Homer George Cooper Jr.

Funeral Services for Homer George Cooper, Jr. will be held Sunday, September 14, 2025 at 2 p.m. from McClain-Hays Chapel with Bro. Mark Cloys, Bro. Bob Cooper, Bro. Mike Skinner and Bro. Brad Winstead officiating. Interment with follow in Cedarlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 4 to 7 p.m. at McClain-Hays Funeral Home.

Homer George Cooper, Jr., age 82, of Philadelphia, Mississippi passed away on September 10, 2025.

Born on June 5, 1943, to Homer George Cooper, Sr. and Margarette Rose [Lundy] Cooper in Hattiesburg, he devoted his life to service, faith, and family. Mr. Cooper served his country with honor throughout a distinguished military career spanning 32 years. His leadership, dedication, and integrity earned the respect of all who served alongside him.

Following his military service, he continued his lifelong commitment to others through faithful service to East Philadelphia Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon, Discipleship Training Leader, and Sunday School Teacher, as well as other roles. His devotion to the Lord, his church, and the community was evident in the many ways he gave of his time and talents.

Above all, Mr. Cooper was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared fifty-nine years of marriage with his beloved wife, Mary Jo [Jemison] Cooper, and together they raised three children: Mechelle [Royce] Burson, Priscilla Cooper, Heath [Patty] Cooper. He took great joy in being present for his children’s lives, faithfully attending school programs, sporting events, and family milestones.

That same love and pride carried on to his grandchildren Paige [Cody] Rogers, Ryan [Ashley] Williams, Caitlin Williams, James [Kylie] Spalding, Madison Spalding and great-grandchildren, Lacey Lynn Rogers, Carson Crider, and Haylee Jo Williams. In addition to the aforementioned, Mr. Cooper enjoyed two adopted (in love) granddaughters, Samantha Breazeale and Leah Hamilton. All knew him as a constant source of encouragement, wisdom, and affection. His legacy of faith, service, and devotion to family will be cherished for generations.

In addition to being survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, he is also survived by his siblings, Bob [Ava] Cooper, Joe Cooper, Martha [A.J., deceased] Mitchell, and Bill [Fay] Cooper.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sibling, Dorothy Rushing.

He will also be fondly remembered by many numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Pallbearers will be T.J. Rushing, Trent Butler, John Wilkerson, Dr. Tom Horne, Warren Flake and Jeff Mangrum.