Emelda Cooper

Emelda Garrett Cooper, 90, of Long Beach died Monday, May 21, 2007 in Hattiesburg, MS. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carmel and Eugene Garrett; Mrs. Cooper is survived by her husband of 61 years, Finis Ewing “Jerry” Cooper, Jr.; sister Marie Anthony; brother Reimer Garrett; daughter, Nita Gross, husband Ron; daughter Charmaine Ryle, husband David; her four grandchildren, Shawn Gross Wimmer, husband Steve; Brad Gross, wife Jennifer, Garrett and Blair Ryle; great grandchildren, Zachary and Jacob Wimmer, Bailey and Sidney Gross. Emelda was a long time member of St Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. She loved her rose garden, baking for her grandchildren and always being surrounded by her family, whom she loved very much. She was a very special part of all their lives. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, May 24, 2007 at 11:30 at St John Catholic Church in Gulfport. Friends may call from 10:30 to 11:30. Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery. Bradford O Keefe Funeral Home on O’Neal Road in Gulfport is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be sent to St Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, Rebuilding Fund, P.O. Box 1529, Long Beach, MS 39560. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com