Internment followed in the Antioch Cemetery, Rayville, under the direction of Brown-Holley Funeral Home, Rayville.

Ruth Marie Viola Cooper, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Rayville, on July 2, 2025, at 1:15 p.m., surrounded by her devoted family and close friends.

Ruthie was born on February 28, 1950, in Ferriday, to Harold Viola and Adilene Smedley. She graduated from Ferriday High School in 1968. She met her loving husband in Rayville at the local pool where Mike was a lifeguard. They were married on January 20, 1970, in Ferriday, and spent the next 55 years building a life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Ruthie was a woman of deep loyalty, known affectionately by those closest to her as a true “rule follower” who could always be counted on for her unwavering friendship and counsel. Her gentle spirit and warm smile lit up every room she entered — and her collection of purses was legendary among family and friends.

Ruthie and Mike shared a love for travel and adventure, exploring the world hand in hand. Together they visited France, Italy, England, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii and many beautiful states and national parks across the U.S. No matter where they went, they were happiest side by side — and nothing brought Ruthie more joy than cutting a rug and dancing with her beloved husband whenever they had the chance.

She was the cherished mother of Cindy Cooper Blair and her husband, Eric Blair, Catherine “Cacky” Cooper and Tim Morris, and Chris Cooper and his wife, Donna Cooper. Her legacy lives on in her beloved grandchildren: Jackson Foster, Maddy Lewis and her husband, Ryan, Avery Blackwell, Savannah Blackwell, Jack Blair, Ava Blair, Genevieve Cooper and Josephine Cooper; and her precious great-granddaughter, Ellie.

Ruthie found joy in life’s simple pleasures: she loved the flowers Mike grew for her, daisies and yellow roses being her favorites. She delighted in making her famous Heavenly Hash cake, savoring Amaretto Sours, and singing along to her favorite artists, Conway Twitty, Alan Jackson, and George Strait.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Adilene, but her memory will be lovingly carried on by her family and all who had the honor of knowing her. Special thanks go to her dedicated caregivers, Vera Ausberry and the caring staff of Heart of Hospice of Rayville, for their compassionate support.

Ruthie’s life was one of quiet strength, faith, and devotion to family.

Her unwavering love for her husband Mike for 55 years was a shining example of devotion and adoration all recognized easily. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks charitable donations be made to St. Vincent de Paul and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital — causes dear to Ruthie’s generous heart.

Pallbearers were Rick Viola, Jake Blair, Jackson Foster, Kevin Cooper, Dub Cooper, and David Cooper.

She will be deeply missed but forever cherished.