Mary Margaret Joseph Cooper, 85, of Charleston, South Carolina, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 6, 2026.

Born on June 13, 1941, in Charleston, South Carolina, Mary was the daughter of the late Dorothy Classen Joseph and the late James Carlisle Joseph Sr.

Mary was a beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She loved her family fiercely and took great joy in doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The great love of her life was her husband, Gary, with whom she shared 62 years of marriage. Together, they raised their children, Robin and Gary Jr., in Charleston.

In their later years, Mary and Gary enjoyed taking many memorable trips together and creating cherished memories with their grandchildren.

Mary was one of the first employees of Carolina Eastern, where she worked for more than 45 years. Her dedication and commitment made an invaluable and lasting impression on the company and the many people she worked with throughout the years.

In retirement, Mary found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially sitting on her flower filled porch and watching the hummingbirds come to visit.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Robin Cooper.

Mary is survived by her husband, Gary Cooper; her son, Gary Cooper Jr. (Lisa); her grandchildren, Gary “Trey” Cooper III (Eliza), Matthew Cooper (Julia), MaryBeth Knebel, Katie Knebel, and Patricia Mahalik (Carlo); her great-grandchildren, Lily Mahalik, Allie Cooper, and Annabella Mahalik; and her siblings, James Joseph, Kathy Clark, George Joseph, and Mickie Joseph. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Mary’s love for her family, her devotion to those she held dear, and the memories she created throughout her life will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Charleston Baptist, 13 San Miguel Rd., Charleston, SC 29407, with the funeral service immediately following. Burial will follow at Live Oak Memorial Gardens in Charleston, South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to theInternational Hummingbird Society in Mary’s honor. When you see a hummingbird, please think of Mary and the joy they brought her. Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, (843) 722-8371.