Hester Black Cope

Hester B. Cope, 83, of Florence, passed away on March 26, 2024. 

Hester was born in Louisville, KY, on November 18, 1940.   She graduated from the University of Houston in 1963 with a degree in communication arts. She worked as an elementary school teacher before moving to Florence in 1971 with her husband, David Cope.    

Hester lived a life of service and leadership.  She was passionate about helping those in need and improving the community. Hester started the first curbside recycling program in the City of Florence and served as the Recycling Coordinator from 1988 – 92.   She was recognized with statewide awards for this initiative including Alabama’s Volunteer of the Year in 1991 and the Conservationist of the Year in 1992. Hester became the first Main Street Director for the City of Florence in 1992 and served in that role until her retirement in 2008. She worked tirelessly to revitalize downtown Florence with business recruitment, events, and beautification projects. She was twice a finalist for the Shoals Woman of the Year Award.  

Hester was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Florence where she served as an elder. Through FPC, she volunteered for local missions including the community soup kitchen, the farmers’ market gleaning project, Room in the Inn and Safeplace.  She served on the board of directors of the Shoals Community Clinic and CaringPlace of the Shoals, where she worked to raise significant funds for the opening of their new facility.

Hester was devoted to her family, and she was the most wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She leaves behind a legacy of love and an example of a Christian life of service.

Hester was preceded in death by her husband, David Cope.   Survivors include her daughter, Katie Cope Drewry and son-in-law Steve Drewry; grandchildren Lauren Kate Drewry and Nate Drewry; brother William Black and sister-in-law Sharon Black; and nieces Christina Black and Ellen Black. 

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Florence or CaringPlace of the Shoals.