Billy Joe Cooper

A Graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Old Bunker Hill Cemetery in Columbia for Billy Joe Cooper, 93, of Columbia, who passed away Monday, July 13, 2026. Rev. Tommy Stogner will officiate the service.

Mr. Billy was a lifelong resident of Columbia. A man of quiet strength and a remarkably strong work ethic, Billy’s journey of service began early when he managed to enroll in the Mississippi National Guard at just 16 years old, serving proudly as an Anti-Aircraft Artillery Gun Crewman. He later poured his immense talents into a long, successful career as a Construction Superintendent. His craftsmanship extended far beyond his profession; Billy was an avid woodworker who loved spending hours in his large, well-equipped shop. Alongside his beloved wife, Billie—with whom he grew up and fell in love at Bunker Hill Baptist Church—he traveled across Mississippi and Louisiana selling his beautifully crafted birdhouses and yard art at craft shows.

Billy was a faithful servant of God. He served as a deacon and the Chairman of the Building Committee at Bunker Hill Baptist Church, and in his later years, became a cherished member of North Columbia Baptist Church. Remarkably, the very home he built with his own hands sixty years ago was still his place of residence when he passed away—a testament to his enduring dedication. Described by those who knew him best as kindhearted, humble, tender-hearted, and "always there," Billy found joy in the simple things: traveling with Billie, growing tomatoes, and eagerly tackling the endless "honey-do lists" his wife lovingly kept for him even in retirement. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved.

He was preceded in death by his Parents, Bert & Elmyra Farmer Cooper; his Wife of 71 years, Billie Rogers Cooper; one Grandchild, Ryan Cooper; one Brother, Tommy Carroll Cooper; and one Sister, Charlene McArn.

He was survived by one Son, Billy Paul Cooper (Brenda), of Columbia; one Daughter, Peggy Williams, of Tennessee; two Sisters, Erlene Shivers, of Jackson, Sharon Williams, of Pensacola, Florida; four Grandchildren, Courtney Holland (Chad), of Columbia, Kelsey Branch (Cole), of Foxworth, Dana Yawn, Kory Yawn; and twelve Great Grandchildren.

Mr. Cooper will be carried to his final resting place by those honored to serve as Pallbearers; Chad Holland, Cole Branch, Levi Cooper, Riley Bond, and Matthew Green.

Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia is in charge of the arrangements. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.hathornfuneralhome.com.