litdell cooley
1912-1982
Life Story
Litdell Cooley was born on April 29, 1912, to John Cooley (1884-1952) and Everlina Bennett Cooley (1891-1960) in Newton County, Mississippi. He was their second child and first-born son, raised in a family that valued hard work and perseverance. Growing up in the rural South during the early 20th century, Litdell was exposed to the challenges and opportunities of a challenging era. He completed the 6th grade at elementary school, where he developed a curiosity for learning that would stay with him throughout his life. By the age of about seventeen, he was employed at an oil mill company as a sacker, where he learned the value of discipline and dedication in the workforce, preparing him for future endeavors and deepening his understanding of the labor market in his community. Through his early experiences, Litdell would come to appreciate the significance of determination and the transformational power of work in shaping one’s future.
Litdell married Melvina McCune (1914-2014) around 1933, embarking on a journey filled with dreams and responsibilities. To support his new family, he took on a job as a laborer for a road construction company, where he worked diligently through long hours, helping to pave the way for infrastructure development in the area. His determination and hard work allowed him to provide for his family, ensuring they had the essentials for a comfortable life. By 1950, after years of perseverance, Litdell was back working at the Oil Mill company as a millhand, where he applied his skills gained from previous experiences. The couple had one child together, who would grow up witnessing the unwavering commitment and dedication of his parents to their work and family, instilling values that would carry on through generations. His son was known as:
- John Westley Cooley (1934-2012)
In March 1982, Litdell passed away at the age of approximately 68 years, leaving behind a legacy that resonated deeply within his community. His funeral was held at Sylvester United Methodist Church, a place where he was not only a dedicated member but also a cornerstone of spiritual guidance. At Sylvester, he served in several capacities within the church. Litdell will be remembered not just for his contributions to the church, but for the friendships he forged and the lives he touched throughout his years of devoted ministry.
Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Melvina McCune Cooley; one son, John Wesley Cooley of Kansas City, Kansas; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother, John Cooley (Kid) of Newton; three sisters, Mrs. Earlie H. Nichols (Rachel) of Newton, Mrs. Thomas Graham (Fannie) of Dayton, Ohio, and Mrs. J. W. Mallard (Lucille) of Chicago, Illinois; as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Resting Place
Sylvester United Methodist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- The Newton Record, Litdell Cooley Obituary, Wed, Mar 17, 1982 ·Page 7
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- The Newton Record, Everlina Bennett Cooley Obituary, Wed, Oct 05, 1960 ·Page 15
- U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
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