Margarite Cooper

Born on October 22, 1938, in Los Angeles, California, Margarite lived her life with an unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, a steadfast devotion to her family, and a true love for her country.

Margarite’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife to Lynn, a younger sister to Robert Bishop, a loving mother to Robert, Todd, Shelley and Erin, and a proud grandmother to Gioia, Amerique, Cooper, Clayton, Taryn, Ty, Mia, Claire, Wiatt, Chance and Ayrton, and great-grandmother to Adelaide, Gemma, Shiloh, Zeke, and Gage. She was the biggest fan attending many of the children’s activities, cheering from her seat. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and encouragement, where every person felt cared for and loved.

Throughout her nearly 60 years of living in San Luis Obispo, Margarite actively served her community. As a leader in Edna 4-H, she was instrumental in establishing the first Edna 4-H Enchilada Sale, which is still active today as a key fundraiser for the organization. She served on the Board of Directors for the Achievement House, and Central Coast Funds for Children (CCFC), and volunteered with the League of Women Voters. When she learned of a need to fundraise for children with special needs in Las Vegas, Mark 10:14, it was her idea to have a drive thru San Luis style BBQ. More than $750,000 has been raised over the years for this organization and has helped many children with special needs to receive an inclusive Christian education. She enlisted many of her SLO friends to come and help.

Margie found beauty in God’s creation and had an infinity to create gorgeous flower arrangements. Her garden was filled with roses, sunflowers, hollyhocks, and succulents.

She also carried a deep respect for her country and never took for granted the blessings of freedom. Her patriotism was evident in her prayers for our nation and her appreciation for those who served it.

Margarite will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful spirit, and her unshakeable faith. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, Lynn, her brother Robert B. Bishop (Marvin), her children Robert, Todd (Kathy), Shelley Rhodes (John), and Erin Williams (Troy), and ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Margery Bishop, and grandson Ty Cooper.

A service to honor Margarite’s life will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the San Luis Obispo Church of the Nazarene, 3396 Johnson Avenue. Friends and family are invited to gather in celebration of a life well lived and a faith well kept.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jack’s Helping Hands or San Luis Obispo Church of the Nazarene, Children’s Ministry.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” Matthew 25:23