MOTHER NORA MARIE COOPER was born October 8, 1937 in Marston MO to Glen and Early Wilderness. She was one in a family of 12 children. Nora was united in Holy Matrimony to Melvin "Fess" Cooper June 30, 1984. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Earleen; and husband Melvin "Fess" Cooper; Three sisters: Geneva Wilderness, Helen Wilderness and Lavern Avery. Two brothers: Clen Wilderness and Frank Wilderness. She lived in Lilbourn Mo but moved to Sikeston Mo in 2017. She had a wonderful sense of humor that endeared her to many people. She enjoyed spending time with her son, Terry Wilderness, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Nora enjoyed reading her Bible. She loved gardening and canning during the summertime. She enjoyed cooking and made the best lemon meringue pie in the world.

She was fun loving and adventurous.

Nora accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was a devoted member of Pilgrims Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Lilbourn MO for over 60 years. She was the church Mother and involved in numerous organizations within the church, which she loved and cherished. She worked for New Madrid County Tech/High School for almost 30 years. She was a member of the Eastern Star for 37 years.  She will be greatly missed by her family, church family and devoted friends. All of her accomplishments in life shall be her legacy.

Nora is survived by her son, Terry Wilderness of Sikeston Mo; one brother and five sisters: Alexander Wilderness of Merrillville IN; Rose Partee of Sikeston MO; Vergie Avery of Smyrna GA; Farris Avery of Kansas City MO; Darlene Avery Pettigrew of Albany Ohio; Letha (Alonzo) Jenkins of Jefferson City MO; and District Supervisor Emeritus Ruby (Tudy) Wilderness. Four grandchildren: Tellis Wilderness, Terry Johnson, Myron McKinney, TaFarris Wilderness; 11 great grandchildren; a host of nephews; nieces; cousins and friends.