Wanda Lou Cooley

Wanda Lou Cooley, née Davis, passed away after a long illness on November 30, 2025, closing the final chapter of a long and well lived life. Born in 1932 in North Carolina, Wanda grew up with the values of her generation—resilience, loyalty, and a quiet determination that guided her through every stage of her journey. She gained many life lessons and experiences on the family farm in Morrisville, NC. Her parents, Dora and Wendell Davis gave her the gift of common sense and traditional values, which she passed on to her children.

Wanda was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon “Buck” Cooley, and her son, Richard Douglas Davis. Though she knew profound loss, she carried herself with grace, strength, and an unwavering devotion to her family. She was also dedicated to her mother’s family, ensuring that the Butts Davis Family Cemetery on the former family farm was maintained. She even donated land so that it would remain viable for generations to come.

She is survived by her children: Donna Karen Cooley, Walter Ervon Lancaster, Leonard Michael Lancaster, and Jefferson Wendell Davis—each of whom carries forward a part of her spirit. She also leaves behind many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Wanda’s life was filled with the small, steady acts of love that leave deep marks—whether it was her talent as a cook, her sewing creations, her steady hand with a paintbrush, or a timely piece of advice that only a mother could give. On occasion, her nephews and nieces sought her guidance as well.

She was always encouraging her children and others to pursue their dreams, saying: “If any other human can do it, you can too!” Positivity was one of her greatest gifts. She loved children and taught Sunday school at Morrisville Baptist Church, where she and her sister, Swannie, purchased a beautiful stained-glass window in honor of their mother, Dora. Wanda will be remembered for her warmth, her sense of humor, and her stubborn streak—the kind that helped her navigate life’s challenges with courage and heart. She was once asked how she managed to raise five children by herself, despite the challenges of working two jobs and facing many difficulties. Her answer was simple: “There was no other choice.” Of course, there were other choices, but she chose the one that kept her family together.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, family bonds, and indelible memories that will continue across generations. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with those she loved and lost, and that her memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and lives of those she touched. She was a rare jewel.

The Celebration of Life Services for Wanda will be held 2pm - Friday, December 12, 2025, at Sorrell's Grove Baptist Church 210 Sorrell Grove Church Rd, Morrisville, NC 27560 with Pastor Glen Davis and her family officiating and burial to follow at Butts Davis Family Cemetery in Morrisville, North Carolina. Any flowers sent locally in Poteau, need to be delivered to Holt Funeral Home 522 Dewey Ave before Wednesday, December 10, 2025, and all arrangements will be taken to the funeral service in Morrisville.

Online condolences can be made at www.holtfuneralandcremation.com

"Through Love, Serve One Another"

The Family of Wanda Cooley has entrusted her arrangements to Holt Funeral and Cremation, 522 Dewey Ave Poteau, OK 74953, (918) 721-0026. Poteau's Only 100% Locally Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home - Our Family, Loving Your Family Through