LOUISBURG - Gwendolyn (Gwen) Byrd Cooper, 78, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2015 at Clare Bridge in Cary.

She was the daughter of Charlie and Blanche Byrd of Turkey, NC, where she grew up on the family farm with her brother and sister.

Gwen moved to Louisburg in 1961 when she married W.J. (Jack) Cooper, Jr., the love of her life. They were blessed with their daughter Haven, and her much loved granddaughter, Mary.

Gwen was a perfectionist in all that she did. She was an excellent cook, a knowledgeable antique collector and decorator, and had a green thumb beyond compare. She was generous in sharing her special talent with flowers, most notably at Person Place Preservation Society events. Gwen always found time for a good book, a good hand of bridge, and a good laugh with her friends. She was a member of the Tuesday Afternoon Book Club and the Tuesday Night Bridge Club for over 50 years.

Gwen is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, W.J. (Jack) Cooper, Jr.; her daughter, Haven Cooper Allen (Sonny); and her granddaughter, Mary Cooper Allen, all of Louisburg. In addition, she is survived by her sister, Doris Christenbury (John), and her brother, Bill Byrd (Karen), all of Ocean Isle. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, January 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Louisburg Baptist Church, with Dr. Reggie Rushing leading the service. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. There will be a private interment at Oakwood Cemetery.

Floral remembrances will be welcomed. Memorials may be made to Louisburg Baptist Church, Building Fund, P.O. Box 730, Louisburg, NC 27549.

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home and condolences may be offered at www.stricklandfuneralhomes.net.

Paid Obituray