Obituary of Jean Oaks

Jean Hughes Oaks, age 90, of Grasshopper Lane, Newland, passed away Thursday morning, December 1, 2022 at her home. Born August 3, l932 in Avery County, she was one of ten children born to Hobart D. and Zona H. Hughes. Jean was an active member of Roaring Creek Free Will Baptist Church for more than 65 years and served as a Sunday School Teacher and as the church Play Director. She loved her family beyond exception and held a special place in her heart for her great grandchildren. Jean loved singing with the Oaks Family Trio for many years. She was an excellent cook and often would be found in the kitchen preparing meals for family and friends. She loved shopping trips and always looked forward to the next one. Some of her happiest times were visiting the beach to look for her favorite shells. As a seamstress, Jean created and crafted the costumes for Debbie's Square Dance Team when they performed at the state fair in Raleigh. As a volunteer and substitute, she was beloved by the children and teachers at Riverside Elementary School and at times was affectionately called "Mrs. Bluejeans" by the little ones. Jean is survived by her daughter, Debbie Ward and husband, Kenny, of Plumtree; grandson, Dillon Charles Oaks (Melissa) of Newland; great-grandchildren, Sydnee, Ezra Von, Nolan and Sailor Oaks; sister, Alice Hughes of Jerry's Creek. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Von Oaks and son, David Lee Oaks; sisters, Mildred Stafford, Kathy Hoilman and Vicky Young; and brothers, Sonny, Spencer, Wallace, Lester and Jason Hughes. Funeral services for Jean Oaks will be conducted Sunday afternoon, December 4, 2022 at 3 o'clock at the Roaring Creek Free Will Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Ken Staton. The family will receive friends at the church from 2 until 3 o'clock. Burial will be in the Hughes Cemetery. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to the Roaring Creek Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, in care of Mrs. Dean Oaks, 134 Green Oaks Lane, Newland, NC 28657. Online condolences may be shared at the website www.austinandbarnesfunealhome.com Austin & Barnes Funeral Home is serving the Oaks family.