Joe Ray Cooper

Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven Joe Ray Cooper, 85, passed away February 1, 2023, in Southaven, MS. A visitation will be held Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven (626 Star Landing Road East, Southaven, MS, 38672). A memorial service will immediately follow at 12:00 p.m., also at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven. David Dickson will be officiating. Joe Ray Cooper was born September 21, 1937, in Ravenden Springs, AR. He spent his life dedicated to his country, his career, and most importantly, his family. Joe served in the United States Air Force for 23 and a half years. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service during the Vietnam War and was awarded a total of seven Air Medals throughout his career for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. After he retired from the United States Air Force, he spent 26 years as a Flight Engineer Instructor for Fed Ex. Although Joe was very successful in his career, his favorite role in life was being a family man. He married the love of his life, Melba, February 22, 1960. Together, they raised their sons, Perry, Scott, and James. Joe was also a very dedicated grandfather, and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved attending their softball games and spending time with his family every chance he had. Joe also enjoyed repairing automobiles, fishing, golfing, watching sports, and serving others. He had a true servant’s heart and would go out of his way to help anyone in need. Joe left an impact on every life he touched and will be greatly missed by all who loved him. Joe Ray Cooper is survived by his wife, Cora Melba Cooper of Southaven, MS; his sons, Perry Cooper (Myra) of San Antonio, TX and James Cooper (Melissa) of Southaven; his granddaughters, Erin Smith (Alex) of Houston, TX, Elise Alvarez (Vince) of Yuma, AZ, Kristen Rush (Parker) of Southaven, Kelcey Cooper of Southaven, and Sydney Cooper of Southaven; his grandson, Kyle Cooper of Houston, TX; his great-granddaughters, Eleanor Rush and Emmy Rush, both of Southaven, and Jane Alvarez of Yuma; and his great-grandson, Nolan Alvarez of Yuma. Joe Ray Cooper was preceded in death by his mother, Oma Cooper Dalton; his son, Edwin Scott Cooper; and his great-granddaughter, Harper Fell. Contributions and donations in honor of Joe Ray Cooper may be may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital. In honor of Joe Ray Cooper’s service to our country, the flag of the United States Air Force will be flown at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven the day of the service. Online condolences may be made on his Tribute Wall at www.colemanfuneralhome.com.

Joe Ray Cooper

September 21, 1937 - February 1, 2023

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