James Carl Cooper

James Carl Cooper, 59, a resident of Wayne City, IL passed away Sunday, September 27 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

James was born on September 26, 1961 in Mt. Vernon, IL.  On July 5, 1990 he married Kimberly Kay Cooper (Johnston), who survives.

James was a retired Correctional Officer, who worked at Pontiac Correctional Center, Robinson Correctional Center, and Big Muddy Correctional Center for a combined 25 years.  He was a member of the Bluford American Legion and the Sportsmans Club in Mt. Vernon, IL.  He attended the First Christian Church in Wayne City.  James was an avid fisherman and loved outdoor activities.  He was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan, and he loved watching his kids play sports.

James is survived by his wife Kim Cooper of Wayne City, a daughter Hanah Cooper of Wayne City, a son Noah Cooper of Wayne City, his parents Tom & Helen Cooper of Mt. Vernon, IL; 2 brothers: Chuck (Debbie) Branch of Salem, IL and Alan (Joanie) Cooper of Mt. Vernon, IL; 3 sisters: Nancy (Steve) Pace of Benton, IL; Julie Stanley (Kevin Perrin) of Mt. Vernon, and Laura Cooper (John Williams) of Mt. Vernon, special friends Bob & Rene Walker and their daughter Libby Williams, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

A Memorial Service for James Carl Cooper will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2020 with visitation from 1 pm – 3 pm with services starting at 3 pm at the Archie Sanders Memorial Chapel in Wayne City with Lathan Musgrave and Ashley Musgrave officiating.  Those attending are requested to follow state and local guidelines regarding social distancing and mask wearing at the Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made towards a college fund for Hanah and Noah, and may be made to the care of Kim Cooper.  Memorials will be accepted at the Archie Sanders Memorial Chapel or at Young Funeral Home in Wayne City, which has been entrusted to provide arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.youngfuneralhomellc.com

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