OKLAHOMA CITY — In a powerful display of community spirit, an Oklahoma construction company has stepped up to provide a free roof replacement for a 95-year-old homeowner, embodying the generosity often called the “Oklahoma Standard.”

Statia Rector, whose northeast Oklahoma City home dates back to the 1920s, had been facing growing challenges maintaining the aging property. Originally her mother’s home in the 1950s, Rector has called the house her own since the late 1980s. She admitted it had been nearly four decades since the roof was last replaced.

“The house is old!” said Rector, chuckling despite the mounting leaks in her ceiling.

Last year, the first signs of trouble appeared with a leak above her bathtub. A few months later, another showed up in the dining room.

“That’s the ceiling itself that you’re seeing and the split there,” Rector said, pointing at the damaged spot. “I just went and got a bucket.”

When Rector reached out to her insurance company, they connected her with Joe Knapp of Excel Construction Group for an inspection. Knapp quickly realized the extent of the problem.

“When you have a leak, it’s probably going to lead to a bigger problem,” said Knapp.

Upon closer examination, Knapp uncovered widespread issues.

“This roof was absolutely not up to code, multiple layers of shingles on top of rotted decking,” he explained. “The water was penetrating through the shingles.”

The required repairs were far beyond just patching a few leaks — a full roof replacement was needed. But for Rector, that wasn’t an expense she was ready or able to take on.

“I had already decided I was not going to put a roof on this old house,” she admitted. “Just fix the leaks when they happen.”

Recognizing the homeowner’s situation, Knapp reached out to the owners of Excel Construction Group. Together, they made the decision to donate a brand-new roof — a project valued at approximately $10,000 — at no cost to Rector.

“I put it in the hands of the Lord,” said Rector, reflecting on the kindness she was shown.

“And I said, ‘I guess God put me in a position to help you, so that’s what we’re doing,’” said Knapp, explaining the company’s motivation.

On Monday, Knapp’s crew got to work. They installed new decking, fresh shingles, and proper ventilation, ensuring the new roof would be up to modern standards and last for years to come.

“We’re going to give her a very permanent solution,” Knapp said.

By the afternoon, the job was wrapped up — a real-life example of neighborly care and readiness to help someone in need, embodying the Red Dirt Readiness ethos that Oklahomans are known for.

“Getting it done freely never crossed my mind,” Rector said, grateful and still somewhat surprised by the company’s generosity.

The story not only highlights a meaningful act of kindness but also underscores the ongoing importance of community connections in Oklahoma. In a time when many residents face financial and home maintenance challenges, local businesses stepping up to help can make all the difference.

Originally reported by Katelyn Ogle in KFOR.