Ronald Taylor Oakley, age 66 of Springfield, MO, formerly of Benton, KY, born October 8, 1951, went home February 21, 2018.
Ron was raised in Benton, KY by his parents Eura and Pauline Oakley. He and his identical twin brother Donald Taylor Oakley accepted Christ at an early age at Hardin Baptist Church in Hardin, KY. Both Ron and Don attended Hardin Elementary and South Marshall High. The twins are fondly remembered for switching classes on their teachers and classmates as well as various high school dates.
For the last 32 years Ron has made his home in Springfield, MO. He demonstrated his passion for Christ by sharing his testimony with his coworkers, friends, other Harley riders and different organizations including Celebrate Recovery. Ron also was called to be a pastor for several years, helping point others to his Lord and Savior.
Ron is survived by his mother Pauline Oakley, son Ely Oakley and grandsons Tucker and Jacob Oakley of Springfield MO, niece Taylor Recker Fortmann and family of Lawrenceville, GA, nephew Tyler Recker and family of Buford, GA and Craig Oakley and family of Lawrenceville, GA. Ron spent much of his hospice journey with his sister and brother-n-law, Bonnie and Anthony Belenchia of Monroe, GA.
During this time Ron shared these words: “The reality of goodbye is difficult, please remember: Precious in the site of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants. My chains are gone. I’ve been set free. It’s been hard to wait, I’ve often thought, but I’m with Jesus. Goodbye for now.”
Funeral service will be held on Monday, February 26, 2018, 2:00 p.m. at Collier Funeral Home, 211 West 5th St., Benton, KY 42025, Rev. Tyler Recker officiating.
Interment will follow in the Union Ridge Cemetery, Aurora, KY.
Visitation will be held between the hours of 12:00 p.m. until the funeral hour on Monday, February 26, 2018 at Collier Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be given to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
