Joan Ann Cooper, age 72, of the Morgan City community in Union Grove, Alabama, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday afternoon, December 9, 2025. Born on February 6, 1953, in Arab, Alabama, Joan was the cherished daughter of John Enoch Bagwell and Juanita Faye Couch Bagwell. A proud high school graduate who pursued some college studies, Joan began her professional journey at General Electric, where she contributed to the shipping department.
Joan found immense joy and pride in her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. She felt that her life was enriched by their presence and accomplishments, and she treasured every moment spent with them.
Joan was an avid reader with a deep appreciation for history. She enjoyed exploring old cemeteries and bird watching, hobbies that reflected her interest in history and deep curiosity.
Joan also loved traveling, with trips to Tybee Island and Savannah, Georgia holding a special place in her heart and creating lasting memories. Faith was central to Joan’s life, and she was deeply involved with her church community, contributing her time and spirit to support others and foster fellowship.
Joan is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Joe Cooper; her mother, Juanita Faye Couch Bagwell, and father, John Enoch Bagwell.
Family remaining behind to cherish their memories include her sons, John V. Cooper (Jean) and Josh J. Cooper (Jonie); sisters, Scarlett Cosby, Carol Cook (Gary), and Kay Dempsey (Ken); grandchildren, Alana Gaines (Nate), Dalton Cooper (Emmy), Owen Cooper and Easton Cooper; great grandchildren, Kyron Gaines, Stella Rose Cooper and Ivy Joy Gaines.
Services will be Friday, December 12, 2025 at Pine Ridge Baptist Church. Funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm with Brother Frankie Flack officiating. Family, friends and guests will gather for visitation prior to the service beginning at 12:00 noon. Serving as pallbearers and escorting Joan to her final resting place in Pine Ridge Cemetery are Dalton Cooper, Owen Cooper, Easton Cooper, Nate Gaines, Jason Glover and Ronald Couch. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel entrusted with arrangements.
