Louise Cope

Martha Louise Claborn Richardson Cope, age 90, of Byrdstown, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Pickett County Care and Rehabilitation.

Born on October 14, 1935, in Clinton County, Kentucky, Louise was the daughter of the late Claude and Mary (Garrett) Claborn. She lived a life marked by unwavering faith, quiet strength, and a deep love for her family and community.

Louise was a member of First Baptist Church of Byrdstown and a dedicated member of the Eastern Star for more than 50 years. She enjoyed reading, sewing—especially quilting—traveling, cooking, and searching for treasures at yard sales. Above all, she cherished every moment spent with her family and friends. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Eugene Richardson and Eugene Cope; her son, Danny Richardson; her daughter, Pamela Richardson; her son-in-law, Johnny Bilbrey; her brothers, Cecil Claborn, Marvin (Opal) Claborn, and Ronnie Claborn; her sisters, Wilma Gay and Janet (Fred) Koger; her great-granddaughter, Elizabeth Kennard; and numerous members of the Richardson and Cope families.

She is survived by her daughters, Debra Bilbrey and Lisa (Robin) Cummings; her son, Craig Richardson; her stepson, Steve (Diane) Cope; and her stepdaughter, Elaine Gainer.

Louise leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren, John (Leanne) Asberry, Erin Kennard, Lily Bryant, Ben Bilbrey, Danielle (Bryce) Whittaker, and Megan (Jeremy) Reeder; her great-grandchildren, Cody Asberry, Jesse Linder, Cooper Kennard, Annie Perdue, Carlie Reeder, Reid Sells, and Gage Whittaker; and her cherished great-great-granddaughter, Raelynn Louise Asberry.

She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Marvin Richardson; her sister-in-law, Janette Richardson; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Leon (Jan) Cope; Sue Cope; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Louise will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Her kindness touched countless lives, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Memorial services were held Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. from Brown Funeral Chapel with Bro. Rick Cross and Dr. Bill Taylor officiating. Burial of the cremains was in the Edgefield Cemetery.

Family will receive friend Sunday from 12:00 P.M. until time of service at 2:00 P.M.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Byrdstown Building Fund or to Edgefield Cemetery.