Dawn Cooley van Benthuysen

1946 - 2024

Dawn Ellen Cooley van Benthuysen passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at the age of 78 at her home in Abita Springs, Louisiana. She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on April 27, 1946 to Marjorie Gutfeld and Captain Le Verrier Cooley, III. Dawn spent her early years in New Orleans, moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina for several years and later to Slidell, Louisiana with her family. She graduated from Slidell High School and attended L.S.U. Baton Rouge where she was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. Married to Baldwin van Benthuysen on December 27, 2003 in Slidell, Dawn was an avid reader, enjoyed making jewelry, spending time with her family and caring for her Maltese, Maggie. She was devoted to the care of her mother for many years. Predeceased by her parents, she is survived by her husband, Baldwin; sister, Lisa Cooley Fraser (Cran) of Seabrook, Texas; two brothers, Le Verrier Cooley, IV of Slidell, Louisiana and Scot Alfred Cooley (Julie) of Eagle River, Alaska; and six nieces and nephews. A private family interment will take place in Metairie Cemetery in New Orleans. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice.