Lt. Col (Ret) David Dean Cooper

Lt. Col. (Ret) David Dean Cooper, a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born in Wheeler, Texas, on November 17, 1932, David went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Husbandry from Texas A&M and an MBA from the University of Missouri. He proudly served a distinguished 21-year career in the United States Air Force as a Navigator Bombardier, manning the Minute Man Missile and rising to the rank of Squadron Commander. His service was marked by dedication, excellence, and a deep love for his country.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1976, David and his family settled in Amarillo, Texas, where he worked as a Landman and enjoyed the competitive sport of team roping, earning numerous belt buckles. His life was a balance of hard work, faith, and family.

David was a faithful and active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Amarillo, Texas, for over 40 years. His love for Jesus Christ shaped everything he did, from his service to his community to the time he spent with his family. David continued to serve and worship, sharing his deep faith until his passing. The family is comforted, knowing David now sits at the feet of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dearest Dad, "You fought the good fight. You finished the course. You kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7

David became a resident of Washington, North Carolina, in 2023, where he lived with his daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and Harbor Peoples.

David is survived by his daughters: Catherine Cooper Peoples (Harbor) of Washington, NC; Deana Cooper Lynn (David) of Richmond, VA; and Townley Cooper of Dallas, TX. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Cooper Haskins (Durham, NC), Joanna Harris (Clay) of Richmond, VA, Will Parker (Melanie) of Richmond, VA, Luci Sparkman (Dallas, TX) and Ellen Parker (Lucca Mazzoni) of New York City. David was also a proud great-grandfather to Hank Harris, Wally Harris, Harley Parker, and Ava Parker, all of Richmond, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in honor of Lt. Col. David Cooper to the Wounded Warriors Project link provided below.

A service celebrating David’s life will be held in October in Amarillo, Texas. A visitation and reception honoring Lt. Col. David Dean Cooper was held on Sunday, September 7th, 2025, at Joseph B. Paul Jr. Funeral Service in Washington, North Carolina.