Marion Walter Cooper

Marion Walter Cooper, known to many as Walt, passed away on September 1, 2026, in Florence, Mississippi. He was born on February 7, 1943, in Morton, Mississippi.

Walt served his country in the United States Navy as an E3 during the Vietnam War. In his working years, he built a career in the farm and industrial equipment industry, serving as a Warranty Manager for Stribling Equipment. After retirement, he continued to give of himself in meaningful ways, becoming a foster parent and a substitute teacher, mainly in the Richland and Florence area.

He found joy in simple and lasting things. Walt liked camping and being outdoors, and he especially loved living on the lake. A faithful member of Oak Forest Baptist Church, he loved singing in the choir. Above all, he loved his family dearly, and his grandchildren brought him great happiness.

He is survived by his wife, Joann Talley Cooper. He also leaves behind his daughter, Wendy Vanover and her husband, Steve, and his son, Rob Cooper and Wendy his wife, along with bonus children, Michael Taylor, Mandy Taylor Laird, and Mitchell Taylor. He will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Austin Cooper Smith, Lucie Cooper, Theo Cooper, Emily Taylor Ashley, Olivia Taylor, Christian Taylor, Magnolia Taylor, Emmett Laird, Evin Laird, and Ethan Laird who were a special source of joy in his life. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Walter T. Cooper; his mother, Artie Lott Cooper; his brothers, Cliford Cooper, Sheldon Cooper, and Curtis Cooper; and his sister, Lozene Carter.

Visitation will be held on September 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Chancellor Funeral Home Florence, 2576 US 49, Florence, Mississippi 39073. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Chancellor Funeral Home Florence.

Walt will be remembered for his service, his devotion to his church, his love of the outdoors, and the deep care he showed to his family and community. His life touched many, and his memory will be held close by all who knew and loved him.