Dennis "Oatsy" B. Oats

Dennis was born June 09, 1950, in Taylorville, IL, the son of Delmar and Mary (Miller) Oats. He married Stella Miller on July 8, 2007, in Shelbyville, IL.

Dennis graduated from Taylorville High School in 1969. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy and was both a Retired Navy Veteran and a Disabled American Veteran. Dennis graduated from Southwestern College in California with an associates degree in arts and general studies. After completing his military service, Dennis worked for the San Diego Public Transit Authority as a bus driver before returning to Taylorville, where he served as a dedicated school bus driver for the local area schools.

Throughout his life, Dennis was an active member of many organizations, including the NRA, Illinois State Rifle Association, American Legion, A.B.A.T.E., Norton Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4495 (member since 2006), U.S. Concealed Carry Association, and Fleet Reserve Association Branch #221.

He was deeply passionate about his country and the rights and freedoms it represents, holding a profound respect for the military. Dennis was known for his caring nature and unwavering loyalty to those around him. He also cherished exploring his ancestry, riding motorcycles, and spending time at Taylorville Lake. Above all, he was his grandsons’ biggest fan—always ready to cheer them on at a ball game or join them for a day of fishing.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents; brother, Delmar “Joey” Oats; and sister-in-law, Patricia Oats.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Stella of Taylorville; sons, Zethian Oats and Brandon Wilson; daughters, Tricia Lowrance and Traci (Todd) Ater; four grandchildren, Drew Longbrake, Justice (Lorran) and Jadon Ater, and Matthew Wilson; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A private family viewing was held on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

A family hosted graveside will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, 5063 Camp Butler Rd, Springfield, IL with Todd Ater officiating. Military Honors will be provided by Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and the U.S. Navy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christian County Animal Control, 300 S. Baughman Rd., Taylorville, IL 62568.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.