Austin J. Cooley

It is with profoundly heavy hearts that we announce the passing of South Hunt County Deputy Fire Chief and Police Officer for the city of Kaufman, Austin J. Cooley, age 26, of Wolfe City, Texas. Austin passed away unexpectedly on December 8, 2025. Born on December 20, 1998, in Rockwall, Texas, to Stephen James Cooley and Jaimie Ruth (Hargett) Cooley, Austin lived a life defined by service, integrity, and genuine kindness that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Austin truly never met a stranger. He carried himself with warmth, humility, and an easy ability to connect with others, whether in moments of joy or during someone's hardest day. He possessed a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right - values that guided both his personal life and his calling to serve the community. Public service was not simply a career for Austin; it was a responsibility he took immense pride in and a purpose he lived out daily.

Raised alongside his three brothers - Anthony, Andrew, and Ascher, Austin grew up valuing family, loyalty, and teamwork. These early bonds helped shape the man he became: dependable, protective, and deeply devoted to those he loved.

Austin attended Rockwall-Heath High School, graduating with the Class of 2017. He went on to complete fire and emergency medical training and later attended the Collin County College Police Academy. His professional path reflected his heart for service, as he served with the Hunt County Sheriff's Office, the City of Fate, and the City of Kaufman. At the time of his passing, Austin proudly served with South Hunt County Fire Rescue as Deputy Fire Chief and with Kaufman City Police Department.

On October 8, 2022, Austin married the love of his life, Raegan (Fincher) Cooley, in College Mound, Texas. Their story began at a party, where Raegan was initially unsure about Austin - but after talking a couple days later, the two quickly formed a connection that would change both of their lives forever. The rest truly was history. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose.

Austin was especially proud to be a father. He and Raegan were blessed with a beautiful daughter, Evelyn "Evie" Ray Cooley, a name Austin lovingly chose. Becoming a dad was one of his greatest joys, and his devotion to Raegan and Evie was evident in everything he did.

In his time away from work, Austin cherished being with his family, especially his wife and newborn daughter. He enjoyed listening to music, mentoring others, and serving wherever he saw a need. Known for his sense of humor, Austin had a way of bringing light and laughter into any room, often lifting others up without even realizing the impact he was making. Additionally, Austin was a member of Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, Texas, where his faith further shaped his commitment to service and compassion for others.

Austin was preceded in death by his grandfather, Greg McGlinn. He is survived by his beloved wife, Raegan Cooley, and their daughter, Evelyn Cooley; his parents, Stephen and Jaimie Cooley; his brothers, Anthony Cooley, Andrew Cooley, and Ascher Cooley; his grandmother, Debbie Cooley; his grandmother, Connie McGlinn; and his great-grandmother, Judith Kelley. He is also lovingly survived by his parents-in-law, Khristina and Grant Fincher; his brother-in-law, Grayson Fincher; his sisters-in-law, Hayden Garcia and Peyton Fincher; as well as many close friends and coworkers who were not only colleagues, but family to him.

Austin's life, though far too short, was one of meaningful impact. His legacy lives on through the lives he served, the people he protected, and the family he loved with his whole heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Austin's honor to support Raegan during this unimaginable time of loss and to assist with his daughter Evelyn's care and future. For those who wish to give, contributions can be made directly through the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-fallen-officers-family-h8wkq

A public time of visitation will be held from 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Lakepointe Church, located at 701 E Interstate 30, Rockwall, Texas 75087.

A funeral service to honor the life of Austin will follow at 10:00 AM, with Chief Ryan Biggers of South Hunt County Fire-Rescue officiating. Services will be held in the Main Auditorium at Lakepointe Church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rest Haven Funeral Home – Rockwall, Texas.