Jervis Ralph Ogletree, Sr., age 82, a longtime resident of the Eastern Shore passed away peacefully with his family by his side on August 23, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 63 years Shirley Ogletree, son Tim Ogletree (Gita), grandchildren Adam Ogletree (Meagan), Emily Douglas (Kyle), and Meera Ogletree, great grandchildren Ava, Turner, Miller, and Merritt, brother Larry Ogletree, nieces Kim Weaver (Donnie), Lisa Walker (Jacob), and great nephews. Jervis was proceeded in death by parents Ralph and Ella Ogletree and his son, Jervis Ralph Ogletree, Jr.
In the 1960s while living in Columbus, Georgia, Jervis worked in the Research and Design department of Lummus Industries. During this time, he helped design, build, and repair cotton ginning and related equipment. Lummus Industries became the world’s leading manufacturer of cotton-ginning equipment during this time. He enjoyed shooting Trap and Skeet, and in 1969 finished 3rd in the Georgia state tournament. During this time Jervis began the hobby of gunsmithing. He became quite the shotgun expert.
Jervis moved with his wife and children to the Eastern Shore in 1971. He immediately became involved with the local Civitan club. During his time with the civitans, he helped organize their annual fishing tournament that was based on the causeway. Jervis had the ability to build and or repair anything mechanical, from cars to guns. He seemed to always have a project car, from building a 1923 ford T-Bucket to a 1959 Corvette. He rebuilt his first car engine, a Willys Jeep, when he was 14 years old. Jervis loved golf and was a regular at Quail Creek. He cherished the time spent with his golf buddies.
Jervis accomplished many things in his life and the ability to master anything he undertook. The undertaking that was the dearest to his heart was his involvement in the founding of Jubilee Baptist Church. A sample of his contribution can be found at the church in the stained-glass window in front of the old sanctuary that he designed and made, and the prayer garden that he designed and built with other members. Jervis was many things, a mechanic, gunsmith, and artist, just to name a few. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. But most importantly he had a deep unwavering faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Services were held Sunday, August 28 at Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home in Fairhope. Visitation began at 1 p.m. followed by a celebration of life service at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be sent to St. Jude.
