Freddie Eugene Cooper

Brother Freddie Eugene Cooper departed this life on September 8, 2026 at his residence. He was the beloved son of the late Raymond and Vernell Cooper. He was born in Savannah, Georgia. Upon returning to Georgia, he reunited with his family church, the Greater Historic Elem Missionary Baptist Church, where he received Christ and served faithfully under the leadership of the late Rev. Richard Neal. He was a devoted member, dedicated devotion leader and the annual Chairman of the church’s Black History Program.

Freddie attended Sol C. Johnson High School, where he excelled in athletics and was inducted in the Hall of Fame for track and cross country. After graduating in1968, he attended Savannah State University on an athletic scholarship. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 1972 and served as President of the college branch of the American Chemical Society. In the fall of 1969, he and six others became members of the Delta Eta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. During his time as SSU, he received an athletic jacket and was named one of the Outstanding College Athletes of American in 1971. He ran the 880 yd dash, now known as the 800 meters and the first leg of the mile relay.

Following his graduation, Freddie built a diverse and accomplished career, working in the electroplating engineering, hazardous waste management, and as a independent chemical contractor. He later served as a USDA inspector and his final position was with Chemtall as a lab Technician.

He remained an active member of the Delta Eta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and the Sons of Glennville #258, where he served several years as Secretary. He was also the historian for the Frasier/Welcome Family Reunion.

Freddie (Gene) was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Cooper, Sr., his mother, Vernell Cooper, his brother, Raymond Cooper and his son, Terris Davis.

Freddie was known for his genuine curiosity about people, he wanted to know everything about you and whether months or years passed, he remembered what he was told. He had a deep love for history and carried that throughout his life.

He leaves to cherish his memories; his wife, Barbara Thomas-Cooper; his daughter, Kimberly Cooper, Brooklyn, NY; his stepdaughter, Felicia Harris, Glennville, GA; his stepson, David Thomas, Glennville, GA. He is also survived by a godson, Dennis Aikens, Savannah, GA; six sisters in law and six brothers in law, Marie Cooper, Savannah, GA, Ananias (Edna Pearl) Thomas and Charles (Harriette) Thomas, Ludowici, GA, Dale (Linda) Thomas, Glennville, GA, Landers Alphanzo (Linda) Thomas, Lawrenceville, GA, Ricky (Stephanie) Thomas, Glennville, GA and James Brewton, Claxton, GA; Three step grandsons and one step granddaughter, Tramaine (Zykerriah) Rogers, Statesboro, GA, Travarus Rogers, Glennville, GA and Trevon Rogers, Columbia, SC. He also leaves behind a special cousin, Ollie Mae Ferrell, Ridgeland, SC and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Freddie Eugene Cooper lived with purpose, passion and a heart for people. His legacy of faith, service, scholarship and love will continue to shine through all who knew him.