Gregory Spencer Cooper Sr.

Mr. Gregory Spencer Cooper Sr. began his earthly journey on July 6, 1965, born to the late Grace Williams & the late Wade McPhatter, Sr., in Robeson County, N.C.  God saw that Gregory's journey was complete and allowed him to enter into His presence on the evening of January 29, 2026. 

Gregory Sr. was proceeded in death by his parents; Grace Williams and Wade McPhatter Sr., his grandmother; Armeta Cooper, his aunts, Linda Cooper, Betty Ann, Ann Elizabeth, and Patricia McNeill, his uncles; Donald Sinclair and Leon Cooper, and nephews; Nasir Williams and Aaron Williams.

Attending the public schools in Red Springs, Gregory Sr. graduated with the Class of 1985.

Gregory Sr., met Nicole Bethea in 1989; and in1999 they married. Their marriage was blessed with two sons; Gregory Jr., and Alexander.

In February of 2024, Gregory Sr. began his second and most important birth as he invited His Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ into his life! What a wonderful and glorious invitation which led to eternal life.

Gregory Sr.’s work experience began following high school graduation at Croft Metals in Lumber Bridge, NC.  Later, he was employed with the Town of Red Springs, NC. Possessing a strong work ethic, Gregory Sr. was promoted to Supervisor, a position he maintained until he retired in 2022.  Additionally, Gregory Sr. worked as an inventory associate and with security at Roscoe’s in Red Springs, NC.

A people-person Gregory Sr. wore many hats in his life.  He found enjoyment hosting all types of celebrations including cook-outs and fish fry(s).  A jokester, his lively personality created fun and excitement at any festive or not event. Gregory Sr. was also a sports fanatic with his favorite teams of Duke University in basketball and Raiders in football.  If you had car trouble, or were in need of a handy man, the “Dynamic Duo” of Chris Terry and Gregory Sr. could be counted on to save the day. Small in stature but a giant of a personality Gregory Spencer Cooper, Sr. embraced life with a grateful heart for family and friends.

Left to cherish his wonderful memories are his family; his devoted wife, Nicole Bethea Cooper, his cherished children; Gregory Cooper Jr., Alexander Cooper, and Briana Cummings, and his amazing grandson; Jaxxen Cummings.

Remembering Gregory Sr. also are his treasured siblings: Wade (Felicia) McPhatter II, James McPhatter, Kelly (Lytonia) McPhatter, Anthony Williams, Elaine Williams, Tonya Williams, and Sherry Williams, his affectionate aunts: Gail Cooper, Brenda Cooper, Lily "Joyce" Cooper, and Augusta Goodyear, his fierce uncles: Abdullah Muhammad, and Leo "Jack" (Natley) Cooper.

Family members extending beyond blood for Gregory Sr. include his compassionate honorary siblings: Marquis Brown, Danette Brown, Brad Cooper, Lisa Cooper, Perry (Tannette) Flythe, Alvin (Shirley) Williams, Dean Cooper, Miranda Cooper, Monika "Moonie" Cooper, Michelle (Terrance “Tank”) Davis, Randy Leak, Terrie (Timonthy) Cooper, Vincent Samuel. Lee Morrison and Randy McBryde both deceased were honorary siblings also; His in-laws are Michetta (D’Linaro) Powell, Desi Bethea, Sandra (Andrew) McRae, Topeka (Fredrick) Bigelow, Fleshia Bethea and Alexander Bethea. his loving God-children; Junisha Rouse and Jaquanna Rouse, his loyal close friends; Chris Terry, Johnathan "Motor" Murray, Levon Ferguson, Ronald McLean, Eric McBryde, Aaron Scippio, Todd Rentz, and James Pearson. Deceased close friends were Angelo Rozier and Erwin McNeill and many significant cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Affectionately remembered as Gregory Sr, Greg, Unk, and Coop, our beloved was a simple man with a big heart who expressed his love in many different ways.  He will be sorely missed.

Interment will follow at Snow Hill Cemetery, Red Springs, NC 

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