GableGotwals Mourns the Passing of Elsie Cox Draper

May 26, 2026 | With deep sadness, GableGotwals announces the loss of former Shareholder and colleague, Elsie Cox Draper.

Elsie was a trailblazer within the Firm and the legal profession. After earning her Juris Doctor from Northwestern University School of Law in 1962, she practiced at Kirkland & Ellis in Chicago, later establishing a practice in Gary, Indiana, before moving to Tulsa and joining GableGotwals, where she became the Firm’s first female attorney and first female Shareholder.

Throughout her distinguished legal career, Elsie earned the deep respect of her peers through her intelligence, elegance, and determination. As an accomplished litigator, she represented clients including Ford Motor Company, DuPont, and numerous insurance companies, securing significant victories throughout her nearly four decades in practice.

Following her retirement in 2001, Elsie continued serving others through volunteer work with Atlanta Legal Aid. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she was known for her sharp wit, wonderful sense of humor, love of travel and history, and deep devotion to her family.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Elsie’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.