James Barry Oakley

James Barry Oakley, 96, passed away on April 8, 2019 at his home. Jim was born on February 15, 1923 to Eloise and Edward B. Oakley in Montgomery, Alabama. After graduating from Lanier High School, Jim joined the Army Air Corps in 1943 and served in WWII as a B-17 bomber pilot. Based in England he completed 26 bombing missions over Germany as part of the 305^th Bomb Group.

Jim returned from the war and married the love of his life, Frances Patton; they were married 54 years. The return to civilian life took Jim first to LSU where he earned his mechanical engineering degree and then to Lake Charles where he worked for Olin Corporation before retiring. During his 68 years as a resident of Lake Charles, served as Port Engineer, as Management Specialist to the Mayor Sudduth, and was a member of Calcasieu Masonic Lodge F and AM. During retirement years Jim volunteered at Abraham’s Tent and was a dedicated member of Mended Hearts. He spent many years writing editorials for the Lake Charles American Press; it brought him great joy to be a voice from the Greatest Generation.

Jim and Frances were charter members of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church where he was an active member serving on the Vestry and as Junior Warden.

Jim is survived by his two daughters, Pam Oakley David (Dick) and Kitty Oakley Bleich (John) and his brother, Edward Oakley (Lucy). He has 6 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. In addition, he is also survived by his companion cat, Aflac.

Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife Frances and his brother Charles (Pat).

Visitation will be at Johnson Funeral Home from 11AM to 1:45PM on Friday, April 12th. The funeral service will follow at St. Michael’s and All Angels Episcopal Church at 2PM on Friday. Burial will follow the service at Highland Memory Gardens. The Very Reverend Seth Donald and The Very Reverend Kyle Seage will officiate.

As a veteran of WWII, Jim’s parting quote...”Kilroy was here!”

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.