Michael Shannon Cooley

Michael Shannon Cooley died on March 18, 2016 in the Cayman Islands. He was 47. Mr. Cooley was born on October 14, 1968 in Bloomington IN, to his parents Edward and Paula Cooley. He graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island Illinois with a degree in Accounting in 1990. He graduated from the University of Memphis Law School in July, 1994. Michael worked at the law firm of Finley and Stein as an Attorney from 1994 until he was hired by WM Barr. Mike began his career with WM Barr in May of 1996 as an Environmental Manager. He was later promoted to Director of Regulatory Affairs in 2001 and promoted to Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs in 2002. In 2006 he was promoted to Associate General Counsel. He was finally promoted to Vice President and General Counsel for Barr Brands International in 2013. In this role he was responsible for ensuring Barr’s legal interests were protected in all areas, including acquisitions, contracts, intellectual property, litigation and regulatory compliance. Mike had an illustrious leadership career with WM Barr and was a force behind the growth and success of the organization. Mr. Cooley was a fixture in the Midtown community and a fierce voice and advocate for Overton Park. He dedicated his time and efforts in to cleaning up and maintaining the running trails over the past several years. Mike completed numerous marathons and later became a triathlete. He competed in 5 Ironman races: Ironman Florida twice, Ironman Wisconsin, Ironman Idaho, and Ironman Canada. Mr. Cooley is survived by his parents Ed and Paula Cooley of Collierville, TN; his sister and brother-in-law, Steve and Jenny White of Bartlett, TN; his sister, Angela Cooley of Memphis, TN; and his nieces, Mackenzie and Katie White. All services will be held at the Memphis Funeral Home. There will be a visitation from 12:00 -2:00 p.m., a service will follow, and a reception will be held from 3:00-5:00 p.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Michael’s life. In lieu of flowers send donations to the Friends of Overton Park.