One of the greatest Tennesseans I have had the privilege to know was Millard Vaughn Oakley. At 91, he will live in our Tennessee history for generations to come.
He started as a shoe shine on the Livingston Square and checked out as a multi-millionaire, chasing the excitement of the next great business deal, opportunity or challenge.
He was a faithful husband to a wonderful, interesting and brilliant woman. He was a loving father and grandfather, exemplary public servant and passionate believer in his small town and the surrounding region.
What I will always miss and continually be challenged to replicate is his most sincere compassion. If you are reading this and knew Millard Oakley, I would bet that you or someone very close to you was directly blessed by this man. It is certainly true for me.
Original source can be found here.
