Rev. Henry Clay Cooksey Sr.

Rev. Henry Clay Cooksey, Sr., 88, of Tallahassee, died Thursday 5/22/03 at home surrounded by family members. He was descended from three pioneer families, Cookseys, Langs and Granthams who settled in Jefferson County between Waukeenah and Monticello in the early 1830’s. In his early years, he was a dairyman as was his father William Cooksey, however, he answered the call and became a full time minister in the service of his Lord Jesus Christ at the age of 39. He was of the Assembly of God faith and served as minister to the Otter Creek, Monticello, Pine Grove, Ivan, and Woodside Heights churches. Following retirement he attended Heritage Assembly of God church. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Flora Erin Ashburn Cooksey and 13 children, 31 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren. He was preceeded in death by two of his children, Sarah Rebecca Cooksey and Paul Stephen Cooksey. Surviving children are: Henry Clay Cooksey, Jr. of Dothan, AL, Mable Stafford of Wakulla County, Mary Mathers of Tallahassee, Rosa Letchworth of Monticello, Esther Buzzard of Winston Salem, NC, Elizabeth Costello of Tallahassee, Sharon Carter of Wakulla County, Rev. Martha Lois Ricehouse of Gladstone, MO, Samuel Cooksey of Tallahassee, Rev. Daniel Cooksey, Lemuel Cooksey, Phillip Cooksey of Wakulla County, and Priscilla Vause of Tallahassee. Although, he was well known for his gentle nature, he was also known for his great physical strength which earned him the nickname "Bull" while playing football for Leon High School. He served his country during WWII in the Florida National Guard. His greatest legacy was the love he had for his family. No matter what any of us did to offend him, he never stopped loving, caring and praying for us. We have never known anyone who personified the love of Jesus Christ as well as he. Another important legacy was the work ethic instilled in each of his children, all of whom are well known for their devotion to duty. We will miss you Daddy, but we will see you again for you have shown us the way to eternal life through Jesus Christ. Abbey Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Viewing and visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday. Services will be held Sunday at 3:00 PM at Oak City Assembly of God where he was a charter member.