James Harold Oakley

James Harold Oakley, 84, born in West Liberty, KY to Virginia Lewis and James Harrison Oakley on December 15, 1940, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Citrus Springs, FL September 18, 2025. James lived life to its fullest. He joined the Army in 1958 and fought for his country during the Vietnam war. He was in the 92nd Engineer Battalion, received the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers collar insignia, U.S. Army Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, U.S. Army Sharpshooter Qualification Badge with a Rifle bar, Vietnam service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense service Medal. He was also stationed in France, Korea and Germany. After 10 years of dedication to the Army, he retired with honors and rank of Staff Sergeant E-6. He is survived by his wife Maria, sister Anita and children, Robyn, Anthony, Danny, Jimmy, Ingrid, Brian, and 12 grandchildren. James was a man of many, many talents, and never wasted time or opportunity to help others or to build and create something, anything including fences. There was nothing that James could not fix or build. James also loved music, especially Kenny Roger's and Hank Williams. But most of all, James loved the quieter things of life – a good meal, his truck, and spending time in his garage. He loved to learn, having a curiosity for dismantling broken electronics to fix them. James loved his family and grandkids and they all adored him. Never a dull moment when he was being playful with them, his family meant the world to him. We are all going to miss him but what beautiful memories we all have. James's legacy of kindness and devotion to family and friends will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved him. He gave generously his love, trust and faithfulness to those around him and will be truly missed.