Donald Lee Cooper

Funeral service for Donald Lee Cooper will be 10:00a.m., Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at the First Presbyterian Church, burial will follow at Hogan Cemetery in Locust Grove.  Friends may visit at the funeral home on Tuesday, October 10 from 1pm-8pm, with family receiving visitors from 6pm-8pm.  Also, the family has invited friends to the home on Sunday, October 8 from 1pm-6pm to visit and share stories. 

Donald Lee Cooper, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and musician, passed away on October 2, 2023, in Amarillo, Texas. Born on September 15, 1941, in Locust Grove, Oklahoma, Donald touched the lives of many with his kind heart and musical talents. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Don began his adventurous journey early in life when he attended school in Locust Grove and later continued his education in Petaluma, California. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Barbara Sue Robinson. The couple exchanged vows on September 5, 1957, and embarked on a wonderful journey together. They made their home in California before eventually returning to Oklahoma in 1964.

During his career, Don took on various roles that showcased his strong work ethic and dedication. While living in California, he worked on a catering truck, following the pipeline. Upon moving back to Oklahoma, he found employment driving a truck for Coca-Cola and ABC Laundry. It was later that Don found his true passion when he joined G.E. as an appliance technician in 1969.

Outside of work, Don had an array of hobbies and interests that brought him joy throughout his life. Following retirement, he and Barbara embraced a shared love for travel and explored new destinations together. Music formed an integral part of Don's being; he played the guitar with great skill and relished spending time playing with fellow musicians. Ever devoted to his family, Don ensured that he never missed any of their activities; they were always the center of his world.

One of Don's proudest accomplishments was being inducted into the Western Swing Hall of Fame—a testament to his incredible talent and dedication to music. He held this achievement close to his heart and was rightfully proud of it.  Don served 15 years as a school board member with Sequoyah Schools.  He worked tirelessly making Sequoyah Schools a beacon for education and a proud school system.  Don also served on the local water board. 

Don leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his children: Donna Sue Cooper, Donald James Cooper, Robert Lee Cooper, and Michael Edward Cooper. He was a loving grandfather to Brandi Michelle Hall, Sarah Lynn Carver and husband Jason, Dalton James Patronek, and James Cash Cooper. Additionally, his impact extended to 7 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. Don was also survived by his brother Paul Cooper and sister Leta Hurt; and many extended family members and close friends Edna and E.C. and many more.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Barbara of 62 years, and his siblings Lucille Webster, Ray Cooper, Johnny Cooper, and J.C. Cooper.