John Edward OAKES

30/12/2025

It is with sadness that I have to inform you of the death on Friday 19th December 2025, of ex Sgt 591 John Edward OAKES, 80 years. John died peacefully at Ridgeway Nursing Home near Belper where he spent the last few weeks of his life. His next of kin is his wife, Mrs Rhona Oakes. John had been poorly for the last 6 years and until recently was looked after at home by Rhona helped by carers.

He was a loved father to Richard and Michael, father in law to Karen and Leslie and beloved grandpa to Zach, Ben, Lucy and Matilda.

John joined the Derbyshire Police in October, 1966 and was stationed at Chesterfield, Belper and was Sergeant at Ashbourne and at Full Street, Derby.

John's funeral has been arranged for 11.00am on Monday 19th January 2026 at Derby Crematorium, Markeaton Lane, Derby DE22 4NH
Sean Murphy (Derbyshire NARPO Committee)

4 Comments

Tre Coakley

30/12/2025 12:45:20

I had my car written off by a lorry in the first week of Initial training so John kindly offered me a lift in his van when we came home at weekends.
I remember the straw stacked behind the seats which affected me as a Hay Fever sufferer, but obviously it was something I had to put up with !
Great memories.

Trev Coakley P.C. 49
Derby Borough Police.

Harry Buttle

30/12/2025 17:33:04

RIP John. 21 and 159😪

Ray Elliott

1/1/2026 23:41:26

I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of retired sgt John Oakes. I have fond memories of working with John on both the " Inner city transit" on Fridays and Ssturday nights and his time as the custody sergeant at Full Street. He was my idea of an honest to goodness, no nonsense bobby. The bad lads crossed him at their peril. Sleep easy Sarge.
Ray Elliott pc473 retd.

Jeffrey Dawes

5/1/2026 13:10:06

John and I joined the Derbyshire Constabulary on the same day, October 10th,1966 and at Panal Ash Training School we sat next to each other.
We kept in touch throughout our service and into retirement.
A grand chap.
Sincere condolences to Rhona and family.
Jeff Dawes. 661

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NARPO - Derbyshire Branch