Robert Beaver had a short time playing professional football. He joined the Green Bay Packers, a famous team in the National Football League (NFL). He played under the name Bob Beaver during this period.

Coaching Success

After his time in the NFL, Beaver became a high school football coach. He was very successful in this role. In 1977, he became the head coach at Jenks High School in Jenks, Oklahoma.

Under his leadership, the Jenks team won their first two state championships. They won in 1979 and again in 1982. He coached at Jenks until 1990, building a strong record of 109 wins and 53 losses. His achievements in coaching led him to be inducted into the American Indian Athletic Hall of Fame and the Oklahoma Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Leading the Muscogee Nation

Robert Perry Beaver also dedicated much of his life to serving his people. In 1984, he was elected to the Creek Nation Council. The next year, in 1985, he became the Second Chief.

His leadership journey continued, and he was elected Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation in 1996. He served in this important role until 2003. As Chief, he worked to improve the lives of his people. He helped expand tribal housing and development services, which means he worked on building more homes and creating more opportunities for the community.

Robert Perry Beaver passed away at his home in Morris on July 11, 2014. He is remembered for his contributions to sports and his strong leadership of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.