Willie Oliver Cooksey

The Patriarch Willie Oliver Cooksey, the eldest son and proud patriarch of the Cooksey family, went home to the Lord on February 18, 2026. For nearly 82 years, Willie carried the mantle of “The Eldest” with a badge of honor that defines his character and led his family with steady strength.

Born in Fordyce Arkansas to Timothy and Myrtle Cooksey, Willie moved with his family to Atwater, California at the tender age of three. They settled on the legacy spot known as “Cookseyville”, land anchored by a home hand-built by his father.

He attended school at Mitchell Elementary and proudly graduated from Atwater High School. Willie walked the halls as a Falcon, embodying the work ethic of the Cooksey ancestors who first established their California roots in 1923.

Willie was blessed with his first-born son, Tony Cooksey. In 1963 Willie met the love of his life, Louise Prater. They married on February 21, 1965. To this union 4 children were born, Gena, Tyrone, Tina and Brian. Wille accepted Christ as his savior in 1968 and faithfully led his family with spiritual strength, dedication and love. Through his guidance and example, he played a pivotal role in shaping his children into accomplished adults they are today.

His professional life was a masterclass in dedication. He was the founder and owner of Willie Cooksey Trucking, a cornerstone of the local community for over 30 years. In his later seasons, he brought his expertise to Dobbins Transportation, where he was cherished as family.  At Dobbins Transportation, Willie was a quiet giant. He took immense pride in the “people process”, ensuring operations ran seamlessly. Recently honored with a Legacy Honorable Mention, he was a man who never made excuses and always “walked the talk”. To him, service wasn’t just a job; it was in his DNA.

Beyond his work, Willie was the ultimate “Cool Cat”. A true “Soul Man.” he had a steady calm wisdom; he believed a handshake was the only contract a man ever needed.

Willie’s greatest pride was the family he built. He loved spending time with his family and enjoying every moment he had with his children, grandchildren, and with his brother Leon. He is survived by Louise Cooksey; his siblings Leon Cooksey, Gladys Cooksey and Brenda Cooksey; his children Tony Cooksey (Stephanie), Gena Cooksey, Tyrone Cooksey (Sabrina), Tina Cooksey Jordan (Keith), and Brian Cooksey (Veronica). His legacy continues through his 17 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Timothy and Myrtle Cooksey, his brothers, Charles and Clemmie Cooksey and nieces, Cassandra Cooksey and Ebonie Perkins.

To the world, Willie Cooksey was a man of industry, but to us, he was the heartbeat of our family. He leaves behind a blueprint for excellence; work hard, keep your word, love one another and a powerful legacy that will live on.

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