Miles Arland Cooper, Sr., age 81 of Shelby passed away Tuesday, March 8, 2016 at Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte. Born October 9, 1934, he was the son of the late Rev. Bain Arland Cooper and the late Maude Harrill Cooper. Miles attended Cornerstone Church in Maiden. He grew up as a fan of gospel music and sang professionally with several groups. He always said he could preach the gospel through song. Miles was loved by all who met him and will be greatly missed. In addition to his parents, 2 brothers: Baxter H. Cooper, Sr. and J. Harrill Cooper; 2 great grandsons preceded him in death.

Left to cherish his memory:

Married in 1953 to Lonice Scruggs Cooper

2 Sons: Miles Cooper, Jr. of TN; Jeff Cooper and wife Crystal of Shelby

2 Daughters: Jody Hartman and husband Raymond of Spindale; Cindy Wilson and husband Robert of Forest City

12 Grandchildren

26 Great-Grandchildren

1 Great, Great-Grandchild

The funeral service will be held Friday, March 11, 2016 at 2:00 pm at Cornerstone Church, Maiden with Rev. Dr. Gregory Dry and Rev. Buddy Burton officiating.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30 pm to 1:45 pm at the church.

A graveside service will be Saturday, March 12, 2016 at 11:00 am at Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Forest City, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Southern Gospel Music Association, PO Box 6729, Sevierville, TN 37864 - www.sgma.org

Visit www.burkemortuary.com to register your condolences.

Burke Mortuary in Maiden is serving the Cooper family.