Bryan C Cooley

Bryan Clifford Cooley
February 2, 1947 – August 12, 2026
Bryan Clifford Cooley was born on February 2, 1947, in Wisconsin. He was raised in the West Bend area and graduated from high school in 1965. After high school, Bryan attended the University of Wisconsin–Platteville before being drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War.
Bryan proudly served his country in the Army for three years. During his time in the service, his life took an unexpected and beautiful turn when he received a letter from a young woman named Donna Smith, who had written to “any U.S. serviceman.” Bryan and Donna began corresponding through letters, and over time, their friendship grew into love. Their letters continued throughout his military service, and after Bryan was honorably discharged, he moved to Texas to marry Donna in 1970.
Bryan spent most of his professional career working for Southwestern Bell, which later became AT&T. He built a long and dedicated career there before eventually retiring.
Throughout his life, Bryan served the Lord in many capacities from technical support, to choir, teaching Sunday school and Bible studies, and serving as a deacon for many years.
Later in life, Bryan married Linda Gust, and the two shared many years together. Bryan will be remembered for the life he built, his service to his country, his years of hard work, and most of all, the family he loved.
Bryan passed away peacefully at home on August 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that will continue through the generations.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Donald Cooley and Sarah (Sally) Cooley. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Cooley; his daughters, Kristina Hurst and Kimberly Chesney; his son-in-law, Jonathan Chesney; his grandchildren, Jonathon & Ashley Hurst, Kristopher Hurst, Autumn Abraham, and Kristian Hurst; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Bob and Paula Cooley, Dave and Mary Cooley, Curtis and Susan Cooley, and Richard and Julie Cooley, and many nephews and nieces.
He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew and loved him.