James "Leland" Cooper, 81, passed away Sunday, December 8, 2024, after a brief period of declining health.

He was born to Lawrence and Callie Watson Cooper of the Yellow Mountain community in Jackson County. Leland enjoyed the beauty and the blessings of living on Flat Branch his entire life.

Leland loved many things. He loved the Lord Jesus. He faithfully read and studied scripture, knowing there was always more to learn. He loved his neighbors, and his generosity was surpassed only by his empathy for anyone in need.

Leland loved his family. He treasured time spent with his sister, Wilma Haskett, niece, Lisa Hudson, her husband Bill, and his nephew Phill Looper in Pickens, SC. Leland spent his final days in Pickens being well cared for by Lisa and Bill.

Leland loved his church. He served as a deacon, Superintendent of Sunday School and Song Leader at Pine Creek Baptist Church.

Leland loved his country. He was a U.S. Army veteran and served as an aircraft mechanic in Vietnam.

Leland loved good music. He enjoyed playing the banjo and was delighted to pass the love for playing Blue Grass to Christopher Tucker who was the apple of his eye.

Leland loved the outdoors. He had a keen eye for spotting anything with fur and four legs or feathers and two legs. He preferred being outside and retired from a job he loved as a self-employed heavy equipment operator.

For the past 31 years Leland shared the things he loved with his other love, Joyce Tucker, of Pine Creek Community.

Left to cherish his memory are; Wilma Haskett, Lisa and Bill Hudson, Phil Looper, Joyce, Dana, Chris and Carla, and Christopher Tucker. Stepdaughter, Tammy and Chad Bryson, Justin and Deanna McCall and baby Korra McCall. His Pine Creek Church Family and close friends Steve and Sharon Houston. And many friends in the Pine Creek, Yellow Mountain, Jackson County area.

Services will be held at Pine Creek Baptist Church on Thursday, December 12th. Visitation will be from 1-2pm with the Funeral to follow at 2pm. Interment will be at Stewart Cemetery.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.