Carolyn Keefe Oakes

Carolyn Marie Oakes (née Keefe), born on March 7, 1938, in Arlington, MA, to Francis  and Josephine Keefe, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

Carolyn's rich and fulfilling life was marked by her dedication to her family, her faith, and her community. Carolyn married the love of her life, Nathan Waller Oakes, who was born on August 18, 1936. Together, they created a beautiful family and a legacy of love and service. Carolyn is survived by 2 siblings: Nancy Clarke and Robert Keefe. She joins her older sister Eleanor Maskell in heaven. She leaves behind three devoted children: Jonathan Oakes, Timothy Oakes, and Susan Oakes, as well as seven cherished grandchildren: Cameron Oakes, Brandon Oakes, Robert Oakes, Gillian Oakes, Kaitlin Oakes, Colin Oakes, and Ella Jane Oakes.

An alumna of Connecticut College, Carolyn excelled in basketball and field hockey. After college, she settled in Shaker Heights, OH, where she devoted most of her life to nurturing her family and serving her community. A devout Catholic, Carolyn was a dedicated parishioner of Saint Dominic Church, where she found immense support and strength through her faith and the treasured friendships she forged. Her commitment to volunteerism was unparalleled; she was a vibrant member of the Junior League of Cleveland and a steadfast volunteer at University Hospitals for over 60 years. Her outstanding contributions earned her two volunteer  awards, and a scholarship named in her honor. Carolyn's philanthropic spirit extended far beyond these institutions, as she generously gave her time and resources to numerous non-profits, including The Cleveland Sight Center, The Cleveland Heights Food Center, and Playhouse Square.

In the 1990s, Carolyn pursued a master’s degree at John Carroll University, and worked as director of volunteering for McGregor and Amasa Stone House.  

Known for her hospitality, Carolyn's home was a haven for friends and family, a place of celebration, refuge, and love during difficult times.

Carolyn's warmth and kindness were felt by all who knew her, as she never forgot a person and was often recognized wherever she went. She had a passion for baking, and her homemade fudge, brownies, banana bread, cookies, and lemon squares brought joy to countless people, especially during the holidays and numerous college care packages. 

A proponent of healthy living, Carolyn was an avid walker who inspired many with her vitality and zest for life. When Carolyn smiled, her joy radiated and lifted the spirits of all those around her.

Carolyn Marie Oakes (née Keefe) leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude. 

A Funeral Mass will be held, Saturday, February 8th at 10am in The Church of St. Dominic, 19000 Van Aken Blvd., (at Norwood Rd) Shaker Hts., OH 44122, followed by a brief meal.   The interment will be in Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland, OH.

The family prefers that those who wish may make contributions in her name to the Cleveland Food Bank, 13815 Coit Rd., Cleveland, OH 44110; University Hospitals of Cleveland, 11100 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106 or to The Church of St. Dominic, 19000 Van Aken Blvd., Shaker Hts., OH 44122 

FRIENDS MAY CALL AT BROWN-FORWARD, 17022 CHAGRIN BLVD., SHAKER HTS., OH 44120, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH FROM 4-6PM.