John Loran Ooley III ’77

John died Aug. 1, 1998, in Oklahoma City, of pancreatic cancer. He attended Princeton for only our first semester, but those who knew him remember his remarkable combination of intelligence, elegance, charisma, and wit.

A champion debater and extemporaneous speaker who was elected governor of Oklahoma Boys' State before entering Princeton, John later devoted himself to his family's clothing business. He was respected in the industry and prized by customers for his exquisite taste.

John ran 14 miles daily and regularly entered and finished ultramarathons. His ambition and resolve as an athlete were matched by his kindness in daily life. He was a sensitive and loving husband and a devoted stepfather. Because of John's interest in literature and the arts, his family has requested that donations in his memory be made to Allied Arts or Ballet Oklahoma.

John faced his illness with courage. At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Lisa Trella Ooley; two stepchildren, Caitlin and Ryan; his father, John L. Ooley II (who has since died); his mother, Margaret Ooley; brother David Ooley; and sisters Sara Ooley and Janna Hubbard.

To his family and friends, the class sends its sympathy.

The Class of 1977