Janet Mary Jessie Oakley
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Janet Mary Oakley, loving wife, mother, and sister, passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2022. Born May 5, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Margaret Jessie. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Richard Oakley, her youngest son, David Oakley, and her grandson Alex Oakley. Janet is survived by her children, Karen Oakley (William Knarian), Stevan Oakley (Virginia Quist/Oakley), and Darrell Oakley; three of her grandchildren, Jeff, Theresa, and Kara; three great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Lyla, and Kallan; her sister, Paula Anderson; her brother, Dale Jessie; along with her sister-in-law Alice Waskowitz. She was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Gail Main and brother-in-law, Harry Oakley.
Janet was a dedicated homemaker, who provided a loving, nurturing home for her family. She was a devout Christian, who devoted much of her time caring for others in the capacity of Sunday School teacher, volunteer at a pregnancy center and as a missionary for the United Methodist Church's Lay Witness Mission. She would collect school supplies and sew clothing for various mission groups across Africa and Russia. She also spent 10 years volunteering as a missionary for SOWERS, a group of people who traveled around the country to build schools, camps, and provide help after natural disasters. During the winter and spring, Janet, and her husband, Richard, would live out of their trailer, as they traveled across the country to minister to the needs of others. Janet was a talented artist and would paint faith-based murals at many of the schools and camps they volunteered at. She leaves behind a legacy of countless murals of bible stories and natural beauty for people to enjoy for generations.
Janet was blessed with artistic talent, which she considered a gift from God. She shared her talent with others in many ways, such as painting family portraits, family pets, Christian images, and natural wonders. Countless people have a Jan Oakley painting in their home. Even though she won many awards and ribbons for her artwork, she was always humble and never personally realized how talented she was. Janet touched many lives during her 88 years on earth and will be truly missed.
In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made to The Allegan Arts Council. Donations can be made at the website: [email protected] or P.O. Box 38, Allegan, MI 49010.