Walter Cooper, last surviving member of The Cooper Four, dies

GMF acknowledges the passing of Walter Cooper, 96, last surviving member of The Cooper Four. He died June 28, 2026, in Mebane, NC.

Known for their homespun traditional gospel style, sparse instrumental backing—often limited to a guitar—and rich, resonant vocals, the Cooper Four became a beloved regional quartet during the height of their popularity with Walter and his siblings, Reuben (d. 2016), Ruth (d. 2016), and Maria (d. 1996), comprising the group.

The Cooper Four began singing together in 1935 at their family home in rural Hillsborough, NC. Nearly two decades later, in 1954, they launched a weekly live radio broadcast on Durham’s first Black-owned radio station, WSRC. Their long-running radio ministry continued for decades, and as of 2011, they were still presenting a live weekly program on Durham’s WRJD radio station.

In the early 1960s, the Cooper Four recorded a vinyl single as the Cooper Four Quartet featuring “This May Be My Last Time” and “Stay In The Field Until The War Is Ended.” It remains part of the group’s recorded legacy and continues to receive occasional airplay.

A homegoing celebration for Cooper was held July 8, at Mt. Zion AME Church in Hillsborough. His great niece, Bishop-Elect Liggonia “Tiny” Lucas, delivered the eulogy.

GMF extends condolences to the Cooper family.