Oakley Rose Willers of Ankeny, Iowa, gained her angel wings on April 10, 2025, at just 10 weeks old.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Catholic Church (510 E. 1st St.) in Ankeny, Iowa. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, also at the church.
Born on January 30, 2025, to loving parents Olivia and Tyler Willers, Oakley was a miracle from the very start. During her 20-week ultrasound, doctors discovered multiple heart defects and warned she might not survive birth. But through unwavering prayer and an incredible fighting spirit, she not only entered the world but defied expectations, coming home to Ankeny, Iowa, after a five-week hospital stay at Children’s Minnesota in Minneapolis.
In her short but beautiful life, Oakley was a source of pure joy. She loved cuddling and napping with her parents, always finding comfort in their embrace. A calm and sweet baby, she smiled easily, lighting up every room she was in. Though she spit up often, her parents lovingly embraced the chance to dress her in a fresh outfit and bow. She delighted in stroller walks outside, soaking in the world around her, and would have loved to meet many more family and friends who adored her beyond measure. She was deeply loved every single day.
Oakley is survived by her devoted parents, Olivia and Tyler Willers; grandparents, Donna and Daniel Drexler (Bettendorf, IA), and Sharon and Terry Willers (LeClaire, IA); her loving aunts, Abigail (Nathan) Howard, Eleanor Drexler, Anastasia Drexler, Jessica (Doug) Havill, Jennifer Mendoza; uncle, Travis Willers; along with many cherished cousins.
Olivia and Tyler wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who prayed, provided gifts, and offered support during their pregnancy, Oakley’s birth, and in the weeks that followed. They also extend their sincere thanks to the compassionate staff at Children’s Minnesota, Dr. Allison Whitney, Dr. Stephen Mooradian, and the Ronald McDonald House for their unwavering care and kindness. Oakley was sponsored by Tori’s Angels, a generous foundation who eased the burden of medical expenses, transportation, and food. Olivia and Tyler are forever grateful for the support that brought comfort during their most difficult moments.
Though Oakley has returned to her Heavenly Father, her love endures—a reminder that God’s miracles, though sometimes brief, are boundless. She was held in the loving arms of her family here, and now she is held in the arms of our Savior and all our loved ones who proceed us in death, where there is no more pain, but only perfect peace.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Ronald McDonald House or Tori’s Angels Foundation on Oakley’s behalf.
Rest peacefully in eternal glory, sweet Oakley Rose. You were, and always will be, a miracle.
510 E. 1st St
Ankeny, Iowa 50021
510 E. 1st St
Ankeny, Iowa 50021