Mr. Anthony J. Cooper

Anthony Jerome Cooper (69), also known as "Big Dog", was born November 23, 1956, to Esau and Minnie Cooper in East St. Louis, IL. He was the first child of six children. His father, Esau Cooper and brother, Bobby Stokes preceded him in death. Anthony accepted Christ later in life, and was passionate in his walk for God. He continued to plant seeds, uplift and encourage everyone he encountered. His faith in God never wavered even when he was afflicted with stage four lung cancer. His mantra remained the same, " I'm blessed & highly favored, #Jesus blessed, 24/7 and twice on Sunday”. His formal education began at D. A. Holmes Elementary and later graduated from Central High School in 1975. He was member of the ROTC in high school, which fueled his passion for the military. He enlisted into the Army immediately following high school graduation. After serving 20 years he retired First Sargent (E7), as an Advocate Consultant for the Oregon National Guard. Anthony was highly awarded and decorated solider. He earned the Army Achievement medal (3rd award), National Defense Service Medal, Non-commissioned Officer's Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon 4th Award, Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Automatic Rifle Bar Expert just to name a few. After retirement fitness became a passion, he would workout five days a week, occasionally twice a day. He shared a love for music, and his favorite instrument was the tambourine. During Sunday service, he would stand proud playing his tambourine. Anthony had his own style and standard. His wardrobe coordinated from head to toe, accented with matching jewelry. Anthony hobbies included bowling, chess, dominoes, and comedy shows. He was very confident and loved taking selfies. Anthony enjoyed quality time with his family, he enjoyed joking, teasing, watching movies and going for walks. He leaves to cherish is loving memory his mother, Minnie Cooper of Kansas City, MO, his children, Jason Cooper (Joycee) Of Tacoma WA; Joel Cooper of Las Vegas, NV; Byron Redditt (Michelle) of Lakewood, WA; four grandchild Mia, and Madelyn Redditt; Zalicia Cooper, and Jayce Danrad; his siblings, Janice Lowe of Kansas City MO; Reginald Cooper (Marilyn) of Memphis TN; Matthew Cooper of San Diego, CA; Terry Cooper of Kansas City, MO; Micheal Cooper of Clinton, MD; and fiancé Bessie Graham of San Antonio, TX; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday May 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Church International 11424 Hickman Mills Drive KCMO 64134. Interment: Leavenworth National Cemetery. Visitation: 10 – 11:00 a.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com

Mr. Anthony J. Cooper

November 23, 1956 - May 3, 2026