James Samuel Cooley

Born in Pensacola, FL, to Nettie Jane (Prescott) Cooley and James F Cooley, he lived there until beginning a 30 year career in the US Army.

An accomplished musician; he was initially a member of the Army Band, and was later a Radar Installation Specialist.

Upon retiring as a Master Sergeant from the Army in 1980, Mr. Cooley continued his service as a civilian employee at Fort Monmouth, where he was employed until retiring in 1995.

He was a life member of VFW Post 10185, Berkeley Township, and the Disabled American Veterans Post NJ24.

He was a member of several local bands, including the Brass Tacks Band, Sentimental Journey, and the Encore Band.

He is survived by his wife, Dore; three children, Sharon Seyler of New Market, NH, Jo Tomasino and her husband Rick of North East, PA, and James J. Cooley and his partner Andrea of San Diego, CA; five grandchildren, Jeff Wehrendt and his wife Wendy, Shannon Wehrendt, Eric Seyler, James Tomasino and his fianc Joelle, and Michael Tomasino; four great-grandchildren, Alex, Andrew, Sarah and Kate; and two sisters, Jean Reeves of Pensacola, FL and Carlie Mae Welch of Biloxi, MS.

He is preceded in death by sisters Mary C. Olsen, Alice Morris and brother John (Billy) Cooley.

Private cremation was entrusted to Horizon Funeral and Cremation Services, 1329 Route 37 West, Toms River.

Internment of Cremains with Full Military Honors will take place at a date to be announced at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

Please visit www.HorizonFuneralServices.com for further details.