Oscar E. Cooper, Jr.'s Obituary
Oscar E. Cooper, Jr., 91, of Joplin, MO, formerly of Welch, OK, passed away at Joplin Health and Rehab on December 25, 2018, after a long illness, while surrounded by his family.
He was born February 7, 1927 in Coffee County, Alabama to Oscar E. Cooper, Sr. and Mary (Foley) Cooper. He loved the Lord and was an active member of the Welch Baptist Church, while living in Welch, and later joined the Harmony Heights Baptist Church after moving to Joplin. He was married to the former Charlotte Mitchell.
In his younger years, he worked as a shipyard welder. He also served in the Merchant Marines in unlicensed positions in the engine department and later as a licensed engineer. He bravely served his country in the United States Navy serving in World War II and the Korean War.
On November 22, 1954, he joined the U.S. Border Patrol in El Paso, TX. He also served in El Centro, CA, Phoenix, AZ, West Palm Beach, FL, Casa Grande, AZ, Mobile, AL, and Miami, OK where he was an anti-smuggling agent. While in the Border Patrol, he competed in 2700 NRA matches in the Master class. He retired in 1977.
In 1982, Oscar opened the U.F. Real Estate office in Miami. After closing his real estate office, he had the opportunity to work as a court security officer in Tulsa. At times, he was called upon to be an interpreter since he spoke Spanish fluently.
He loved to work in his garden. He would share his produce with family, neighbors, and friends. He was also an avid reader.
He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte, of the home; a daughter, Shannon King of Los Angeles, CA; a son, John P. Cooper of Oklahoma City, OK; one granddaughter and seven great grandchildren, all from California; two great great grandchildren from California; and two stepchildren and five step grandchildren he dearly loved; along with a host of friends. He will be greatly missed.
A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, December 27, 2018 in the Chapel of the Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Welch. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, December 28, 2018 at Oakhill Cemetery, Chetopa, KS. Pastor Charlie Burnett will officiate.
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