Alexander Oakes, Jr., of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully at his home on November 1, 2024, after a short battle with cancer.  Born on August 8, 1943, he dedicated his life to his family and community, embodying kindness and a family-oriented spirit.

Alex was born in Delaware County, PA to Alexander Oakes Sr. and Leona (Lomas) Oakes. He graduated from Marple Newtown High School in 1961, along with his prom date and future wife Mary Lou Wertz. He proudly served in the Army Signal Corps from 1961 to 1964, a testament to his early commitment to service and country. After his military service, he began a long and respected career with National Cash Register in 1964. Over the years, he worked as a service technician and manager in various locations including Philadelphia, Salisbury, MD, and Medford, NJ, before retiring in 2012.

His hobbies included a life-long passion for sailing, which he enjoyed on the Chesapeake and Barnegat Bays. He was a voracious reader, with a keen interest in history. As an Elder at the Head of Christiana Presbyterian Church in Newark, DE, Alex headed the Happy Older Presbyterian (HOP) group, leading visits to local areas of historic interest. He applied his skills in woodworking and engineering to a variety of maintenance projects around the church building and grounds.

Alexander is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Mary Lou (Wertz) Oakes; his son, Brian Alexander Oakes (wife  Cheryl); his daughter, Laura Anne Verlaque (husband Simon); grandchildren Nexus Cook, Lucy Verlaque, William Verlaque, and Samantha Verlaque; and his brother, Robert Oakes (wife Joy).

A service to honor his life will be held at the Head of Christiana Presbyterian Church in Newark, DE, on Saturday, November 9, 2024. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the “Head of Christiana Presbyterian Church” or a charity of one’s choice and send in care of R.T. Foard and Jones, Inc 122 West Main Street, Newark, DE 19711. There will be a private family inurnment at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE.