Gregory Lewis Oakley Sr., son of George P. Oakley and Dorothy Gage-Oakley was born on May 30th 1953. He was a lifetime resident of Indianapolis, Indiana. Gregory accepted Jesus Christ at an early age at Eastside Baptist Church.
Formally known as “Greg” by many that knew and loved him. He attended the city public school system graduating from Arsenal Technical High School in 1972. He attended some college and went on to work for Indiana Bell, now known as Ameritech where he retired after 32 years of hard work and devotion. He served as Head Union Stuart and Lead Technical Support. Everything Mr. Oakley Sr. did in life he put his heart into it.
Greg was united in holy matrimony to Sharon Denise Grimes-Oakley on June 19, 1976. To this union 3 children (Juanita, Gregory Jr. and Jeremy) were born. Decades later they divorced but remained lifelong companions. During Greg’s early stages of life he enjoyed playing basketball, bowling and coaching little league softball. As time progressed he transitioned into an easy going loving father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to all that knew him. He enjoyed family gatherings. He was a gentle giant that always put his family’s needs before his own.
Greg was up to date on all the current events. He loved watching CNN, ESPN, and the World Olympics. He had to stay caught up, because soon enough he would have a major debate with his brothers and sons. He enjoyed those ridiculous moments, they made him laugh and feel connected.
Gregory was blessed with 7 grandchildren. He was known as “Daddy” / “Granddaddy” because he raised them as his own. In his eyes, they could do no wrong. And in their eyes, he was the best granddaddy. There was no mountain he would not move to make sure they were all ok. Plus, he would hype them up on sugar and let them get away with bloody murder.
Gregory was a man of many names but all the same person. He was called, “Big G” or “Mr. O” by neighborhood friends that became family. He always had a door to walk through, good vibes to share, a chill out couch to crash on and a safe haven to run to. Everyone his kids loved, he loved. He was guarded, but at the same time never met a stranger. His infectious laugh, corny jokes, docile personality and sense of humor is what made him the gentle giant that everyone he encountered loved to be in his presence. As we say our temporary see-ya-later, Greg’s tenacious ways, strong fatherhood, devotion to life, memories and love will be truly missed in the physical form, but will always live within us.
Mr. Gregory L. Oakley Sr. served his purpose for 67 years and 284 days on earth. His duties were fulfilled on March 10th, 2021 at 8:30 am and was rewarded a one way ticket to reside in a life of luxury, with no worries or pain. He is now with the Most High and his loved ones that were called home before him. Which includes both parents George and Dorothy Oakley, his brother George “Stan” Oakley, and sisters Eva, Margree and Beatrice “Kay” Oakley.
Greg leaves to cherish behind: His daughter: Juanita Oakley- Holman (Peter). His two sons: Gregory L. Oakley Jr. and Jeremy Oakley. Six grandsons: Jamail Scruggs, Gregory L. Oakley III, Jeremy Oakley Jr., Peter A. Holman III, Carter J. Oakley, Jaycion A. Holman and granddaughter Rylee Oakley. His previous wife of 35 years Sharon Grimes-Oakley, Mother-in-law Juanita Grimes. His 5 sisters, Georgetta Oakley, Rev. Dorthea Norwood (Glen), Mary Oakley, Charlene Oakley, and Valrie Garner (Richard). His 4 brothers, Jerome, John “Freddy”, Charles P., Charles E., and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
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