Oklahoma City - Gayla Rae (Nelson) Cohen was born Nov. 12, 1957, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to James and Rita (Smith) Nelson. She passed away Sunday, June 22, 2025, in Oklahoma City at the age of 67.

A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Friday, July 18, at the Whitt Funeral Home Chapel.

Gayla lived a life of compassion and dedication. She had a heart for caregiving and spent much of her time lovingly tending to the elderly, offering not just help but genuine companionship. At home, she found peace in her yard - nurturing flowers with the same care she gave to the people in her life. Her faithful dog, Boomer, was always by her side, a constant source of joy and loyalty.

Preceded in death by her parents, Gayla is survived by her daughter Chelsea Cohen; grandchildren: Chance Brooksher, Bryson Brooksher, Averie Brooksher, Liani Rentas, Gage Davidson, Harper Davidson, Caelim Ryan; great-grandchild Saylor Brooksher; brother Brent Bostick and wife Jaime; and sister Sharon Ramirez.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Gayla's name to the Stephens County Humane Society.

Online condolences can be made at www.whittfh.com.