James “Jim” Oley, 68, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2024, at his home in Plattsburg, Mo., following an eleven-month battle with glioblastoma. Born to Alex and Jeannette Oley, he was raised in Bay Village, Ohio. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 1979.
Jim dedicated 32 years of his life to Hines Interests with an exemplary work ethic and genuine passion for his projects. He began with Hines in Houston before moving to Chicago, where as SVP, Controller, he helped in the development of commercial real estate, shaping the skylines of cities in the Midwest, Southeast and Brazil.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Jim was a devoted husband to Marcia Oley (neé Hales) for 39 years. Their partnership was defined by mutual respect, shared dreams, and love for their three daughters, Hannah, Chandler, and Margaret. In his last year of life, Jim loved spending time with his grandson, Robin.
In his leisure time, Jim enjoyed snow skiing, boating on the Chain O™Lakes, travel, fishing, making new connections and listening to Breakfast with the Beatles on Sunday mornings. Jim remained a faithful Cleveland Browns supporter, and an avid Cubs fan with opening day being a ritual for many years. Sharing season tickets, Jim happily witnessed the Bulls™ reign in the ˜90s.
Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Jeannette, son Matthew, step-mother Jean, and mother-in-law Geraldine (Gerry) Hales. He is survived by his wife Marcia, their three daughters Hannah (Jonathan Applegate), Chandler (Kurt Tribble), Margaret, and grandson, Robin Applegate. He is also survived by his brothers Chris (Jean), and Ken, several nephews and nieces and his dear aunt Sondra O™Connor.
May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love and gratitude of those whose lives he touched so deeply. In the words of Jim Oley, “Keep it going!”
A visitation to celebrate Jim™s remarkable life will be held on May 31, beginning at 11 a.m. at Bailey Cox Funeral Home, Plattsburg, Mo. Friends, colleagues, and loved ones are invited to honor his memory and share stories. A memorial blessing will conclude the visitation at noon and be followed by a burial at Calvary Cemetery.
Though not a veteran, Jim was a spirited patriot and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to one of several American Legion Charities at Legion.org or to the Plattsburg Senior Center at 113 N. Main, Plattsburg, Mo., 64477. Arrangements: Bailey & Cox Family Funeral Service, Plattsburg, Missouri. Online guestbook and obituary at www.baileycox.com.
