Marty Cooper, a man whose life was a vivid tapestry woven with steadfast dedication, fierce love, and the roar of a Harley Davidson, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, in Saucier, Mississippi. Born on April 20, 1948, in Thomaston, Alabama, Marty’s journey—marked by a spirit of unwavering commitment—left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

From his earliest days, Marty’s path was shaped by courage and service. At just sixteen years old, he embarked on the demanding life of the Merchant Marine, navigating the vast seas with a youthful resolve. Two years later, at eighteen, he answered the call of duty once more, drafted into the Army. Yet his heart remained tied to the sea, and by age twenty, Marty returned to the Merchant Marine, affirming a lifelong bond with the waters that called him.

In the professional realm, Marty’s career was a testament to hard work and leadership. He began at Ingalls Ship Building at the young age of twenty-two, immersing himself in the art and craft of shipbuilding. His expertise and tenacity led him next to Quality Shipyard, where from 1970 to 1976 he served as a Work Leader man, guiding hands and hearts alike. The late 1970s found him supervising at HUD Ship Yard until 1980, after which he returned to his roots at Ingalls Ship Building. There, from 1980 until his retirement in 1997, Marty continued to lend his skill and leadership, contributing to the shipyard’s legacy with unwavering dedication.

Yet beyond the steel and shipyards, Marty’s true passion was palpable to those closest to him. His cherished red Harley Davidson Tri-glide was more than just a vehicle; it was an emblem of his free spirit, a symbol of countless journeys taken with the wind at his back and joy in his heart. Above all, Marty was a very loving husband, a role he embraced deeply for twenty-nine years alongside his beloved wife, Janet Cooper.

Marty’s family was a cornerstone of his existence. He is survived by Janet Cooper, his devoted wife; their daughter, Brooke Taylor, who shares her life with her husband David; and a large circle of siblings who carry forward his legacy: Edith Marie Lewis (and her husband Ralph), Joyce Cooper, Margie Jones, John Cooper (and his wife Barbara), Leon (Dolly) Cooper, Dale Cooper, and Rita Stringfellow. His passing also brings sorrow to the memory of parents Otis Lee Cooper and Elma Marie Boler, along with siblings Glen Cooper, Mary Cooper Molds, Don Cooper, Jerome Cooper, Charlie Cooper, and Arlene Cooper, who have all preceded him in death.

To honor a life lived with resolute purpose and overflowing love, services are scheduled with heartfelt reverence. A visitation will be held on May 15, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Trinity Funeral Services McHenry, 319 U.S. 49, McHenry, Mississippi. This will be followed immediately by the funeral service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the same location. The final farewell will take place with a burial beginning at 12:15 PM at Big Level Baptist Church, located at 1346 City Bridge Road, Wiggins, Mississippi.

Marty Cooper’s story is one of dedication—to his country, his craft, his family, and the open road. He lived fully, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy as enduring and powerful as the engines he cherished. Though he has departed this world, the echoes of his journey continue to inspire, carried forth on the winds that once filled his sails and the hum of a red Harley gleaming beneath an endless sky.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Cooper family and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers in the days to come.