Teresa Cooper Gilley

Teresa Cooper Gilley, born August 2, 1963, in Brewton, Alabama, passed away on March 17, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama. Teresa’s life was defined by a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and an unwavering ability to see the good in others.

She was the beloved daughter of Larry Cooper Sr. and the late May Lorena McArthur Cooper, with whom she now shares a joyful reunion, along with her grandmother, whose presence shaped so much of her life. Teresa carried forward the legacy of love, faith, and kindness instilled in her from an early age, living each day with quiet grace and deep compassion.

From a young age, Teresa found joy in movement and music. She was a majorette at Young Junior High School and Northview High School and later continued her passion as a majorette with the Sound of the South Marching Band at Troy University, where she also performed with the University Dancers. She later gave that same passion back to others, volunteering for many years as the majorette sponsor for Northview High School. Whether twirling a baton, dancing to a favorite song, or encouraging young performers, she brought a natural elegance and light to everything she did.

Teresa was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Dothan. Her faith was a steady and guiding presence in her life, reflected not in grand gestures, but in the way she loved others, with patience, forgiveness, and a heart that always sought peace.

Her compassion was not only something she felt, but something she lived out daily in her work. She served the Dothan community through her time at Vaughn-Blumberg Services, a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, where she worked closely with adult members. She later continued that calling as a Parent Involvement Specialist with Dothan City Schools, building meaningful connections with families. After retiring, she remained devoted to caring for others as a caregiver with Home Instead Senior Care, providing comfort and companionship to elderly members of the community. In every role, Teresa’s kindness was not just present, it was the foundation.

She found happiness in life’s simple, quiet moments. The beach was her sanctuary, where she could sit for hours listening to the rhythm of the waves. She had a special love for butterflies, seeing beauty in their delicacy and transformation. Music was another constant companion, with the songs of James Taylor, The Carpenters, Chicago, Josh Groban, and Michael Bublé often filling the spaces around her.

Above all, Teresa was the definition of a devoted and selfless mother, wife, and daughter. She gave endlessly of herself, always putting the needs and happiness of others before her own. Her love was steady and sacrificial, shown in both the big moments and the quiet, unseen ones. She took immense pride in her daughter, celebrating every accomplishment with a full and joyful heart, never missing an opportunity to share that pride with others.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Tim Gilley; her father, Larry Cooper Sr.; her daughter, Courtney Gilley Petrizzi (Anthony); her twin sister, Tonnie Cooper; her brother, Larry Cooper Jr. (Lisa). She leaves behind a family who will forever carry her love with them.

Those who knew Teresa will remember her as truly kind, endlessly forgiving, and gentle in spirit. She had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and cared for, and her presence brought a sense of calm and comfort to those around her.

Visitation will be held Monday, March 23, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Ward-Wilson Funeral Home in Dothan, Alabama, with services immediately following. Memorial contributions may be made to the National MS Society, a cause meaningful to her and her family.

Teresa’s life was a quiet but powerful reflection of love in its purest form. The world is softer, kinder, and better because she was in it, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Teresa Cooper Gilley, please visit our floral store.