Kathleen Scholtes Cosper

Kathleen Scholtes Cosper, 79, of Ocean Springs, died in her sleep early in the morning of December 5. The cause of death was complications from the novel coronavirus disease, COVID-19. Kathy was born on September 9, 1941, in Biloxi, MS. She graduated as salutatorian from Biloxi High School in 1958, when she was 16 years old. Kathy studied at the University of Southern Mississippi, earning her art degree in 1963. While in college, she earned a certificate from the National Rifle Association for her marksmanship, an achievement recorded in a Clarion-Ledger article. Shortly after college, Kathy travelled solo to Europe, taking an opportunity to see first-hand much of the art and architecture that inspired her career. Believing the words of John Keats that “A thing of beauty is a joy forever,” Kathy spent her adult life creating and surrounding herself with objects of beauty. An artist who worked in a wide variety of media, Kathy created works ranging from landscapes to scarecrows. Kathy’s artwork often portrayed the natural beauty of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Across her career, she won prizes for painting, photography and doll costuming, including first place in the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum’s painting competition in 1998. In addition to being an artist, Kathy was an excellent cook. She brought both her artistic and cooking skills to the role of Cub Scout den mother, providing interesting activities and tasty treats for the boys. Kathy loved travelling the southeast with her husband, Larry, repeatedly visiting favorite destinations including off-the-beaten-path towns in Florida; a mountain resort near Ashville, North Carolina; and Charleston, South Carolina. She was a lifetime member of the Ocean Springs Art Association. Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Henry Cosper, and her parents, Joe and Colleen Scholtes. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Denise Cosper of Big Rapids, Michigan; two grandsons, Ryan and Jason Cosper; and her much loved extended family. Following Kathy’s wishes, her body was cremated. A memorial event will be held for Kathy this spring or summer. Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs, is honored to serve the Cosper family.