Freeman Cooper
Freeman Cooper, Jr., 70, of Chattanooga, passed away today (Thursday) at his residence.
He was a former Chattanooga Police Department chief.
Chief Cooper had been fighting Stage IV lung cancer.
He appeared at a lung cancer awareness rally last November and was among the speakers.
Arrangements will be announced by Taylor Funeral Home of Chattanooga, Inc.
County Mayor Jim Coppinger said, "I am deeply saddened by the news that my friend, Freeman Cooper has passed on.
Freeman was a man who served his nation and his community. Freeman was the best kind of person, someone whose word was his bond.
"My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Debbie and his entire family in this very difficult time."
Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly and Deputy Chief Eric Tucker mourned the loss of Mr. Cooper.
Deputy Chief Tucker, who served alongside Chief Cooper, said, “Chief Freeman Cooper was a solid leader who believed in the mission of the Chattanooga Police Department. I considered him not just a leader of our department but a mentor and friend. He will be remembered fondly and sadly missed.”
“My thoughts are with Chief Cooper’s family and loved ones, as well as with the entire Chattanooga Police Department during this difficult time,” said Mayor Kelly. “We're all sad to lose such a dedicated public servant who gave 28 years of his life to keep our city safe. He will be missed.”