Rufus Jimmy Cooper, Jr., 82, of West Columbia, was called home to be with our Lord and savior on Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Born October 19, 1938 in Columbia, SC, he was the son of the late Rufus James Cooper and Connie Ross Cooper. Jimmy was a life member of Crescent Hill Baptist Church where he started as a young child in the nursery. He was a very hard- working man, having been taught carpentry skills from his father at an early age.

Jimmy drove a truck for Cato's trucking. He later joined the Air Force and was stationed in Spain. Upon returning home, Jimmy went to work for Southern Railroad and Norfolk Southern for the next 28 years as a mechanical supervisor; he loved railroading. Jimmy was a man with great work ethics until his health would not allow him to work any longer.

He was a man of few words but if Jimmy told you something you knew it was words of wisdom and truth. He was a man with a big heart, never judging anyone, and if you were his friend, it was for life. Jimmy was a gentle soul, a mountain of a man in spirit who loved unconditionally.

Survivors include his sons, Randy (Angie) and Mitch (Pati); 10 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Louis Gantt and Doris Styles.

A funeral service for Mr. Cooper will be held 11 o'clock, Saturday, May 29, 2021, at Crescent Hill Baptist Church, with The Rev. Dr. Benjamin Newman officiating. Burial will follow at Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens. The family will greet friends on Friday, May 28, 2021 from 6 until 8 o'clock at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel.