Annette T. Oats Death & Obituary: t is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Annette T. Oats, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and respected community leader in Denver, Colorado. Annette passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025, at the age of 36, surrounded by her devoted family who held her hands and offered loving farewells as she departed this world.
A Life of Quiet Strength and Purpose
Born and raised in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood, Annette was a beacon of serenity and strength. From a young age, she showed an extraordinary depth of empathy and compassion, touching lives with her gentle spirit and unwavering sense of purpose.
Her childhood was filled with the simple joys of reading, exploring nature, and forming lasting connections with her siblings and community. That same spirit would guide her throughout her life.
Education and a Calling to Serve
Annette was a graduate of East High School, where she excelled in academics and community service. She later attended the University of Colorado Denver, earning a degree in Social Work, a reflection of her lifelong mission to uplift others.
Her career in the nonprofit and human services sector began shortly after graduation, culminating in over a decade of dedicated service as a Case Coordinator at the Denver Family Resource Center. Her work focused on assisting families battling poverty, addiction, and homelessness — and she did so with unmatched empathy and integrity.
A Beloved Daughter, Sister, and Aunt
Annette’s family was the heart of her world. She was the unwavering center for her parents, Thomas and Lucille Oats, providing strength, joy, and comfort, especially during times of illness.
To her siblings, Michael and Sabrina, she was a guiding star — the first to celebrate victories and the strongest shoulder during hardships. As an aunt to Jayden, Aaliyah, Marcus, and Zoe, she was a superhero in every sense, showing up with love, snacks, bedtime stories, and endless encouragement.
A Lifelong Advocate and Compassionate Colleague
In her role at the Family Resource Center, Annette’s approach was deeply personal and intentional. She built trust, advocated for systemic change, and mentored younger staff with grace. Her colleagues called her a “heart-led professional,” admired for her calm wisdom and tireless support.
Her work wasn’t just a job — it was a calling, and she answered that call every single day.
A Faithful Servant and Community Mentor
A devoted member of New Light Baptist Church, Annette led with her faith. She volunteered in outreach ministries, taught Sunday School, and mentored youth without seeking recognition. Her faith in action was reflected not in words, but in service, humility, and resilience.
As her pastor, Reverend Elijah Sanders, shared:
“Annette didn’t talk about walking in the light — she walked in it every day.”
A Private Battle Fought with Grace
Annette faced a long, courageous battle with a rare autoimmune illness. Despite her pain, she carried herself with unmatched dignity, offering gratitude and comfort to others even in her weakest moments. Her grace in suffering was a final act of selfless love.
Celebration of Life and Memorial Information
A Celebration of Life Service will be held:
📅 Saturday, April 26, 2025
🕚 11:00 a.m.
📍 New Light Baptist Church, 2437 W. 28th Avenue, Denver, CO
A private burial will follow at Fairmount Cemetery, where Annette will be laid to rest beside her beloved grandparents.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Denver Family Resource Center, an organization close to Annette’s heart.
Remembering Annette T. Oats: A Legacy of Kindness and Quiet Power
Though her physical presence is gone, Annette’s legacy endures — in every life she touched, every family she helped, every friend she cherished. Her spirit lives in handwritten notes, whispered prayers, family traditions, and the love she freely gave.
She reminded us that true strength lies in compassion, and that leadership doesn’t require a stage — just an open heart and a willing hand.
Let us honor Annette not only in mourning but in action.
Volunteer. Listen. Uplift. Love.
Rest in peace, Annette T. Oats. You lived a life that mattered. You will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.