That year, they were also recognized at the National Folk Festival in Washington, D.C., having been chosen through a competition to represent the state of West Virginia.
[6] They were hired to do a series of transcribed shows to be aired across the country, a project that would considerably increase their reach and help them gain a large following.
They remained connected to the Leary Family tradition as well, recording popular gospel songs like "The Tramp on the Street" and "Walking My Lord Up Calvary's Hill".
[citation needed] The Cooper's daughter, Carol Lee Cooper, was the lead singer for the Grand Ole Opry's backup vocal group, The Carol Lee Singers until she announced her retirement live on the Opry on March 24, 2012.
[citation needed] Wilma Lee Cooper died from natural causes on September 13, 2011, at her home in Sweetwater, Tennessee.
[citation needed] LP Gusto Records PO-242 (1975) Wilma Lee and Stoney Cooper – Walking my Lord up Calvary's Hill