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Robert "Bob"
Marshall Cooley
Aug 11, 1940 — Aug 19, 2025
Bella Vista
Robert "Bob" Cooley, 85, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, left this world for his heavenly home on August 19, 2025. He was born on August 11, 1940, in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Charles O'Neal Cooley and Sarah Louise (Stacy) Cooley.
He met the love of his life, Wyllodean Pearson, at the local dairy bar in Tupelo, MS. A moment he often described as the best thing that ever happened to him. Their marriage was built on love, devotion, and a shared love for family.
Bob lived a life rich in love, faith, blessings, and purpose. He graduated from Tupelo High School in 1959. He discovered his calling behind the lens of a camera. As the owner of Cooley's Photo, he captured life's most treasured moments for countless families. Even in his final days, he was still taking pictures, his way of celebrating the beauty around him. He found joy, peace, and beauty in all of God's creation.
A man of many passions, Bob loved the outdoors. Whether hunting, fishing, bird watching, or perfecting his skills as a champion skeet shooter. He had a lifelong love of sports, especially football, and baseball. He relished every opportunity to attend a game in person, soaking up the energy of the crowd and the thrill of competition. He also loved music and served as president of the Tupelo High School Orchestra 1982-1983.
Yet his greatest devotion was to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As a faithful follower of Christ, Bob served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher, leading by example and living out his faith with quiet strength and grace.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Betty L. Clayborne; and his brother, Charles O'Neal "Sonny" Cooley, Jr.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Wyllodean Cooley of Bella Vista, AR.; his daughters, Debbie Vaught (David) of Bella Vista, AR and Sherrie Black of Tupelo, MS.; his grandsons, Trae Vaught (Michelle) and Beau Black (Amanda); and his great-granddaughter, Willa, who he called his best Father's Day gift ever.
A private celebration of life is planned for the immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you honor Bob's memory by loving your family deeply and making every moment count because we never know the day or hour God will call us home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.
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