Maxie Cooper

Maxie Cooper obituary, Lakeland, FL

Maxie Cooper

Maxie Cooper Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lanier Funeral and Cremation Services on Feb. 23, 2026.
Maxie Cooper, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away on February 19, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida, at the age of 80. Born on July 6, 1945, in Florala, Alabama, to the late Huie and Bernice Cooper, Maxie's life was a testament to the values of hard work, creativity, and the pursuit of adventure.
Maxie's journey through life was shared with his beloved wife of 54 years, Ida Lorraine Cooper. His children, Wes Watson, Crystal Renee Cooper, and Rodney Watson, were the pride of his life, and he instilled in them the importance of resilience and ingenuity. Maxie's legacy continued to flourish through his grandchildren, Jordan Montana, Marcus, Madeline, Cierra, Taylor, and his great-grandchildren, Quara, Meriel, Connor, Waylon, Tate, and Hayden, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride.
Survived by his devoted sisters, Nadine and Elaine, Maxie was predeceased by his brothers, Jimmy and Ludue. His siblings remember him as the pillar of the family, always ready to lend a hand or share a word of wisdom. Maxie's family was his world, and he was their steadfast anchor through life's storms and celebrations.
An avid outdoorsman, Maxie found solace and excitement in the natural world. Fishing and hunting were not just hobbies but a way of life for him, providing countless stories and memories that he cherished and passed down to his children and grandchildren.
As we bid farewell to Maxie Cooper, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His stories, lessons, and love will continue to guide and inspire us. Maxie's memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Though he has set out on his final adventure, the echoes of his laughter and the warmth of his presence will remain with us forever.
Online condolences can be made at www.lanier.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Lanier Funeral and Cremation Services, 717 Griffin Road Lakeland, FL 33805, (863) 687-3996

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.

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

How to support Maxie's loved ones
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
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
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
Ways to honor Maxie 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

Sign Maxie Cooper's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?