More than 200 family and friends gathered to witness the Cooper’s renew their vows of “A Promise Made, A Promise Kept.”
The 40th anniversary ceremony was performed by the Rev. Jimmie Blake, pastor of Morning Glory Missionary Baptist Church where the Coopers are active, ardent members.
Musical melodies of love were played as the guests and family assembled to witness this grand anniversary ceremony. To the music of “You Are My Ministry,” the ushers lit the candle of joy.
“Take Care of Mama” was played as the bride’s mother Ida Mae Hampton escorted by Robert Hampton. Godmothers of the couple are Margaret Childs escorted by Gary Hampton, Rossie Randall escorted by the Rev. Leonard Wilson, Mary Lowery escorted by Sergio Bryant.
Groom’s sisters: Madies Young escorted by Celester Cooper, Gussie Hunter escorted by Maurice Carter.
The bridal anniversary party entered to the musical rendition of “Put It on Paper.”
The anniversary bride entered and joined her groom at the altar to the music of “Here Comes My Bride.” Soloist Vicki Hunter Arthur sang the rendition of “The Power of Love.”
The anniversary couple renewed their vows of love and exchanged rings with officiant ministers the Rev. Jimmie Blake administering the vows of renewal. The prayer of love was prayed by the Rev. Leonard Wilson. Mr. and Mrs. Willie James Cooper were united in marriage 40 years ago on Dec. 20, 1966, in Sanford, Fla. The bride chose for her vows a white formal length gown of satin with a lace short sleeve bolora jacket; her veil of illion net hanging knee length; she carried a floral creation of ivory and burgundy flowers. Betty Jean Hampton served the bride was maid of honor, bridesmaids were Cherone Cooper, Crystal Hill-Cooper, Gertrude Hampton, Roslyn Hampton and Lasandra Cooper, they all wore ivory and burgundy gowns, identical to the bride and carried floral creations made by the bride.
Serving the groom as best man was Roosevelt Oliver. The groom and the male wedding party all wore dark suits with a white rose boutonniere. Groomsmen were Horace Cooper, Troy Cooper, Ferris Hunter, Garnell Cooper Jr. and Oscar Edwards.
Flower girl was Troya Coopers; escorts were Garnell James Cooper, oldest son, Robert Hampton, Maurice Carter; ushers were Gary Hampton, Sergio Bryant and Celester Cooper. Hostesses were Lanell Cooper-Edwards, Lisa Paige, Aigner Certains. Hosts were Tara Brown, Mattie Dixon, Cathy Martin, Rebecca Green. Serving at the guest book was Trevelyna Davis; music disc jockey Bobby Anderson.
Wedding coordinator was Merrea Jones and programs were by Sheralyn J. Brinson.