Patricia "Pat" Cooper

Patricia “Pat” Cooper passed away peacefully among her loving family Friday evening on the first day of March, 2024. Mrs. Cooper - formerly Patricia Ann Wray - was born in Memphis, TN on December 4, 1940 to the late Jonas and Mary Wray.

Pat and AJ attended Carmel Baptist Church for more than 45 years, where Pat served in a variety of ways. Always loving on babies in the preschool department, she worked at Carmel’s mother’s morning out program - WEE school - for many years. Rocking and caring for babies was one of her greatest joys, especially for her grand and great-grandchildren who affectionately called her “Memaw.” Pat also assisted in Wednesday night suppers, where families were greeted by her sweet smile. Her involvement with women’s Bible studies and luncheon groups were some of her favorite times, and she cherished her many friendships.

Pat, AJ and their girls enjoyed many travels together. Whether it be in the Tennessee mountains, camping at Myrtle Beach, cruise adventures and more. She looked forward to their annual anniversary trip to Tree Tops in Gatlinburg, TN with lifelong friends Carole and Bob Gray of Memphis, TN.

While at home, Pat enjoyed southern style cooking, crocheting, playing cards, working puzzles, creating greeting cards, gardening, caring for the birds and cuddling with her fur baby, Sadie. Decorating for every holiday was done in high fashion, as Pat embraced and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life.

Although Pat’s health journey was a challenge, she continued to impress everyone with her endurance. Her strong faith in Jesus, along with the tender loving care of her husband, carried her through many difficult days. Her favorite scriptures were the love chapter, I Corinthians 13 and the Fruits of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23. She exemplified both.

Pat was described as “Sweet” by countless people whose lives she touched. She exuded sweetness in her voice and smile, but mostly in her generosity. Being surrounded by family, friends and especially babies made her the happiest.

Pat believed Heaven was her eternal home, and in her final days she was prepared. Our family’s prayers were answered as she closed her eyes on this side of Heaven in an unusually peaceful way, and opened her eyes to eternal Glory with Christ.

Well done, good and faithful servant. You were so loved.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, and her sisters, Barbara Crawford and Manesha Walker.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years and high school sweetheart, AJ Cooper; her two daughters, Lisa Barbour (Gray) of Clemmons, NC, Angie Bouldin (Blake) of Monroe, NC; her sister-in-law Marylou Landis (Chalmer); her grandchildren, Taylor Barbour (Krista), Abbie Mauney (Chase), Brianna Wooten (Zach), Bryson Bouldin (Callie), Brett Bouldin (Marlee), Alyssa Barbour, and Brad Bouldin (fiance, Ashley Rivera); her eight great-grandchildren, Walker Wooten, Thomas Barbour, Nora Wooten, Lucy Barbour, Ruthie Wooten, Lila Bouldin, Weston Wooten and Madilynn Mauney; and many other loving extended family members.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Carmel Baptist Church Sanctuary, 1145 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Matthews, NC. A Visitation will follow the service.

A special thanks to Pat's caregiver, Monica Edwards, and her cardiologist, Dr. Ashleigh Maiers, who went above and beyond in their care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Hospital (Memphis, TN) or Samaritan’s Purse - organizations Pat felt strongly about.