Robert E. Oakley, Sr. went to be with the Lord on his 97th birthday, January 5, 2015. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Berchie B. Oakley; four children, Carolyn O. Ham, Robert (Bobby) Oakley, Jr.,(Ann), Sharon O. Bateman (John), and Douglas W. Oakley (Tammy); seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Robert retired from DuPont after 44 years of service as a millwright. His pride and joy was his garden, especially his tomatoes. He really loved folks asking for his vegetables. He was a lifetime member of the New Bridge Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, worked in the children’s department, drove the church bus, and loved singing in the choir. He was dedicated to his church. Visitation will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave, Richmond VA 23231 on Thur., January 8th, 2-4 & 6-8pm. Funeral services will be held on Friday, Januray 9 at 11am, New Bridge Baptist Church, 5701 Elko Rd., Sandston, VA. Dr. Robert Edwards will be officiating. Burial will be at Washington Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to “ Vision 2019” at New Bridge Baptist Church.
