Edward R. Coursey

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. — Edward R. Coursey, 82, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., died Saturday, April 27, 2019 at the Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau, Mo. Mr. Coursey was born December, 23, 1936 in Brookfield, Mo. to the late Charles and Lenora Stapleton Coursey.

He attended public schools in Poplar Bluff, Mo and was a 1954 graduate of Wheatley High School. He was a 1957 graduate of Lincoln University (Mo.) and completed his Masters studies at SEMO Univ. (Cape Girardeau). He was also a U.S. Army Veteran.

In August, 1966 he wed Mildred Butler Coursey, who survives of the home. They are the parents of a son, Dwayne Coursey.

Mr. Coursey was a noted area educator, having served in various academic capacities during his 60 years of service.

He was an accomplished musician and a music teacher in several bootheel school systems.

At the time of his retirement, he was principal at the Mingo Job Corps Center but afterwards remained active in his community, church and Masonic Lodge. He was a faithful, dedicated, member of Brown Chapel A.M.E. Church in Poplar Bluff, Mo. He was Worshipful Master in the Prince Hall Grand Lodge and Past Worthy Patron In the Eastern Star Silas R. Thompson Chapter 113.

In addition to his wife and son, he is survived by one brother, Ronald Coursey; a daughter-in-law, Kristy; two grandchildren, Aaliyah and William Coursey and other nieces, nephews, cousins, his Masonic family and friends.

Services are scheduled for Friday, May 3 at the Brown Chapel AME Church in Poplar Bluff with The Rev. William Harrold officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m.- noon with Masonic Rites from noon - 1 p.m., followed by funeral services at 1 p.m. Burial, with full military honors will be held at City Cemetery in Poplar Bluff.

Driver Funeral Service of Sikeston, Mo. is in charge of arrangements and services. Online condolences can be made at www.driverfuneralservice.com.

Paid