Joyce McLean Cooper

Joyce McLean Cooper

Joyce Cooper Obituary

Published by W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home from Nov. 23 to Nov. 25, 2008.
COOPER, Joyce McLean, of Chesterfield County, formerly of Richmond, was called home on November 21, 2008 at St. Francis Hospital. Her parents, Ellsworth McLean Sr. and Viola McLean, and a brother, Willie, preceded her in death. Joyce's spirit lives on in her survivors - two sons, Henry "Lee" (wife, Dominique; stepson and grandchild, Devon and Nia Winbush) and Kenneth Cooper (children, Kenya, Kenesha, Kenneth and KaLee Cooper) of Richmond; three sisters, Gloria Jean Gunn of Glen Allen, Wilma Ann Fleming of Henrico, and Audrey "Pinky" Harper of Chesterfield; two brothers, Essic McLean Sr. of Richmond and Ellsworth McLean Jr. of Chesterfield; two sisters-in-law, Rosa and Joyce McLean; one brother-in-law, Ira Harper; godsister, Gloretta Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, friends, and caregivers. Her remains rest at the W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home, 2700 North Ave. Joyce's life will be celebrated at New Life Outreach International, 1005 Turner Rd. in South Richmond on Wednesday, November 26, at 1 p.m. Interment Riverview Cemetery.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Joyce Cooper's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 13, 2024

Kenesha Cooper posted to the memorial.

November 23, 2010

Wilma McLean Fleming posted to the memorial.

December 2, 2009

Ann McLean Fleming posted to the memorial.

Kenesha Cooper

August 13, 2024

I never knew this existed until now. So many things were left unsaid that I wish I had the chance to say. But what it ultimately comes down to is, I loved you more than you knew or could ever fathom. I truly wish you could have realized that before you left. I beat myself up a lot over how things were left between us. I wish I could find some solace in you knowing how I felt about you. 16 years later and it still hurts to think about you. Continue to rest in peace Grandma.

Wilma McLean Fleming

November 23, 2010

Joyce, I still miss you. It's been two years now and the more time goes by, the more I find myself looking just like you. So, all I have to do is look in the mirror and there your are. Love and miss all of you.

Ann McLean Fleming

December 2, 2009

My dear sister, Ican't believe it's been a year since you left us. I miss you everyday. So much has happened in the past year. The family has had an addition as well as a loss. Your great grand daughter, Joyce, was born to Kenya on what would have been JD's 31st birthday, June 8, 2009. And Vileeta had another beauriful baby girl name Jameelah Love'on 10/18/09. Due to birth complications, our little "Miracle", Jameelah was only here with us for 17 days. We know that everything happened for a reason. I will do all I can to keep the family together. I love and miss you, sis

March 26, 2009

To the family of Joyce. My deepest sympathy. Joyce was like a big sister to me and I will miss her deeply. Love Always Arthur Christian

KATASHA ROBINSON KING

March 25, 2009

"DEAR AUNT JOYCE:"YOU'RE GOIN TO BE SOARLY MISSED............!!!!!!!!!!"YOU WERE ALWAYS THERE FOR ME WHEN I NEEDED ADVISE ON ANYTHING.........!!!!!!!!!!"YOU WERE ALSO A SPLENDID AUNT TO ME & A GREAT AUNT TO MARQUISE.......!!!!!!!!!!!!"R.I.P AUNT JOYCE" WE-LUV-U-4-LIFE,NIKKI & MARQUISE

Barbara Soper

January 4, 2009

To the family of Joyce Cooper. I knew Joyce for many years at DSCR and was saddened to hear of her passing. Joyce was one of the finest people I have ever known. Her faith in God and love of her family was an inspiration to all who knew her. My heartfelt sympathy.

Wilma Ann (Winnie, to Joyce) McLean Fleming --I miss you

December 12, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Wilma (Ann McLean) Fleming

December 8, 2008

My Dear Sister, Joyce: I miss you so much. It just doesn't seem real to me that you are not here to talk to everyday. I've called your phones so I can hear your voice on the voice mail. Who do I call now when I'm having a problem, who do I call to edit my poetry? It was always you and Pinky that did that for me. I'm reflecting on the times we shared just the two of us watching CSI, Law and Order, Without a Trace and all the other investigative shows. How glad I was to be there watching TV with you, eventhough, most of the time we'd fall asleep, wake up, eat something, and watch more TV until we had no choice but to go to bed. I know you fought with everything you had in you because you've always been a fighter. Now you can rest. See you later on.

With all my love,
Your ten year gap twin sister Ann

Paula Martin-Glenn

December 3, 2008

I am so sorry to just learn of Joyce's passing. Anne you know I would have been there for you had I knew. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. God bless and be with you always.

Clifford Mosby

November 28, 2008

I will miss you "Joyce Cooper"

Cliff

Stacey and Marcellus Heflin

November 28, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

joanne best

November 27, 2008

hey kenny and lee lee im sorry for your loss and aunt joyce will truly be miss now its the holidays when im use to her coming around and if u need us we all are here for u.
your cuz,
joanne

Pearl Taylor

November 26, 2008

Joyce will truly be missed. I worked with Joyce at DSCR, I ran into her at the Food Lion and she spoke of her grandchildren even though I could tell she was very ill. I knew her strength and faith in God would carry her through. My prayers go out to the family.

sheryl Mitchell Thomas

November 26, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

OPHELIA & CLAUDIA HARPER

November 26, 2008

0UR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AT THIS TIME OF BEREAVEMENT.

Rosa Johnson

November 26, 2008

To the family of Joyce Mclean Cooper, I was sadden to hear that Joyce had gone to be with her brother, and parents in heaven and left us to hold her memories in our hearts.
I thank God for allowing Joyce to have been a part of my life and for the special friendship and joy we shared.

While we all will miss her, just know she is in a better place and hold on to the sweet memories that we have. The love of God will do the rest. Be blessed!

Susan Woodson

November 26, 2008

Dearest Ann, kenny and Lee Lee my prayers are with you at this time of loss. May the peace of God that passes all understanding keep your hearts at this time. Much love always. Susan Black-Woodson

Judy (Hawthorne)Traylor

November 26, 2008

To all of Joyce's beloved family, I am so thankful that many, many years ago here at DSCR, God blessed my life by having my path cross with Joyce's. She has blessed my life so much in the many years that I was blessed to work with her, and have her as a friend. We were working together when she became sick. Nothing will ever replace her love, her contagious smile, and her prayers and encouragement when it was so needed. I feel like I know each one of you personally, because Joyce loved you all so much and spoke of you so often. May God bless and comfort you now and in the days to come as only HE can.

Sharron Edwards-Richardson

November 26, 2008

Dear "LeeLee", Kenny and family:
Joyce and I grew up together at Bellwood. We helped each other through the bad times and celebrated the good ones. Whenever I needed to know what was really going on, I'd go to Joyce for the plain, unvarnished truth. She was a very special person with enough love in her heart for her family and everyone she met!! I retired many years ago and moved to Florida, but I always liked knowing that Joyce was still in Virginia keeping everything straight. She was my soul sister and a dear friend. My thoughts and prayers go out to you.

Margaret Hillman-Leeper

November 26, 2008

To the family of Joyce Cooper. My love for Joyce is everlasting. I will miss her as I know you all miss her too. She was one of the best. She loved her family and friends especially the grandbabies. She will be missed by all. God Bless your family.How I love your Temple, Lord Almighty! How I want to be there! I long to be in the Lord's Temple. With my whole being I sing for joy to the living God. Even the sparrows have built a nest, and the swallows have their own home; they keep their young near your altars, Lord Almighty, my king and my God. How happy are those who live in your temple, always singing praise to you. How happy are those whose strenght comes from you, who are eager to make the pilgrimage to Mount Zion. As they pass through the dry valley of Baca, it becomes a place of springs; the autumn rain fills it with pools. They grow stronger as they go; they will see the God of gods Zion. Hear my prayer, Lord God Almighty. Listen, O God of Jacob! Bless our king, O God, the king you have chosen. The Lord is our protector and glorious king, blessing us with kindness and honor. He does not refuse any good thing to those who do what is right. Lord Almighty, how happy are those who trust in you! PSALMS 84

Nicole Epps

November 26, 2008

Wilma and family
Today, you heal from a broken heart from the lost of Joyce. The Lord will comfort you because he loves you and has promised you everlasting consolation and hope through his grace. For as you walk with the Lord, he walks you through your troubles and hurts. May these words be a comfort you in the homegoing of Joyce

Karl/Terry Rhodes

November 26, 2008

"To The Cooper Family"

We are very sadden by the death of our "Big Sister;" yet we know God does not make mistakes. Therefore, he chose the brightest and prettiest blossom to join him. We pray continuosly for each of you that God bless you richly and abundantly during this time and each and everyday thereafter. Continue to look up to the Almighty for abundant strength. Lastly, we thank you for sharing your "jewel" with us. We love you.

Carolyn Pegram

November 26, 2008

To Pinkie and all of J.C.'s family,
May our God of love and comfort bring you peace that surpasess all understanding. May your days ahead be filled with the assurance that God will not leave you comfortless. The precious memories of Joyce will always be with us.

Sylvia Thompson

November 26, 2008

My deepest sympathy to the Cooper family. May you have comfort in knowing an angel is watching over you and will keep you safely cradled in her arms.

Mary WOODLEY

November 26, 2008

To Joyce Copper Family: My prayers are with you during this difficult time. Joyce and my Aunt,
Edna Clark Massey was friends, I know the friends are reunited in Heaven.

Vera Rhyne

November 26, 2008

To the Cooper Family, I truly thank God for having known Joyce as a neighbor, coworker, friend, and sister in the Lord. She has left a true legacy of what real friendship is all about. She will be greatly missed. I pray God's love, peace, and joy will be your comfort during these difficult times. Earth has no sorrows that heaven cannot heal. May God's rich mercy be upon you. Peace, Rev Vera Rhyne

Teesha Stout

November 25, 2008

To “Coop”, Junie, and the rest of the Cooper/McLean Family:

I am shocked and saddened to hear about sweet Ms Joyce. My heart truly hurts. She was my neighbor and like family – her energy, warmth and loving spirit will always be remembered. She will be missed.

My prayers are with the family, now and always. May God continue to strengthen and comfort each of you during this difficult time.

Love you,
Teesha Stout and Kevin Watson

Heather

November 25, 2008

Lee, Dominique & family,

I am so sorry for your loss, but the wonderful part about this is she is in glory with our Jesus. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Brigid Hill Curtis

November 25, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

To Audrey (Pinky) McLean and family no one can ever take the place of a loved one who has gone to be with God. May the memories of her life stay with you forever.

Friends from Parkwood Ave.

My prayers are with you today and always.

Sincerly

YVONNE CARTER-HEWLETT

November 25, 2008

JOYCE WILL LIVE ON IN OUR HEARTS
KNOW THAT MY PRAYERS ARE ALWAYS WITH YOU
LOVE AND PEACE

Samuel Richardson

November 25, 2008

The Cooper family
My prayers are also with you all. I enjoyed the experience of knowing Joyce when she worked with my wife Sharron. May the strength of God be with you all.
Samuel Richardson, Ret, DSCR

Nadine Abney

November 25, 2008

To the Cooper family...My prayers are with you all.I will truly miss Joyce she was my mother,my friend and my pal.I hadn't talked to her in a while but I always asked Wilma about her and the children.I love you joyce and I will see you one day again.

Thomas & Michelle Dennard

November 25, 2008

To Joyce Cooper Family:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you the peace and comfort at this difficult time. We will miss you.

Thomas & Michelle Dennard

November 25, 2008

To Joyce Cooper Family:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you the peace and comfort at this difficult time. We are going to miss you.

Elnora Nelson-Williams

November 25, 2008

To Freddie and the McLean family. I can truly say that I will miss Joyce, smiling face. We grew up on Church Hill, together we played together and we graduated together in 1965. Joyce, was such a happy person. Freddie, give me a call, just to say Hi. May God forever keep your family in his loving care.

Loretta Adkins

November 25, 2008

Wilma, I am at a loss for words. My heartfelt thoughts are with you and your family. Gods love is forever present. I will continue to pray for you and your family. Should you need anything, I am only a phone call away.

Mary C. Norton

November 25, 2008

To the Cooper Family. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. Work with Joyce at DSCR. She will be truly missed.

Diane Kinker

November 25, 2008

Although I had not seen Joyce in a while, she was one of the first persons that I met when I went to work at DSCR in the mid-80s. She was assigned to train me. She was a dynamic individual, full of energy and very friendly. I always remembered her talking about her children and yes, I remember the hats too as Etta Neal mentioned. I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't even know that she had been ill. I pray that God will comfort you all through this sad time.

Eleanor Sumler

November 25, 2008

To the family, Keep looking forward, thats what Joyce would have done. She was a strong person in mind and spirit and her memory will live on in all of you.
My prayers are with each of you.

Sara West

November 25, 2008

Joyce was such a sweet person and I am going to miss her very much. Whenever, I saw her in church, she would always give me a big hug. She was so dedicated to the ushers at church. Whenever we were short, Joyce would always volunteer to help out. She loved her family so much (including her church family). New Life Outreach International Church has lost a "Saint" but, "Heaven" has gained an "Angel".

Love you Joyce,

Jacquelyn (Jackie) Billups-Brown

November 25, 2008

To the Cooper (McLean) family. You will probably not remember me, but I use to live in Jackson Ward (I was a friend of Evelyn Walker). I have not seen Joyce in a couple of years. We use to run into each other at functions/furnerals. I extend my deepest symphathy to the entire family. She was always a wonderful Sister in Christ.

Juanita Wilkins Matthews

November 25, 2008

To the Family of Joyce M. Cooper:
My deepest sorrow goes out to you. As her sisters and brothers know, Joyce and I were teen-age friends, then mothers sharing ideals for our kids, then co-workers at Bellwood. She at DGSC Procurement and I at DDRV Traffic Mgmt. Later we became members of 'The Chosen Few' social club. We go a long way back. I'll miss her dimpled smile, her work ethic, and always a positive outlook. She and Edna Massey(Deceased12/26/92) will have a lot of catching up to do. A Family Friend

Lynn Lazos

November 25, 2008

I lost touch with Joyce back in the 80's however, she was a wonderful friend and work mate. We sat side by side, laughed and carried on. We were actually going to open a restaurant together, call it "salt and pepper"... her memories will carry on forever in my heart. She had a heart of gold and will truly be missed.

Lee Peebles Bereavement Counselor

November 25, 2008

On behalf of all the staff at Bon Secours Hospice and Palliative Care we wish to extend to the friends and family our deepest sympathy and ongoing support. We hope and pray you will find peace with time. Please feel free to contact me anytime if I can be of help.

Vicki Bartholomew

November 25, 2008

You are in my thoughts and prayers.
From NLOI, a sister in Christ.

Shirley Gunn Abrams

November 25, 2008

To Jean and McLean Family, you have my deepest sympathy and prayers.

Montreats Abrams Christian

November 25, 2008

Aunt Jean and the McLean Family, you have my deepest sympathy and prayers in the passing of your loved one. Remember, God only takes the best angels. May God bless each of you.

MANDY LAMBERT

November 25, 2008

I am saddened at the lost of our friend. She was a Christian, and even though we mourn the physical presence of our friend, we rejoice that she is in heaven. i will miss her. My deepest sympathy to the family of your loss.

Donald Rainey (MAJ (Ret) USA)

November 25, 2008

To the family of Ms. Joyce Cooper. My heartfelt sympathy and sorrow are with you all. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I must say that it was indeed a great pleasure getting to know Joyce. Upon my arrival to Bellwood Joyce immediately made me feel at home. She quickly took me under her wing and for that I am eternally grateful. Joyce and I formed and had that sister and brother bond. What impressed me the most about Joyce was her thrist for knowledge, always wanting to learn more about her profession and her love for her family.

I will never forget the retirement party she and her friends held for me as I prepared to transition from army life to civilian life. When she learned of my retirement she was the one who shared with me that God had other things in store for me and for me to keep looking forward.

Thank you for sharing Joyce with me and my family. She will be missed but not forgotten.

Sylvester & Sheila Green

November 25, 2008

To The Family of Joyce Cooper,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God give you strength and comfort during this diffcult time.

Orvella (Dee) McWilliams

November 25, 2008

Joyce has made a difference in my life. I would not be the person I'm today without her. I thank God for the time she touch my life and so many others. She flying now. Remember if God bring you to it, he'll get you though it. Be blessed.

From the staff of W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home

November 25, 2008

We present this guestbook to you with deepest compassion and with our sincerest expression of sympathy.

Deborah Workman

November 24, 2008

Lee Lee and Kenny, please know I am keeping you and your family in my prayers.

Joyce was my mom, my sister and my rock when I needed one. I am still in shock right now, and no words could ever express what I feel.

She was always there for me and I'm just sorry I can't get there to see her smiling face just one more time.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Deborah

Brigitte Jones

November 24, 2008

The Cooper Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. I worked with Joyce at DSCR. She was a very nice person. She will be missed.

Ralph Eagleton

November 24, 2008

November 27, 2008
I worked with Joyce at DSCR. I was saddened to hear that she passed. I will most remember her sharing the love she had for God and her family. She will truly be missed.

Many has virtuously, but thou excelleth them all.

Dr. David L Reynolds Jr. PhD

November 24, 2008

To the family of Joyce Cooper, my heart goes out to each of you and my prayers be with you doing this trying time. I work with Joyce over 30 years at DSCR and she was a dear friend. I will miss her.

Caroline Rowe

November 24, 2008

I worked with Joyce for many years at DSCR and she was a very kind person and touched all those that she met. She will truly be missed.
My deepest sympathy goes to her family at this time. God will be with each one of you as you go thru this sad time.

Etta Neal

November 24, 2008

To Joyce Cooper's family
I am truly blessed to have had Joyce as a friend during her time at Bellwood. She was a classy lady always in a hat, generous and kind. I will wear my hats from this day on in memory of Joyce. God bless you all.

Lorraine Hudson

November 24, 2008

To the family of Joyce. I only knew her for a few years, but they are years that I will cherish and always remember. In such a short time I met a power strong black woman who cared for her family with agape love. I pray that Joyce spirit will remain in all those she touch with her smile and laugh. To be absence from the body is to be in the presence of the Lord. Rest my sister rest.

MERCEDES (DEE DEE) JOHNSON (DSCR)

November 24, 2008

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Jeanne Plassmann

November 24, 2008

A truly wonderful and inspirational woman. Joyce, you will be missed by all.

Penny Robinson

November 24, 2008

To the Cooper Family, You will always be in my prayers. May God bring peace to your souls. J.C. was my Mom at work and outside of work. She stepped in when I lost my Mom. She was always there when I needed a Mom, Big Sis and a Friend. I thank God for her being a part of my life. Mom J.C. I will miss our talks and our clean-up days. You are very special to me. I will always remember and love you. Rest now Mom, rest!

Dorothy B. Bruce

November 24, 2008

To the family of Joyce Cooper: This loving, wonderful person will never be forgotten for she became a part of my life by her kindness and deeds. Please cherish the memories. God Bless.

Robert Ford

November 23, 2008

Joyce, I love you with all my heart and I will truly miss you. I know you are in a better place and in God's hands. Thanks for shareing your friendship with me!

Robert L. Ford

Sandi Archer

November 23, 2008

I had known Joyce for many years and she will be truly missed. This caring, loving woman has left a special place in my heart.

percy fleming

November 23, 2008

Be Still

Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.

Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.

If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.

Showing 1 - 66 of 66 results

W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home

2700 North Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222

Make a Donation
in Joyce Cooper's name

People and places connected with Joyce
How to support Joyce's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Joyce Cooper's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Joyce Cooper's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 13, 2024

Kenesha Cooper posted to the memorial.

November 23, 2010

Wilma McLean Fleming posted to the memorial.

December 2, 2009

Ann McLean Fleming posted to the memorial.