Joseph William Cooley
Wyoming – April 20, 2025
With deep love and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Joseph William Cooley, who departed this life on April 20, 2025, at the age of 83. A true son of the American West, Joe was known far and wide as a legendary urban cowboy—his soul as free as the wind rolling over the plains, and his heart as expansive as the open Wyoming sky.
Born and raised in the rugged heartland he loved so dearly, Joe embodied the cowboy spirit in every sense: resilient, proud, kind, and unwavering in his values. With a deep-rooted passion for horses, cowboy poetry, and the art of storytelling, he spent his life weaving the rich history and rhythm of the West into every word he spoke and every tale he told. Whether around a campfire or on a local stage, his stories painted vivid pictures of love, hardship, laughter, and the timeless bond between man and land.
Joe’s presence was larger than life. He wore his boots like they were stitched to his soul, tipped his hat with humility and charm, and carried himself with the dignity of a man who knew what it meant to live simply, love deeply, and give generously. His poems could make you laugh, cry, and think—sometimes all at once. And his ability to connect with people of all ages made him not just a cowboy, but a mentor, a friend, and a symbol of enduring grace in an ever-changing world.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Kendra Cooley, who was his pride and joy. Their bond was unbreakable, built on shared laughter, long rides, and a mutual respect for life’s beauty and struggle. As she now faces the immense sorrow of saying goodbye to her father, Kendra also carries the difficult burden of managing his final arrangements amid financial hardship.
To help honor Joe’s memory and ensure he receives the dignified farewell he so richly deserves, the Cooley family is humbly seeking donations to assist with burial expenses. These contributions will allow Kendra the space to grieve, to celebrate the incredible life her father lived, and to preserve the legacy of a man who gave so much of himself to others.
Joseph William Cooley lived a life of depth, character, and poetry. His boots may now be still, but his stories, his love, and his cowboy spirit will echo across the Wyoming plains for generations to come. He leaves behind a trail of memories that will forever ride in the hearts of those who knew him.
Donations in Joe’s memory can be made via the family’s designated fund, with deep gratitude for the kindness and support during this difficult time.
Ride easy, Joe. You’ve earned your rest. Your story lives on.
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