Donny Dean Cofer

Donny Dean Cofer, 53, of Edmond, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, in Oklahoma City, surrounded by prayer, love, and those who stood faithfully beside him.

Born on September 1, 1972, in Seminole, Oklahoma, Donny was the son of Larry and Nola (Leachman) Cofer & was a tribal member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. He was preceded in death by his parents, Uncle Clyde Leachman and his beloved great-grandmother, Elsie “Aunt Brick” Hase.

Donny is survived by his wife, Jenny Knight; his sons, Christopher Cofer (Brittany) and Kaden Dean Cofer, his stepdaughter, Madison Knight; his cherished grandchildren, Addalyn, Ophelia, and Keelan Dean Cofer; his twin sister, Kelly Sage-Molitor (Steven Molitor); his niece, Jessica Sage; his brother- and sister-in-law, Tracey and Kitty Welliver; and his brother-in-law, John Knight. The family is also grateful for the support of Jennifer and Bobby Strong for ensuring Kaden was able to spend meaningful time with his dad during his illness.

Donny grew up in Seminole, OK and attended Varnum and Seminole Public Schools, where his love of music first took shape. A talented percussionist and drum major, he carried rhythm with him throughout his life. Music was not simply something he enjoyed — it was part of who he was. Whether behind a drum kit, traveling for concerts, or building the perfect playlist, Donny felt life in beats and melodies. Music was Donny’s lifelong passion. At just 17 years old, he began playing drums professionally at Charlie’s Palace. Over the years, he shared the stage with many talented musicians and formed lasting friendships through music. He played in the Chebon Tiger Band alongside Chebon Tiger, Mike Satawake (Kerri) and Clint “Stricky” Strickland (Koi). Later, he brought his rhythm and unmistakable presence to Jack Waters & the Unemployed, performing with Jack Waters (Tiffany Rimmer), Mike Satawake (Kerri), and Luke Mullenix (Bek). Whether on stage or in rehearsal, Donny’s heartbeat was always found behind a drum kit.

Although Donny and Jenny graduated together in 1990 from Seminole High School, their paths did not cross again until April 2023, when close friends, Dewayne and Rena Tiger, reconnected them when they invited her to join them in watching Donny play at Skydance Brewing Co. In June 2023, Donny was diagnosed with Stage 4A esophageal cancer. He and Jenny married in November 2023 and faced the difficult journey ahead together with love, resilience, presence, courage, and unwavering devotion.

Throughout his professional career, Donny served in several roles, including time with the Seminole Producer, and most recently as an HR Generalist with Choctaw Global. He was respected for his steady presence, problem-solving ability, and genuine care for the people he worked alongside. The support and compassion extended to him by his colleagues during his illness meant a great deal to him and his family.

A proud & devoted fan of the Oklahoma Sooners, especially football and women’s softball, Donny also enjoyed cheering for the Oklahoma City Thunder, especially watching every playoff game in 2025 & celebrating emphatically when they won the NBA Championship. Recently, he became an enthusiastic fan of Wrexham A.F.C. Sports, like music, brought him connection, excitement, and joy.

He cherished attending bucket-list concerts and live events, traveling, and spending time with his family & friends.

He will be remembered as resilient, courageous, strong and deeply passionate about the people and music he loved. His rhythm lives on in every drumbeat and every memory shared by those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 8th from 2–5 PM (come and go) at Skydance Brewing Co. in Oklahoma City. His drums will be set up in tribute to honor the passion that defined him. Guests are invited to share photos, memories, and songs in his honor.

With Donny’s passing, we face an indescribable and immeasurable loss. We are grateful for the love, prayers, and support that continue to surround our family during this time of profound grief.

Honor his legacy. Live with purpose. And when you hear the drums, think of Donny.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of OK Cremation & Funeral Home, Oklahoma City.