Samuel Dale Cooksey's Obituary
Samuel “Sam” Dale Cooksey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2024, at the age of 82. Born in Amarillo, Texas, on June 20, 1941, to parents Wilson and Ada (Branson) Cooksey, Sam's life was marked by dedication, faith, and a profound love for his family and God. Sam was a bold force in this world. He touched the lives of many with his incredible spirit and vibrant personality. He will be forever missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Sam met his best friend and the absolute love of his life, Jacklyn “Jackie” Christine Hall early on in his youth. Jackie’s parents were acquainted with Sam’s parents, and through their mothers’ efforts, Sam and Jackie were set up on a blind date. Although Sam’s Pentecostal parents initially had reservations about Jackie, whom they deemed “worldly” for wearing makeup and pants, this did not deter the couple whatsoever. They went out on their first date and well… the rest was history. Sam and Jackie fell deeply in love and married in November of 1960, a date that became a charming point of debate between them, as neither could agree on the exact day.
Sam began his professional life as a Sales Manager at Procter & Gamble, where his potential for a stellar career was evident. However, feeling a higher calling, he left the corporate world to dedicate 13 years to missionary work in Mexico. His deep faith and commitment to spreading the word of God touched countless lives. He continued his spiritual journey as a pastor in San Marcos, Texas, for 12 years, and his influence extended into Sunday School classrooms, one-on-one discipleship, family, and marriage counseling. Many have counted him as a hero in the Lord for his faith and deep convictions of the world.
A man of many interests, Sam loved studying the Bible, reading, hiking, exploring nature, and baking delicious desserts, particularly pies. Despite a brain bleed that changed his tastes and his love for Snickers bars, he remained passionate about life’s simple pleasures, like enjoying picnics with his loving wife, Jackie.
After leaving the pastoral ministry, Sam transitioned through several careers, including real estate and nursing, ultimately becoming a certified scrub tech. Despite the financial setback of losing his savings in the Enron scandal, Sam’s resilience never wavered. He and Jackie lived with their eldest son, Gregory, in Washington State for several years before moving to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, to live with their younger son, David, where they spent the next two decades.
In his later years, Sam worked part-time in the produce department at Walmart before retiring to care for Jackie full time. The couple has resided at the Franciscan Villa Nursing Home for the past 2½ years, where they received compassionate care and support within their community.
Sam’s life was a testament to faith, perseverance, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of spiritual strength and devotion that will be cherished by all who knew him. He is now at peace with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, leaving a permanent mark on the hearts of his family as well as the many lives he touched.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Ada Branson Cooksey, and his siblings, Billy, Kenneth, Laverne, and Maxine. He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Jacklyn Christine “Jackie” (Hall) Cooksey; his sons, Gregory Stinson Cooksey (married to Kari) and Samuel "David" Cooksey (married to Tanya); and his cherished grandchildren: Gregory (married to Teresa), Lauren (married to Freddy Putzeys), Rachel (married to Blake Ericksen), Anthony (married to Tori), Michael (married to Evyn), and Noah. He also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Samuel, Cole, Avelynn, Macklin, Kennedy, Nora, Hollyn, and Ryder.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service to honor the life of Sam will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel, located at 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012, with Pastor Jerry Boyd officiating.
Sam's service will be livestreamed for anyone unable to physically attend:
https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/101246
Anyone wishing to send flowers may do so by ordering through our website or by calling Floral Designs by Floral Haven at (918) 459-1525. Any independent florists may deliver flowers directly to Floral Haven Funeral Home by 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 1, 2024, in order for them to be set out and properly displayed for Sam's services.
Following the memorial service, Sam's family would like to warmly extend an invitation to anyone wishing to join them for lunch at 11:30 AM, at El Viejo's Mexican Grill in order to continue in fellowship and in the sharing of memories. El Viejo’s Mexican Grill is located at 600 S Aspen Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012, for anyone wishing to attend.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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