Obituary

Billy Gene Cooper
(October 26, 1929 - July 27, 2020)

Billy Gene Cooper, 90, of Milton, WV went home to be with the Lord at his residence on July 27, 2020. Billy was born on October 26, 1929, in Milton, WV, a son of the late Lloyd Cooper and Geneva Jenkins Cooper. Billy was preceded in death by his father and mother, Lloyd and Geneva; as well as Bennie and Opal Ashworth, whom he considered like parents. He is also preceded in death by his brothers Rex and Max, and one sister: Ada Kay Fetty. He is also preceded in death by Bennie “Junie” Ashworth, a lifelong friend, whom he considered like a brother. Billy is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Geraldine Adkins Cooper, one son Billy Dwaine (Bonnie) Cooper, and one granddaughter Ella (Matthew) Boggs. He also leaves behind a dear friend and work partner, Pierce Hatfield. In addition to his immediate family and friends he leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Billy was a member of Chestnut Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 66 years, where he served as a teacher and trustee, always having faith in the Lord to lead, guide, and direct his life. Billy served in the army, and was a Korean War Veteran. He was a member of the Gideon’s International, where he traveled to Churches, Jails, Schools, and other countries to help Bibles be placed in the hands of those that needed them. He was a member of the Scottish Rite and York Rite, Lebanon Lodge #68 AF&AM, and Eastern Star Chapter #149. He was also a member of the Shriners. Billy graduated from Milton High School in 1947, and after serving his time in the army, met the love of his life, later settling down and starting a family. Billy was a carpenter for nearly 60 years, a member of the Carpenter Local #302, and still worked long into his 80’s, so that he could always stay young. Billy was 70 years old before he had his first and only grandchild, who gave him a newfound joy in life, and together they shared many adventures. Billy was most proud of the son he raised, the life he shared with his wife, and his granddaughter for following her dreams and starting Medical School. Billy was an avid reader, and loved bluegrass gospel music. Billy had a kind heart, and did not know a stranger. He always believed in second chances, and seeing the best in people, even when others could not. He didn’t dwell on the past, and would give his own shirt off his back if it meant helping someone else. He would always tell others that to be successful in this life, you just had to be happy with what you accomplished, it did not matter what anyone else thought. Billy was a friend to everyone and anyone; always finding someone to talk to wherever he went. Billy leaves behind a legacy of patience, love, generosity, kindness, and Godliness. Those that know Billy remember he would always eat dessert first, because you never knew if you would be able to finish your meal. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Gideon’s International Living Memorial Bible Fund, in memory of Billy G. Cooper. Wallace Funeral Home in Milton will be handling funeral services for the family. The viewing will be at Chestnut Grove Missionary Baptist Church on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 from 6-8 p.m. and from 2 to 3 p.m. prior to the funeral service which will be held at the same location on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at 3 p.m. with Reverend Chelcie Gibson and Pastor Mark Hesson officiating. Burial will be in Forest Memorial Park, Milton. Wallace Funeral Home, Milton, is in charge of arrangements.