OXFORD — Mary A. Cooper, 87, who is preceded in death by her husband, James T. Cooper, passed away June 30, 2009. She is survived by her one daughter, Camellia, of Oxford and several nieces and a nephew. Mary was born in Centerville, Tenn. to Mattie Arnold, a homemaker and Douglas Arnold, owner of a local hardware store. She graduated from David Lipscomb College and George Peabody College (Vanderbilt University) in Nashville, Tenn. She had a degree in elementary education and taught school in Nashville and Calhoun County, Alabama. Most of her life, she was a homemaker, raising her daughter and supporting her husband in the family businesses (Southern Tool, Southern Machinery and Cooper Automation). In her 60s, she owned and operated The Craft Center in Oxford. At this time, she enjoyed painting and produced many beautiful landscapes. Always a strong Christian, Mary taught Sunday School for many years. In 1959, she and James, along with three families, formed Betta View Hills Church of Christ, meeting in their home for the first six months. She and James were also involved in developing and supporting local Christian missions in The Yucatan, Mexico. Mary was a member of Betta View Hills Church of Christ in Oxford. Special thanks for her good care go to her sitters/companions for the last several years, the staff at NHC Healthcare, Alacare Hospice of Anniston, Dr. Michael Hannah. Visitation will be at Miller Funeral Home at 1 p.m. today, July 3, 2009, with services at 2:30 p.m., followed by a reception at Miller Funeral Home. Richard O'Conner and Elbert Lewis will officiate. Burial will be in Forestlawn Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Betta-View Hills Church of Christ, missions, Alacare Hospice and The Animal Shelter, Anniston. www.millerfuneralhomeoxford.com Miller Funeral Home & Crematory Oxford, Ala. (256) 831-4611 A Brown Service Authorized Funeral Home.