Oscar Luther Bagley Jr.

Bagley—Oscar Luther Bagley Jr., 94, on March 30, 2024, in Greensboro, N.C. Oscar was born on January 6, 1930, to Oscar Luther Bagley and Ora Ethel Peele Perkins Bagley in Goldsboro, N.C. On his mother’s side, his family goes back to Lawrence Peele, a member of the Jamestown Colony. Oscar had one younger sister, Joyce. After graduation from Goldsboro High School, Oscar enrolled at Guilford College, where he met Emily Jean Cox. They married on June 30, 1949, at Asheboro Street Meeting (originally Greensboro Meeting, now known as First Friends Meeting) in Greensboro. They had two children, Richard Michael and Emily Susan.

Oscar’s career was in sales. His most enjoyable employment was the time spent with Emily as proprietors of The Mug at Lawndale Shopping Center where they made many lifelong friends. Oscar was an avid golfer and enjoyed shooting pool. In his retirement, he particularly enjoyed visits with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Oscar and Emily spent their last years at Friends Homes Guilford, initially in independent living. Later both received exemplary care at the Whittier skilled nursing center. Of particular note was Oscar’s care for Emily as she battled dementia. They would have 65 years of marriage until Emily’s death on March 2, 2015.

Oscar’s relationship with New Garden Meeting was primarily through Emily, his daughter Susan, and his grandchildren. Friends could count on his presence at the Christmas Eve service and at other times when family members were participating in special programs. While he didn’t attend every Sunday as did Emily, he supported the meeting and its programs.

Oscar was predeceased by his wife, Emily Cox Bagley; a sister, Joyce Marie Bagley Ayers; his son, Richard Michael Bagley; and a great-grandchild.

He is survived by one child, Emily Susan Bagley (Gary Lewis Sonday); one daughter-in-law, Karen Barr Bagley; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.