Mary Josephine Cooper

With deep sorrow and heartfelt gratitude for her life, we announce the passing of Mary Josephine Cooper, age 77, of Holly Hill, SC. A beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, known affectionately as "Ninny," Mary passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Her legacy is one of love, kindness, and quiet strength—qualities she embodied throughout her life.

Born on November 12, 1947, in Holly Hill, SC, Mary Jo was the daughter of the late Andrew Govan “AG” and Nona Dorothy “Dot” Cooper. A proud graduate of Holly Hill Roberts High School, Class of 1967, she was a devoted and loving presence in the lives of all who knew her.

She is survived by her children: Nancy Lynn DeBruyne (Eddie), Wanda Renee Rivers (Wesley), Elizabeth “Joy” Cockle (Jonathan), Rita Ann Mizell (Adam), and Durham Lee Mizell Jr. “Bubba” (Heather); her sister Doris Ann Wiggins (Johnny); and her brother Andrew Govan “Van” Cooper, Jr. She also leaves behind 20 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply. Mary was preceded in death by her children Nancy Marie Mizell and Chad Newton, as well as her dearly loved sister-in-law, Grace Elizabeth Cooper.

Mary Jo faced life’s challenges with unwavering courage and grace, never allowing hardship to define her spirit. Even in the toughest times, she managed to bring joy and laughter to those around her, reminding us all of the importance of faith, family, love, and the beauty of everyday moments.

A woman of many passions, Mary found joy in tending to her garden, nurturing plants with the same care and love she gave to those around her. Her kitchen was always warm with the smells of her cooking and baking, and it was a place where memories were made around the table. She also cherished the peaceful moments she found fishing, where she embraced the serenity and patience that mirrored her own gentle spirit.

Mary was selfless in every way, always putting others before herself. Her wisdom, infectious laughter, and loving presence left an enduring mark on everyone she met. Whether through her kind words, her comforting embrace, or simply her ability to make others feel valued and loved, Mary’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

While she may no longer be with us physically, her love and lessons remain woven into the fabric of our family. We will carry her memory and her spirit with us always.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Target United Methodist Church, 705 Target Road, Holly Hill, SC. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Target United Methodist Church, the American Cancer Society, or Amedysis Hospice in Sumter, SC.

Family will receive friends at 1031 Gilway Street, Holly Hill, SC 29059.

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