Rita Cooley

Rita Cooley, a beloved member of her family and community, passed away on October 9, 2024, in Yukon, Oklahoma. Born on May 6, 1936, in Oklahoma City, she lived a life filled with love, adventure, and cherished moments with her family.

Throughout her years, Rita found great joy in the simple pleasures in life. She cherished bike riding and camping with her children, creating lasting memories. Rita enjoyed traveling the world, exploring new places and cultures with her husband, Vernon Cooley. These experiences not only enriched their lives but also instilled a since of adventure in her children.

Rita's husband, Vernon, accepted Christ as his savior in 1976. Soon after, Rita and his sister, LaDonna Reynolds, accepted Christ as well, leading to a profound transformation of their family and inspiring all who knew them.  

Rita is survived by three children: her son Chuck Cooley and his wife Karen, her daughter Stacey Mason and husband Brooks, her son Darren Cooley, 12 grandchildren, Nancy Gibson and husband Rhein, Kimberly Lowery and husband Gary, Kiley Adams and husband Mark, Melissa Andrews and husband John, Angela Weldon, Stephen Cooley and wife Stephanie, Kristin Lutz and husband Zachary, Jerry Martinsky, Joseph Mason, Madison Cooley, Austin Cooley, Cash Cooley. 14 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, nephew Scott Brown, and niece Sydney Chatelain. These family members carry forward her legacy of love, warmth, and compassion.

Rita was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years Vernon Cooley, parents Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Swanda, her sister Susan Barnett, nephew Josh Barnett and her sister-in-law LaDonna Reynolds. Though they have passed, their memories remain a cherished part of her story.

As we remember Rita Cooley, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love for her family and friends, and a passion for exploration that inspired those around her. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

 Visitation will be held in her honor on October 17, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory in Oklahoma City. A memorial service celebrating her life will follow on October 18, 2024, starting at 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM at the same location.