Jimmy Dale Cooper

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Jimmy Dale Cooper, age 81, of Anderson, Missouri, departed this life on Monday evening, July 20, 2026, in the comfort of his home, after a recent decline in health.

Jimmy Dale was born on December 3, 1944, in Anderson, Missouri, and was a lifelong resident of the community he loved. He was a 1962 graduate of Anderson High School and carried the values of hard work, loyalty, and devotion throughout his life. On June 26, 1964, he was united in marriage to Naomi Lee Bishop, and to this union two children were born. 

Jimmy Dale spent much of his life in service to his family and his work. He served as general sales manager for Teledyne Gear Division in Neosho, Missouri, where he was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic. In 1994, he and Naomi founded Cooper Gear and Manufacturing in Anderson, and he remained active in the family business until his health began to decline. His commitment to the business and to those around him reflected the pride he took in building something lasting for his family and community.

He enjoyed working, hunting, and on occasion traveling. He was known for his willingness to stay busy and for the satisfaction he found in a job well done. Those who knew him will remember his quiet strength, his dependable presence, and the care he showed to those closest to him.

Jimmy Dale is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Naomi Cooper, of the home; a son, Shawn Cooper and wife, Mendi, of Anderson; a son-in-law, Steve Spears, also of Anderson; six grandchildren, Brittany Sherman and husband, Bryon, Jill Riggs and husband, Jimmy, Jacob Cooper, Brooke Decastro and husband, Riley, Tyler Allgood, and Jeremy Barr; fifteen great-grandchildren; two sisters, Cloetta Spears and Sharon Cooper, both of Anderson; as well as a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herschel and Pauline (Lewis) Cooper; a daughter, Michelle Spears; and a granddaughter, Jennifer Spears.

Graveside services are 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 27, 2026, at Oakwood Cemetery in Neosho, Missouri with Doug Spears and Dennis Bergen officiating. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Jacob Cooper, Madden Clark, Brayden Sherman, Cash Riggs, Bradlee Sherman, Tyler Allgood, Riley Decastro and Jimmy Riggs. No formal visitation will be held. In lieu of flowers memorials are being directed to Oakwood Cemetery Care Fund, c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.