Kathleen "Kathy" Parker Oakley

Kathleen "Kathy" Parker Oakley, 79, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at her home surrounded by the loving presence of her daughter. She was born on June 29, 1946 in Durham County to the late Maynard Haywood Parker and Kathleen Phelps Parker. Kathy lived a life marked by unwavering dedication, warmth, and a passion for nurturing both family and community.

Kathy retired as the Executive Director of Child Nutrition for the Alamance Burlington School System after an impressive 40 years of devoted service. Her journey began with the Orange County School System, transitioned through the Burlington City School System, and succeeded at ABSS. Beyond her career, Kathy’s personality shone brightly wherever she went. Known fondly as a food critic, she combined her expertise with a sincere love for great food, always appreciating the finest and pointing out flaws when she encountered them. Purple was her favorite color, a hue that seemed befitting for someone whose vibrant presence touched the lives of many. Kathy delighted in shopping and found immense joy in traveling to both the mountains and the beach with her beloved family, eagerly anticipating their annual vacations. For Kathy, these moments with her family were the greatest treasures, filling her heart with happiness and fond memories.

Music and dancing brought additional joy to Kathy’s life, especially when shared with her late husband of twenty-six years to R. Leon Oakley, who passed in 1994. Their dances and shared melodies were a beautiful expression of their bond and remain treasured memories for those who knew them. Kathy was a member of Mt. Zion Christian Church, where her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her kindness and strength.

Kathy’s proudest accomplishment was her family. She leaves behind a loving legacy through her children, a devoted daughter, Kimberly “Kim” Oakley and her loving son, Mark Oakley and his wife Kim; her grandchildren that she adored, Connor Oakley and Kayla Oakley, along with her grand dog Keira, surrounding her with love until her final moments. She has now been reunited with her loved ones, her parents; her cherished husband, Leon; her siblings, Connelly Parker and Jeanette Tapp; and her mother-in-law, Jenny Foushee Sharpe.

The family would like to send a special thank you to the caregivers that came to the house for all their loving care, compassion and support that was shown to their mother during her illness. They truly appreciate all the help that they received during this time.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Kathy will be held at 2:00PM Monday, March 30, 2026 at Mt. Zion Christian Church by Pastor Ozzy Thompson and Pastor Tadd Grandstaff with the burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends following the service in the fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to Mt. Zion Christian Church, 3210 Mt. Zion Christian Church Road, Mebane, NC 27302. You may send condolences to the family online at www.lowefuneralhome.com