Pastor Joe Oglesby, Sr

Joe R. Oglesby, Sr., was born on October 18, 1949, to the parentage of Harvey L. Oglesby, Sr. and Louise K. Oglesby. He was the third of four sons (Edward Oglesby, Harvey Oglesby, Jr. and Willie Ben “Ralph” Oglesby) all who have preceded him in death. Pastor Oglesby peacefully transitioned from this life on January 31, 2026. A man of strength, wisdom, and quiet resilience, Pastor Oglesby lived a life rooted in love for his family and faith in God.

Early in life, Pastor Oglesby attended the public schools of Macon and Peach counties graduating from H.A. Hunt High in Fort Valley. He then attended Fort Valley State College and later graduated from South Georgia Technical College. He pursued a career as a machinist and worked 35 dedicated years at Blue Bird Body Company until he retired. After retirement Joe had a thirst for learning and returned to school attending online classes. He continued his educational path by earning a bachelor's degree in theology from PBC Bible College. Joe joined Mt. Calvary Baptist church in Marshallville where he sang in the choir and later became a deacon. He had a love for gospel music and began singing with the Fantastic Gospel Sons of Montezuma, Georgia. While Joe kept singing and attending church, he accepted the divine calling into ministry and preached his Initial Sermon in 1977.

On May 28, 1977, Pastor Oglesby united in holy matrimony with the love of his life, Marion (Thomas) Oglesby. They shared 48 years of marriage, and this year would have marked their 49th anniversary.

Pastor Oglesby was blessed to serve as pastor of three churches: Spring Chapel Baptist for over 20 years, Greater Good Hope and Mount Olive Baptist Church for 43 years. Beyond his calling as a pastor, he was known for his steady spirit, kind heart, and the lessons he taught through both his words and actions. Though he is no longer with us physically, his legacy lives through the family he nurtured, the values he instilled, and the memories that will forever be cherished. Pastor Oglesby’s life was a blessing to those he met; a testament to perseverance, humility, and unconditional love. His memory will forever be treasured, and his love shared will remain in our hearts.

Pastor Oglesby leaves to cherish his life’s memories his wife of 48 years Marion Oglesby; two sons, Joe R. Oglesby, Jr. (Yolanda “Shanee”) and Jeremy J. Oglesby (Carltondria “Toni”); two grandchildren who carried a special place in his heart, Taylor Lanaye and Abram Shamar Oglesby. They were truly the apple of his eye and had their Grandpa’s Heart!

He also leaves behind 1 sister, Bennie Mae Oglesby Atlanta, Ga; 2 sisters -in- law Florence Oglesby and Gloria Oglesby both of Marshallville, Ga; 2 brothers-in-law, Rev. David Thomas (Lillie) Montezuma, Ga and Joseph Thomas (Barbara) Atlanta, Ga.; 2 uncles, Sammie Kendrick (Susie) and Mitchell Worthy (Della) both of Henderson, Ga,; aunt Retha Kendrick Savannah, Ga; Spiritual Mother, Mrs. Gloristeen Stevens, Preston Ga and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends.

Public Visitation 

Friday, February 6, 2026 (4PM-6PM)

First United Holiness Church - 325 Engram St. Montezuma, GA 31063  

Flowers may be delivered between 4PM-5PM.

Celebration of Life 

Saturday, February 7, 2026 (1:00PM)

Lie in state 12:00 noon until service hour

St. James CME Church - 217 Railroad Street 

Marshallville, GA 31057

Burial 

Colonel Felton Memorial Cemetery - 502 S. Street Marshallville, Georgia 31057

Serenity Funeral Home - Dublin has charge of arrangements. 

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