Clara Oakley

Sister Clara Oakley, wife of the late Asberry Oakley; passed away June 17, 2023.

Services are being held at King of Kings Baptist Church on Saturday, June 24, 2023. Service will commence at 11 A.M. 

Location details: 619 SE 15th St, Des Moines, IA 50317

Clara Mae Oakley or “Ty” (enjoyed tying everyone’s shoes) was born in Bonham, Texas on July 18, 1931 to Oaie and Clarice Branough. She graduated from Washington High School on May 30, 1950. She migrated to the Midwest after high school where she met the love of her life, Asberry Oakley. They married and remained that way for 64 years until Asberry’s passing in April of 2015. Asberry and Clara had two children (a girl and boy).

These two, now together, found their way to the church shortly after their marriage and they both began impacting lives doing the Lord’s work. Clara was a Head Mother in the church we sit in today, King of King’s. She was a God-fearing woman who loved Jesus Christ. She attended and served the church. Clara loved the church and would help in anyway she could. She would even help clean the church in preparation for service or fellowship.

Clara Mae was very in tune with current events taking place in the world. She was very newsworthy in that way. During her time, Clara liked putting puzzles together, watching television, bowling, working in the hospital, entertaining, and extremely particular about her food. Clara was known to be a great storyteller and she loved reading handwritten letters from anyone.

Clara was passionate about serving the church and Jesus Christ by carrying out her Lord and Savior’s work. She had a very beautiful smile and displayed humility. Clara was very kind and willing to help anyone. And not to forget, Clara Mae was the most loving and caring mother anyone could have.

Saturday evening, on June 17 at 5:02 p.m. Jesus whispered into her ear that her work was done on this earth. Clara Mae Oakley passed at the age of 91. She is preceded in death by her husband, Deacon Asberry Oakley; Father, Mother, Sister, two Brothers and Siblings.

Left to cherish in loving memory are her son and daughter, several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.