James Elmer Cooley, Sr., age 89, passed away Friday, September 11, 2026 in Harrodsburg, Kentucky.  James was born on May 5, 1937 in Harrodsburg, Kentucky to the late Fred Cooley and Emma McGinnis Cooley.

James formerly attended Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church and that is where his faith in Christ began. James was a hard-working man and had held several jobs. He taught training classes. was a mechanic, a car salesman, a builder and most recently a Scrap Merchant. He loved music and enjoyed playing his harmonica and guitar.

James is survived by his longtime companion and friend, Mildred A. Rogers of Lawrenceburg; a son, Jimmy Cooley of Harrodsburg; two daughters, Debra Ellis and Diana Baker, both of Harrodsburg; seven grandchildren, Michael James Harris, Jesse Harris, Danny Harris, Tabitha Lynn Baker, James Edward Baker, Blake Rogers and Austin Rogers; and several great grandchildren.

Including his parents, James was preceded in death by a daughter, Elizabeth Ann Baugh; a son-in-law, James Baker; sisters, Marie Love and Ella Godby; and brothers, Eskell Cooley and Donald Cooley.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at the Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home with Bro. Jerry Dedman officiating. Burial will follow in the Lawrenceburg Cemetery.  Visitation will be Tuesday from 11:00 A.M. till time of service at 1:00 P.M.

Casket bearers will be Blake Rogers, Michael Harris, James Edward Baker, Austin Rogers, Bruce Cooley and Kevin Cooley.

The family has requested causal attire to be worn in honor of the simple man James was.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ritchie & Peach Funeral Home in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Condolences may be shared online at www.ritchieandpeach.com .