Gerald D. "Pop" Piper, aka Pappy Cooter from Drainage Ditch, Arkansas, 90, of Elkville, passed away at 6:10 P.M., Saturday, May 25, 2024 at the Pinckneyville Nursing and Rehabilitation.
Gerald had been a mechanic and truck driver for Burning Star #2 Coal Mine.  He was a member of the Elkville Christian Church.  Gerald was a United States Navy veteran.  He was a member of UMWA and V.F.W. Post 513.
He was born January 29, 1934 in Elkville, IL, the son of Howard M. and Letha N. (Jones) Piper.
He married Patsy Lou Coffel on December 20, 1952 at the Elkville Methodist Church and she preceded him in death on February 1, 2020.
He is survived by two sons - Gerald D. "Toog" Piper, Jr. and wife Lonnie of Oklahoma City, OK, and Kevin Piper and wife Marilyn of Elkville, one daughter - Tish McDermott and husband James of Apex, NC, four grandchildren - Leigh Reidelberger and husband Russell of Belleville, Opie Piper and wife Shaneille of Du Quoin, Mindy Swenson and husband Tarik of Du Quoin, and Dax Piper and wife Lauren of Pinckneyville, great grandchildren - Zoey Swenson, Cooper Swenson, Parley Belle Piper, Kallahan Piper, Oakes Piper, Briggs Piper and one on the way in August.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and one sister - Lennis Boggis.
Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M., Friday, May 31, 2024 at the Elkville Christian Church in Elkville with Bro. Gary Pruitt officiating.
Friends may call from 9 A.M. until the time of service on Friday at the church.
Burial will be in the Elkville Cemetery in Elkville, IL.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W. and American Legion and the United States Navy.
Friends may make memorials to Du Quoin V.F.W. Post 513 and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.