Mary Ella Cooper was born on June 12, 1960, in Norfolk, Virginia, to the late James Henry and Ruby Rose Cooper. She attended Norfolk Public Schools and graduated from Lake Taylor High School in 1978. Mary later pursued business studies at Kee Business College and studied piano under the late Ianthia Virginia Uzzle.
At the tender age of 10, Mary joined Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where she was baptized. She was an active participant in the church’s Explorer Scouts, youth choir, and The Voices, and served faithfully as an usher. Every week, she took pride in updating the church’s outside bulletin board, ensuring that the community stayed informed and inspired.
Mary, affectionately known as “Dip” and “Ms. Mary,” delivered both the Ebony and JET Magazines throughout her community, becoming a familiar and welcoming face to many. Through this work, she helped circulate stories of Black excellence, beauty, and achievement, quietly serving as a cultural ambassador and connector in her own way. Mary carried herself with pride and purpose.
She began working at Metropolitan Funeral Service during her teenage years. In 2001, she was a student in the inaugural Funeral Service Program at Norfolk State University before the program was transferred to Tidewater Community College in 2019. Mary later began working at Fisher Funeral Home, remaining a dedicated and hardworking individual throughout her life.
Mary was predeceased by her elder siblings, James Victor Cooper, Ruby Rebecca Cooper, and Alvin Bernard Cooper.
Cherishing her life and legacy, are her loving daughter, Kendra Rochelle Cooper Humphrey (Marvin, Sr.); her grandsons, Marvin Humphrey, Jr., and Kendall Humphrey; her granddaughter, Ari Humphrey; her brothers, Charles E. Cooper (Cynthia), Larry C. Cooper (Suzette), John F. Cooper (Angelina), and Kenneth Cooper Alexander (Donna); her sisters, Shirley Maxine Whitley (Roland, Sr.); and Alvania Michelle Cooper Okerchiri (Edmund). She is also survived by her nephews, Roland, Jr. (Jacqueline), Antonio, Jonathan, Joshua (Jessica), Jerrell, Devon, Kenneth, II, and David; her nieces, Deshawn, Taylor, Morgan, and Faith; along with a host of cousins, extended family, and cherished friends.
Condolences(49)-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Previous Yolanda Anne Powell
Next Dorothelia Mae Williams
Personal Service, Peace of Mind, Pleasant Memories
© Metropolitan Funeral Service
Sharon Midgette says
June 4, 2025 at 4:49 pmI’m sending my deepest condolences to Kendra and the cooper Family I’m so hurt.. Mary I will truly miss you, your smile the talks and laughter we share together Miss you
Love Sharon Willams Midgette ❤️ Family
Letitia Doxie Mingo/Lydia B Doxie says
June 10, 2025 at 7:40 pmOur condolences to Kendra and the Cooper family. My heart is heavy after receiving the about Mary. Mary will truly be missed. Mary was truly God sent, she helped so many families within the community. I will miss Mary’s warm friendly smile, her loving heart, and her kindness towards me and my family. Mary was a gem. I miss you my friend.
To the Cooper family, my mother and I will not be able to attend the homegoing, but know that you all are in our prayers. May God bless and keep you strong for one another, and thanks for letting us share Mary with you.
Margo Bullock says
June 12, 2025 at 11:36 amLove you Sis‼️
Gracie Butts says
June 4, 2025 at 9:35 pmMary was kind to everyone, and very friendly. She will be missed by everyone. To the family, sending sincere condolences to the Cooper family.
Mary Kittrell says
June 5, 2025 at 12:46 amMy condolences to the Cooper family she will be missed she was a Queen to the Berkeley community she always a listener and problem solver I was honor to have known you
Matthew Davis says
June 11, 2025 at 5:35 pmMy deepest condolences to Mr John Mr Alexander also to the metropolitan staff during this difficult time rip Ms marry Cooper you will be missed
Wilbert A McCoyJr says
June 5, 2025 at 2:25 amMy condolences to the family
KEEJAFEE Outlaw says
June 5, 2025 at 9:35 amPrayers To Kendra And Family Ms Mary Was A Phenomenal Woman A Good Neighbor May God Be With You All🙏🏾
Linda Holley (Williams/Lowery Family) says
June 5, 2025 at 10:31 amCondolences to the family. Mary was a kind and friendly person who would help anyone. Always had a smile when ever you saw her. Family just know that God has called home another angel. Rest in peace 🙏
Joe Basnight says
June 5, 2025 at 2:23 pmMy condolences and prsyers to the Cooper family. God bless!
Tammara Sherard says
June 9, 2025 at 8:01 pmMy sincere condolences to the family. Mary was such a beautiful person and had a sweet spirit. May she rest in Heavenly peace.
Clifton Howell says
June 11, 2025 at 8:49 pmMay Gobkohm and allottj family bless yourhearycliiff
DARLENE MCCLAIN says
June 5, 2025 at 3:38 pmMy condolences to the family. It was a pleasure knowing her. She knew so many people and she was a very friendly person who always had a answer it i needed help with my house. She would say call this person. Rest in peace my friend.
Michael and Angela White family says
June 5, 2025 at 5:07 pmMary will truly be missed, we crossed paths on many occasions and she was always considerate to how our family was doing. I was devastated to hear of her passing. May GOD bless her caring heart and soul. The Cooper’s were very near and dear to my family’s home going services, so thank you to the Cooper family for Mary. May she rest in peace.
Anthony Dildy says
June 6, 2025 at 5:53 pmMy sister and I would like to send our condolences to the Cooper family for their loss. Mary was such a true friend and individual.
Pam Fields Spruill says
June 9, 2025 at 6:02 pmMy condolences to the Family of Mary Cooper. It was a pleasure to have known Mary and witness her positive outlook and contribution to community and people. God Bless.
Paula Richardson Fulford says
June 6, 2025 at 9:47 pmMy sincere condolences to the family for their loss. May God give you strength and comfort.
Coleen Norman says
June 7, 2025 at 12:48 pmFamily you have my deepest sympathy. Praying God’s strength for you all during this most trying time. Mary you are loved and will be missed! Love you Queen. Rest Eternally ♥️💐
Sylvia Johnson/ weaver says
June 7, 2025 at 10:26 pmMy condolence too mary family, she will b greatly list rest. In peace, mary, thank you four being a family to all a berkeley
Charlotte Taylor says
June 10, 2025 at 5:07 pmMy Condolences to the family you will always be miss. Thank u you for being part of the Coleman family.
Charlotte Taylor says
June 10, 2025 at 5:08 pmMy Condolences to the family you will always be miss. Thank u you for being part of the Coleman and Mason family
Dana Mccorey says
June 8, 2025 at 6:35 pmMay divine comfort envelop the Cooper family, rest in eternal peace Mary, your radiant presence will be deeply cherished and profoundly missed. My Berkley friend Mary
Rev. Dr. Luci Fleming says
June 9, 2025 at 5:50 pmMy thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and neighbors who loved and cherished Mary.
Surely she iis listed as a chief servant to GODs people. She was most pleasant, kind, gifted, skilled and professional. Mary was an earth angel…a previous and beautiful soul
She will be truly missed.
Dorothy Brown Dildy-Clemons says
June 8, 2025 at 7:40 pmWith love and remembrance, we share in your sorrow of Mary’s passing. From the “Brown Family” that lived on Hough Ave.
MRS. DIANE REVELL RIDGEWAY ,TWIN as she called me says
June 9, 2025 at 10:17 am06/09/20252Tto The cooper family, I was shock to hear of MARY”S passing. It brought tears to my eyes. The death of a good woman will surely be miss but God had a celebration for Mary and her good works will not be forgotten
Milton Jones says
June 9, 2025 at 11:33 amMary was one of the faces of Berkeley.A lake Taylor, Berkeley home girl. My condolences to the Copper and Alexander family’s
Thomas E. Batts jr . says
June 9, 2025 at 11:55 amI like to send condolences to the Cooper family my friend and Berkley family sa sorry for y’all loss Mary truly will be missed from the Batts and Rainey family R I H And R I P . Gone but never be forgotten
Tonya Alston-Carroll says
June 10, 2025 at 10:02 amTo the Alexander and Cooper family, I was deeply saddened to hear about Ms. Mary’s death. I can only imagine the immense pain and heartache you must be experiencing during this challenging time. Mary’s unwavering commitment and dedication to the community have made a lasting impact on so many lives. As you navigate this difficult period, please remember you are not alone. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you seek comfort and healing.
Wishing you solace and peace in the days ahead as you honor the memory of Ms. Mary.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Tonya Alston-Carroll
Alethia Speller & Family says
June 10, 2025 at 11:42 amSending heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the love that surrounds you and peace in the memories you hold dear.
EVERARD A Hughes says
June 10, 2025 at 7:23 pmDeepest condolences to you upon the occasion of Mary Cooper’s death. May God heal and comfort you at this time.
EVERARD Auston Hughes & Family
Shenita Howard says
June 11, 2025 at 1:37 pmKendra the boys and Lil mama and the rest of the family you have my sincere condolences. I enjoyed our talks when I saw when I worked at the library. I also saw her around town or on bus. I enjoyed just being around she was sweet and funny. I’m so sorry to hear the news. God bless yall.
Trudy Anita Schumpert says
June 11, 2025 at 10:29 amMs. Mary will be missed! May God keep you during this difficult time. Lean on Him for your strength!
Shenita Howard says
June 11, 2025 at 1:38 pmKendra the boys and Lil mama and the rest of the family you have my sincere condolences. I enjoyed our talks when I saw when I worked at the library. I also saw her around town or on bus. I enjoyed just being around she was sweet and funny. I’m just found out today.I’m so sorry to hear the news.
Shenita Howard says
June 11, 2025 at 1:38 pmKendra the boys and Lil mama and the rest of the family you have my sincere condolences. I enjoyed our talks when I saw when I worked at the library. I also saw her around town or on bus. I enjoyed just being around she was sweet and funny. I’m just found out today.I’m so sorry to hear this.
Andrea Lewis says
June 11, 2025 at 2:19 pmTo the Cooper,Alexander Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Kendra and the rest of the family may you find comfort and peace in the memories you hold dear. Mary Cooper you will be deeply missed by not only your loving family, but also a whole Berkeley community. R. I. P Mary cooper.
Davidson- Lewis family
Chevelle Watson says
June 11, 2025 at 2:58 pmSending my heartfelt condolences To The Cooper and Alexander Family. My thoughts and prayer are with you during your time of bereavement… Mary your presents in the community will truley be missed! Take your Rest
R. Graddy & TWIN says
June 11, 2025 at 3:02 pmSorry to her of her passing,
Been knowing her since the 80’s working for Mr.Mack Jones in Norfolk, Everytime I’ve seen her she always had that smile @ kindness towards me,, God bless her !
Dr. Tyanette Tatem Painter says
June 11, 2025 at 4:54 pmMary and the Cooper family have known me my whole life. I remember the time we spend at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church together. Please know that I’m sending my condolences and prayers.
Anne Boone says
June 11, 2025 at 9:58 pmA Pearl of the Community. A wealth of Knowledge, History, Resources….Never met a stranger! A Charter member of Berkley Historical Society. A Friend to Many…From Anne Boone, Berkley Historical Society
T E Okafor says
June 12, 2025 at 4:02 pmThe Cooper Family:
Cherish the memories you had with Mary. Mary was a warm, loving and caring young lady from the first day I met her. After more than 30 years, she continued to be passionate, kind, approachable, emphatic and had a sense of humor. Remember that GOD has you in HIS hand and allow HIM to direct your steps!
Diane Brown Jones says
June 12, 2025 at 8:51 pmSending condolences and prayers to the Cooper Family 🙏🏽
RIP Mary 🕊️
Jerry and Regina Land says
June 13, 2025 at 6:31 amOur condolences to the family. Mary will surely be missed throughout our Berkley community. May she rest in peace , and may prayers continue to be with the family during her homegoing service celebration.
Regina Askew says
June 13, 2025 at 9:36 amMy condolences to the Cooper family. Mary was a sweet person and will be missed. May God comfort all heart’s.
Renaye Freeman says
June 13, 2025 at 10:16 amTo The Cooper Family
No word can express the Joy of knowing this Lady Mary Mary as I called her, A women that never complained, took life as it was .Mary was a friend to many ,she walked the streets of Berkley with ownership, knew everyone ,loved by all. She never wanted a ride her words ,I am ok .My heart is sadden, Mary will always live in our Hearts ,She loved the Freeman Family, her Church Family .Cooper Family God has a Angel, Kendra your Mom Loved you Dearly, Trust God for everything you need. Your Lost Is A Community Loss Lots Of Love
Renaye And Family
CRYSTAL AND BLOW FAMILY says
June 13, 2025 at 11:14 amMISS MARY WAS VERY SWEET AND KIND WOMAN AND I WILL BE GREATFUL FOR LOVING HART AND WOUNDFUL SPRIT THAT SHE HAD SHE WILL BE FOREVER MISS AND THERE WILL BE NOW ONE LIKE HER I WILL MISS HER VERY MUCH
CRYSTAL AND BLOW FAMILY says
June 13, 2025 at 11:17 amMiss Mary Will be very miss she was a true angle to every one who know her
Tyanita Tatem Martin - Twin says
June 13, 2025 at 6:23 pmSending prayers and condolences.
La Rochelle Abbott Thompson says
June 13, 2025 at 10:53 pmTo Kendra and the Cooper family. Mary Coop-DeVille as I lovingly called her since our LT days was my friend. I had not seen Mary in a few yrs, when we did we talked and laughed. Kendall, I know she named you after me lol, (Rochelle.) I will miss my friend. Rest my friend and keep smiling.
Kendall, tell Marvin that Ms. Thompson said hello.
Lora Keeling n Steve Keeling says
June 18, 2025 at 11:28 pmRest In Peace In Heaven Mary !Heaven has gained an angel ❤️
P 757.628.1000 • F 757.545.9148