Obituary of Elizabeth Cooper

Elizabeth M. Cooper, 79, of Huntsville, MO passed away on January 21 surrounded by her family.  Elizabeth “Liz” was born on November 23, 1941 in Lawrence, Massachusetts to Frank and Carmela (Ragonese) DeCesare, and was affectionately called Betty by her family.  Elizabeth spent her entire childhood in Lawrence and was lucky to live close to her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.  She attended Holy Rosary Grammar School and graduated from Saint Mary’s High School in 1960.  After graduation she worked for several years at W T Grant’s Department Store in the Candy department. 

Elizabeth proudly served her country in the United Sates Army.  This is also where she met her husband, Jack.  Jack and Elizabeth were married on May 10, 1970 in El Paso, Texas.  After their marriage Elizabeth was honorably discharged and continued serving as an Army wife until Jack’s retirement several years later. 

Elizabeth worked for decades in Early Childhood Development and assisted several generations through her work as a Preschool and Kindergarten teacher.  She loved her job and the children she taught.  Elizabeth was a devoted Christian and spent many hours volunteering in different capacities at her church.  Elizabeth was also a devoted friend.  She enjoyed being with people and made everyone around her feel loved and appreciated.

Elizabeth’s greatest joy was her family.  She was very proud of her son and grandsons and treasured the titles of Mom and Grandma.

Elizabeth is survived by her son Parker Cooper, Huntsville, grandsons Sebastian and Cobie Cooper, Huntsville, and a brother John DeCesare of East Hampstead, NH.  She is preceded in death by her parents, and her loving husband Jack L. Cooper.

Services will be held on Thursday, January 28^th, 11 am, at St. Pius X Catholic Church.  Elizabeth will be buried with her husband at the Missouri Veteran’s Cemetery in Jacksonville, MO.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 27^th from 5-7 pm at Pathway Memorial Funeral Home in Moberly, MO. 

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Pius X Catholic Church, PO Box 310, Moberly, MO.

Condolences may be shared online at pathwaymemorial.com