Leo Cooper

Leo Jerry Cooper, 85, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, April 21, 2025. Jerry was born on April 1, 1940 in Florence County, South Carolina to the late Jack and Ella Jo (Ward) Cooper. 

He graduated from Lake City High School. Jerry also attended Auburn University and Wingate College. 

Jerry was a long time member of Broadacres Baptist Church where he performed many roles, including the positions of Deacon, Treasurer, and many decades as the Sunday School Attendance Secretary. He served four years in the Army during the Korean Conflict. After serving his time in the Army and receiving his Associates Degree in sales, he had a long successful career in the sales industry with Richland Motor Company, Jerry's Used Cars, and B&E Trucks. He also worked several years in the Lexington District 2 school system as a substitute teacher. 

Jerry was an all-around athlete growing up in Lake City. He played every sport and was team captain on several of the teams. He was even named "Most Athletic" of his senior class. Of all the sports he played, he was best known for his talents as a baseball player. He played baseball for the Army, Auburn University and Wingate College. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing with all of his friends and family.

Papa Bear, as he is affectionately known, enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed entertaining out by the pool and serving up his famous boiled peanuts and chicken and rice. He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and one of a kind personality. No matter the circumstances, he was able to put a smile on everyone's face. Jerry had a big heart and a contagious smile. He was truly selfless, always putting others above himself.

He is preceded in death by his first wife Cheryl McMillan and his second wife Faye Rountree. 

He is survived by his son Cori Cooper (Alecia); granddaughter, Brooke Cooper; uncle, Jethro Cooper; niece, Jo-Lynn Cooper; brother-in-law, Steve McMillan, Jr.; stepsons, Dub Rountree (Tammy), Rusty Rountree (Fran); step grandchildren, Nicole Rountree (Kasey), Brandon Rountree (Stacy), Jamie Rountree, Taylor Rae Rountree and step-great grandchildren, Westin and Blakely Rountree.

Services will be held Friday, April 25 at Broadacres Baptist Church (2350 Taylor Rd Cayce, SC 29033.) Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with the funeral immediately following at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Broadacres Baptist Church 2350 Taylor Rd Cayce, SC 29033.