Brett Linn Oakes obit

Brett Linn Oakes, 56, passed away at home on May 13th, 2021. Brett was born on January 8, 1965, in Roseberg, Oregon. Brett graduated at the top of his class from Pingree School and from Colby College, earning a degree in English. After graduating, Brett began a journey of self discovery that found him learning trades such as painting and carpentry, seeking his roots on a motorcycle trip across the country and eventually spending ten years as a special education teacher, first at Landmark School in Beverly, MA, and then in the Orange County Public School system. However, working with his hands was Brett’s true passion and at the age of 38, he took a leap of faith, moved home to Massachusetts and built the business that grew to become Oakes and Son Carpentry. In 2007, Brett walked arm in arm with his true love, Theresa, and was married. Together they moved to Amesbury, MA, where Brett applied his handyman talents to caring for their much loved home. They were joined in 2010 by Brett’s shining star, his best friend: Leo Joseph Oakes. It was as a husband and father that Brett became his complete self. Our Brett was all heart. He poured everything into that which he loved: mountaineering, art, music, science fiction, old trucks, and vintage stereos to name just a few of his many passions. Brett felt the world deeply, and the world is truly less vivid without him. Brett is survived by his wife, Theresa Oakes and son Leo; his uncle Robert Taylor of Austin, Texas; his sister, Brenda Ernst of Rowley, MA; his cherished in-laws and seven nieces and nephews who he loved to entertain and to make laugh. He was preceded in death by his mother Jacqueline Harding, his father Jack Linn and his stepfather, Joseph Oakes. Visiting hours will be held at Rogers Funeral Home, 2 Hillside Avenue, Amesbury, MA, on Thursday, May 20, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Brett’s life will be celebrated on Friday from 11:00 to 2:00 at the Oakes’ home at 5 Woodlawn St. in Amesbury. Family and friends are invited to remember this adoring husband and father. Please bring your fondest memories to share. Theresa and Leo are so very grateful for the love and support of our family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please donate to an organization close to your heart.