Terrace Leonard Cooper

Terrace “Terry” Leonard Cooper, 71, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Generations of Batesburg, where he had been residing.

Born on October 18, 1954, in Conway, South Carolina, Terry later made his home in Columbia. He was a 1972 graduate of Spring Valley High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Army, spending four years stationed at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Following his military service, Terry began his career with Southern Bell, a BellSouth company, where he worked until his retirement.

In his younger years, Terry enjoyed bowling and took pride in keeping up his yard. He was a devoted Carolina Gamecock fan and found joy in making sure his children’s cars were always clean and detailed.

Terry’s life was not without its challenges. He faced struggles with addiction that influenced much of his journey and relationships. Even so, he was a father, a brother, and a friend. He is remembered with honesty, and his story reflects the truth that life can be complicated and not every road is an easy one.

He is survived by his three children, Jaime Caughman (Bobby), Jason Cooper (Jaclyn), and Jodi Willetts (Stacy); nine grandchildren, Jamison, Rylee, Lincoln, Lexington, Landri, Collins, Grayson, Tucker, and Sullivan; and three sisters, Sarah Timmons (Neal), Theresa Rhodes (Rick), and Debbie Wallace (Robert). He was preceded in death by his mother, Versia Taylor; his brother, Jack Taylor; and a sister, Cynthia Cox.

A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 until 4:00 o'clock on Thursday, May 7, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Batesburg-Leesville Chapel.

Terry will be missed but we know he is now made whole and pain free.