Special Proclamation For Shoe Shine Man At Oklahoma County Courthouse

Everyone at the Oklahoma County courthouse knows and loves Cleo Fields, and for his birthday, they let him know exactly how they feel about him. 

“He knows where every person is on every floor, he’s kind of a human information system,” said Brian Maughan, District 2, Oklahoma County Commissioner. 

For 26 years Mr. Cleo has been shining shoes and providing a listening ear to his customers.  

“Some just need to vent and I’m here for that,” said Fields.  

With the conversations come his 85 years of wisdom. He can be found faithfully, every day between 8 and 2:30 and has no plans of retiring.  

“As long as I possibly can get out of bed, because it’s my therapy and I enjoy it, I can’t get away from the nice people that are here,” said Fields.  

For his 85th birthday with family and friends gathered around, the Oklahoma County Commissioners made a very special proclamation. 

Proclaim Monday, May 1, 2023, as Cleo Fields day in Oklahoma County in honor of his 85th birthday and in salute to his outstanding public service. 

“This day is really special for our family because now Oklahoma gets to see just how amazing he is, not only to us but to so many other people,” said Fields’ granddaughter, Lacretia Mitchell. 

While others appreciate him, Fields is in unbelief that something like this could happen to him. 

“No, never, never, never,” said Fields.  

While his clients include lawyers and judges and dignitaries.

“We’re all pretty sure he’s the most important person in the courthouse because I think he knows more secrets than anybody else,” said Maughan.  

“Sometimes people just need a kind word, you know,” said Fields. 

There is a big birthday celebration planned for tomorrow, May 2nd, at the courthouse at noon, and everyone is invited to attend.