Thomas Kelly Cooper

Thomas Kelly Cooper (Tom) 64, Fredericksburg, VA, began his Heavenly residence on February 9th, 2017. Tom was born on February 5th, 1953 in Paducah, Kentucky to William B. Cooper, Sr. and June Elaine Waggoner Cooper.

Viewing for Tom will be held at 1:30PM to 3PM on February 25, 2017 at Mullins and Thompson Funeral Services. A memorial service will be held from 3PM to 5PM on February 26, 2017 at Salem Fields Community Church with light food catered. Pastor Steve Weber of Freedom Church will be officiating. Burial will be in Carthage, Mississippi at Rocky Hill Cemetery.

Tom was survived by his wife of 34 years, Karen Cooper, by daughters Kelly Cooper (James Mainey) and Jennifer Cordero, son-in-law Anthony Cordero and granddaughter Charlotte Cordero. Tom is also survived by his brother William B. Cooper (Gayle), sister Mildred Cooper Russell (Henry), and brother Edward Cooper (Laurie).

Tom was proud to serve his country and retired as the Chief Accountant of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. As a devoted servant of Christ, Tom’s witness brought many people to a relationship with Christ and a stronger walk with God. Tom served as a pastor and teacher with Maranatha Ministries and authored the inspirational book Raising Jesus. Tom’s example of faith and of Christ’s love for all is his greatest legacy.

Tom's life was one of faith, determination and perseverance, as he overcame numerous health issues. In February of 1979, Tom received a kidney transplant from his younger brother. Tom became one of the longest living organ transplant recipients in the world. He was, through his life story, his work with the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and other donor advocate originations, and his book Miracle at Exit Three, an amazing advocate for organ donation.