Evelyn Cooper

Evelyn Cooper was born in Dallas, Texas in 1926, the oldest of two children born to the late A.K. Coleman and Anna Dunlap. She received her early education in Dallas, attending both grade school and high school there, and proudly graduated from Lincoln High School.

At an early age, Evelyn moved to San Francisco, California with her husband, Felix Salter Jr. To this union, three sons were born: Donald Salter, Gregory Salter, and Wilbert Salter. She was preceded in death by her beloved son Wilbert.

After several years on the West Coast, Evelyn returned to her hometown of Dallas, Texas, where she worked in various roles, including barbering and dress manufacturing. In the early 1960s, she relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, where she spent years working as a dedicated grocery checker. Following her oldest son’s high school graduation, Evelyn moved back to Dallas for a brief time before returning to California.

During her time in California, Evelyn reconnected with a former Dallas classmate, Fred Cooper, who would become her devoted husband and life partner. Evelyn began working as a real estate broker, and together she and Fred founded Cooper Realty, a business built on hard work, trust, and shared vision.

Evelyn and Fred later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where they lived for several years before ultimately returning home to Dallas. Always forward-thinking and committed to her community, Evelyn recognized the need for a live jazz venue in South Dallas. From that vision came Cotton Candy, a vibrant jazz club that quickly became the talk of the town and the place to be on the weekends. Her entrepreneurial spirit and love for music enriched the community and created memories cherished by many.

After years of work, adventure, and service, Evelyn and Fred retired and enjoyed a blessed life together. Evelyn leaves to celebrate and honor her memory of her loving husband, Fred Cooper; two sons, Donald Salter and Gregory Salter; one grandson, Wyatt Salter; three great-grandchildren, Rashad Salter, Dymond Salter, and Mahlaya Salter; her loyal and devoted caregiver, Paula; and a host of extended family members and friends across California and beyond.

Her legacy of strength, vision, and generosity lives on in all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held at Laurel Land Funeral Home, located at 6300 South R.L., Dallas, TX 75232, on December 11, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at the same venue on December 12, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

The committal will follow at Laurel Land Memorial Park - Dallas, located at 6300 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy., Dallas, TX 75232, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.