Dianne (Halstead) Oakes

Marcia Dianne Oakes, known affectionately as Dianne to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024, in Georgia. Born on August 12, 1950, in Columbus, Dianne's life was characterized by her generous spirit, her creative talents, and her selfless dedication to those she loved.

Dianne shared 41 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Sidney Ray Oakes. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was a devoted mother to her sons, David Thomaston and his wife Deborah Piotrowski, and Casey Oakes. Her joy was multiplied with the birth of her granddaughter, Emily Thomaston.

Dianne's family was the cornerstone of her life, and she was a loving sister to Sara Belvin and her husband Tommy, as well as her brothers, John Halstead III with his wife Sussan, and Michael Halstead. She also held a special place in her heart for her many nieces and nephews, each of whom benefited from her kindness and nurturing nature.

Professionally, Dianne retired from the Russell County School District after years of dedicated service as a bus driver at Ladonia Elementary School, where she was known for her caring demeanor and her commitment to the safety and well-being of the children. She also served as a substitute teacher's aide, touching many lives with her patience and understanding. In her earlier years, Dianne worked in the textile mills, where she demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to lend a helping hand.

Dianne was an active member of the Jehovah Witness Phenix City West congregation. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, and she found great comfort and community within her congregation. She lived her beliefs through her actions, always striving to be a source of support and compassion for others.

Her interests were as varied as they were passionate. Dianne was an exceptional seamstress, and her embroidery and quilting were not just hobbies but also expressions of her love, often given as gifts that are now treasured keepsakes. She found relaxation in playing solitaire and could often be found engrossed in a good mystery novel. Dianne's culinary skills were unmatched, and family gatherings were made all the more special by the delicious meals she prepared with care.

A devoted fan of college football, Dianne's enthusiasm for the Alabama Crimson Tide team was well-known and shared during many a spirited game day. Her affection for elephants and lighthouses was evident in the charming collection that adorned her home, each piece holding a story or a memory of travels and adventures.

Generosity was second nature to Dianne, and her creative soul shone brightly in all she did. She was selfless in her actions, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her legacy is one of warmth, kindness, and the gentle imprint she left on the hearts of all who knew her.

Dianne Oakes's life was a tapestry of love, service, and the simple joys that make a life well-lived. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a beacon of light and love in the lives of her family and friends. Her memory will live on in the stories told, the quilts wrapped around shoulders, and in the quiet moments when her loved ones feel the comfort of her enduring presence.

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