Julie Ann Oakes

Funeral services for Julie Ann Oakes, of Hugo, Okla., will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 9, 2023 at Oak Grove Baptist Church.

Julie Ann Oakes, age 77, of Hugo, Okla., gained her heavenly home on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023.

Julie was the wife of Paul Oakes, Sr. and is now reunited with her best friend and soulmate of 61 years. She was deeply loved by her children: Paul Oakes, Jr., Gail Allen, Cindy Merriman and Michael Oakes, as well as her beloved in-law children: Diana Oakes, Shane Allen and Steve Merriman. She was greatly blessed with 12 grandchildren: Tyler Oakes and wife, Tammy, Trey Oakes, Kolton Oakes, Shane Taylor, Brant Allen and wife, Brandi, Aubrey Maynard and husband, Tony, Kent Carter and wife, Bobbye, Kurt Carter and wife, LaKayn, Candace Hull and husband, JT, Stevie Merriman and wife, Tara, Robbi Merriman and wife, Melanie; 17 great-grandchildren: Shawn, Maddox, Karter; Bryer, Sadie, Jayton, Hayli, Hadli and Sydni; Hannah, July, AnnaKay, Blakelee, Kaden, Brylen, Marlee and Micajah. She was preceded in death by her first grandchild, Craig Adam Taylor.

Julie was the daughter of the late Charlie Andrew Barber and Ethel Love (Gage Barber). She was also proceeded in death by her brothers: Jimmy Dobbs and Charles Barber; sisters: Betty Dobbs Jones and Louise Barber.

She is survived by her beloved sister, Tommie Dobbs Morales of Houston, Texas, and brother Lonnie Barber, Lewisville, Texas.

Julie was born in Bairdstown, Texas, and grew up in Paris, attending school at Delmar High. She married the love of her life at the tender age of 15. They lived in Dallas for several years before returning to their home roots and raising their family in Hugo.

Whatever the mission, you’d find Julie at the lead. She had a God-given talent and creative mind. Her integrity and high-energy spirit were poured into everything she accomplished. Her management career began early as she proved herself one of the fastest and most efficient glove builders for many years at Wells Lamont Glove Factory in Hugo.

After hiring on to Hugo Walmart in 1986, she again proved herself valuable to the mission.

Serving more than 17 years in management at El Dorado, Ark., Monroe, La., and Claremore, Okla. Her last 12 years in management were relished by her as she served as Store Manager at Walmart 251 in Mineola, Texas, where she retired in 2012. She then became Office Manager at Choctaw County Ambulance Authority and retired after 12 years of service.

Julie loved her family big, and that was evident in the unforgettable meals she’d prepare for her large family gatherings at her home. She impacted the lives of those around her with her love and care, whether it be family, friends or co-workers. She was adventurous in her own way.

She learned to break boards with a swift Karate kick, she chased down Walmart shoplifters across the highway, and got her conceal carry permit. She’s known for her grit, but oh did she love life.

If you knew her, you’ve likely been a part of her antics. She was quite the prankster and life of the party.

Julie was associated with Hugo Church of God and Hugo Assembly of God for many years, and recently Oak Grove Baptist Church. She created every detail of the Kid’s Krusade that packed the seats of Main Street Church of God where they shared the love of Jesus with local children each summer for years. Still today, stories are being told of the impact on their lives. She also was the church youth leader in her kids’ teen years. Julie, along with her husband Paul, faithfully served God, and the Christian heritage they gave their children and future generations will forever be honored.

Julie’s strength, boldness, determination, and pure grit were exhibited with grace. Even in the end, she never gave up.

No doubt she was greeted by her Lord with “You Fought a Good Fight!”

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023 at Miller & Miller Funeral Home in Hugo.

Interment will follow the service at Mt. Olivet Cemetery with Bro. Kyle Cummings and Oakes Family Prayer Warrior Robert Black officiating, under the direction of Miller & Miller Funeral Home.

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