Mary Ann Cooley (n.e. Keener), 81, of Clayton, went home to be with the Lord on Oct. 12, 2022. Born in Clayton, Ga., on Oct. 27, 1940, Mary Ann had a strong zest for life and nature, and was truly one of a kind. During her time on Earth, her favorite nail polish was dirt and she loved to laugh with family and friends. One of her goals everyday was to make somebody smile. Those that knew her loved her.
Mary Ann excelled in her career as a realtor on Lake Burton. She was known for her integrity, honesty, and candor and made an incredible mark on her community. Most importantly, she loved and was proud of her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband Bill Cooley, her parents Robert and Drucie Keener and her siblings Mildred Stancil, C.A. Keener, and Earl Keener.
“I want you to look at the mess I made.” --
Drucie Keener
“I might be a stranger when I get here but I won’t be when I leave.”
-- Mary Ann Cooley
She is survived by her brother David Keener (Holly); her children Tami Abernathy (Brett Jarrard), Terry Welch (Carmen), Troy Welch (Sarita), Tonya Rolader (Jonathan), Linda Foster (Carey), Lisa Yaple, Susan Cooley (Brian McClain), and Eli Cooley; her grandchildren Misty Abernathy, Kenneth Abernathy III (Tonya), John Welch (Sarah Arace), Brett Moore (Francesca), Blake Welch (Chelsie Jo OConner), Jared Welch, Hunter Rolader, Chris Foster (Shea), Taylor Daniel (Chad), Leif Yaple, Jesse Yaple (Alex), Dylan McClain, Cobia McClain; her great grandchildren Abigail Coppedge, Vada Abernathy, Evan Abernathy, Santana Littleton, Christopher Martin, Destiny Bramblett, Davanee Welch, Safayah Arace, Lathan Welch, Landon Welch, Taite Welch, Asher OConner, Summer Yaple, Myla Yaple, and a multitude of family and friends whose lives were touched by her.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Amedisys Hospice, Traces of Tiger, Dr. Timothy Becks Office, and Beck Funeral Home.
A celebration of Mary Ann’s life will be held at a later date.
The Clayton Tribune
October 20, 2022