James Ruffin Oakley

James “Jim” Ruffin Oakley, 99, of Gallatin, TN, formerly of Evansville, passed away on Friday, October 9, 2020, at NHC Place Sumner in Gallatin, TN. Jim retired as President and CEO of Colonial Baking Company for Owensboro, Kentucky and Evansville, Indiana. He received an Honorable discharge from the Merchant Marines/United States Coast Guard. Jim was an active member of the Masons and Shriners for over 50 years reaching 32nd degree ranking. He was a longtime golfer and former member of the Evansville Country Club. Jim was also a member of the Oak Hill Golf Club and Kennel Club in Evansville until his retirement to Bradenton, Florida. Jim and Helen were faithful members at Washington Avenue Baptist Church in Evansville, Indiana and later First Baptist Church of Sarasota, Florida. He thoroughly enjoyed laughing with friends and spending time with family. In his last years he and his wife, Helen moved to Gallatin, TN to be close to his son, daughter-in-law, children, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Helen Florence Oakley. Jim is survived by his son, Vaughn Oakley (Barbara) of Gallatin, TN; three grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2020, at Alexander Memorial Park Mausoleum, Heritage Chapel, where the Reed Masonic Lodge will open with a Masonic service. Friends may visit from 11:30 a.m. until service time at the Chapel. The funeral service will be livestreamed on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. on www.facebook.com/FuneralStreamUSA. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in honor of James Oakley to Shriners Hospitals for Children at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org. Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.