Mr. John W Oaks

John Wesley Oaks was born on August 20, 1943 to the union of Henry and Esther Oaks in Corsicana, Texas. He attended public school at Jackson High in Corsicana. As a child, he joined and was baptized at Wilgo Baptist Church. As a young man, he moved to Dallas, Texas in 1960 and worked for Neiman Marcus before working 12 years for Braniff Airlines until an unfortunate accident rendered him permanently disabled.

He was married to his wife of 44 years, Bettye Oaks in 1972 and was stepfather to her late son Euless. On June 4, 1972, he placed his membership with Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church where his wife is also a faithful member. He had a special fellowship with the Deacons who called him frequently to let him know that he was loved and thought of.

He had a great sense of humor. He used to love to work on his race cars with his friends in his young adult years. He loved to go to Wrestling Matches and watch Westerns. People were amazed at his crackerjack memory where he could count down to the smallest detail. Doctors gave him 5 years to live after his accident and he proved them wrong. By the Grace of God, he lived over 30 more years. After countless years of being handicapped he still maintained a positive attitude and outlook on life. He had a zest for life and wanted to make the most of what he was able to do. The doctors were constantly amazed by his will and resilience to live. He lived very determined to make things happen even with his limitations. He truly loved his family and his loving spirit will be missed by all those that love him.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife; Mrs. Bettye Oaks. His children; Charles Edward Oaks, Jacqueline L. Bearden (Franklin) and Lauretta D. Roberts. Sister; Ethel Townsend. Brother; Jesse Oaks. Grandchildren; Sylvia A. Bearden; Franklin D. Bearden III, Great Granddaughter; Phoenix Francesca Bearden. Nieces; Ruby, Loretta, Thelma, Traci and Keisha. A host of other nieces, great nieces and nephews.