James White Cooper

“Never be lazy, but work hard-serve the Lord enthusiastically”

Romans 12:11

On Tuesday, April 3, 2018 James Cooper went home to be with his Lord. He was born February 7, 1935 to the late Joe White Cooper and Gladys Ramsey Cooper. He was preceded in death by his sister, Anne Ramsey Lester; brother, Roger Coleman Cooper. Those left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Betty Foster Cooper; daughter, Sarah and husband Raymond Pennino; two granddaughters, Rachel Elizabeth and Mary Catherine Pennino; brothers, Ronald Edward Cooper and Kenneth Wayne Cooper; sister-in-law, Patty Cooper; numerous nieces, nephews, and a very special friend, Betty Glynne Thurman whom he called his second daughter. James worked 36 years for the telephone company, starting as a lineman and working his way up to engineer, retiring in 1993. He was dedicated to his work and took pride in always going above and beyond in every job and task he was given. He showed the same dedication in creating the best home possible for his family. There was never a job or crisis that James could not handle or repair for his daughter Sarah. Sarah’s first call was always to her father to fix any and every situation. James was a long standing, and very dedicated, member of Antioch Church of the Brethren as long as his health allowed. He loved Antioch and the community and worked diligently on the committee responsible for the development of World Hunger Auction. This successful fundraiser still raises money for Heifer Project International a worldwide organization, responsible for improving the lives of millions of people in Third-World countries. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to World Hunger Auction in care of Antioch Church of the Brethren, 2996 Callaway Road, Rocky Mount, Virginia 24151-7213. Memorial services will be conducted at Antioch Church of the Brethren, 3:00 p.m. Sunday, April 8, 2018. Inurnment will be private. His family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 p.m., Sunday at the church. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.