Sunny Jo Cooper

Sunny Jo Cooper passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She was predeceased by her husband William Eugene Cooper. Born on December 18, 1930, in Paris, Arkansas, Sunny was the daughter of Ward A. Kirkpatrick and Doris Kirkpatrick. At 10 years old she had lost both of her parents and moved to Morrilton to live with her maternal grandparents. She was a graduate of Morrilton High School and went on to earn a business degree at Morrilton Community College. During her career, Sunny worked at Arkansas State Teachers College, Coca Cola, Kimberly Clark, and part time at the State of Arkansas Employment Security Division. Throughout her life, Sunny remained deeply connected to her hometown. She was a member of Morrilton First Baptist Church, where she devoted countless hours to volunteering and serving the community. On December 21, 1947, Sunny married the love of her life, William Eugene Cooper. Together for 63 years, they built a life rooted in faith and family. She was a devoted mother and a constant source of strength and warmth to her children Joe Kirkpatrick Cooper and Jeanna Kay Telfer. Sunny had a deep love for the outdoors—especially traveling, camping, and fishing. Her “no bones, no buckshot” cooking philosophy became family legend, a testament to both her practicality and humor. She was also a gifted cook, known for her unforgettable pecan pie, an endless variety of homemade sweets, and a turkey dressing that was nothing short of legendary within the family. Their home in Morrilton served as the gathering place for her family, providing a loving and happy place for all. Her food brought people together, but it was her presence that made every gathering feel special. Sunny will be remembered by her son Joe and his wife Margaret, and their three children: Joe (Courtney), Neil (Crystal), and Shannon (Ed). She will also be remembered by her daughter Jeanna and her husband Tony, and their six children: Jay (Kelly), Scott (Carla), Kim (passed away in 2010), Timothy (passed away 1984), Erin (Trey), and Alexandra (Cley). Sunny leaves behind nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren, continuing her legacy of love and devotion to family. Visitation will be 1:00-2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Harris Funeral Home with a graveside service following at 2:30 p.m. at Elmwood Cemetery in Morrilton. Arrangements are by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. The family suggests any donation be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Sunny Jo. https://donorservices.alz.org/page/FUNZRKELQMQ?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=giving_google_SL&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1707986387&gbraid=0AAAAAD8nX1q8r7dQMzSf9jA-Y-gQsRZJg

Sunny Jo Cooper

December 18, 1930 - July 31, 2025