Fred Deloy Oakes

Fred Deloy Oakes, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, left this world peacefully on May 31, 2026, at the age of 91 surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 13, 1935, in the quaint town of Neelyville, Missouri. Fred enriched the lives of countless individuals with his enduring love, unwavering strength, and profound wisdom.

Fred was the beloved and youngest child of Pleas and Fredonia Oakes, who, along with his siblings Roy, Florence, Irene, Viola, Goldie, Lilly, Daisy, Mary, Mildred, and Lois, predeceased him.

His journey through life was marked by the values instilled by his parents. His life’s journey is characterized by devotion, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to family. A graduate of Neelyville High School, Fred embarked on a career in manufacturing at Elco Textron in Rockford, Illinois, where he dedicated several decades of his life. His expertise, however, extended far beyond Elco.

Fred was a skilled plumber, electrician, mechanic, carpenter, and roofer. His hands, calloused by years of labor, were always ready to create, mend, and build, which was testament to his resourcefulness and determination.

Fred's legacy is most vividly reflected in the family he cherished. He shared an extraordinary 50-year marriage with his devoted wife, Joyce Oakes. Together, they crafted a life rich in love and commitment, nurturing their children, Vicky Williams, the Reverend Karla (Jorge) Garcia, Jefferey (Esmeralda Yamille) Oakes, and Brian Bass. As a grandfather, Fred's heart swelled with pride for his grandchildren, Ashley (Jercarvie Davis) Hearn, Brandon Hearn, Lindsey (Jorge) Garcia, Noah Garcia, Jordan (Randy) Christensen, Justin (Brianna) Ferro, Patrick (Nelly) Oakes, Keegan Oakes and Ryan Williams. His legacy extends further through his great-grandchildren, Arianna, Elijah, Micah, Brooklyn, Peyton, Ariell, Alexandria, Joshua, Anastacia, Janiya, Jenasis, Journee, Aaliyah, Tatum, Gabriel, and Raphael.

Fred's life was one of service and fellowship. A devoted member of Allen Chapel AME Church in Rockford, he faithfully served his community, embodying the church's spirit of love and compassion. He loved babysitting his grand and great-grandchildren. He especially loved taking his grandchildren to the junkyard, to dance class and he made sure that he was at every recital.

His love for baking, especially his renowned fudge and peach cobbler, was a sweet expression of his dedication to bringing joy to others. Fred's adventurous spirit found joy in traveling, going on Carnival Cruises and attending concerts, where he created lasting memories with those he loved.

A man of immense character, Fred was known for his loving, hardworking, and dependable nature. He was a protector, always prioritizing the needs of his family and friends over his own. His kindness and generosity were boundless, touching the hearts of many. He loved volunteering for Rockford MELD. He provided childcare and he drove the MELD van so that young parents could attend parenting classes. He loved to demonstrate compassion to those who needed to be loved. Also, Fred was a life-long St. Louis Cardinal’s fan and he enjoyed going to Major League Baseball games.

Through his wisdom and patience, he imparted invaluable lessons that continue to guide those who were fortunate to know him. In his final days, Fred was surrounded by the family he so deeply loved, and his passing was eased by the compassionate care of Mercy Health Hospice, for which his family is eternally grateful.

As we reflect on the remarkable life of Fred Deloy Oakes, we celebrate a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering support. While he may have left this earthly realm, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were privileged to share in his journey. Fred's memory will forever be a guiding light, illuminating the path for future generations.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115, US, on June 19, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and again at Allen Chapel AME Church, 3000 Rural St, Rockford, IL 61107, US, on June 20, 2026, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am. A funeral service will take place at Allen Chapel AME Church, 3000 Rural St, Rockford, IL 61107, US, on June 20, 2026, at 11:00 am, followed by committal at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115, US, on June 20, 2026.