Leroy M. Cooper, Sr., 78, of Richmond, Retired Master Sergeant of the U. S. Air Force, died April 15, 2020. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Billy Reynolds. Surviving are his loving wife, Gwendolyn P. Cooper; three sons, Vincent (Iris), Michael (Amanda) and Leroy Jr. Cooper; two daughters, Cynthia Cooper and Sonya Cooper; 13 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren; devoted sister, Daisy C. Kirven; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. A private graveside service will be held 12 noon Monday at Oakwood Cemetery. Rev. Donte McCutchen, officiating. A Celebrations of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
I came straight out of Basic and TSgt Cooper was my first boss. People I worked with kidded me about my PaPa Cooper. He went out of his way to help a lost 17 year old Airman basic and it was obvious he had taken me in under his care.. I've thought of him often over the years and have done a few internet searches. I even drove 200 miles in 1978 to say hello and thank you for making me into a decent Airman. Unfortunately he wasn't at Fort Lee. We'll have to catch up in the next life. Thank you for setting me on the right path. I retired as a Msgt and that would not have happened without all the special attention I received. Thank you so much papa Cooper.
Condolences to the Cooper family. This man was the reason I am who I am today. His tough love and huge heart will forever be missed. May he rest in his lords loving arms.
If there is any service in the future, I know that a number of us that served with MSgt Cooper would like to attend. I will notify as many folks as possible if such an event occurs. I can be reached at briancampbelluva@gmail.com
MSgt Cooper was my Flight Chief at Langly AFB. I have had many Flight Chiefs who I served under, and many to compare him with, but he was simply the best, he personaly was like a second father to me, MSgt Cooper had something the other Flight Chiefs didn't have, charisma, a gregarious laugh, and a man who listened to his troops. If you didn't like MSgt Cooper, then there was something more than likely wrong with you, and I personaly know of no one who didn't like or respect MSgt Cooper. May you rest in Peace!
Vic Ripley, Jr. , D Flight, 1 SPS.
MSgt Cooper was my first boss at Langley AFB. He was a legend and larger than life in the Security Police community. While he could be tough, we all knew how much he cared about "his troops." On behalf of his troops, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family on his passing.
My first Flight Chief at Langley and I will never forget what a great man he was!! He took care of his troops!! Until we see each other again!!!
From KMoney FatBaby & Trea'zure
You were a great man & provider for the community and family!! You always was the same Sleep in Peace Grandaddy Cooper #PrayerstotheCooperTrosefamily
You were a great man Mr. Cooper. You will truly be a staple in my life forever. My condolences to the Cooper family. 3000Montrose.
Desmond
I love you and I'm gonna miss you so much -Kea
And Now We Say Goodbye
Great sadness fills our hearts today as pipes and drums, in slow march play. A comrade's fallen by the way, And now we say goodbye.
This hero to the very end Was more than just a casual friend, Who would a stranger's life defend, And now we say goodbye
But we shall cherish, all our days, The character this life portrayed With sacrifice so freely made, And now we say goodbye.
The hand salute, o'er Stars and Stripes, And distant skirl of highland pipes, Give last farewell with hero's rights, And now we say goodbye.
While here on Earth, you gave your best. Now in the Master's arms you rest. T'is by your memory we are blessed. And now we say goodbye.
Howard Garrison Yates @ July 2006
Love and sympathy to my friend, Daisy Kirven and the entire Cooper family. May you feel God's comforting arms around at this trying time. Audrey "Pinky" McLean, Navy Hill alum
We worked together at fort lee Air Force Station and later at Langley.
My sincere condolences John and family As always, Barbara Danielle Dreyfus Covim
Those that are dearest to our hearts never leave us. The love that you shared will never be forgotten; they are embedded in your memories. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult and heart wrenching time. Myra and Mohamed
Love you Grandad.. Adrian.
We extend our sincere sympathy to the Cooper family on the passing of Leroy,Sr. We pray God will continue to embrace you with His love. Much love, Howard and Glenda Leabough
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.