Tony Cooley

Tony Cooley, of Fairland passed away Monday, April 4, 2011 at his residence. Born December 6, 1951 in Shelbyville, he was the son of Ronald Wilson and Mildred Maxine (Alexander) Cooley. Survivors include his mother of Waldron; brother, Rick Cooley of Floyd Co., Virginia; niece Christina (husband, William) Sparks of Virginia; great-nieces, Ashley Sparks, Amber Sparks and Brienna Sparks, all of Virginia; and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father. Tony was a lifelong musician and had been instructor with the Greenfield Music Center for over two years, he also taught private music lessons at Thompson's Music and Indy's Music House. He offered instruction in guitar, harmonica, fiddle, banjo and mandolin. During high school Tony played in many rock bands as lead guitarist. He graduated from Triton Central High School in 1970, and attended Indiana University, minoring in music. Tony loved music and his students, they were like his children. A gathering of friends will be held at 2 pm Sunday, April 10, 2011 at The Grove, 92 South 1st Ave., Beech Grove, Indiana. Arrangement have been entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176