John Wade Oakley

Mr. John Wade Oakley, 96, of Elberton, entered into eternal rest on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Magnolia Estates of Elberton.

Born on January 8, 1929, in Oglethorpe County, John Wade moved as a young boy to the Fortsonia Community. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he served bravely during the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart, the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, and the United Nations Service Medal.

A hardworking man, he retired as a supervisor from Elberton Mills in 1978, later worked for Rock Smith Chevrolet, and became a familiar, friendly face at the Jones Ferry Road Recycling Center. He was a faithful member of Doves Creek Baptist Church.

John Wade was as strong as they come—so resilient that his legendary stories left people wondering how he was still standing. He had a true passion for the outdoors and found joy in hunting, fishing, turtle hunting, and gardening—especially growing tomatoes. But more than anything, he loved teaching others how to enjoy those same hobbies.

He enjoyed spending time in the kitchen, making homemade tea cakes, biscuits, chicken and dumplings, and of course, his famous turtle stew. He also loved to joke around and bring laughter to those around him—his quick wit and sense of humor were just as much a part of him as his kindness and strength.

Above all, "Pop" loved his family with his whole heart—none more than his beloved wife of 72 years, Virginia Reaves Webb Oakley, who he affectionately called "Jenny."

He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by his daughter, Debbie Oakley Anderson (Mark) of Elberton; granddaughters: Ashlie Anderson Graham (John) of Charleston, SC, Laurie Anderson Betz (Kris) of Charleston, SC, and Katie Anderson Tan (Carlos) of Atlanta; and great-grandchildren: Madeline, Kate, Michael, Ben, Vanessa, and Nora Wade. He is also survived by his sisters: Betty Jo Butler and Judy McCannon, both of Elberton; sisters-in-law: Hilna Bond of Elberton and Nancy Webb of Cartersville; and a host of extended family and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wade Carlton Oakley and Thelma Dora McCannon Oakley, and siblings: Barbara Jean Oakley and Cecil Oakley, Sr.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Magnolia Estates, with special appreciation to Kelley Skelton and Kathi Vaughn as well as to Courtney Germany of Bristol Hospice and Beth Skinner of VA Home Health Care for their exceptional kindness and care.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 26, from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. at Berry Funeral Home, followed by a service in celebration of his life at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel. He will be laid to rest at Fortsonia Community Cemetery with John Graham, Kris Betz, Carlos Tan, Michael Betz, Cecil Oakley Jr., David Norman, and Dennis Young honored as pallbearers. Friends and loved ones are welcome to gather at the family home following the funeral.

Flowers are accepted, and those who wish may make contributions in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project. Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516 Topeka, KS 66675. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

Online condolences may be shared at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. John Wade Oakley.