Essie Mae Cooper, age 86, passed away Saturday, October 7, 2023 in Jacksonville, Florida. Essie was born on March 26, 1937 in Jackson, Mississippi to Earl Lamar Hayman and Ester Barnett Hayman. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt to her family. Essie was a member of West Jacksonville Baptist Church, and was also a long-time volunteer with Community Hospice and Palliative Care.
Essie is preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Ester Hayman; her husband, Odell Cooper; and one brother, Clifford Hayman. She is survived by her children Carol Cooper Wilkey and Dale Cooper (Lisa); grandchildren Nathan Wilkey and Matt Wilkey; great-grandchildren Aaron, Adam, Shannon, and Reagan; siblings Nelson Hayman (Pat) and Archie Hayman (Sue); sisters-in-law Joyce, Zola, and Carol; and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service at Lakewood Memorial Park, 6000 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS 39209 on Friday, October 13 at 12:00 pm. Visitation with the family will begin at 11:00 am at Lakewood Funeral Home, 6011 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS 39209.
