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John Oakley Obituary
John worked for 22 years as Superintendent of Scioto County Board of Development Disabilities, retiring in 2005.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by brothers Rass Jr., Toney, and Don Oakley, and a sister Donna Nichols.
John is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jennifer Oakley, a daughter, Danielle Oakley, and numerous nieces and nephews.
John's passions were music and golf. From the mid-70's thru early 80's, John was a bass guitarist for the Sinamon Leaf band, performing up and down the east coast. After retirement he enjoyed continuing to play music and spending lots of time on the golf course with his treasured friends.
In keeping with John's wishes, a Celebration of Life and gathering of friends will be planned for a future date.
Melcher Hammer Funeral Home in Portsmouth is handling the arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Oakley
Iona Brickey
January 23, 2026
Last time I was John was at our 57th class reunion from Ports West
Eunice S Asamoah
January 22, 2026
Sorry for your loss, Jennifer. Our deepest condolences to you and your entire family.
Eunice
Thomas Herms
January 22, 2026
John was one of my favorite Happy Hearts teachers from 1973 to 1974. And a good friend.
Tommy Herms.
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Tom Hess
January 21, 2026
John was a wonderful person to know and love. I will miss hearing his daily stories after he wandered around Aruba that day.
Kimberly
January 21, 2026
So very sorry Jennifer!
Thomas Herms
January 21, 2026
Hey Jennifer. Sorry about your loss. Tommy Herms.
Thomas Herms
January 21, 2026
One of my teachers from teachers from Happy Hearts School/Vern Riffe School. Missed him a lot. Good man, great teacher. Tommy Herms.
Kathy & Ed Schwartz
January 21, 2026
His obituary certainly expresses all of his accomplishments and his positive influence and impression on so many people!! We love you, John!!
Stan Jennings
January 21, 2026
Very saddened by this loss of a great friend. Many hours were spent in deep discussion socially and chasing a small round object around golf courses. Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Jennifer and Johns family.
John McClellan
January 21, 2026
We will miss John- his laughter and good conversation about any number of topics. It will not be the same without John walking the Elks golf course. Jennifer, Andrea and I send you our sympathies and condolences.
Carl Darling
January 21, 2026
Very sorry to learn of John´s passing. He was a good friend and we enjoyed getting together on the golf course.
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