Frances Marion Cooper

Frances Marion Cameron was born October 3, 1938 in Lake City, South Carolina to Hazard

and Mettie Rue Cameron. She was the fifth out of eight children and the youngest daughter.

She passed away peacefully at home on February 28, 2024.

Frances received her early education at Lake City Colored High School. A brilliant mind

whose intelligence excelled in English and a mastery of mathematics, and she did not

hesitate to correct anyone who spoke improper English in her presence.

In 1961 she married the late Robert Lee Cooper, and from that union was born 4 children

Drexel, Douglas, Diane, and Dorothea. Around 1964 she moved from South Carolina to

Wilmington Delaware to make a better life for her family.

Frances had various jobs, working at Parkview (Formerly Daybreak), The Methodist Country

House, Standard Linen, and finally Christiana Care. She retired from Christiana Care at the

age 65, however, being the hardworking woman that she was, Frances returned to work for

the Wilmington Senior Center; being assigned to the Mary E Herring Childcare Center where

the children affectionately called her “Grandmom”.

Frances was known as a soul whose laughter echoed in our hearts. Her vibrant spirit lit up

every room filling the air with jokes and a quick wit that brought joy to all. She was a beacon

of Joviality, spreading warmth with her sharp humor and infectious personality. Her ability

to uplift others through laughter created lasting memories, leaving behind a legacy of

happiness.

She was a dedicated and cherished member of the Ebenezer Baptist Church since the late

1960’s. Her unwavering commitment enriched the spiritual fabric of our community. She

served with grace and distinction in various roles, including President of the Pastor’s Aide,

Women of Grace, Mother’s Board, and the Nursing Unit. Frances also lent her talents to the

Johnson Inspiration Chorus offering her voice uplifting those around her. Her tireless efforts

extended to the kitchen committee, where she shared her culinary skills, ensuring

fellowship was accompanied by nourishing meals. Additionally, Frances played an integral

part in the success of vacation Bible School, fostering spiritual growth in the heart of our

youth. Her legacy within the church is one of selfless service, kindness and a deep

dedication to nurturing both the spiritual and communal bonds.

Frances would always find joy in life’s simple pleasures and shared laughter with those she

loved. She would bring warmth and light into the lives of those around her. Her evenings

were often filled with the excitement of “Family Feud” and the wisdom of “Judge Judy.” She

had a fondness for shows at “The Three Little Bakers” and the captivating performances at

Sight and Sounds in Lancaster, PA. 

Frances found solace and inspiration in the soulful melodies of her favorite gospel group,

the Five Blind Boys, their harmonies resonating with her spirit. She had a penchant for the

intricate world of crossword puzzles. She would spend hours working on them, carefully

filling out each square with the correct word.

Her laughter echoed through the living room during game nights and resonated with the

heartfelt lyrics of gospel tunes. Frances’ appreciation for these simple pleasures serves as a

testament to her zest for life and the warmth she brought to those around her. A woman of

impeccable style and heart that found joy in the art of shopping her “passion for fashion”

was evident in her love for fancy suits, each one chosen with a descending eye for elegance.

Frances adorned herself with exquisite hats that reflected not only her taste but also her

appreciation for the finer things in life.

Frances was preceded in death by her son Douglas Cooper, grandson Keevan Hale, parents

Hazard and Mettie Rue Cameron, four sisters Edna Myra Cameron, Ella Thyra Cameron,

Russlean Eaddy, Hester Cameron, two brothers Jerome Cameron and James Norman

Cameron.

Frances leaves to cherish her memories her beloved children, Drexel Cameron (Sandra),

Diane Jenkins (Clayton), and her caretaker, Dorothea Cooper. Four grandsons; Toryron

Brown, Demetrius Cooper, Dahmir Cooper, and Dorian Cooper, two granddaughters,

Tenisha Cameron (Birlon), Tiffany Cameron, 11 great- grandchildren, and one brother

Hazard Cameron Jr. (Eddie Mae), a devoted cousin Sally Mae Ware, and a host of nieces,

nephews, cousins, and friends.