SSG (Ret.) Bennie Jerome Cooper, cherished veteran of the Army, gracefully embarked on his journey to eternal peace on November 16, 2023, surrounded by the embrace of love at the VA Medical Center in Fayetteville, North Carolina, he left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him intimately. Affectionately referred to as “Coop,” “Book” or “Butch” among his close family and friends, he graced this world on April 26, 1948. Born to the late James Lee and Rovena Graham-Gary-Cooper in Olanta, South Carolina, and was nurtured in the heart of Lake City, South Carolina, alongside twelve siblings.
Beyond his decorated military service, SSG(Ret.) Bennie Jerome Cooper was more than a name etched in history; he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and a cherished brother. His commitment to family was unwavering, and his love for them was the guiding force in his life. His legacy is not just one of military honor but also a testament to the enduring strength and warmth that family brought to his journey.
As we mourn the loss of this exceptional soul, let us remember the man who not only served his country with distinction but also filled the lives of those around him with love, laughter, and enduring bonds of family. SSG (Ret.) Bennie Jerome Cooper’s spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know and love him.