Joseph Olney

OXFORD - Joseph J. Olney, 79, died at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday May 29, 2018. He was born on February 24, 1939, son of Richard Olney and Flora Dumas, and lived his entire life in Oxford. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 46 years, Patricia M. Olney, who died on August 19, 2008. Besides his wife, Joseph’s children and grandchildren were the most important part of his life. Joseph is survived by five children, Jean M. Church and her husband Michael of Spencer, Michael J. Olney and his wife Cindy of Worcester, Beth A. Thomas and her husband Christopher of Holland, James N. Olney and his wife Sherrye of Oxford, and Lois F. Taylor of Thompson, Connecticut. He was known as “Papa” to his eleven grandchildren. He leaves behind Nicholas Church, Joshua Church, Katelyn-Rose Church, Amanda Olney, Shawn Olney, Joseph Thomas, Rebecca Thomas, Samantha Olney, Mark Olney, Rachel Taylor and Martin Taylor. He also leaves three great grandchildren; Quincy, Mark, and Morgan. Joseph is also survived by his sisters Cynthia Olney of Oxford, Susan Olney of Oxford, and his brother Richard Olney and his wife Norma of Oxford. He leaves several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Joseph served his country in the Army National Guard. He was also a member of the Oxford Fire Department for many years, eventually retiring as Captain. In later years, Joseph was an active member of the Oxford Firefighters Association at the Huguenot Steamer No.1 Fire Station Museum in North Oxford. He conducted tours and donated firefighter memorabilia to the museum. Joseph managed several manufacturing facilities during his career including RAYOVAC, L. Hardy, and MacNeil Engineering. Joseph took pride in being able to build, fix, and make anything with his own hands. He felt it was important to pass his skills onto the next generation. After retirement, Joseph and his wife, Patricia, enjoyed traveling and taking the grandchildren on camping trips. They later operated a crafting business which consisted of all handmade items. His crafting specialty was building birdhouses.

While Joseph’s family was his top priority, he also enjoyed many hobbies. From a young age, he was an avid train enthusiast. Although he loved anything railroad related, he was especially passionate about model railroading. He created brilliant displays which eventually moved from his basement to his museum, Railside America. He operated the museum for many years in the 1970’s. Joseph enjoyed watching the Patriots football and was a dedicated NASCAR sports fan. Joseph was an ardent collector of many things and loved to yard sale, always getting the best deals. He loved fireworks and never missed a single display. Joseph leaves behind a wonderful legacy and will be loved and missed dearly by his family.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 2, 2018, at Paradis-Givner Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. Burial with military honors will follow at North Cemetery in Oxford. Calling hours are Friday, June 1, 2018, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oxford Firefighter’s Association, P.O. Box 606, North Oxford, MA 01537.