Obituary of George Oakley, Jr.

     Mr. George Oakley, Jr., 90, of Forestport, NY, passed away on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at his home, with his loving family by his side.

     George was born in Grand Gorge, NY, on September 25, 1934, the son of George, Sr and Harriett (Moore) Oakley. He was raised and educated in Grand Gorge and was a graduate of Grand Gorge High School. George proudly served in the US Army during the Korean War. On January 2, 1965, George was united in marriage with Shirley Sholtes, a loving union of 59 years. At one time, George was employed with Table Talk Pies and for many years as a truck driver with Pepsi Beverages Co. in Utica, retiring in 1999. George was a member of VFW John A. LaPolla post 8728 in Schuyler and various American Legion posts in Utica and Florida. He enjoyed traveling, boating, fishing, spending the winter months in Florida and especially loved dancing with his beloved wife, Shirley. George will be remembered as a “social butterfly” who enjoyed being with family and friends. He was a member of West Schuyler United Methodist Church.

     Mr. Oakley is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; two daughters, Bridget Allen of Whitesboro and Deborah Oakley and Scott Matteson of Westmoreland; son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Shelly Oakley of Newport, NY; six cherished grandchildren, Kimberly, Robbie, Courtney, Erin, Jonathan and William; two brothers, Frank “Dewey” Oakley of Schenectady and Robert Oakley of Grand Gorge, NY; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter, Linda Allen Lindsay and three sisters, Jean Oakley, Doris Oakley and Ellen Bliven.

     Visitation for family and friends is Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica, followed by a prayer service and time to share memories at 1:00 p.m. at the conclusion of visitation. He will be laid to rest in West Schuyler Cemetery. Those wishing to donate in George’s memory, please consider Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society, 5664 Horatio St., Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

     Mr. Oakley’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Syracuse Veterans Hospital, especially Dr. Kennedy, Brandy, Bill, Melonie, Michele, Dennis, Chris and Pam, for the wonderful care and compassion you provided to George. Your kindness will not be forgotten.