Russell Joel Cooley, age 77, of Lake Charles, La., passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born in Cambridge, England, on May 20,1945, to Aubrey Cecil Cooley of Longville, La., and Audrey Joel Cooley of Grimbsy, England. His parents met during World War II while his dad was stationed in England. He arrived in the U.S. with his mother who was pregnant with his little brother when he was a year old.
Russell was raised in Lake Charles, La., and graduated from LaGrange High. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country as an electrician. When he returned home from the Navy he attended McNeese University and earned a business degree. Following in his father’s footsteps; Russell became a builder. He spent his life building and remodeling homes across SWLA and truly loved his profession. Russell was a proud McNeese Alumni and Cowboy’s fan. The only place he’d rather be than a McNeese football game was hunting deer on his lease. His greatest treasure was his family and he loved them unconditionally.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey and Audrey Cooley; step-mother, Gladys Cooley; brother, Craig Cooley and beloved daughter, Tracy Cooley.
Those left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Leah Broussard; son-in-law, Jeremy Broussard; grandchildren, Allyson Cooley, Brant Cooley, Riley Broussard and August Broussard; great-grandchildren. Emberlly and Evallyn Mullens and Edyn Verkler; nieces, Michelle Cart, Christy Cooley, Tiffany Douet and Kristi Babineaux; former wife, Linda Cooley; and sister-in-law, Linda Kline.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Harbor Hospice in Lake Charles, La. for the exceptional care of Russell.
A visitation will be held for Russell at New Life Worship Center in Moss Bluff, La., on Jan. 10, 2023, at 10 a.m. with a Memorial service to follow at 11 a.m.