Obituary of Leora M. Oakes

Brasher Falls - Leora M. Oakes, 70, passed away Sunday afternoon (Sept. 4, 2011) in the comfort of her home, where she had been in failing health. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop. Leora was born in Norfolk on August 6, 1941 the daughter of the late Glenfird & Francelia (Bemis) Blair. She was educated locally through Norwood/Norfolk Schools. On August 8, 1959, she married Harvey J. Oakes at St. Andrews Church, Norwood; he predeceased her November 27, 2000. For sixteen years, Leora was employed with the Office of the Aging. She took great pride in delivering meals to those in need. Along with a plate of nutrition she offered each client a side of compassion, and tenderness. She is survived by, her son Michael C. and Irene E. Oakes; her daughter Tammy J. and Patrick J. Kelley of Winthrop, five grandchildren; Samantha, Kimberly, and Matthew Oakes, Marissa and Renae Kelley; two sisters, Leona Oakes and Lila Dibble; one brother Loren Blair. Leora was a Charter Member of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, and along with her husband they were actively involved within the Knights of Columbus organization. Leora was a longtime communicant of St. Patrick Church, where she was a licensed Bingo worker for many years. She found great pleasure playing bingo, poker, and trying her luck on a scratch off ticket. If one chooses to do so, memorial contributions in her memory may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday morning at 10 at St. Patrick Church, Brasher Falls. Interment will be held in the parish cemetery. Friends may call Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 at the Hammill Funeral Home. Leora's family wishes to acknowledge and thank everyone for the prayers and support they received during their mother's illness. Online condolences and memories may be shared with Leora's family at www.hammillfh.com