Mobile County Commission Statement on the loss of Major General J. Gary Cooper

Posted on: Apr 28th, 2024 | News and Announcements featured news

Mobile County Commissioners Merceria Ludgood, Connie Hudson, and President Randall Dueitt, along with the entire Mobile County family, wish to extend sincere condolences to Mrs. Beverly Cooper and the Cooper family and associates on the advent of Major General J. Gary Cooper's passing.

Major General Cooper, commemorated on a mural in downtown Mobile, was a difference-maker and a man of many firsts. He was the first African American officer to lead an infantry unit (Vietnam War) and he was the first African American Marine Corps officer to achieve the rank of General. His illustrious career as a soldier, commander, state legislator, national military leader, international diplomat, and local businessman changed lives and paved the way for many. He will be sorely missed.

AL.com "Life's work" article: https://www.al.com/jere-hough/2009/07/j_gary_coopers_life_work_build.html