Kathy Arlene (Presnell) Oakes

Kathy Presnell Oakes, age 73, of Bryant Combs Road, Sugar, passed away Sunday morning, December 28, 2025 at the Watauga Medical Center. Born January 7, 1952 in Watauga County, she was a daughter of Arnold and Marie Presnell.

Kathy loved the Lord; her family and friends they were the center of her world. Also close to her heart were all of her cats, but her favorite was her cat ‘Lucky’. Kathy loved being outdoors and could often be found landscaping and planting shrubs and flowers around the house. When inside, she enjoyed her hobbies of arts and crafts, watching her favorite tv shows, and crocheting. she was also a member of Zion Hill Baptist church and helped with arts and crafts in the children’s groups.

Kathy is survived by her son, Dallas T. Oakes of Sugar Grove, sister, Wanda Combs and husband, Terry, of Sugar Grove; and nieces and nephews, including great niece and great nephew, Natalie and Henry Combs.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rickey Lee Oakes.

Funeral services for Kathy Oakes will be conducted Saturday, January 3, 2026 at noon at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Mike McElhaney.

The family will receive friends from 11 o’clock until noon, prior to services, at Austin & Barnes. Graveside services will follow in the Zion Hill Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family to assist with expenses.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Oakes family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathy Arlene (Presnell) Oakes, please visit our floral store.