David Christopher Cooper, age 63, of Pelham, AL died on December 7, 2024. Chris had a successful career at Vulcan Publications from 1988 until 2002. His first year, he was awarded the Rookie of the Year award, followed by 20 years of employee of the year, Top Sales, and Top Production recognitions. In December 2002 he started Media Solutions where he continued his publishing career as president and CEO.

Chris had a successful career at Vulcan Publications from 1988 until 2002.  His first year, he was awarded the Rookie of the Year award, followed by 20 years of employee of the year, Top Sales, and Top Production recognitions.  In December 2002 he started Media Solutions where he continued his publishing career as president and CEO.  

His additional life passion centered around accessibility and continued education and demonstration of a full life lived while in a wheelchair. In 1998 he completed the Dawson Memorial 5K which was a prelude to his relationship with Teresa.  One of their first outings was Chris' challenge to her to complete a wheelchair race at Pelham City Park.

Chris was born in Coos Bay, Oregon and spent most of his childhood living half the year in Coos Bay, Oregon with his grandparents and the other half in Miami, Florida. In Miami, Chris learned to love deep sea fishing; a passion that he carried all through life.  A tragic accident in Chris's 20's resulted in him spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair. Chris took this event as inspiration to work hard and help other facing similar situations. This passion led Chris to serve as Chairman of the Board for United Spinal Association from 2013 to 2017. He loved Alabama football.  Some of his best memories were spending time with friends at football games. Chris loved going on vacation with Teresa, and they especially treasured making fantastic memories in Key West.   

Chris joined the United States Army in 1981 and served several years in Germany.  In 1984, Chris was awarded the Army Achievement Medal for outstanding meritorious service.  While serving his country, Chris continued his education and earned his associate degree from Central Texas College in 1987.  

He is preceded in death by his father, Brent and sister, Lisa Harkins.

Chris is survived by his mother, Betty Jo Cooper; wife, Teresa Cooper; daughters, Meghan Gomez, Michele Hall and granddaughter, Sofia; brother, Bobby Cooper and niece Miranda Harkins.  

"AGMA and Gear Solutions had a solid working relationship since its inception, and this continued even with the purchase of Randall Publishing in late 2019. We appreciated his support for our programs, and his covering the industry via his magazines," said AGMA President Matt Croson. "When my daughter was accepted and went to the University of Alabama, he said to me 'if anything happens, I will be her dad until you get down here,' and I thought that was so nice, and a testament to who he was as a person."