Kenneth Eugene Cooley, a devoted family man and passionate outdoorsman, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026. Born on August 1, 1950, in Scottsboro, Alabama, Kenneth’s life was a tapestry woven with love, dedication, and a profound connection to nature and those he held dear.

Kenneth’s career spanned an impressive 35 years in Manufacturing, 16 years at Synthetic Industries, where his commitment and work ethic were steadfast. Yet, beyond his professional accomplishments, it was his happiness for life and love of family that truly defined him. An avid fisherman and hunter, Kenneth cherished the moments spent in the great outdoors, especially when he was accompanied by his beloved son and his son’s family. These treasured excursions were more than just hobbies; they were expressions of his deep-rooted values of bonding and tradition.

Most of all, Kenneth loved his family with an unshakable devotion. His greatest joy came from his granddaughter Rachel and his four great-grandchildren, whose laughter and presence brought light to his heart. Kenneth’s love extended widely within his family circle; he delighted in being surrounded by those closest to him.

Kenneth and his wife, Gloria Cooley, shared 57 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they nurtured a family that includes their children, Kenny (Sherri) Cooley, Dana (Mitch) Keith, and Kristy (Kevin) Walker. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Rachel (Hunter) Thomas, Jim (Haley) Keith, Glen (Cassie) Keith, and Cai Walker and Ahnyka Walker, as well as his great-grandchildren, Asher Thomas, John David Thomas, Elisabeth Thomas, and Eden Keith. Further embraced by his loving family are his sisters, Pat (Bruce) Blankenship and Gayle (Walter) Rutledge, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who survive him and carry forward his memory.

Kenneth was nurtured in faith and found solace and strength in the services of Macedonia Baptist Church. Though declining health led him to watch many of these services via livestream, his spirit remained spiritually connected and uplifted by his faith community.

His passing marks the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, remembered fondly by those who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, David Wilburn Cooley and Mary Talley Cooley Maynor, as well as his brother, Chris Maynor.

Visitation for Kenneth Eugene Cooley will be held on April 26, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Dalton Funeral Home, located at 620 S Glenwood Ave, Dalton, GA. Following the visitation, funeral services will be conducted at Dalton Funeral Home, burial will take place at Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers serving are Kenny Cooley, Kevin Walker, Mitch Keith, Jim Keith, Hunter Thomas, Charles Tinsley, Jacob Cook, and Michael Penley. Honorary pallbearers: Glen Keith, Eric Cook, Enrique Aguilar, James Ware, Arden Kelshaw, and special nephews, George Baker, Scott Baker, Michael Baker.

In lieu of flowers you may make a donation in Kenneth's honor to the American Cancer Society.

In celebrating Kenneth’s life, those who loved him will hold close the memories of his gentle strength, his joyous laughter, and his unwavering love. His legacy is etched in the hearts of his family and friends, an enduring beacon of warmth and kindness that will never fade. Rest in peace, Kenneth; your journey on earth has ended, but your spirit lives on forever in the lives you touched.

Visit the online obituary www.dalton-funeral-home.com to post tributes and share memories.

Arrangements have been entrusted to independently owned and operated Dalton Funeral Home, 620 S. Glenwood Avenue, Dalton, GA 30721.