Madieth Cooper

Obituary Of Mike Cooper
May 28, 1931 – October 10, 2025
Madieth Mike Cooper transitioned to his eternal home with our Lord and Savior on Friday, October 10, 2025, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family.
He was the third eldest son of the late Roy Cooper Sr. and Louise Black Cooper and was raised with eleven brothers and sisters on the family farm in Pascola, Missouri. The Cooper household was faithful, loving, and structured-values Mike carried throughout his life.
From an early age, Mike embraced hard work, assisting his dad, uncles, and brothers with farming duties. His parents nurtured in their children a devotion to worship, community service, and education. After graduating from high school in Missouri's Bootheel region, Mike attended Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, with aspirations of becoming a dentist.
In 1951, during the Korean War, Mike was drafted into the United States Air Force, serving four years in aircraft mechanics. Military service provided him the opportunity to see the world and meet distinguished leaders, including the Queen of England. Upon returning home, he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from historic Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri (HBCU).
Back in Missouri, Mike met the love of his life, the late Octavia (Jones) Cooper, a Louisiana native and recent summa cum laude graduate of Southern University. They married, and his career in education began in the Charleston, Missouri Public Schools and later as a principal in the Kennett School District. During those years, three of their five beloved children-Lucretia, Edwin, and Ozita-joined their family.
Mike's career continued to flourish when he accepted the position of Director of Head Start for the University of Missouri system, prompting a move to Hayti, Missouri, where two more children, Aaron and Pamela (Brown), were born. He faithfully served St. Luke United Methodist Church as a Sunday School teacher and remained active in community life. He was also a Masonic Member of Wardell Lodge #157, where he exemplified brotherhood and service.
Later, Mike became a Youth Specialist and Gerontology Supervisor for the University of Missouri, a role he held for over 25 years. He spearheaded annual summer trips to the state capital, Jefferson City, for 4-H Club youth, nurturing their leadership and life skills.
Retiring at 62 did not slow him down. Mike continued to give back as a Senior Service Contractor and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer. He prepared taxes for neighbors and delivered countless meals to the elderly and those in need, embodying compassion and quiet service.
Mike's greatest joy was his family. He leaves a legacy of love and wisdom to his children-Larry Michael Turner (Janada), Lucretia Cooper, Edwin Cooper (Brenda), Dr. Ozita Cooper, Dr. Aaron Cooper, and Pamela Brown (Darrell); his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Andrea, Kendra (Shawn), Paige (Gary), Miles, Nia, Joshua B., Keenan, Chase, Glenne, Jamal, Joshua T., Garyn, Malachi, Sadie, and Breanna; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews, family, and friends.
He was the last loving surviving descendant of Roy Cooper Sr. and Louise Black Cooper. He was preceded in death by his wife, Octavia (Jones) Cooper; his parents, Roy and Louise Cooper Sr.; and siblings: Chelcy Cooper, Walter Cooper, John "Hanky" Cooper, Melvin "Fess" Cooper, Roy "Dusty" Cooper, Dr. Charles "Chuck" Cooper Jr., William "Tee" Cooper, Joel "Billy" Cooper, Juel Cooper-Rush, Dr. Thomas Jefferson "T.J." Cooper Sr., and Alex Cooper.
Music filled Mike's life, from blues and jazz to country and gospel hymns. Louis Armstrong's classic "What a Wonderful World" and Paul Jones' gospel favorite "I Won't Complain" capture his joyful, faith-filled spirit. He often quoted Matthew 6:34:
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself "
Those who knew Mike remember his ever-present smile, warm friendliness, and steadfast trust in God. His life was a testament to service, faith, and love-an enduring witness to God's glory.