Former Corcoran City Councilman Merrill Sonny Oxford, 77, died Dec. 3 in Reedley. A native of Knoxville, Texas, Mr. Oxford grew up in Avenal and attended Avenal High School graduating in 1959. While attending Avenal High, Sonny was a member of the football team proudly wearing the number four and earning the Most Valuable Player award his senior year.
Mr. Oxford moved to Corcoran in 1964 where started he his career as a Rainbow Bread Salesman. He was known in town as the “Bread Man”. He retired from his job in 2002 after 39 years of dedicated service.
During his time in Corcoran, Sonny was elected to serve on the Corcoran City Council. He was a councilman for six years for Corcoran serving from 1976-1982.
Sonny was highly regarded for his work ethic and for providing for his family. He taught his family about the importance of hard work and his words of wisdom will always be remembered. Pops said it doesn’t matter what you do-whether you’re bagging groceries or the CEO of Apple-do it well. Someone is taking a chance on you so whatever you do be the best at it. Give 100 percent every day.
Sonny was also into fitness and loved to maintain his yard and landscape his home. He was meticulous about both his yard and home. He was a great friend and had many friends who he hung out with at his favorite places. Everyone knew Pops and had a memorable story to share about him.
Memories include in the 90’s–the summers which were the best with Melissa, Joe, Justin, Aaron, Josh and friends camped out at Pop’s pool while everyone was at work.
Sonny was preceded in death by his mother, Mozelle Oxford Chavez; his father, Douglas Oxford; and a sister, Wanda Sue Oxford.
Survivors include his children, Jessie Mowdy and husband, Scott, Terry Oxford, and Bary Oxford and wife, Rebecca; a brother, Claude Oxford; and a sister, Bonnie White; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
The family would like to give special thanks to Golden Living and Oyuna hospice for all the love and care they showed Sonny.
Upon Sonny’s request a private Celebration of Life service will be held.
Robert (Bobby) “Big Rob” Atilano Jr.
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, October 5 at 1 p.m. at Salser and Dillard Funeral Home in Visalia for Robert (Bobby) “Big Rob” Atilano, 52, who died September 13, 2023 in Visalia. Bobby worked for The Corcoran Journal for nearly 25 years as the Display...
