Calvin Joe Cooper

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Calvin Joe Cooper, 73, who transitioned to his heavenly home on December 8, 2024, in Titusville, Florida.

Born on May 25, 1951, in Opelika, Alabama, to the late Annie Lee Works (Dennison) and Willie James Cooper, Calvin was a man of great character, unwavering devotion, and endless love for his family and community. After graduating from Darden High School in 1969, he began his collegiate journey at Alabama A&M University. However, in July 1970, his sense of duty called him to volunteer for the United States Army, where he proudly served a tour in Vietnam.

Calvin’s life was marked by love and partnership. In 1972, he reunited with his high school sweetheart, Mildred Lumford, at Jacksonville State University. By December of that year, the two were married, embarking on a lifelong union grounded in faith and friendship. In February 1974, their young family grew with the arrival of their daughter, Tamala. Calvin also pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. during his time at JSU and graduated in 1974 with a degree in accounting. He went on to join the Examiners of Public Accounts, helping to integrate Alabama’s team of auditors for public institutions and agencies.

In 1978, Calvin and Mildred settled in Montgomery, Alabama, where they welcomed their son, Clifford, and built a life of service, dedication, and love. Calvin dedicated over 30 years to both the Examiners Office and the United States Army Reserves, simultaneously serving the people of Alabama and his nation with honor and diligence. As a devoted member of Saint John’s African Methodist Episcopal Church in Montgomery, he served as a steward, financial officer, and played a pivotal role in establishing the church’s credit union—a testament to his commitment to uplifting others.

Beyond his professional and spiritual pursuits, Calvin lived a life of joy and adventure. He delighted in traveling with his family, often finding solace on the beaches of Florida with Mildred by his side, watching the waves and sharing laughter. Together, they cherished their time at Saint James AME Church in Titusville, where they enjoyed the soulful melodies of the choir. Calvin was also a foodie with a passion for cooking and trying new recipes, whether it was crafting his famous gumbo for fraternity Super Bowl parties or grilling for loved ones. He relished family fishing trips with his grandchildren and rarely missed an opportunity to don his tuxedo and dance with Mildred at Kappa Alpha Psi Black and White Balls.

Calvin’s legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will forever be cherished by those who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, his aunts and uncles, and his beloved son, Clifford Samuel. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 52 years, Mildred Cooper of Montgomery, AL; his daughter, Tamala Amissah (Eric) of Pike Road, AL; his cherished grandchildren, Anna, Adam, Aaron, and Abigail Amissah; his sisters, Loretta Jackson and Sylvia Agyemang (Richard) of Tampa, FL; Sister-in law Ellie Peavy; his nieces, LaRevia Wright (Chris), LaSandra Lumford, Andrea Jackson (Chrissy), Carly Jackson, Tamika Hemingway (Daniel), Akela Burton (Michael), and nephew Maurice Lumford as well as many cousins.

Calvin Joe Cooper was a beacon of strength and a pillar of his family and community. His warm smile, thoughtful words, and unwavering faith touched all who were blessed to know him. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and the impact of his life will endure in the hearts of all who loved him.

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