John Jesse Okes

Photo: Obituary: John Jesse Okes, 88, of Valley City, passed away at his home on Wednesday, June 27, 2012 following a sudden illness. John was born August 5, 1923, in Shady Spring, WV. Son of the late Frederick Morton Okes and Willie Emeline Furrow Okes Jolly, he quit school at the age of 14 to run the family farm and support his mother following his father's untimely passing. A few short years later, John enlisted in the United States Navy and was soon deployed to serve during WW II. After tours through Africa and the Mediterranean, John was recognized for his service as a LCM pilot in the European Theater involving the Normandy Invasion. Upon his completion of duty with the Navy, Jesse worked in the coal mines until 1955 when he moved to Ohio and became a licensed plumber. A hard worker and great provider, he proudly continued to practice his plumbing trade until the age of 80. Though diligent in work, nothing brought greater pride or happiness to Jesse than his family and friends. A quick wit, mischievous smile and immense collection of stories entertained and engaged generations of those who loved him and he was never happier than when surrounded by his children, grandchildren or great grandkids - especially if pie was included. Jesse never met a stranger and was always ready for a cup of coffee and a visit. Truly one-of-a- kind, his presence will be sorely missed, and memories of him truly cherished. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Helen Lilly Okes; daughter Teresa Lawrence; stepfather, Robert “Pop” Jolly; brothers, Richard Jolly, Clyde V. Okes, William “Scott” Okes, Edward Jolly, Robert “Buck” Jolly; and sisters, Cora Okes Porterfield, Ruth Okes Cook, Ethel Jolly Pickett, Lakie Jolly Shiflett, Marie Jolly Minnex, and Arabelle Jolly Lodge. Surviving are son, John Okes of Valley City; daughters, Jesteva Hosey of Medina, Jean Kinney of Litchfield; five grandchildren, David Kinney, Sherry Chancellor, Rita Davis, Joseph Lawrence, Amanda Lawrence, and James Moye; great-grandchildren, Cheynne, Korina, Bear, Adelaide, Eliza, Kashmere, Kyra, Cora, Julianna, and Jimmy; brother, William “Bill” Jolly; sisters, Polly J. Mitchell, Lucy Worley and LouAnn Bryson. FRIENDS MAY JOIN THE FAMILY FOR VISITATION ON FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2012 FROM 6:00-8:00 PM AT CARLSON FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATION SERVICES, 1642 Pearl Road (½ mile South of Route 303), BRUNSWICK. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 30, 2012 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with Pastor Tim Fritz officiating. Interment will follow at Eastlawn Memory Gardens. Flowers Link: http://www.baywindowflorist.com DVD / Memories by Design: