Elma J. Oakes Obituary (1948 - 2017)

Elma Jineel Oakes, 69, of Knoxville, TN passed away Wednesday, November 1, 2017 in Knoxville, TN. A graveside service will be Saturday, November 11, 2017 at 12:00 p.m. at Memorial Park in Pontiac, IL with Deacon Jim Wallace officiating. Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home, Pontiac, is in charge of arrangements. Elma was born August 26, 1948 in Russell Springs, KY to Autto McGowan and Erie Wisdom. She married Paul Oakes on August 31, 1963. He preceeded her in death. She is survived by her children, Sherry (Steve) McHenry of Knoxville, TN, Charles Oakes of Ancona, IL, and Kathy Oakes of Knoxville, TN; brothers, Autto McGowan Jr. of Pontiac, IL, Jimmie McGowan of Knoxville, TN, Milze (Cassie) McGowan of Russell Springs, KY, and Phillip McGowan of Pontiac, IL; grandchildren, Corey Merchant, Matthew Merchant, Holley Oakes, and Austin Oakes; and great granddaughter, Natalie Merchant. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one brother, Wendell McGowan; and two sisters, Wanda Skonetski and Betty Lawler. Elma attended Russell County schools and was employed as a Factory Worker and Elder Care Worker. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a local animal shelter of the donor's choice in memoriam of Elma Oakes. Online condolences may be made to the family at duffyfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.