Longtime Creede resident Delma Dorothy Dooley, 94, died peacefully at home June 5, 2023, in Creede.

Delma’s life began in Stonington, Colo., on Oct. 15, 1928, the daughter and oldest child of Theodore “T.A.” Arnel Dickey and Amber Hazel Heriford Dickey. Graduating from Del Norte High School, she went on to Albuquerque, N.M., and attended business school. After graduation Delma moved to Denver and worked at Montgomery Ward Department store until meeting the love of her life, Clarence Eugene “Gene” Dooley. They were married on Sept. 7, 1950, in Taos, N.M., and they enjoyed 58 years until his death on March 28, 2008.

Delma worked for more than 20 years as the owner and operator of the Cobblestone Café in Creede.  She sold Watkins for a time and loved to buy items from about any yard sale. She was an accomplished seamstress, also knitting and crocheting many items throughout the years. Delma was a very generous person and taught her family to emulate her example. She gave to others, even before herself.

Delma was a member of the Ladies Aid Society of Creede and served as their president at one point and chaired the Bazaar and Rummage sale. She was also a member of the Woodfern Rebekah Lodge No. 62 for more than 70 years. Delma served in all chairs including Noble Grand, Secretary-Treasurer and Chaplain.

She is survived by her children William “Bill” (Lori) Dooley, Theodore “Ted” (Debby) Dooley, and Betsey (Mike) Strawn, all of Creede, Colo.; her grandchildren Beverlee (Karl) Keilman, Randy (Jessica) Dooley, Mike (Allison) Dooley, Tad Dooley, Christine (Zach) Davis, and David Strawn; her great-grandchildren Dustin and Madison Kyffin, Andee Dooley, Matthew and Abigail Dooley, Thatcher, Lilly, and J.J. Davis; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

Delma was preceded in death by her parents, spouse, and brothers Obbie Dickey, Ralph Dickey, and Quentin Dickey.

Cremation was chosen and at her request, private family services will be held at a later date. Contributions are suggested to the Ladies Aid Society of Creede, P.O. Box 126, Creede, CO 81130 or to the Woodfern Rebekah Lodge No. 62, P.O. Box 186, in Creede, CO 81130.

To leave online condolences, tributes, and words of comfort for Delma’s family, please visit www.RogersFunerals.com