John William Oakes

August 19, 1951 - March 14, 2026

John William Oakes, 74, of Port Republic, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Sentara RMH Medical Center.

He was born on August 19, 1951, and was a son of the late William Propes and Polly Frances (Nicholas) Oakes. John was united in marriage to Sherrie (Morris) Oakes, who survives.

John worked for Wayne-Tex for over 30 years and retired from Reynolds. He most recently worked as an assembler at Virginia Panel Corporation.

John is survived by two children, Sarah (Allen) Watson, Jenny (Carl) Whitesell; sister, Susan (Paul) Morris; granddaughter, Avery Whitesell; sister-in-law, Patricia (Kenny) Huffman; niece, April (Dennis) Sanders; great nephew, Jensen Sanders.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Port Republic Mutual Cemetery, with Pastor Steve Saufley officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Grottoes, Virginia.

Port Republic, Johnson Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc.