Ralph Cooper, of Whittier, passed away at the home of his daughter on Wednesday, June 4 at the age of 95. He stated on Tuesday that he had lived a “good” life and enjoyed good health all his life.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Jimmie, in 2003 after 64 years of marriage; his son, Joe; his parents Bill and Lena Cooper; and five brothers and sisters.
He is survived by his daughter, Joyce; sister, Lois Sellner of St. Augustine, Fla.; his brother, Max of Bryson City; and many special nieces and nephews.
He was a faithful member of Olivet U. Methodist Church for 72 years, serving in many leadership positions. He was a heavy equipment operator and worked for many years with the Stillwell Brothers. He loved his family and his gardens and spent many a happy hour mowing grass at home, the Church, and the cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 5-7p.m. on Thursday, June 5 at Appalachian Funeral Home in Sylva.
The funeral service will be held at 10a.m. on Friday, June 6 at Olivet U. Methodist Church with Rev. John Ferree and Rev. Ben Bushyhead officiating. Burial will be in the Sherrill Cemetery on Old Mission Road.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Sherrill Cemetery Fund, PO Box 1254, Cherokee, NC 28719.
An online registry is available at www.appalachianfuneralservices.com