Leslie Oretha "Cookie" Buford, age 69, passed away on November 21, 2023, in Highland Park, Illinois. She was born on December 17, 1953, in El Reno, Oklahoma, Canadian County. Leslie was a beloved sister, aunt, and friend.

Leslie, known affectionately as Cookie, was a loving, kind, giving, trustworthy, and beautiful person, both inside and out. She possessed a brilliant mind and had a passion for learning. She completed her primary education at Booker T Washington and graduated from El Reno High School. She furthered her education at Oklahoma City University and Webster University, earning two master's degrees.

Cookie dedicated over 30 years of her life to AT&T, where she served as a District Manager. Her commitment and hard work made a lasting impact on the company.

Cookie found solace and community at Second Baptist Church in Evanston, Illinois, where she worshipped. Her faith was an integral part of her life.

In her spare time, Cookie was an avid reader and enjoyed delving into ancestry research. She also loved to travel and cherished spending quality time with her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held in El Reno, Oklahoma, although the date and time are yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Lung Association or Cancer Research Institute, organizations that were close to Cookie's heart.

Cookie is survived by her siblings: Eleanor Colbert and husband Barry, Clara J. Drew, Gloria E. Buford, Linda L Labostrie, Marion L. Tobias, and Malcolm L Buford. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and Aunt Coleen Trotter. She was preceded in death by her father, Aaron L. Buford, her mother, Pollye Buford/Selectman, and her siblings: Geneva M. Scott and husband Willard, Alpha Lee, Arthur and Alvin (twins), Adolph Labostrie, Silas Tobias and Marsha Buford.

Cookie will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will forever be cherished in our hearts.