James Stewart Cooper Jr.

James “Buck” Stewart Cooper, Jr. peacefully entered eternity at home on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 76, following a courageous and lengthy battle with pugilistic dementia. Surrounded by love, Buck passed into peace and healing, reunited with his parents, Mattie Belle (Beavers) and James Stewart Cooper, Sr.

A Life of Devotion, Grit, and Joy

Buck is lovingly remembered by his wife, Georganna (Price); daughters, Megan Allyce Cooper and Emily Elizabeth (Cooper) Faith; son-in-law, Jordan Keir Faith; and his cherished grandson, Conway Keir Faith. His memory lives on through the Price family, the Forbis family, the Swanson family, the Uminn family and two incredible caregivers who brought him comfort and dignity—Paige (Fesmire) Burchand and Ashley Yarbrough. His two surviving cousins, Rita Harrison and Elizabeth Sterling and in-laws, Geff Price, Judy Vercher, and Mary Rackham, also mourn his passing. Thank you to everyone for supporting and loving us during this season, including my “church” ladies and my yaya sisters.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of Buck’s life will take place on Friday, June 13, 2025, at the Walker Pavilion in Coolidge Park, 120 River Street, Chattanooga, TN, from 12:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A burial service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Avenue. Friends and family are invited to enjoy a picnic in Buck’s honor. Bring an appetite and a story about Buck to share—ensuring Buck’s legacy of storytelling lives on.

Service and Strength

Born May 13, 1949, in Greenwood, Mississippi, Buck moved to Brandon, Florida, around the age of 9, spending his youth between beaches and backroads. He was a patriot who believed deeply in this country. At just 19, he voluntarily joined the U.S. Army and proudly served in the 173rd Airborne Ranger Division in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970. His family honors his service and extends deep gratitude to all veterans for their sacrifice, valor, and unshakable courage.

The Hands and Heart of a Craftsman

For 45 years, Buck worked as a welder—a master of his craft who loved working with his hands. Whether it was building, fixing, or fabricating, Buck thrived in the creative rhythm of craftsmanship. His garage workshop was his haven. Evenings often found him there, “tinkering” with his motorcycle, bike, or whatever project had caught his curiosity. Tools in hand, music in the background, he was in his element—problem-solving, restoring, inventing, creating.

A Legacy of Recovery and Faith

Perhaps one of Buck’s greatest personal triumphs was his journey of sobriety. On July 5, 2025, he would have celebrated 33 years sober—a testimony to his strength and perseverance. His commitment to recovery inspired those closest to him and reflected a deep resilience of spirit.

Buck’s faith remained a constant in his life. He accepted Jesus Christ on March 1, 1959, and though he was raised Southern Baptist, he later found joy in attending nondenominational services. Even in his final season, he was often found in quiet prayer. In his own words: “With God as your guide you will never be alone. Love y’all — Buck.”

The Heart of a Wild Spirit

What was meant to be a short visit to a friend in Houston in 1981 turned into 15 years of life and laughter where he met his wife and started a family. In 1994, the family moved to Hixson, Tennessee, where Buck spent the last 31 years surrounded by the hills, waterfalls, creeks, and four beautiful seasons he cherished.

A lover of classic rock and anything fast, Buck had a bold spirit and a big heart. He found joy in roller coasters, his red truck, rollerblades, his vintage Triumph motorcycle, bicycles, and sharp-curving hills. He loved nature, dogs, knives, guns, fireworks, dirt bike races, superhero movies, and anything sweet—especially ice cream. Buck was a big kid at heart with a quick wit that shined through even in his quietest moments. A cocky smile or a playful “Hey good looking” reminded us that he was still there. His laughter is the memory that will stay with us the longest. “He made me laugh, that is the memory I want to last” – Georganna

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial donations in Buck’s honor to support Vietnam Veterans 203. Contributions may be made to VVA Chapter 203, PO Box 23405, Chattanooga TN 37405.