Gilbert Lee Cooper

Gilbert Lee Cooper, 93, of Moody, passed away on Monday July 17, 2023.

Visitation:  5pm to 7pm Sunday, July 23, 2023 at Lake Shore Funeral Home

Funeral Service:  10am Monday, July 24, 2023 at Lake Shore Funeral Home

Gilbert was born on January 10, 1930 in Bigelow, Arkansas to his parents Henry and Rebecca (Spence) Cooper. The Cooper’s didn’t have much growing up and lived in a crowded house with 7 boys and 1 girl, everyone had to do the work. Times were tough and people were tougher. Gilbert made it to the 11th grade in school. He had two boys, Roy and Gene, from his first marriage.  In December of 1985 he married the love of his life, Thelma Gabbard. He spent his working life as a mill foreman for international paper and Huck manufacturing, and his retired life ranching, and farming. He and Thelma fed their animals and guests very well. When his grandchildren came along his name quickly turned to Poppa. He was adored and loved by so many. There wasn’t a day that he wasn’t working on something at the farm. He loved watching the PBR, taking care of his cows and his loyal dog, Lady.

Gilbert is preceded in death by his first wife, Ula-Vea; wife, Thelma; stepson, Mike Spicer and many siblings.

He is survived by his children, Roy and wife Nelda Cooper of West and Gene Cooper of Ozona; daughter-in-law, Vikki Cooper of New Braunfels; grandchildren, Shane and wife Kari Cooper of Maxwell, Jeanie Hill and husband Tim of New Braunfels, Kim Cooper and husband Darren Golden of San Diego, and Kelly and Lloyd Bergman of Denison; stepchildren, Sue Boss of Moody, Robert and wife Jammie Spicer of Arlington, Jimmy Spicer of Palestine; many step grandchildren, not to mention numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

Although times weren’t always easy, Gilbert lived a full loving life. He will be truly missed by those who hold him close.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Gilbert’s memory can be made to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, 600 SW 11th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79101 (www.giving@calfarley.org) or the charity of your choice.

Place of Service: Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel , 5201 Steinbeck Bend; Waco, TX 76708