Rebecca Smalls Oakley

Rebecca Smalls Oakley, affectionately known as “Maxine,” was born on Saturday, March 21, 1953, on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina, to the late Elting Buster Smalls Sr. and the late Rosalee Archer Smalls. At an early age, Maxine was baptized at Ebenezer Baptist Church, beginning a lifelong journey of faith and devotion to God. She started her education at Saint Helena Elementary School and graduated from Beaufort High School. She later continued her studies at Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio, where she pursued her higher education with dedication and excellence. Following her academic achievements, Maxine established a remarkable career built on service, professionalism, and compassion. She was employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Human Services, where she served faithfully for thirty-five years as an Executive Secretary before retiring. Her strong work ethic, grace, and attention to detail left a lasting impression on her colleagues and everyone who had the privilege of working with her. In addition to her state service, Maxine worked part-time at her sister-in-law’s daycare center, Kenney’s Latchkey, where she poured her heart into caring for children, especially her great-nieces and great-nephews. The children loved and adored her for her gentle voice, warm smile, and nurturing presence. She treated each child as her own, leaving them with memories of kindness, laughter, and love. A woman of steadfast faith, Maxine was a devoted member of Turner Memorial Missionary Baptist Church in Steelton, Pennsylvania. She served faithfully under the leadership of Pastor Melvin Baber and Pastor Richard Hampton for more than 30 years. As an active member and former President of the Usher Ministry, she joyfully welcomed countless worshippers and guests into the house of the Lord. Her radiant smile and gracious spirit reflected the love of Christ she carried in her heart and extended to others. On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at seventy-two years of age, Rebecca transitioned from this life into eternal rest and peace, surrounded by the love of her family. Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, Elting and Rosalee Smalls; her brother, Elting Buster Smalls Jr.; her sister, Felicia Smalls Ragland; her stepbrother, Richard Markovich; and her stepmothers, Laura Markovich Smalls and Mary Marshall Smalls. She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Charles Oakley Sr.; her beloved children, Charles Oakley Jr. (Dana), Jason Oakley, and Courtney Oakley Martin (Michael); her cherished grandchildren, Lina Jane Oakley, Kingsley Oakley, Caiyan Robert Martin, and Trace Bentley Martin; her brothers, JoeNathan “Butch” Smalls (Mildred), Daniel Smalls (DK), and Darryl Smalls (Lecia); her sisters, Gloria Smalls Garmany (Frank), Omega Smalls-Francis (Jonathan), Rosalyn Smalls Barrett, and Victoria Smalls; her stepbrothers, Thomas Markovich (Linda), Michael Marshall, and Vincent Marshall (Cynthia); her stepsisters, Lynn Markovich Bryant (Wilbert), Sally Markovich Lombard (Warren), Carmen Marshall King (Leroy), and Diedra Marshall; her sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Edna Mae Griffin, Bernice Kenney (Don), Shelia Davis, and Douglas Oakley; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, relatives, church family, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and grace. FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CLICK ON THE SHARE A MEMORY TAB TO POST VIDEOS, SHARE MEMORIES, CONDOLENCES, REFLECTIONS OR SIMPLY LEAVE YOUR NAME. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Turner Memorial Missionary Baptist Church, 130 Watson Street, Steelton, Pennsylvania.

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Rebecca Smalls Oakley

March 21, 1953 - November 5, 2025