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Funeral: 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home
Interment: Elmwood Cemetery
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home
Pat A. Cooper, age 93, of Flora, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, January 6, 2024, at Clay County Hospital.
Born on July 30, 1930, in Salem, Pat was united in marriage with Paul T. Cooper on May 28, 1955, in Henderson, Kentucky. Paul, a Navy veteran of World War II, preceded her in passing on June 1, 1973.
Pat's ongoing commitment to honor those who served in the Armed Forces, a tribute to her late husband Paul, was something she never lost sight of. A dedicated member of the American Legion Post 14 Auxiliary and former Past President numerous times, she tirelessly served on many projects for decades. She was also a member of the Flora VFW #3999 Auxiliary. Pat was dedicated to reminding us that we should never forget to thank our local veterans living in nursing homes. She led by example, and spent countless hours raising funds and thoughtfully selecting gifts that she personally delivered to these residents on occasions such as Christmas, Veterans Day, and birthdays.
A cherished memory for Pat was when she was selected to be a guardian for an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., and is another testament to her passion for being there for those who served. Pat was overwhelmed when the Flora Chamber of Commerce selected her as “Citizen of the Year” in 2008, recognizing her unwavering commitment to community service.
Pat also found enjoyment in her volunteer work with the Clay County Hospital Auxiliary. Inspired by faith, she had been a member of the Flora First Church of God for over 50 years. In the past she had been employed at The Gentleman’s Shop in Flora, and enjoyed bowling, golf at the Flora Country Club, and opportunities to travel. Pat leaves behind a legacy of love and service, and her spark will continue to glow anytime you say “thank you” to a Veteran in long-term care.
Pat is survived by her daughter, Paula Romero and husband Jeff of Republic, Missouri; two granddaughters, Caitlyn Edwards of Rogers, Arkansas, and Taylor Ngo and husband Brandon of Fayetteville, Arkansas; a bonus daughter, Angela Martin of Flora; and several special friends. She was preceded in passing by her father, John Albert Troutt; mother, Grace Louise (Parker) Cantrell; husband, Paul T. Cooper; and two brothers, Clifford and Buddy Troutt.
A funeral ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 until 7 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to the Flora American Legion Post 14 Auxiliary for a fund that will continue to honor Pat’s mission of providing gifts for Veterans in local nursing homes. Memorials will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com
Jul 21, 1931 - Nov 18, 2024
Nov 15, 1940 - Nov 9, 2024
Sep 5, 1961 - Oct 31, 2024
Nov 14, 1941 - Oct 30, 2024
Nov 28, 1936 - Oct 29, 2024
I am ever so sorry for the recent passing of Pat. She was a sweet lady, and she will be missed by all that adored her. May the family be blessed with the good that Pat brought to all that knew her!
Paula I'm sorry for your loss!!! She was such a sweet lady and we talked about you and Chris often!! She will be missed by many!! Fly high Pat!!!
Paula. I'm beyond sad to hear of Pat's passing. She was a very special lady and she was always so kind to me throughout the years. Sending you lots of love and prayers.
Pat was a good friend of my mom Doris Bright! She was so nice and would always see her when I came to Flora! She was either volunteering at hospital or delivering gifts to the Vets!! Rest In Peace Pat🙏🏼❤️ Bootsie Wagner
Paula and family. So very sorry for the loss. She was such a sweet person , with a heart of gold. The epitome of a giving gracious soul. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Pat will definitely be missed. So many memories of little things throughout life and she made an impact on my families life. She was such a big part of Mom's life for over 40 years.
Sympathy is extended to The Family, Friends and Community. An Outstanding Citizen has passed.
A great lady whom I got to know through Clay Co Hospital Auxiliary working with her on several projects. She gave me a nickname of 'trouble' and I gave her 'double trouble'. Lol. No matter where she saw me it was 'There's trouble". She supported me when I started CC Healthy Hearts, was at every meeting till disbanded. Prayers to Paula and family.
Rest in Peace sweet lady. Your work on earth is done.
Wonderful lady, rest in peace
Thoughts and prayers.
I was so sad to see Pat had passed away. I had went and visited her at her house on Jan. 2nd. So happy I went and see her. Happy she was a friend of mine for years. I will miss her very much. R.I.P. my friend! ❤️
Prayers for all.
Prayers of comfort and peace to her family during this difficult time! Pat was a very special lady indeed! She was so very dedicated to all that did!
So sorry to hear this. Fly high Patsie Anne!
Paula and family, our sympathy to you and your family for the loss of your Mother. She was one of the special ladies in our community, seeing to the needs of others. She will certainly be missed.
Fly high Neighbor
Such a lovely soul and a great patriot.
Paula and family, we are so sorry you have lost your mom and grandma. She was a good neighbor of ours for many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We are sending love and hugs.❤
Pat was 100% for the veterans, every veteran in all the nursing homes knew Pat as mom. She almost always called me to help with any veteran situation, to help pass out gifts, and asked me and American Legion what the best gift to give. At the Citizen of the year banquet she asked me to pray for the blessing for the food. And the benediction. She was a true patriot, and she would be sorely missed and it's too bad. There aren't more just like her. And every veterans celebration she would always ask me to call on her because she had a few words she wanted to say to the audience.
Paula, we are very sorry from the loss of your lovely mother. Hugs..
Heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Pat's family and loved ones. She was a friend and inspiration to my mother (Ruby Glassford) as they worked together in auxiliary events throughout the years. Mom will truly miss Pat.
Heaven has gained a wonderful spirit. Nothing but very fine thoughts for Pat and her tireless efforts. Pat - You will be missed by many!
Paula prayers for you and your family! She was a special lady to so many people. She was so involved with the veterans and was so good to our dad.
I am so sorry to hear Pat has passed!!! She was a friend to my mom!!! Modean Koontz. Pat was a hard worker for our veterans so many years!! She will be missed!!!
Paula and family, so sorry about your Mother. There are not enough words and saying that could be said or written about her. She was one amazing person and will be truly missed by her family, friends , and the community.
A beautiful lady with ceaseless service for others. She will be missed greatly, especially by all of us Veterans that she has touched at some point in our lives. Prayers for Paula, Caitlyn and Taylor and their families.
I work with pat she is a very special person and friend. Sorrybfor your loss
I am so sorry for your loss. Paula she was so sweet.
Frank & Bright Funeral Home
and Cremation Services
500 North Main Street
Flora, Illinois 62839
Phone : (618) 662-2141
Fax: (618) 662-4600
Email: [email protected]
