Sandra Laverne "Sandy" Cooper

"Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord."

- Matthew 25:23

Her Beginning

Sandra Laverne Watson Cooper, lovingly known as "Sandy," peacefully entered eternal rest on March 1, 2026, at NYU Langone Hospital in New York. She was born on December 21, 1954, in Belle Haven, Virginia, to the late Robert L. Watson, III and Sarah L. Watson.

Sandy was educated in the Accomack County Public School system and graduated from Parksley High School in 1973. She continued her education at Norfolk State College, graduating in 1975. Even from a young age, Sandy's warm spirit and joyful personality drew people to her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

A Love Story Written Early

Sandy's lifelong love story began in the third grade when she met Sammy Cooper in his mother's classroom. Even then, Sandy would confidently say that one day she would be Mrs. Cooper-and in time, that childhood certainty became a beautiful reality.

On September 3, 1977, Sandra married the love of her life, Samuel H. Cooper, Jr. Their union became a beautiful testimony of love, friendship, and devotion that spanned more than sixty years together and 48 years of marriage. They shared a life full of simple joys-many evenings spent side by side on the couch, falling asleep while watching movies, enjoying Lay's potato chips and Pepsi.

From their loving union, three children were born: Cedrick Lamar, Kendrick Jerrod, and Shenae Nicole.

A Devoted Mother and Grandmother

Sandy's children were her pride and joy. She believed in showing up for the people she loved, and she did just that-every single time. From childhood through adulthood, whether it was basketball games, school plays, programs, or special moments, Sandy was always there, cheering them on with love and encouragement.

Her grandchildren brought even greater happiness to her life. She delighted in spoiling them and making sure they never went without-whether it was toys, games, shoes, or simply her time and attention.

Each summer, Sandy and Sammy looked forward to traveling with their grandchildren to their timeshare. Those trips were filled with laughter, fun, and unforgettable memories as they watched their grandchildren grow and enjoy life.

Her Work and Dedication

Sandy was known for her strong work ethic and caring spirit. She dedicated 30 years of service to the Department of Motor Vehicles, where she retired in 2008 as an Assistant Manager. She still received calls from those in the community with DMV questions and she gladly provided answers, even though she'd been retired for over 15 years.

After retiring, she continued serving her community alongside her husband as co-owner and office manager of Cooper & Humbles Funeral Co., Inc. In that role, she offered comfort and compassion to families during some of life's most difficult moments.

Her Faith

Faith was at the center of Sandy's life. At an early age she was a member of St. Joseph AME Church. Upon marrying Sammy, she became a member of Macedonia AME Church in Accomac. She was a devoted member and she faithfully served in many roles. She was a steward, a member of the Lay Organization, a choir member, and the chairperson of the Women's Day Committee.

Through her service and dedication, Sandy demonstrated her deep love for God and her commitment to her church family.

Her Joyful Spirit

Sandy lived life with enthusiasm, laughter, and style. One of her favorite pastimes was shopping-so much so that UPS, FedEx, and USPS drivers became familiar visitors at her office.

Family time meant everything to her. Her home was always the gathering place-the hub where family and friends came together. She loved hosting family dinners, even though she happily left the cooking to others. What mattered most was having everyone together. She and her mother were the Queens of Spades. They would beat everybody in the house.

Sandy also loved to celebrate. Any occasion was reason enough for laughter, good food, and often a lively dance party. She especially loved to dance and would light up the room with her energy, some-times dancing until she had to limp back to her seat-but always with a smile.

She also treasured traveling with her brothers and their spouses, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love.

Those Who Welcomed Her Home

Sandy was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Robert L. Watson, III and Sarah L. Watson; her son, Kendrick J. Cooper; her brother, Raynold Watson; her sister in-law, Priscilla Watson; and her brother in-law, Frank Randy Boatwright.

Those Who Cherish Her Memory

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted husband of 48 years, Samuel H. Cooper, Jr.; her children, Cedrick (Trina) Cooper, Sr. and Shenae Cooper-Drummond; her grandchildren, Charles (Keyona) Mapp, Ayanna (Donnell) Lee, Cedrick Cooper, Jr., and Cooper Drummond; and her great-grandchildren, Zuri Tankard, Nyles Lee, Charles Mapp II, and Denver Lee.

She also leaves her brothers, Clayton Watson, Sr., Darryl (Matilda) Watson, Sr., and Barren (Tamara) Watson; sisters-in-love, Saundra Boatwright, Brenda Cooper-Reid, and Sheila Watson; her beloved best friends, Tryphinia Kennedy, who was like a sister, and Louise Allen; her aunt, Marcie White; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish her love and memory.