Johnny Cooley

Johnny was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and served from 1962 to 1968. After his enlistment, he became a police officer and served his community for over 30 years with the Birmingham Police Department, retiring as Sergeant. He was known as "Johnny by the Book" within the police department, a name he was proud of. Johnny always had a kind word and a smile for those around him. He loved traveling on his Gold Wing motorcycle, being a police escort for many funeral homes and dignitaries, and shuttling tour buses to the Mississippi casinos. When he wasn't on the go, he enjoyed being outdoors, taking pride in his lawn, and helping others with his generous heart.

Johnny was preceded by his father, Mose Cooley; his mother, Pherbie Rebecca Higginbotham Cooley Knight; his stepdad, Gaddis Knight; his sisters, Nancy Drummond and Barbara Staton; and his brother-in-law, Terry W. Staton, Sr. He is survived by his nieces Vickie McAnnally, Sherri Akers, Tammy Mayfield and her husband Jonnie, and Stacy Elam; his nephews, Terry W. Staton, Jr. and Don McAnnally; his brother-in-law, Ron Drummond; and a host of great nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 21st, 2024, at Ridout's Gardendale Chapel at 2:00 pm. Following the service, Johnny will be buried at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery, 9060 Hopewell Church Road, Pinson, Alabama.