Robert Lee Cooter, 71, of Piney Flats, Tennessee, passed away on April 8, 2026. Born January 24, 1955, in Fort Knox, Kentucky, Robert was the kind-hearted, humorous presence who could fill a room with laughter and leave behind memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Born to military parents, Harold Joe Cooter and Julia Elizabeth Charlton, Robert grew up with a spirited streak—well known for giving his siblings a hard time and for tattling on his younger sister, Betsy “Bebby”. Those early family stories became part of the fabric of who he was: a man who loved to tease, loved to laugh, and loved his people.
Robert deeply loved his family and looked forward to time spent together. He especially enjoyed giving his nephews a hard time, and family members will fondly remember how he would often blame Christopher for passing gas—delivering the accusation with the same playful confidence that made it impossible not to smile.
A highlight of Robert’s week was “Sunday Funday” with his special friend, Randall Miller. Randall would pick up Robert and his roommate Brian, taking them bowling or running errands all over town—simple routines that became treasured traditions and a steady source of companionship and joy.
Robert’s interests reflected his bright personality. He loved Batman, John Wayne movies, bowling, and eating McDonalds. He was also known as a fun-spirited flirt who enjoyed chatting and flirting with the ladies. Loved by many and truly one of a kind, Robert leaves a legacy of warmth, humor, and unmistakable individuality.
Robert was preceded in death by Harold Joe Cooter (Julia Elizabeth Charlton), parents, and Mark Anthony Cooter, brother. He is survived by Debra “Sissy” Hanmer, sister; Betsy “Bebby” Cooter-Hicks, sister; Michael Hanmer, nephew; Jonathon Lee Hanmer, nephew; Joe Cooter, nephew; Darren Hicks, nephew; Christopher Hicks (Summer), nephew; Carrianne Moore (Brandon), great niece; Koda Hanmer, great nephew; Camden Hicks, great nephew; Bobby Brown, cousin; Ken Brown, cousin; Linda Wolfenbarger, cousin; Elaine Brown, cousin; Randall Miller, special friend; and Patty, Brian, and many more.
Visitation will be held on April 14, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at East Lawn Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 pm. Robert's Graveside Committal Service will be held on April 15, 2026, at 12:00 pm at East Lawn Memorial Park.
The family would like to extend their appreciation to the Enhanced Support Service staff for their love and attentive care of Robert, and Robert’s roommate and friend Brian.
