Mr. Luverne Cooper transitioned this life to his heavenly home on Thursday, December 30, 2020. A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at the Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard, Tampa, FL 33606. Public visitation is from 3 pm to 7 pm; with a family hour beginning at 3:30 pm. Mr. Cooper’s final resting place will be his home in Fitzpatrick, Alabama.
Mr. Luverne Cooper was born January 13, 1932 in Bullock County, AL; he was the second of ten children born to loving parents. Luverne confessed Christ at an early age and attended the Mount Mariah Baptist Church. He attended the public schools of Bullock County and Birmingham, AL. Luverne was one of the first Black children to integrate Parker High School in Birmingham. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served for many years and was honorably discharged.
After his discharge from the Army, Luverne moved to Parrish, Florida. There he met, courted, and married Martha Cooper. To their union, they were blessed with three sons: Ludwig Cooper, who has preceded him in death, Luverne (Classie) Cooper, Jr., of Atlanta, GA, and Cedric Cooper of Bradenton, FL.
Later, Mr. and Mrs. Cooper moved their family to Tampa, FL. In Tampa, he worked as a mechanic for 40 plus years with Lukenbach Stream Ship Company. His love for fixing and tinkering allowed him to share that gift with others – you could always find him helping others with their car concerns. After retirement, Luverne loved to travel with family and friends…...and FISH. He captained his boats with joy along with his longtime fishing partner and friend, James Cross. When not on the water fishing, Luverne could be found sitting and talking to neighbors and friends in the Carver City community.
Mr. Cooper followed the church covenant and connected with the Mount Tabor M.B. Church. He was a faithful and devoted Trustee, and member of Usher Board #1; committedly serving as president for many years. In 2019, the usher board recognized Bro. Cooper for his leadership and devotion. Bro. Cooper was a quiet, powerful, and respected member of Mt. Tabor. You could find him on the last pew in the left of the sanctuary.
Along with his two sons, Bro. Cooper’s memory will be shared by his one brother: George Riley of Los Angeles, CA, his three sisters: Dorothy (Namon) Calhoun of Union Springs, AL, Doris (Jimmy) Thompson of Fitzpatrick, AL, and Ada Williams of Montgomery, AL as well as his five grandchildren, five great-grands, one great-great-grand, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins – including Pesie Cook, willie Cook Cargill all of Birmingham, AL.
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