Cecil E. Cope's Obituary
Cecil E. Cope, 83, of Cordova, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2025. He was a Navy veteran, a dedicated salesman for over 50 years, a beloved husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and friend—known for his sharp wit and warm heart.
Born in Las Vegas and raised in Memphis, Cecil served 4 years in the U.S. Navy before beginning a successful career in sales and customer service. He received numerous performance awards throughout his life, most recently becoming known to many as “Mr. Cecil,” the friendly face who greeted customers at the Walmart in Cordova.
He is survived by his wife of over 20 years, Sylba Dorris Cope, as well as a sister, Betty Coughtry of Spokane, Washington. He was a devoted stepfather to Lisa Dorris Douglass (Chris) and Laurie Dorris Foster (Todd), and a proud grandfather and Pop to Micah and Lydia Douglass, Noel, Ben (Hayley) and Joy Foster.
He also served as a foster parent earlier in life with his late wife JoAnn.
Cecil was a faithful member of Bellevue Baptist Church and a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan. He will be remembered for his humor, kindness, and love for family—including his cat, Baby (or as he affectionately called him, “Mr. Big”).
A graveside service will be held Thursday, July 17 at 10 a.m. at Memorial Park Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Cecil?
What’s a lesson you learned from Cecil?
Share a story where Cecil's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Cecil you’ll never forget.
How did Cecil make you smile?
