Gary Lynn Cooper, 62 of Taylorville passed away at 10:05pm on Friday, August 26, 2016 at his daughter’s home.  He was born on April 23, 1954 in Taylorville, the son of Leonard and Margie (Jackson) Cooper.  Gary worked as a coalminer at Peabody mine #10.  In his spare time, he enjoyed cooking and singing. 

Gary is survived by his mother: Margie Bough of Taylorville; daughter: Keri Cooper of Taylorville; son: Nathan Cooper of Taylorville; grandchildren: Gavin Cooper and Dominick Cooper; step-children: Amy Thompson, Melody Presnell, and Jim Beechler; step-grandchildren: Trevor Beechler, Mallory Beechler, Quinn Beechler, Arianna Presnell, Kaden Presnell, Maizie Presnell, Brinlee Presnell, Izabella Kail, Damari Thompson, and Malyiah Thompson; half-sister: Delores Kiernan of Arizona; step-sister: Pam McCarty of Taylorville; and former wife: Ruthie Cooper of Taylorville. 

He was preceded in death by his father: Leonard Cooper; step-father: Frank Bough; brother: Johnny Cooper; step-brother: Ralph Bough; and step-sister: Shelia Mitsdarffer.

Mr. Cooper will be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the Cooper family with arrangements.  Memories of Gary, or condolences to the family may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com