Amelia “Amy” Mary Oliver, a beloved member of our community, peacefully departed from this world on September 20, 2023, at the remarkable age of 94. Born as Amelia Mary Abdullah on March 13, 1929, in Lawrence, Mass, Amy was the youngest of seven children. Tragically, her parents, Simon “Sam” and Frances Abdullah, passed away when she was just 14 years old. Amy found solace with her sister Rose and played an instrumental role in raising her nephew, John. It was during this time that Amy and her niece Lillian encountered two sailors on Chelsea Beach, leading to a fateful double wedding ceremony on June 17, 1951. Her husband, Herman L. Oliver, served in the Navy and received orders to be stationed at the Naval base in Green Cove Springs in 1952. Thus, Amy and Herman relocated to Green Cove, where they would reside for over 70 years.
Amy was a remarkable mother, raising eight children who all graduated from Clay High School and went on to pursue higher education, successful careers, and fulfilling marriages. She cherished having her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren around her, always extending a warm welcome to anyone in need during holidays and family celebrations. Amy’s deep faith was an integral part of her life, and she actively participated in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Philip Neri Ecumenical Church, the latter being her oldest son’s congregation. Professionally, Amy served as a nurse at Clay Memorial until its closure, after which she worked at the Health Department in Green Cove Springs until her well-deserved retirement.
Although her beloved husband preceded her in death in 2012, Amy is survived by all of her children: Hattie Willis (Ronny), John Oliver (Kathryn), Diana Rauchwarger (Alan), George Oliver (Debbie), Margaret Schulze (Kenny), Sandy Davis (Scott), Janet Marcum (Henry), Ray Oliver (Teresa). Additionally, she leaves behind 13 grandchildren: Troy Wright, Jeremy Wright, Tobin Oliver, Noah Oliver, Joshua Delp, Amy Pesterfield, Joseph “Ryan” Oliver, Kristin Luke, Kenneth “Preston” Schulze, Ashley Roberts, Cameron Oliver, Peyton Oliver, and Raymond “Trey” Oliver. Furthermore, Amy’s legacy extends to her nine great-grandchildren.
Funeral services to honor Amy’s life will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, located at 7190 Hwy 17, Fleming Island, FL 32003. The viewing will commence at 10 am, followed by a mass at 11 am. After the ceremony, a reception will be held at the church, and a committal-gravesite service will take place at 12 pm (noon) at Hickory Grove Cemetery, adjacent to Helms Funeral Home in Green Cove Springs on Hwy 16.
Amy’s departure leaves a void in our hearts, but her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her unwavering love, generosity, and dedication to her family and community serve as an inspiration to us all. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Arrangements under the care of Helm-Gallagher Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1811 Idlewild Avenue, SR 16, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. 904-284-9696. www.helmgallagherfh.com