Shelton Thompson Cooper Sr. | Eastern NC Now

    Shelton Thompson Cooper Sr., of Washington, N.C., passed away unexpectedly at his home on July 9, 2026, at the age of 77.

    Born on August 17, 1948, in Beaufort County, he was the son of the late Carson Cecil Cooper and Effie Lilley Cooper. Shelton graduated from Pantego High School before being drafted into the United States Army. He proudly and respectfully served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the esteemed 101st Airborne Division. Upon returning home, he dedicated many years of hard work to the Weyerhaeuser Plywood Mill and later worked in various construction roles.

    Shelton had a deep passion for the simple pleasures in life, most notably fishing, Duke Basketball, and the Washington Redskins. He was happiest when sitting on a quiet fishing bank, sharing vibrant stories from the past, and, above all, spending time with his family. Known for never meeting a stranger, Shelton will always be remembered for his fierce love for his country, his friends, and his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of beautiful memories that will bring lasting comfort to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

    Shelton was preceded in death by two sisters, Shirley Cooper Taylor and Effie Cooper McNall, and two brothers, Carson Cecil Cooper Jr. and Cecil Marion Cooper.

    He is survived by his loving children: his daughter, Michelle Cooper Haney, and her husband, Robert Haney, of Columbia, N.C.; and his son, Shelton Thompson Cooper Jr. ("Tommy"), and his companion, Rhonda Cooper, of Washington, N.C. He was the proud Paw-Paw of Carley Williams Bland and her husband, Dr. JB Bland, of Washington, N.C., and Jack Howard Williams III ("Trey") of Pinetown, N.C. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Quinn Bland ("Ellie"), Evelyn Claire Bland ("Eva"), and Eleanor Williams ("Nora"). Shelton was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first great-grandson, who is expected to arrive this August, and he was dearly hoping the baby boy would share his birthday. He also leaves behind many extended family members and lifelong friends.

    A Visitation will be held Monday, July 13, 2026, from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM at Paul's Funeral Home of Washington. A graveside funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Davis Cemetery with military honors. The family will be receiving friends at 4318 Sound Side Rd. Columbia, N.C. and at his son's home, 813 N. Bonner St., Washington, N.C.

    The family would like to thank everyone for helping us celebrate his wonderful life and for your continued love and support during this difficult time.

    "In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Shelton Thompson Cooper Sr. to the Beaufort County Animal Shelter in Washington, NC, to honor his deep love for animals."

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Cooper family