Alma Jean Kopert

Alma Jean Kopert, born October 17, 1924, to Willis and Olivia Caldwell, died October 27, 2019. Jean was the first female student body president of Jonesboro High School, Miss Jonesboro, and Miss Mid-South. She attended Hendrix College and the University of Arkansas where she was the Razorback Beauty. Jean met her husband, Albert Kopert of Little Rock, while portraying "Mr. and Mrs. USA Honeymooning in Arkansas", a promotional film sponsored by the Arkansas Parks Commission. In 1943 Jean and Albert married in San Antonio where Albert was stationed. After the war they returned to Jonesboro where the couple remained life-long residents.

The Koperts attended the First United Methodist Church where Jean was the pastor's assistant from 1968-1991. Her civic associations included organizer and president of P. E. O. Chapter BN, Junior Auxiliary, 20th Century Club, Tally Club, Girl Scout troop leader, ASU Museum Board, Arkansas Committee of 100, and supporter of Delta and NEA Symphonies. Jean was a founder and coach of the Jonesboro YMCA swimming team.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister, Martha Caldwell. Survivors are Karen Meeks, daughter, Caruthersville, Missouri, Robert (Trey) and Dawn Meeks, Rob and Brooke, Caldwell Kopert Meeks (Cal), Logan and Simone Meeks, Mays Kopert; Gretchen Campbell, daughter, Clear Lake City, Texas, Benjamin and Dawn Campbell, Tessa and Elle, Genevieve and Bartek Mika, Maks and Alek; Olivia, daughter, and Gary Griggs, Story City, Iowa, Emily Griggs, Parker Griggs, Blake Griggs.

Jean's loves included family, church, friends, and traveling. Her wit, concern for others, and passion for life will be missed.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday November 1, 2019, at the First United Methodist Church Chapel with Rev. Patty Soward officiating. Burial will be private with Emerson Funeral Home in charge.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 until service time on Friday in the chapel.

Memorials may be given to the First United Methodist Church or charity of choice.