Chester "Chet" Earl Cooley

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Chester Earl "Chet" Cooley, 68, of San Angelo, Texas. Chet went to be with his Creator on Sunday, December 15, 2024, after a courageous battle with lung disease. 

Born on September 26, 1956, in Guymon, Oklahoma, to Fontaine and Lilian Cooley, Chet was the youngest son in a family of six children. In 1993, he settled in San Angelo, where he built a loving home with his wife, Denise, and raised three wonderful children. Chet and Denise shared a beautiful 35-year marriage filled with love, partnership, and countless cherished memories. 

Chet was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, Papa, and a cherished member of his community. Known for his warmth and compassion, he cultivated countless meaningful relationships, always making those around him feel valued and heard. Chet was a source of encouragement, urging everyone to approach life with grace, empathy, and kindness. His legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. 

Work was a significant part of Chet’s life; he was a dedicated maintenance supervisor at the Southland Arms Apartments for over 27 years and held an impactful position with team members and tenants as a steadfast source of trust and unwavering friendship. His commitment to ensuring the apartments were well-maintained reflected his strong work ethic, and he took great pride in his responsibilities. Chet’s leadership was marked by a sense of integrity, always prioritizing the needs of the tenants and creating a safe, welcoming environment for all. His approachability and willingness to go above and beyond for both his team and the residents made him a beloved figure at Southland Arms, where his legacy of dedication and care will be remembered for years to come.

Chet is survived by his beloved wife, Denise; their children, Somer (John), Jessica (Jon), and Brandon (Nicki); six treasured granddaughters, Taylor, Brinley, Sloane, Harlow, Madison, and Dakota; his sister, Jacque; his brothers, Dallas, Wes, James, and Gary; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, as well as his Southland Arms family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fontaine and Lilian Cooley. 

A celebration of Chet’s life will be held at Calvary Lutheran Church in San Angelo on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Lung Association in Chet’s memory. 

Chet’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his memory will remain a guiding light for all who were fortunate to know him. To honor Chet, we encourage you to share your cherished stories, spend time with your loved ones, and remind them how much they mean to you—just as he always did.