NEEDHAM, Mass. – Joan Barbara Oakes passed away on Oct. 18, 2025, at the age of 86, in Needham, Mass.
She was born in Augusta, the eldest daughter of Eleanor and Eugene F. Stackpole. She was educated in the Augusta school system, at Nasson College in Springvale, and Gates Business College in Augusta. She was a former president and 47-year member of the Needham Garden Club and a member of the Wisteria Chapter No.138 Order of the Eastern Star.
She was predeceased by her brother-in-law, John J. Roche.
She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Richard W.; and her daughter and husband Judith Anne and Charles Laffey of Sun City Center, Fla.; a son, William Oakes of Nevada; her sister, Judith Roche of Cambridge, Mass.; three grandchildren; and numerous cousins and extended family.
Burial will be in Augusta.
To share a memory, or to send a note of condolence, visit http://www.eatonfuneralhomes.com
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