Wilma Lee Cooper, Grand Ole Opry Star, Dies 90

Wilma Lee Leary (February 7, 1921 – September 13, 2011), known professionally as Wilma Lee Cooper, was an American bluegrass-based country music entertainer.

Wilma Leary and the husband Stoney scored seven hit records between 1956 and 1961, with four top ten hits on Billboard charts, notably “Big Midnight Special” and “There’s a Big Wheel.” They remained connected to the Leary Family tradition as well, recording popular gospel songs like “The Tramp on the Street” and “Walking My Lord Up Calvary’s Hill.”

Husband Stoney Cooper died in 1977 but Wilma Lee stayed on the Opry as a solo star and on occasion recorded an album for a bluegrass record label. In 2001 she suffered a stroke while performing on the Opry stage which ended her career, but Cooper defied doctors who said she would never walk again and has since returned to the Opry to greet and thank the crowds.

The Cooper’s daughter, Carol Lee Cooper, is the lead singer for the Grand Ole Opry’s backup vocal group, The Carol Lee Singers.

Wilma Lee Cooper cause of death
Wilma Lee Cooper passed away in Sweetwater, Tennessee from natural causes.
Wilma Lee Cooper was 90 years old at the time of her death

Wilma Lee Cooper – Big Midnight Special

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