Vivian Cooper

Vivian Cooper, of Raleigh, NC, departed this life on Friday, December 19, 2025.

Vivian Vanetha Stewart Cooper was born on October 19, 1931, in Wake County, North Carolina, to the late Reverend James Stewart and Nancy Bowden Stewart. Raised in a God-fearing home, Vivian’s early life was shaped by faith, discipline, education, and service. As the daughter of a minister, she learned at an early age the importance of integrity, compassion, and responsibility; values that would guide her throughout her life.

Under the spiritual leadership of her father and the nurturing wisdom of her mother, Vivian developed a strong moral foundation and a deep respect for learning. Reverend Stewart’s devotion to ministry and Nancy Bowden Stewart’s strength, grace, and commitment to family left a lasting impression on Vivian. These early influences instilled in her a sense of purpose, a love for people, and a faith in God’s guidance.

Vivian carried those lessons with her as she matured into a woman of quiet strength and dignity. Education became one of her greatest passions. She attended North Carolina College at Durham (now North Carolina Central University), where she graduated in June 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Believing that education was both a calling and a responsibility, she later earned a Master’s Degree from Hunter College in New York City in 1958. Vivian viewed learning as a lifelong pursuit and a powerful means of empowerment.

On July 31, 1955, Vivian united in holy matrimony with Charles Minton Cooper in Durham, North Carolina.   After marrying, Vivian and Charles made their home in New Jersey, where they built a life marked by hard work, community, and devotion                                  to one another. They remained there for many years before retiring to Raleigh, North Carolina; returning to the roots that shaped Vivian’s early life. Charles preceded her in death on March 3, 2017, and Vivian remained faithful to his memory, cherishing the life and love they shared.

Vivian devoted her professional life to public service. Beginning in 1954, she was employed with the New York City Department of Social Services, where she served in various positions over the years. Her work reflected her compassion for others and her commitment to improving lives, particularly those in need. She approached her career with excellence, integrity, and empathy, earning the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of those she served.

Civic engagement and community service were also central to Vivian’s life. She was an active and proud member of the NAACP, CORE, the Urban League, the NCCU Alumni Association, and the Capital Area Section of the National Council of Negro Women, of which she was a charter member. Through these organizations, Vivian demonstrated her dedication to justice, equality, and the advancement of her community. Her faith compelled her not only to believe, but to act.

Family was a source of great joy and pride for Vivian. She was a loving sister, aunt, great-aunt, and matriarch whose wisdom was sought and treasured. She leaves to cherish her memory her surviving brother, James E. Stewart Jr.; her nephews, David N. Stewart (Rose) and James E. Stewart, III (Myra); and her nieces, Debra Stewart and Renee Mobley. She is also lovingly remembered by her grand-nephews and grand-nieces: Lloyd Saunders, David Saunders, Mark Saunders, Samuel Morris, James E. Stewart IV, Monique Stewart-Ellis, and Jaimie Stewart, as well as her great-grand-nephews and great-grand-nieces: Bianca Deloca, Lloyd Saunders IV, and Rachel Saunders.

Vivian was preceded in death by her beloved siblings: Colonel Stewart, Joseph Stewart, Nannie Stewart Leonard Armstrong, David Stewart, and Christine Stewart Reece. Though separated for a season, we rejoice in the promise that they are reunited in eternal glory.

Those who knew Vivian will always remember her wisdom, practicality, and straightforward outlook on life. One of her most cherished and often-quoted sayings “Get mad, get glad, and get over it” was more than a phrase; it was a mantra for how she lived. It reflected her belief in facing life honestly, choosing joy deliberately, and moving forward with faith and resilience.

Vivian’s life stands as a testimony to faithfulness. She trusted God in every season and walked with grace, humility, and strength. Her intellect, poise, and unwavering values left an enduring imprint on all who knew her. She will be remembered for her devotion to God, her love for family, her commitment to justice, and her belief in the power of education.

As we celebrate the life of Vivian Vanetha Stewart Cooper, we do not grieve without hope. We take comfort in knowing she has entered into the joy of the Lord and has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Her earthly journey is complete, but her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the values she passed down. May her memory continue to bless and inspire us, and may her soul rest in everlasting peace.

Public Viewing:  11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Lea Funeral Home, 2500 Poole Road, Raleigh, NC.

Graveside Service:  1:00 PM, Monday, January 5, 2026, at Beechwood Cemetery, 3300 Fayetteville Street, Durham, NC.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vivian Cooper, please visit our floral store.