Missouri Southern is honored to host the funeral services for Corporal Ben Cooper and Officer Jake Reed in the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center this week. The university is working in cooperation with the Missouri Law Enforcement Funeral Assistance Team.
In preparation for the influx of visitors, there will be increased road closures and extended reserved parking lots on campus this week. Attached you will find a campus map indicating the reserved and closed areas. We understand this could be a displacement for our students, faculty and staff, and appreciate your patience and understanding as we seek to honor these community heroes.
STUDENTS: Please note the following buildings will be closed on Tuesday, March 15, and Friday, March 18:
- Julio S. León Health Sciences Center
- Leggett & Platt Athletic Center and Young Gymnasium
- Taylor Hall of Education
Please check your university email and Blackboard as it relates to where and how your classed will be delivered. The dental hygiene clinic will be closed as well.
RESERVED/CLOSED PARKING FOR VISITATION, FUNERAL SERVICES
Green parking areas: Tuesday and Friday | 3/15 and 3/18
- Lower lot near the tennis courts
- Lower lot near the football stadium
- North End Zone and football stadium parking
- Behind Leggett & Platt Center and Young Gymnasium
- Behind Taylor Hall
Yellow parking areas: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday | 3/14, 3/15, 3/17 and 3/18
- In front of Julio León Health Sciences building
- Circle drive in front of Young Gym
Red closure areas: Tuesday and Friday | 3/15 and 3/18
Please note, the funeral processionals will take place on Tuesday and Friday, 3/15 and 3/18 starting between 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. traveling East on Newman Road toward downtown Joplin. Access to Newman Road during this time will be limited.
SERVICE INFORMATION
Currently, the funeral plans for Corporal Ben Cooper and Officer Jake Reed are as follows:
Public visitation for Cpl. Cooper will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, March 14, in the Leggett & Platt gym. A public funeral service for will take place at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, at the same location.
Public visitation for Officer Reed will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 17, in Leggett & Platt. A public funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, March 18.
Missouri Southern stands in support of the Joplin Police Department and other area law enforcement agencies, who commit themselves each and every day to making a positive contribution to their communities.