Paul W. Cooper Jr.

Captain Paul William Cooper, Jr., devoted husband, father, and respected aviator, passed away peacefully 20 August 2025. Paul was born in Warrenton, NC 1 December 1936 to Paul William, Sr. And Ruth (Kreis) Cooper. He was raised in Cary, NC where his father was an esteemed principal. He graduated from Cary High School where he excelled in both academics, sports, and as an Eagle Scout. He is a member of the Cary Sports Hall of Fame. Paul spent a year at Hargrave Military Academy before attending the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. He graduated 35th in his class with the Fighting Fifth Company. He loved flying and flew over 300 missions, including three tours in Vietnam. Fighter jets he flew included F8, F4, F14, and F18 off many carriers. He was both the Executive Officer and Commanding Officer of the World-Famous Pukin' Dogs, VF-143.

During all this time he made countless and lasting friendships from both Cary and the Navy and stayed in touch throughout the years. Once he was asked, with all his deployments, where his favorite place was. Paul was adamant that it was Cary, NC.

After 30 plus years, Paul ended his career in Virginia Beach, VA. He joined the Science and Technology Center and worked on several military related projects. Throughout his life he enjoyed listening and seeing bands such as the Kingston Trio and Brothers Four, watching old westerns and college football. He went to many Army-Navy games to cheer on the Midshipmen.

Paul is predeceased by his wife of 58 years Barbara Sue Hayden Cooper. Also, by his parents and brother David. He is survived by his daughter Catherine and son Paul III and his wife Angie. Five young adults call him Granddad, Caroline (Brandt), Zachary, Paul IV (Will), and Kasey.

Paul has always been led by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and maintained a Christian lifestyle. He was devoted to the church, Thalia Lynn Baptist. If so led, memorial donations may be made to the church. A celebration of life will be held at the Naval Academy this fall. Fair winds and following seas; our dad will never be forgotten.