Thomas Dale “Tom” Cooper, 84, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 1:25 pm June 17, 2026 at his home surrounded by his girls. He was born August 30, 1941 in Mount Vernon to the late Joseph and May Bell (Mather) Cooper. Tom married Helen (Crunk) Cooper on July 20, 1963 in Salem, Illinois and she preceded him in death on June 30, 2023.
Tom is survived by his children, Julie Perrin and husband, Kevin of Mount Vernon, Laura Cooper and John Williams of Mount Vernon, Alan Cooper and wife, Joanie of Mount Vernon, and Chuck Branch and wife, Debbie of Kell, Illinois; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and sister, Geneva Hulmuth.
In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Tom was preceded in death by his son, James C. Cooper; great-granddaughter, Taylor Neleh Travis; and siblings, Art, Harold, Lonnie, Pauline, Pearl, Susan, Rosetta, Cora, Lucille, Ruby, Clyde, Helen, and five infant brothers.
Tom proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He worked as a machinist for Bennett Metal of Mount Vernon for many years.
A Visitation will be held Friday, June 19, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home with Reverend Bud Storey officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Mount Vernon. Full Military Honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post #141. Memorials may be made in Tom’s honor to Oak Grove Cemetery.
Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
