Melissa Markette Oakes

Melissa Oakes Melissa Markette Oakes, 56, died Wednesday, January 2, 2013, at North Mississippi Medical Center of complications resulting from an accidental fall in her home. She was born on October 5, 1956, in San Antonio, Texas. She was many things during her too-short lifea high school science teacher, a tennis champion, an excellent cook, and an ardent volunteer. Among the many institutions that benefitted from her efforts were the Tupelo Public School District and All Saints Episcopal Church in Tupelo, where she was a member for over 25 years and served as long-time chairwoman of the memorials committee. She made an impact on her communityespecially the city of Tupelo, her home since 1986in ways large and small. She was an avid pesterer of mayors and other public officials, a generous giver of both her time and money, and a small woman with a big personality who made a lasting impression on anyone and everyone that she met. Of all her talents, accomplishments, and qualities, however, she was proudest of her devotion to her family. She is survived by Tom Oakes, her husband of 32 years, and her three children, Wil Oakes, 30, of Tallahassee, Fla.; Ashley Oakes, 29, of Shannon; and Nathan Oakes, 20, of Washington, D.C. They have had the good fortune, these last three decades, to be watched over by her vigilantly, cared for by her tirelessly, and loved by her with an intensity that amazed even those who knew her well. She will be dearly missed by her family and her many friends in Tupelo and across the country as she goes to join her beloved mother, Shirley Markette, who died in 2006. Visitation will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 at All Saints Episcopal Church on Saturday, January 5, with a service to follow at 2:00. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory should be made to either the Saints' Brew program at All Saints Episcopal Church, Faith Haven children's shelter, or S.A.F.E., Inc. (Shelter and Assistance in Family Emergencies).