Cooper Lane Brown, affectionately known as "Fat Man," was born on February 12, 2026, at CAMC Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Despite entering the world at just 24 weeks old, Cooper demonstrated extraordinary strength and resilience, qualities that would define his brief but deeply impactful life. He passed away on April 14, 2026, at the same hospital, having fought bravely for two months and two days.

Cooper was one of the strongest NICU babies ever, a true fighter who faced overwhelming challenges with unwavering courage. His family and those who knew him remember how he consistently made everyone laugh and smile, even in difficult times. Cooper’s spirit shone brightly as he overcame battles most could not imagine, coming out fighting until the very end. He especially loved the attention from the nurses and, most of all, the love and care of his mommy and daddy. A beautiful and handsome baby boy, Cooper had a playful side that brought a little extra work and laughter, including his love for challenging caregivers during diaper changes.

Among his proudest accomplishments were milestones that spoke to his incredible tenacity—getting off the ventilator and the CPAP, and later managing breathing with a nasal cannula for a few hours. These achievements, though small in the grand scheme, were monumental victories that symbolized his unyielding will to live.

Cooper's family includes his devoted mother, Zoey Sands of Montcalm, WV, and his father, Jermiah Brown of Richlands, VA. He is also lovingly remembered by his grandparents Charlotte Sands, Joey Sands, Crystal Brown, and Jonathan Brown, as well as his great-grandparents Dianna Baker, Eric Baker, Barbara Brown, and Johnny Brown. Cooper is survived by his uncles Brandon Sands and Lucas Brown and his first cousin Braxton Sands.

The family will gather to honor Cooper’s memory at Cravens-Shires Funeral Home, located at 3431 Coal Heritage Road, Bluefield, WV, 24701. Family visitation is scheduled for 12:00 PM, followed by friends at 1:00 PM. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM on April 18, 2026. In loving tribute, the family requests that attendees wear camouflage or black/dark green attire to honor Cooper’s courageous spirit. Following the service, a reception dinner will take place at 4:00 PM at Lorton Lick Baptist Church, located on Lorton Lick Road, Bluewell, WV, 24701.

Cooper’s family shares this heartfelt reminder of the impact their son has left on the world: “There is no footprint too small that it does not leave an imprint in this world.”

Though his time with us was brief, Cooper Lane Brown’s strength, courage, and joyful presence have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him. He will be remembered with profound respect and everlasting love.