A native of White County, Tennessee, Billy Oakley was one of three children born to Frank and Emma Oakley. From an early age, he embodied the values of hard work, faith, and family - principles that guided him throughout his life.
A proud Korean War veteran, Bill and his wife, Carrol, built a life together in Xenia, Ohio, where they raised their three children. He dedicated his career to General Motors, where he worked diligently until his retirement. Upon retiring, Bill and Carrol returned to their roots in Sparta, Tennessee, where they built a home filled with love,
laughter, and the sweet aroma of Carrol’s homemade treats - of which Bill became an expert taste-tester.
Never one to sit still, Bill embraced farm life in Sparta, finding joy in working the land and watching his family grow to include five cherished grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. A man of deep faith, he devoted years of service as an Elder at Central Church of Christ, helping to foster meaningful programs that enriched the community. His dedication to service extended beyond the church, as he also spent
years of his retirement driving a school bus for White County and later serving as the supervisor for the White County School Transportation System.
Those who knew Bill best remember his gentle spirit, kind heart, and soft-spoken wisdom. A man of few, but powerful, words, when he spoke, those who loved him listened closely.
Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carrol, and is survived by his two loving daughters, one son, and a family that will forever carry his legacy in their hearts.
Bill passed away on March 12, 2025, surrounded by the family he so deeply loved.
While he may no longer walk beside us, his warmth, quiet strength, and unwavering kindness will remain in the lives he touched.
Funeral service was 1 p.m., March 17, 2025, at Oak Lawn Funeral home, with burial in Robinson Chapel Cemetery.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home was in charge arrangements.
