Obituary of James M. Oaks

James M. Oaks, 90 , formerly of Church Hill, Tennessee, passed away on Thursday December 12, 2013 at Remington House, Kingsport. He was born in Hancock County (Tennessee) but spent much of his life in Hawkins County. He earned a B. A. degree at Carson-Newman College, an M. A. degree at George Peabody College and an additional 45 hours beyond the M.A. degree. His career was spent in teaching or administration in the Hancock (seven years) and Hawkins (twenty-six years) educational system. Mr. Oaks was a member of the 1st Baptist Church of Church Hill, Tennessee. Mr. Oaks was in military service for his country during WW II. He served in the 12th Air Force, 57th Bomb Wing, 340 Bomb Group, and 487 Bomb Squadron. He earned the Air Crew Member badge for missions in North Apennines and Po River Valley, the Air Combat badge for missions in Balkans (M.T. 01), European, African, Eastern Ribbon, the Air Middle Medal with Three Oak Leaf Cluster and the Good Conduct Medal while performing his duties on forty-four Combat missions. He was preceded in death by his daughters, Eudora and Dorthea; his loving wife of fifty-seven years, Vandilla Mills Oaks; parents, Charles J. and Goldie Smith Oaks; and brothers, Chester and Willard Cress Oaks. Nieces, nephews, grand and great-grand nieces and nephews survive him. In addition, his caregivers, who became much like his extended family with their loving and extended care. The family will receive friends from 10-12 noon Saturday December 14, 2013 at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, Church Hill. A service will follow at 12noon with Rev. Jerry Ketron officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Memorial Park. Active pallbearers will be Jim Oaks, Bill Oaks, Travis Oaks, Jeff Oaks, Hyle Ferguson, Kenny Jones and David Tilson. Honorary pallbearers are nieces and nephews and the host of students he has taught over the years. Special acknowledgement should go to the the staff of Remington House and of Smoky Mountain hospice for the wonderful care which they gave him. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Oaks requested that donations be given to the youth programs of your church or other programs that offer benefits to children and youth.