R. Stanley Cooper

With gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Rex Stanley “Stan” Cooper, 89, a steadfast servant of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Stan was called to receive his eternal reward, entering the gates of everlasting life on the afternoon of Thursday, January 16. Stan’s unwavering faith, deep love for others, and remarkable wisdom were hallmarks of a life spent in service to God and those around him. Bold in sharing the love of Jesus with everyone he encountered, Stan deeply impacted countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness and resolute devotion that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know him.

Stan Cooper of Germantown, TN, was a man of profound purpose and firm devotion. He wore many hats in life—beloved husband, cherished brother, devoted father, supportive father-in-law, caring brother-in-law, proud grandfather, wise uncle, honored veteran, dedicated deacon, passionate Gideon, successful business owner, respected boss, trusted vendor, inspiring Sunday School teacher, loyal friend, dependable advisor, nurturing mentor, insightful consultant, enthusiastic stock market aficionado, and die-hard Auburn Tigers fan. Yet, through all these roles and accomplishments, Stan’s heart beat for a higher calling. His deepest desire, his ultimate mission, was to be a faithful steward in leading others to Christ. It was his life’s work, his passion, and the legacy he hoped to leave behind—a legacy of love, faith, and a relentless commitment to sharing the hope of the gospel.

Born in Notasulga, AL, to V.T. and Voncile (Page) Cooper, Stan moved with his family to Swannanoa, NC, at the age of one, and later to Union Mills, NC. Despite living in Winston Salem, NC; Roanoke, VA; Richmond, VA; and finally Germantown, TN, Stan always considered Union Mills his true home. After more than twenty years with UARCO Business Forms, Stan reinvented himself when he and his wife, Willia Mae (Byers), purchased Anserfone Call Centers in 1984. Over the following three decades, Stan transformed the business, directing one area of focus to serve ministries associated with the National Religious Broadcasters Association and collaborating with some of the great theologians of the time. Whether mentoring the hundreds of college students who gained their first job experience at Anserfone, or flying across the country to meet with esteemed leaders of the faith, Stan treated everyone with the same kindness, humility, and respect. Many of his former employees, years after their time at Anserfone, would return to visit “Mr. C.” to express how immensely he had influenced their lives as a role model and mentor.

Following in the footsteps of his beloved father, Stan proudly carried the legacy as an active member of The Gideons International, Germantown camp. With a heart for sharing the gospel, he found deep joy and purpose in distributing Bibles and New Testaments to hotels, schools, hospitals, prisons, and military bases. The fellowship of the Gideons was not just a group to Stan—it was a cherished brotherhood. In his time of illness, the undaunted support and love from his fellow Gideons was touching, a testament to the bonds they shared and the faith they lived out together.

For Stan Cooper, family was everything. His journey as a devoted husband and father began with the adoption of two sons in Roanoke, followed by the joyful addition of two daughters in Richmond. In the summer of 1974, Stan and Willia brought their growing family to Germantown, TN, ready to embrace a new chapter. The very first priority in their new home was finding a church—a spiritual anchor for their family. On their first Sunday in town, they visited Germantown Baptist Church, and it instantly felt like home. That decision shaped the Cooper family’s faith journey for over 50 years.

Under the guidance of Dr. Ken Story, Germantown Baptist became more than just a place of worship; it was a community where Stan poured his heart into serving others. He faithfully contributed by serving on numerous committees, teaching Sunday School, embarking on mission trips, and joyfully embracing the call to serve as a Deacon. Later, he was deeply honored to be named Deacon Emeritus—a reflection of his sustained commitment to his beloved church family and his faith in Christ.

One of Stan’s most cherished acts of service at Germantown Baptist Church was his role in helping to establish and being a dedicated member of the Friday morning Men’s Prayer Breakfast. What began as a humble gathering of a few men, united by their shared faith and the simple joy of fellowship over homemade biscuits and a cup of coffee, grew into something profoundly meaningful. Every Friday morning, this group of sinners saved by grace came together to pray for one another, lifting up their burdens and hopes for the week ahead. Over time, these early morning gatherings became a sacred ritual, fostering a deep bond and camaraderie that transcended the years—a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and genuine fellowship.

On January 16, 2025, Stan Cooper took his final breath on earth, but the legacy he built endures through the countless lives he touched—his family, his friends, and all who were blessed to know him. Now Stan is reunited in heaven with his devoted wife, Willia Mae (Byers) Cooper. Stan’s memory lives on in the hearts of his four children: Marvin Andrew Cooper (Tamela), Jonathan Joseph Cooper (Ona), Julia Cooper Blythe (David), and Amelia “Ami” Cooper Cochran (Bobby). His love and wisdom continue to shine in the lives of his cherished grandchildren: Andrew “Drew” Cooper, Wesley Cooper, Lane Cooper, Bailey Cochran, Peyton Blythe, and Robert “Owen” Cochran, Jr. Stan also leaves his five siblings: Wayne Cooper, Page Cooper, Jerry Cooper, Jeannette Cooper, and Diane Fountain; and many nieces and nephews. Though he is no longer with us, the impact of his faith, love, and devotion will echo for generations to come.

There will be a Celebration of Life for R. Stanley “Stan” Cooper on Friday, January 24, 2025, at:

Germantown Baptist Church

9450 Poplar Ave

Germantown, TN 38139

10:00 A.M. – Visitation

11:00 A.M. – Service

* Please join us afterwards for lunch provided by Stan’s favorite, Chick-fil-A 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to:

Gideons International - PO Box 382361, Germantown, TN 38183-2361

Samaritan’s Purse, NC Recovery

Germantown Baptist Church