Ruth Deloris Cooper

Ruth Deloris Long Cooper

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Ruth Deloris Long Cooper, aged 97, on Thursday, April 18, 2024. After a courageous battle with Alzheimer's, Ruth peacefully departed, joining her beloved husband, Keith K. Cooper, in eternal rest. Born to the late Bradley and Thyra Scott Long, she lived a life marked by passion, leadership, and a love for gardening.

A respected figure in the Roanoke gardening community, Ruth served as president of the Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs and later presided over the National Convention of the Blue Ridge Iris Society, where she championed her favorite flower, the Iris. Her dedication to the beauty of nature and her leadership inspired many within and beyond the community.

Ruth’s legacy will be cherished and upheld by her loving family: son, Jeffrey Cooper; grandsons, Christopher, Jameson Cooper, and Rod Stanton. She leaves behind a community enriched by her contributions and a family inspired by her love and resilience.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Ruth's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road. Friends and family will gather to share memories at this service. A short interment service will also follow at Sherwood Memorial Park, 1250 E. Main St., Salem.

For those wishing to express condolences, please visit www.simpsonfuneral.com.