- "Theodora "Theo" Edith (Champion) Cooksley died on Oct. 12, 2014, at home in Lyme, on a beautiful sunny day surrounded by her family. A devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she will be missed dearly. The traditions she established and the importance of family instilled in her children continue on to the next generations thus honoring her memory.
Theo, the only child of Clifford V. and Else (Andersen) Champion of Old Lyme, was born March 31, 1931. She was the 11th generation Champion in Old Lyme, and was proud of her family history. Her childhood was filled with sports, swimming in Rogers Lake, and special friendships that continued throughout her life. An outstanding athlete at Old Lyme High School, she graduated from the University of Bridgeport.
She married her high school sweetheart, David "Deke" Cooksley on June 7, 1952, after he came home from serving in the Korean War. Their 62 years of marriage were filled with true love, respect, and friendship.
Theo volunteered for many years in the Old Lyme Visiting Nurse Association, Lyme Historical Society, the Auxiliary of the Old Lyme Fire Department, Lyme Garden Club, and the Old Lyme Congregational Church. She was very involved in her children's activities often chaperoning class trips and dances and assisting in school plays and club activities.
Theo's life was always about family, first as a daughter, then as a wife, and finally a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Besides her husband, she leaves behind her children, Kristin C. Magnussen (Jan) of Old Lyme, David C. Cooksley (Cyndy) of South Windsor, Cynthia A. Taylor of Lyme, and Adam C. Cooksley of Old Lyme; six grandsons, Matthew Cooksley (Kristy), Trevor Taylor (Megan), Thor Magnussen, Deke Taylor, Addison Cooksley, and Nicholas Todaro; as well as two great-grandchildren, Gage and Lexi Cooksley.
Theodora was predeceased by her parents and son-in-law, Richard A. Taylor.
Theodora's wish to remain at home could not have been without the loving care provided by Gina Wagner and Lisa Cooksley. The family also thanks Jennifer, Sabrina, and Liz from the Center for Hospice Care Southeast Connecticut for their wonderful support these past weeks.
Burial will be private, and a memorial service will be held later at the convenience of the family.
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(Published by The Day on Oct. 15, 2014).
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Om slægterne Brændgaard & Heilesen
1931 - 2014 (83 år)
Nekrolog