On Thursday, August 4, 2022, Mitchell “Mitch” Cooper, 66, passed away in his home, surrounded by his beloved wife and faithful dogs. Mitch was born in Chattanooga, TN to the late Polly Rich. After graduating from high school, Mitch served his country bravely and faithfully in the United State Navy, first as an enlisted serviceman and later as a commissioned officer, earning the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

After retiring from the Navy, Mitch remained in Chesapeake, VA, where he began a successful consulting business. After selling his business, Mitch moved to Kinston, NC, where he quickly became an active member of the community as the owner of several garden centers. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, past President of the SPCA, and was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, especially in their missionary work. For 20 years Mitch owned Ivey’s Garden Shop along with his wife Michelle “Mickey” Cooper.

Mitch had a great love of plants, gardening, and animals. Several local landscapers have said that “if they needed it, Mitch could find it”. Mitch loved to travel, so much so that he and Mickey sold their home and purchased an RV trailer to travel cross country in upon his last retirement from Ivey’s.

Mitch is survived by his wife, Mickey, of 18 years. His son, Christopher and his wife Leigh Ann. Stepson’s Nicholas Ochs and wife Michelle and Christopher Ochs and wife Suzi. Mitch had many grandchildren that will miss him, and the family was beginning to grow even more with the addition of great-grandchildren. Mitch will be missed by his family, including his sister Judy Hunt and her husband Eddie; brother Alan Browder and his wife Wanda and many nieces and nephews. Although he will not be physically present, Mitch’s spirit will live on in his family.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 13, 2022, in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Kinston, NC. Visitation will begin at 10 am with memorial service to follow at 11am and will be officiated by the Rev. Karl Grant. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the SPCA.

“Those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” Isaiah 40:31

Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com.