Michael D. Cooper

Michael Dwayne Cooper, long time resident of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, departed this life on Saturday March 7, 2026 at Methodist Charlton Hospital at the age of 50. Mike’s journey of Life began on May 23, 1975 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Mike was proud of his roots in New Orleans where his love of music grew, he was a talented musician where at John F. Kennedy High School he played the Saxophone as well as becoming Drum Major. After High School, he went to Grambling State University where he was a member of the “World Famed” Tiger Marching Band, where became section leader, as well as a constant influence with members, and Band Directors, long after he graduated. Mike was a skilled musician who would write songs for the band by ear.

Throughout Mike’s life, he worked in areas in which he was helping others, he had a passion of giving back and being a mentor for anyone who needed it. Mike enjoyed giving himself for the betterment of others especially the youth.

Outside of Music, he was passionate about sports, especially basketball. He played on many recreational leagues, and after his accident, he poured his passion into coaching, Mike’s knowledge of the game was vast, what some saw as a job, Mike saw as fun, knowing the rules, positions, creating plays (many referee’s left games with a headache…Lol!)

He leaves to cherish his Daughter, his Baby Girl, his Everything, Micah Dionne Cooper, his Mother and Step-Father, Mrs.Connie Cooper-Navarre and Mr. Willie Navarre Sr., Ex-Wife, LaQuinta Spears, Step-Sister Jasmine “Jas” Navarre and Step-Brother Willie “Bud” Navarre, Jr and his 4-legged companion, Pac, and a host of Friends, Family, and Bonus Children.

He is preceded in death by his beloved MeMaw, Lola Benefield, and his Paw-Paw, James Cooper, and his Uncles.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Laurel Land Funeral Home, 6300 South R.L., Dallas, TX 75232, US, on March 21, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.