"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants." - Psalm 116:15

With hearts full of gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, we celebrate the home going of James Cooper, who was called to be with his Lord and Savior on November 2, 2023, at the age of 82. Born to the late Charles Cooper and Mildred Smith in Atlanta, James’s life was a testament to the grace and faithfulness of God.

James's earthly journey was marked by his gentle spirit and a heart that echoed the love of Christ. From his early days working at his father's butcher shop to his many years as a cherished bakery salesman for Hostess, James spread kindness and warmth as naturally as the morning sun dispenses light.

A patriot through and through, James served in the U.S. Army with valor and excellence. In the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii, he not only honed his skills as a sharpshooter but also embodied the servant leadership as a driver for the chief of staff, 25th Infantry Division.

James's union with his beloved Deborah Ann in 1973 was blessed with shared devotion and faith, establishing a family life steeped in love and Christian values. Together, they cultivated a home where God's word was the foundation, and their shared journey was a testament to the Lord's faithfulness.

As an elder at Faith Fellowship Ministries World Outreach Center in Sayreville, New Jersey, now Epic Church International, and Faith Temple in East Orange, New Jersey, James was a spiritual anchor, his teachings a fountain of wisdom, and his service a demonstration of the joy found in Christ.

James's many vocational roles did not overshadow his creative interests. His love for jazz was akin to the melodies of King David's harp: uplifting spirits and spreading joy. His enthusiasm for sports reflected the Apostle Paul's exhortation to run the race with endurance, while his passion for photography captured the manifold beauty of God's creation.

Left to cherish his memory and continue his legacy are his son, Nathan Joel Cooper; his sisters, Betty Jean Phelan and Pansy Elola Cooper; and a host of relatives, spiritual sons and daughters, and friends who were touched by his generosity, laughter, and love.

In the wake of James's glorious ascension to heaven, a private memorial service will be held to rejoice in the life he was granted by God’s grace. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family graciously requests charitable contributions to be made to the Parkinson's Foundation in James's honor. Condolences and remembrances can be shared with Lakewood Funeral Home, 6250 Highway 9 South, Howell, NJ 07731.

Today, we do not say goodbye to James Cooper. Instead, we take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved Deborah Ann, his dear son Jason Todd, and siblings Charles Jr., Gary Alonzo, Darrell Davis, and Paulette Rodriguez, by all of whom he was predeceased. Together, they are dancing in the presence of our Creator, celebrating a life not ended but transformed into eternal worship and joy.

With love and remembrance,

The Cooper Family