Kenneth Myron Cooper

Kenneth Myron Cooper, 95, of Carterville, passed away Friday, June 13, 2025, at Baptist Health in Paducah, Kentucky.

A celebration of his life, hosted by his family will be held from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at the Carterville Community Center. Military honors will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., by the Army Honors Team, and Carterville American Legion Post, and Herrin VFW and American Legion Post.

Kenneth was born on August 24, 1929, in Blairsville, to Charles Arthur and Gertrude Daisey (Cravens) Cooper. He married Mary Jane Sexton on October 3, 1953, in Blairsville. She preceded him in death on November 18, 2022.

He is survived by his children, Donna Jean Towle of West Frankfort, Kendra Sue (Mike) Smith of Herrin, and Nancy Ann (Jeff) Nicholls of Virginia Beach; grandchildren, Annette (Tim), Justin (Nicole), Autumn, Denny (Shana), John, Heather (Deven), Angie (Jared); great-grandchildren, Brittany, Nikki (Alec), Colton (Lilly), Mason, Brees, Willow, Levi, Owen, Trent, and Kiera; great great-grandchildren, Lakelyn Cooper and Dayton Collins; half-siblings, Frank “Butch” Ostland, Gertrude Peterson, and Freida Nichols.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Marcia Beth Holt; and sons-in-law, David Towle and Ed Holt.

Kenneth honorably served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War. A naturally gifted mechanic, his passion for automotives began at just 10 years old. Through dedication and hard work, he became an expert in his field, eventually serving as Director of Maintenance at the SIUC School of Aviation for over 40 years. Kenneth and his beloved late wife, Mary Jane, shared a love for dancing—especially square dancing—and enjoyed teaching line dancing together. They also loved to travel, making lasting memories along the way.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville assisted the family with arrangements. 

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