Invite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.
We'll notify you when service details or new memories are added.
You're now following this obituary
We'll email you when there are updates.
Please select what you would like included for printing:
Mary Frances Cooksey, age 94, passed away on February 7th, 2026, peacefully in her home. She was a beloved wife, mother, and 4 generation grandmother.
Mary lost her husband after 23 years of marriage, however together they had five children: (son)Jereld Cooksey, (daughter) Caroline Thompson, (daughter) Gail Butler, (daughter) Martha Thompson, and (daughter) Christine Vasquez. They blessed her with 18 grandchildren, 38 great‑grandchildren, 25 great‑great‑grandchildren and 2 great-great-great-grandchildren.
Mary’s life was defined by her devotion to family, her strong work ethic, and her unwavering dedication to those around her. She began her career in 1962 at Farine Elementary School, where she served faithfully in the cafeteria for many years. In 1984, Mary expanded her commitment to serving others by taking on an additional position at Baylor Hospital, working afternoon shifts in the cafeteria. Through both roles, she touched countless lives with her kindness, dependability, and quiet strength
After 34 years of dedicated service to Farine Elementary, Mary retired in 1996. Her strong work ethic and commitment to serving others continued, and she remained at Baylor Hospital until 2013, retiring at the age of 82. Mary would have gladly continued her work beyond that age, but she was encouraged to retire. Even with her demanding schedule, Mary always found joy in the things she loved.
She enjoyed fishing, camping, going to church, watching the Dallas Cowboys, and spending time with her family. However, her greatest passion was collecting dolls. At one point, Mary owned over 150 dolls and could tell you exactly where each one came from or how she had acquired it.
Mary’s strength, warmth, and devotion to those she loved will forever be cherished.
We would like to request that you join us at the reception to share your stories about Mary.
Pallbearers: Jimmy Thompson, Joshua Thompson, Butch Maples, Billy Maples, Orlando Lugo, Jereld Cooksey Jr.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
5:00 - 7:00 pm (Central time)
Chism-Smith Funeral Home
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Starts at 10:00 am (Central time)
Chism-Smith Funeral Home
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Starts at 11:45 am (Central time)
Sowers Cemetery
Thursday, February 12, 2026
12:45 - 4:30 pm (Central time)
The Southeast Community Center
Visits: 128
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors