Janalene "Jan" Love Oakes

Janalene Love Oakes
May 21, 1935 - February 8, 2026
Janalene Love Oakes, born May 21, 1935, in Jonesport, Maine, passed away peacefully in February 2026 in Babylon, New York.
Raised along the rugged coast of Maine, Janalene carried with her the strength, resilience, and warmth that defined her early years. She lived a life centered on love, devotion, and quiet grace. She had a wonderful sense of humor that could brighten any room and lift the spirits of those around her.
Janalene loved her family deeply and cherished every moment spent together. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life. She truly loved everyone she met, greeting others with kindness, warmth, and genuine interest.
Her faith was the foundation of her life. Janalene had a deep love of Jesus and was a devoted member of her home church, United Methodist Church of Babylon. Her church family meant so much to her, and she found strength, fellowship, and joy in worship and prayer.
She also had a love of reading and a lifelong curiosity about the world. Janalene especially enjoyed learning new things and never stopped seeking knowledge, whether through books, conversation, or new experiences.
She is survived by her brother, Austin Dawes Perry, her daughter, Nina Runz and her husband Lou; her son, Andrew Oakes and his wife Renee; four beloved grandchildren; and seven cherished great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy. In addition, she is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Janalene will be remembered for her steadfast faith, her infectious laughter, her curious mind, and the deep love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the faith she shared, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness.