Wilford Cooper, age 80, of Rutherfordton, NC, passed away Sunday, December 2, 2012. 

Wilford was born December 12, 1931 in Spartanburg County, SC to the late Theodore Cooper and Addie Mae Wilson Cooper. He was a Purple Heart Recipient and a veteran of the Korean War having served in the US Army. He worked as a farmer and also in textiles for many years. He was a member of the American Legion Post #48 and attended the Baptist Church. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and going to yard sales. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Dora Lamb, Alarie Cooper and Joyce Skipper. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews. 

Survivors include two sisters, Mary Lattimore and husband, Wayne of Chesnee and Helen Moore of Forest City; one brother, Rev. Reid Cooper and wife, Jolene of Marion. 

Funeral services were conducted at the Broad River Baptist Church with Reverend Reid Cooper, Reverend Bryan Ezell and Reverend Phillip Bailey officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Rutherford County, PO Box 336, Forest City, NC 28043 or to Willow Ridge Rehab and Living Center, 237 Tryon Road, Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

Harrelson Funeral Home is caring for the family.