Katheryn "Kathy" Suzanne Oakes, 74, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Born December 4, 1951, in Strattanville, Pennsylvania, Kathy was the daughter of the late Richard and Evelyn Miller.

Kathy was married for more than 40 years to the love of her life, James Oakes, who preceded her in death on March 31, 2021.

Kathy also called Chittenango, New York, and Brownsburg, Indiana home over the course of her life. A graduate of both Clarion-Limestone High School in 1969 and Clarion State College in 1995, she dedicated much of her life to teaching, sharing her love of learning with children both as an elementary school teacher and through volunteering at her church. Kathy was highly creative and always enjoyed arts and crafts, decorating her home, gardening, and taking walks with her beloved dog, Indy.

A devoted and strong Christian, Kathy was active in various Bible studies at Connection Pointe Christian Church and found deep joy in her faith. She had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a hand to friends and neighbors, embodying kindness in everything she did.

She is survived by her daughter, Jill Emerick, son-in-law, Jim Emerick, and her two grandchildren, Zachary and Anna Emerick of Whitestown, Indiana. Both Zachery and Anna brought Kathy tremendous joy as she was able to share in their lives from having always lived close by. She is also survived by her siblings, sisters Betty (Carter) Henry, Sandy (Dan) Wikander, and Carol Ann Miller, along with brother Don (Beth) Miller, in addition to numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Miller.

Friends and family will be received at the Goble's Funeral Home located at 330 Wood Street, Clarion, Pa. 16214 on Monday, August 31. Visitation is from 10:00 am – 11:00 am with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 am at the funeral home with Pastor John Green officiating. Burial will follow at Cedarview Memorial Park in Strattanville.

Friends and family may send online condolences, order flowers and memorials, and obtain additional information by visiting www.goblefh.net.