Betty Oakley

Betty Rae Evans Oakley, 74, of Mansfield died Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at her home. Born July 10, 1933 in Carter County, KY, she was the daughter of William Vernon and Lenora Henderson Evans. A Godly and gentle soul, she never had a harsh word for anyone. In her younger days she resembled Elizabeth Taylor, but her beauty was so much more than external- she had an inherent goodness and gentleness that humbled. She delighted in the cheerful song of the robin and was awed by the marvels of nature that God created. She was particularly enamored of the sea and its wonders. She was of the Christian faith and lived a Christian life. Betty enjoyed working in her flower gardens, history, reading, Bingo, garage sales, and Saturday shopping trips. She was a gifted writer and composed poems that brought tears to the eyes. Most of all, she cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, and in the last few months, her newest great-grandchild, Alyssa Smith, who was a never ending source of joy to her in her final days. She was a career homemaker who devoted her life to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She instilled in them moral values and sacrificed in order to provide for them. Her unconditional love, compassion, faith, and support were unfailing. She was the epitome of the word "mother" and words cannot describe how very much her family will miss her. She was our rock, our anchor, our treasure. On February 7, 1953, she married Jimmie F. Oakley, who preceded her in death on November 17, 1994. "Mawsie" was greatly beloved by all who came in contact with her. The world has lost a great person with her passing, but heaven has gained a beautiful angel. We love you, mama, grandma, great-grandma, sister, and aunt. In our hearts, you will go on. Special thanks to hospice angels Gracie, Doris, Linda, Valerie, LaToya, and Gert. We can never express how much your loving care of our dearest mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt was appreciated. A very special thank you to Earl Tackett, who provided spiritual comfort to mother and the family during this difficult time. Family members Brenda McGlone and Flora Butler, and family friends, Ruth and Dale Slusher, and Charles and Becky Jones: words can never express our appreciation for your being there for us.

She is survived by devoted daughters, Sheila Smith and special friend, Bo Evans, of Mansfield, who provided her with 24 hour care during her illness, Jeannie Don Berry of Perrysville; sons, Ken Lisa Oakley, and Doug Debbie Oakley of Mansfield; grandchildren, Ryan Brandi Smith, Sarah Adam Rock, Doug Lindy Oakley, D.J. Shannon Oakley, Kenton Oakley, Corey Sarah Byles, and Lauren Oakley; great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Brian, Sydney, and Courtney Byles, and Alyssa Smith; sisters, Cressie Campbell and special friend, Larry, of Ironton, and Joy Bennie Haywood of Kentucky; brothers, Emerson Ruth Evans, and Walter Evans of Indiana, Frank Irene Evans, Theodore Loretta Evans of Kentucky, Donnie Evans of Mansfield; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Sarah Jane J.T. Carver, Linda Austin Carter, Arlene Glennis Porter, Lenore Elbert Catron, Wilford Shirley Oakley, and Louie Lucille Oakley; son-in-law, LeRoy Smith, who remained a helpful friend; and many nieces and nephews who loved her and will miss her. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by brothers, Paul, Gene, and Bob Evans; and beloved sister, Barbara Fannin.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 28, 2008 at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home conducted by Rev. Clifford Earl Tackett. Burial will follow in Mansfield Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of North Central Ohio.