Dean Lavere Cooley

Dean Lavere Cooley
4 Jan 1934 – 19 Apr 2026

Dean Lavere Cooley passed away April 19, 2026 in Taylor AZ. Dean was born on January 4, 1934 in Mesa, Arizona to Hollis Dean Cooley and Ellen Sophia McLaws. He was the first child of six children. He married and was sealed to Janet Louise Brooks for time and all eternity in the Mesa Arizona Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on November 28, 1952. Together they led and guided their family towards happiness with love, endurance, and faith for over 66 years.

When he was not caring for his family, he was out serving others. He had a firm testimony of the divinity of our Savior Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints he served in many positions. As well, he contributed to his community politicly in various positions, including an Arizona State Representative. He, along with his father, was the founder of Cooley Industries, a major lumber supplier for the southwest. Together Dean and Janet taught and raised 8 faithful children to be hard workers and loving individuals. 

He is survived by his children: Deborah Whiting (Rex), Janice Paladino, Michael Cooley (Christine), Lori Johnson (Daniel), Sena Hall (Larry), Celeste Johnson (Kenny), and Deanna Richmond (Ken), 41 grandchildren, 125 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Janet, their son John, sons-in-law David Paladino and Eric Nicolls, grandson Andrew Whiting, great-grandson Christopher Whiting, great-grandson Aiden Johnson, and many others who were joyfully waiting to welcome him back home.

His legacy of love and selflessness will be carried on through everything he did.

A viewing will be held Friday, May 1, 2026 at 5-8 p.m. in Taylor AZ at Silver Creek Mortuary, 745 Paper Mill Rd.

Graveside service will be at the Mesa City Cemetery Saturday May 2nd at 10:00 a.m., 1212 N Center Street.

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