Julius Cooey

Posted on September 2, 2026

Julius Cooey, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away on Aug. 30, 2026, at the age of 90. He was born on Aug. 29, 1936, in a log cabin built by his parents in Steinhatchee, the community that would remain at the center of his life for decades. Julius met his wife, Mary O’Brien Cooey, in Boston while serving in the United States Air Force. She was the love of his life, and together they shared 69 wonderful years of marriage. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, receiving an honorable discharge in October 1961. In 1964, he and Mary returned to Steinhatchee, where they made their home, raised their family and became an enduring part of the community. After returning to Steinhatchee, Julius began a career working for Buckeye where he retired from after 20 years, going on to start and operate several businesses of his own, including crabbing, dirt work and real estate. Julius was happiest when he was working, building and creating something useful for the people around him. Through his work in real estate and development, Julius played an important role in helping shape the Steinhatchee community he loved. Over the years, he helped create beautiful, affordable neighborhoods where countless families would make their homes and become part of the community. His work can still be seen throughout Steinhatchee today. As you cruise down the Steinhatchee River, many of the seawalls lining its banks were built by Julius decades ago and remain standing – a lasting reminder of the care, hard work and craftsmanship he invested in the place he called home. More than anything, Julius will be remembered for the kind of man he was. He was deeply loyal to Steinhatchee and to the people in his life, with an incredible work ethic, a strong sense of integrity and a willingness to help whenever someone was in need. He believed in working hard, keeping his word and taking care of family, friends, and neighbors. He is survived by: his wife, Mary Jane O’Brien Cooey; his children, Julius (Jack) Broward Cooey Jr. (Denise), Diane Cooey Brooks (Jeff) and William (Billy) James Cooey (Jeannette); his sister, Edith Cooey Gilreath (Arthur); 29 grandchildren; and great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth Anderson Cooey and Broward Napoleon Cooey, and his brother, Ramon Cooey. Julius leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a lasting legacy in the community he loved so much and was proud to call home. The impact of his life can be seen not only in the things he built, but in the family he raised, the friendships he formed and the many people whose lives were better because they knew him. Julius was COOEYSTRONG. He lived a simple life, worked hard, loved his family and was known throughout Steinhatchee for being a good man and a good friend. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Family and friends are welcome to join for a graveside service at Waters Cemetery in Steinhatchee Saturday, Sept. 5, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Julius’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at stjude.org Arrangements have been placed under the care of Rick Gooding Funeral Home Cross City Chapel, with locations in Cross City (352-4985400) and Chiefland (352493-0050). Please sign the online guest book at rickgoodingfuneralhomes. com.