Agnes Anita Koeper

Agnes Anita Koeper, 93, of Charleston, South Carolina, entered eternal rest Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Arrangements were made by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. at Mount Pleasant Chapel.

 

Agnes was born January 23, 1930, in Sullivans Island, South Carolina, daughter of the late Furman DeLeon Wise and the late Evelyn Venters Wise. Agnes was called “Sister” by her parents and siblings. She will be remembered for the way she loved her family.  

 

She is survived by three daughters, Evelyn (Billy) Gammons of Johns Island, SC, Betty "Tina" Koeper (Manfred) Schmitt of Travelers Rest, SC, Barbara Seyle of Charleston, SC, and three sons, James “Jim” Koeper (Mary) of Hollywood, SC, Rodney Koeper of Goose Creek, SC, and Ronald Koeper of Goose Creek, SC, in addition to close son-in-law Ray Saharkhiz and two siblings Susie Wise Bennett and Mack Wise. Numerous loving Grandchildren. Two very special nieces Mindy & Denise who always checked in on Agnes.

 

She is preceded in death by her husband, James Ashley Koeper, her sons Larry Wayne Koeper, Mark David Koeper, Robert Ryan Koeper, her brothers Furman DeLeon Wise Jr and Robert Brantley Wise, and her sister Joyce Mitchum.

 

Agnes married the love of her life, James Ashley Koeper of Mt. Pleasant, and the loving couple brought nine children into the world in the old village of Mt. Pleasant. Agnes was faithfully devoted to her husband and provided final comfort at the time of his passing in September 1993.

 

Agnes dedicated her entire life nurturing her children.  She baptized all nine children at St. Paul’s Lutheran church.  When the tragic death of her 14-year-old son, Larry Wayne Koeper, wounded her heart and paralyzed the household, Agnes resolved to continue providing her grieving family with warmth, care, and companionship.  Agnes ensured that the family remained happy and healthy.  

 

Visiting friends and family remembered Agnes as welcoming and selfless, often finding Agnes preparing a large meal or making room for guests to relax and join the household festivities.  As time passed, her sons and daughters married and started families of their own, and she gladly accepted her new role as a grandmother, doting over each of her grandchildren and treating in-laws as her own flesh and blood.  

 

In her later years, Agnes remained engaged with her family and kept a sharp mind.  She often imparted wisdom and inspiration on parenting, friendship, and duty.  She also recalled fond memories of the family with impeccable clarity and detail, even after younger family members had long forgotten.  Agnes remained strong in spirit even after the death of her husband James of 45 years married, and yet again after the loss of two more sons, Robert and Mark.

 

As a testament to her modesty, Agnes frequently stated that she was just a housewife.  However, throughout her long journey in life, she became much more than that to all that knew her.  She was a mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother.  She was a provider, mentor, protector, and dear friend.  She taught to love and help others, and to stay strong in the face of seemingly impossible challenges in life and faith.  Despite her passing to the realm beyond, her encouraging spirit lives on and continues to do good in this world.  Agnes will be forever remembered as a hero of selflessness and motherhood.  One of her favorite things to say was, never look down on anyone, unless you are looking to extend a helping hand, or word. 

 

We are thankful for the amazing relationship we had with her. One can imagine no heroism greater than our beloved mother.

 

"The world changes from year to year, our lives from day to day, but the love and memory of you, shall never pass away, for you were a beautiful soul.”

 

Memorial donations may be made to Feeding America & ASPCA American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

 

A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.