Ida Mae Baker, 81, passed away at Westridge Gardens on December 1, 2017. She was born July 31, 1936 in Helena, Arkansas to the union of Teresa Hudson and Eddie L. Green. Her family moved to Kansas City in 1938. She married Willie L. Cooper, Sr. and from this union she bore four children: Pastor Willie C. Cooper, Jr. (deceased), Pastor Anthony O. Cooper (deceased), Minister Teresa L. Jackson (deceased) and Charles W. Cooper.

Ida accepted Christ at an early age and used her gift of music to the glory of God everywhere she went. Ida was a pianist, choir director and Sunday school teacher for over twenty years at Emmanuel Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Bishop W.H. White, Sr. She received her degree in biblical studies from the School of Missionary and Evangelism at Emmanuel Baptist Church. She was most noted for her lead vocals on gospel songs, "Till I Die" and "Surely He's Able". Her voice echoed throughout the sanctuary and I the hearts of those who witnessed her anointed delivery. She was also over the children's choir and at Emanuel, giving all of the kids an opportunity to exercise their gifts.

In 1988, Ida moved to Atlanta, Georgia. After some searching, she was lead to the First Iconium Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Timothy McDonald. She also served there as a musician, director and Sunday school teacher. Her influence was so anointed that she was honored by having the choir named after her, "Ida Mae Baker Gospel Choir". She has been a blessing to the kingdom of God.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Charles W. Cooper, Jr. (Sherri) of Raytown, MO; brother, Ovell Thomas (Fran) of Kansas City, MO; two sisters, Deborah Mays of Kansas City, MO and Shirley Carroll of Houston, TX; her best friend, Betty Williams; twelve grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, her First Iconium Baptist and Emmanuel Baptist Church families.