"Procession Before War Dance", Ernest Spybuck Credit: National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institution (02/5735).
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe is primarily located in the heart of central Oklahoma with approximately 4,775 members who live in all parts of the world as of June 30, 2026. Our tribal government complex is located in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Our logo features Tecumseh, a Shawnee warrior and visionary leader, who worked to unite tribes in a common homeland where Indians could live under their own laws and leaders. He died in October 1813, in battle near the area of present day Thamesville, in Toronto, Canada. The LI-SI-WI-NWI in our logo means “Among the Shawnee”
Latest Announcements & Upcoming Events
Most Recent
AST Health System Flu Vaccines Open to Public October 2026 Dates
Announcement
Indigenous Peoples' Day Closure
Announcement
AST Shawnee Language Fair & Stomp Dance
Event
AST 477 Program 2026 Education & Career Fair
Event
Special Executive Committee Meeting
Meeting
Indigenous Peoples' Day Closure
THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2026
IN OBSERVANCE OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY
AST Shawnee Language Fair & Stomp Dance!!!
WHEN - November 7, 2 pm to 11 pm
WHERE - Thunderbird Event Center, 15700 E State Highway 9, Norman, OK.
For questions or help with submissions, please email ASTLanguage@astribe.com
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Matthew Pruitt,55, of Brunswick, Maine who departed this life on Monday July 27, 2026, at his home with his loving wife by his side after a long illness.
A loving and strong-willed individual, Jeffrey's presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born in Long Beach, California, on January 11, 1971. He was Born to Freddie L. Williams and Patricia Pruitt.
Jeffrey was a proud member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe and Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, carrying his Native American heritage with honor and respect throughout his life. Jeffrey completed his high school education, demonstrating his commitment to learning. He honorably served in the United States Navy, a period that shaped his disciplined and strong character. Following his military service, Jeffrey dedicated himself to working as a cook in various restaurants, where his skill and passion for food were evident.
Jeffrey was a man of many passions. He found great joy in creating music, a testament to his artistic spirit. His dedication to martial arts showed his strength and discipline. He possessed a deep love for the ocean, often seeking solace and adventure by its shores. Camping, Kayaking and Fishing were among his favorite pastimes, and he cherished the moments spent cruising on a boat, or sailing. He particularly cherished his yearly sunset cruises with his beloved wife and good friends. His loving and kind nature touched the lives of many, balanced by his strong will which guided him through life's challenges.
His family was the cornerstone of his life, and the bonds he shared with them were a source of immense strength and happiness. Jeffrey found spiritual connection and community at the Pathway Vineyard Church in Brunswick. Jeffrey Matthew Pruitt's legacy is one of love, strength, and a life lived with passion and purpose. He will be remembered for his kindness, his artistic talents, and his unwavering spirit. His memory will continue to inspire and comfort those he leaves behind.
He is predeceased by his Father Freddie L. Williams, Stepmother Mary Williams, his Stepfather Nelson Pruitt, and His Brother Christopher Williams, a brother-in-law Richard Fortin, along with several aunts and uncles. He was also predeceased by two of his cats. Tinkerbell and Brownie.
Jeffrey is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Michelle Miles-Pruitt, along with their two cats Khloe and Teddy. He is also survived by his Mother Patricia A. Cameron of Idaho, His siblings Mark Williams and wife Cheryl, Joseph Williams, Pamela Osborne, Tammy Hernendez all of California, Harold Pruitt and Gloria Pruitt of Colorado. As well as William Payne of Arizona. sister-in-laws Rose charette and Husband Brian, Deborah Fortin and Elizabeth Miles all of Maine. As well as many aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins and friends.
The IRS has extended the deadline for filing from April 15th to May 15th.
Tax Preparation Services are open to the community. Those meeting the low-to-moderate income of $57,000 are eligible for free income tax filing, form 1040 and 1040SR.
Required Tax Documentation:
Photo identification, social security card, medical/dental expenses, 1099 form, W-2 form, 1099-R form, last year's taxes and receipts for any charitable donations.
An employee COVID-19 drive-thru testing event for Tribal Complex employees ONLY will be held tomorrow Tuesday, March 30th in front of the Multi-Purpose Building.
- When: Tomorrow 1-4PM
- What: Return to Work Employee COVID Testing
- Where: AST Shawnee Tribal Complex (enter by bank and go to front of MPB) and then exit.
- Why: To ensure employees are safe to return to work and not expose other employees. If you have a positive test you will be called.
The Executive Committee of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, in accordance with the Constitution, Article XVI, Section 3, "Executive Committee Meetings" hereby calls and declares public notice that the SPECIAL meeting of the Executive Committee of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma has been scheduled for Wednesday, March
Join the Native Connections Grant for our upcoming virtual event "Building Our Future: Creating Leaders of Change" featuring Native motivational speaker, Brian Frejo! This FREE & VIRTUAL event will provide Native youth with traditional leadership values for positive decision making, wellness, resiliency, and so much more.
In honor and in memory of Absentee Shawnee tribal Lieutenant Governor, Kenneth Blanchard, and to allow team members time to honor him as well, Thunderbird Entertainment Centers will be closed on Tuesday, March 16th until 5:00 p.m.
We offer our most sincere condolences to his family and many friends. We have great appreciation for all the Lieutenant Governor has achieved and contributed.
Due to a day of mourning in honoring the life of Lieutenant Governor Kenneth Blanchard, Absentee Shawnee Tribe, the Tax Prep event for Tuesday, March 16th, 2021 will be closed and all appointments will be rescheduled.
On March 12, 2021, Lieutenant Governor Kenneth Blanchard began his journey home. The Lieutenant Governor has been a big part of the tribe and he will be deeply missed. We extend our sincerest apologies and deepest condolences to his family. Out of respect for his many years of service and dedication to the Tribe, flags have been ordered to half-staff.
Additionally, the Tribal complex/offices will be closed Tuesday March 16, 2021 for his Memorial service. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time.