MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WTVF) — The oldest-serving legislator in Tennessee Democrat State Representative Barbara Cooper has died, State Democrats announced Wednesday. She was 93 years old.
Cooper represented Memphis in the Tennessee House of Representatives since 1996, serving the 86th district in Shelby County.
She was also the second-oldest state legislator in the country.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my longtime colleague and dear friend, Barbara Cooper,” said House Minority Leader Karen Camper. “She was a warrior for her community and the City of Memphis, a tireless advocate on education and equality issues, and just a delightful person. We will all miss her.”
Cooper was an inspiration to many.
First elected in 1996, she served for 26 years in the Tennessee House of Representatives.
"Education is the key to changing your lifestyle before you even progress it," said Cooper in 2019 after she drafted a bill to help Tennessee inmates further their education.
Her passion for policy continued years later.
Her death comes as a loss to many on Tennessee's Capitol Hill.
Representative Vincent Dixie says the two were seatmates for more than a year.
"She talked to me like I was her grandson. And I appreciate that more than anything. She really took me under her wing and helped me with some pitfalls, gave me encouragement when I need to, and patted me on the back when I need to, and also kicked me in the butt when I needed it as well," said Dixie.
Barbara Cooper was a Tennessee State University graduate, a retired Memphis City Schools teacher and a proud member of several organizations.
She was the oldest serving member in the Tennessee General Assembly: a mother, grandmother, colleague and friend.
Cooper didn't allow her age to limit her — she still had some fight in her as she sought re-election to serve in the House of Representatives.
"I hope that people will honor her and go out and vote for her one last time to honor her memory and her wish, and to make sure that we continue her legacy of advocating for public education in our children," Dixie said.
She is survived by her daughter Reverend Joan Cooper Burnett and daughter Tanya Cooper; grandchildren Reneshia Burnett, Ashlea Burnett Vainqueur (Willy) and Martez King; great-grandchildren; and a host of family, friends and supporters.
How does her passing impact the upcoming election?
Tennessee code states that if a candidate dies within 40 days, their name stays on.
If the deceased candidate receives the most votes, a vacancy exists.
A vacancy would require a special election to fill the seat.
Leaders from across the state issued their condolences on Wednesday.
Barbara Cooper was a dedicated public servant who faithfully served the Memphis community. Maria & I are lifting up her friends & family in prayer. https://t.co/B5Zyf3OCv7
— Gov. Bill Lee (@GovBillLee) October 26, 2022
We’re incredibly saddened by the news of Rep. Barbara Cooper’s passing. She dedicated her life to serving her community & the State of Tennessee. While we lost a most revered friend & colleague, heaven has gained an angel. Please take a moment to pray for her family & friends. pic.twitter.com/Jc9grfNNnD
— Speaker Cameron Sexton (@CSexton25) October 26, 2022
Tennessee State University and President Glenda Glover released a statement on Cooper's death:
“The Tennessee State University family is deeply saddened over the passing of State Representative and alumna, the Honorable Barbara Ward Cooper. An educator at heart, Dr. Cooper proudly served her constituents of Shelby County and the State of Tennessee as the oldest serving Legislator in State recorded history at 93 years old. Her commitment to TSU never wavered as she supported legislation to ensure the success of our students and other higher education policies. The Memphis native represented the very best of Tennessee and leaves a legacy of excellence that will be remembered by those she served for nearly three decades. We extend our sincerest condolences to her family and the citizens of House District 86. Dr. Cooper will certainly be missed when the Tennessee General Assembly convenes in the upcoming year."
The Tennessee Democratic Party also issued a statement expressing their condolences.
“Representative Cooper will forever hold a special place in all of our hearts. Her service and commitment to a better Memphis and Tennessee will be a benchmark for all of us and generations to come. Her contributions to the Democratic Party and fierce advocacy for our values will continue to guide us,“ said TNDP Chair Hendrell Remus.
