As the early October date for the Once Upon A Tomb program to benefit the Oakdale Citizens Cemetery draws near, actors and actresses are putting the finishing touches on their monologues and getting ready to portray some of the Cowboy Capital’s most influential citizens.
This week, we highlight three of the performers that will be featured in the 2026 edition, with the final three to be showcased in the Sept. 23 issue. The cemetery walk is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3 at the cemetery on J Street.
EMMA COPPETTI
Giving a voice to Emma Coppetti will be first time participant, Cody Singh, a high school student. Emma Coppetti came to America from Italy in 1910 when she was just 15 and began a new life far from home. By 17, she was married to Giovanni “John” Coppetti and was building a life in Oakdale. She later became a local restaurant owner during Prohibition. And while Stanislaus County had officially gone dry, Emma was known for bending the rules and serving alcohol from her restaurant despite the ban.
“Her story is one of determination, hard work and just a little rebellion,” Once Upon A Tomb organizers said, adding that in the role, local actress Singh brings a “youthful perspective and personal connection to the role” and will help the audience imagine Emma Coppetti as the real person she was, not just a name from Oakdale’s past.
J.B. STEARNS
A well-known businessman, blacksmith and an active member of the Oakdale community, J.B. Stearns became Oakdale’s first mayor in 1906. In that role, he helped lead the young town during its early years.
But it wasn’t all business, as he had a love for thoroughbred horses, buggy racing, and a little friendly competition around town.
“Bringing J.B.’s lively personality back to Once Upon A Tomb is veteran actor Ray Leverett, returning for his third year with the cemetery walk,” officials said. “With his experience and playful approach, Ray brings Oakdale’s first mayor to life in a way that is both entertaining and memorable.”
Stearns was described as a man who “worked hard, served his community, and knew how to have a good time doing it.”
REVEREND DANIEL STUART
He was a respected spiritual leader and an important part of the Oakdale community but his story reaches far beyond the pulpit. Reverend Daniel Stuart survived a shipwreck, traveled west during the California Gold Rush, helped establish the county’s first cannery, and became the first person in the area to plant almond trees.
“His life was marked by faith, courage, vision, and a willingness to take on new challenges,” organizers explained. “Bringing Reverend Stuart’s remarkable story to life at Once Upon A Tomb is youth pastor Donny Merchant, making his debut with the cemetery walk this year. As a newcomer to the event, Donny brings fresh energy and a personal connection to Reverend Stuart’s story.”
He understood the importance of bringing people together and helping his community grow, organizers added, and his legacy is a reminder that “one person can make a lasting impact through both service and determination.”
The Oct. 3 cemetery walk begins with a 5 p.m. tour for those with mobility issues, followed by staggered tours at 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8 p.m., and 8:30 p.m.
Tickets are $25 and all proceeds go to the Oakdale Citizens Cemetery. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite and there is also a small service fee in addition to the purchase price.
