Michael L. Cooper, Sr. November 9, 1952 - May 15, 2010

PANAMA CITY— Mr. Michael L. Cooper, Sr., died Saturday at Bay Medical Center in Panama City, FL. He was 57 years old and a former resident of Columbus, GA. Born in Ft. Benning, GA, on November 9, 1952, Michael was the son of the late Soloman E. Cooper, Jr. and Sadie Austin Winkfield. Residing in Columbus most of his life, he was a 1970 graduate of the Baker High School and received his Bachelors Degree from NYC. He was a member of St. John A.M.E. Church, being active with the Sons of Allen, Trustee Board and Choir. Michael have lived in Panama City Beach for the past two years and was employed as the Mens Coordinator for the Valley Rescue Mission in Panama City. Surviving are two children; Michael, Jr., and Symone Cooper of Columbus; two grandchildren, Marina and Mo'Riah Cooper; one brother, Solomon E. Cooper III (Jackie) of Columbus; a step-daughter, Katrina Williams (Jeff) of Virginia; a devoted companion, Sharon Billingsley of Panama City Beach; three loving nieces and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends including the Austin Family. Michael will be laid to rest in the family plot at East Porterdale Cemetery on Friday after a 2:00 p.m. Homegoing Celebration at St. John A.M.E. Church. Pastor Debora Grant will officiate. Visitation will be 2-7:00 p.m. today at the funeral home. The family will receive visitors at the home of Shirley Cooper at 5315 Spencer Lane and the cortege will depart from that address Friday at 1:30 p.m. Arrangements entrusted to the staff of Progressive Funeral Home, Inc.