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Levine Chapels

470 Harvard Street

Brookline, Massachusetts

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Memorial Service

Oct. 24, 2025

11:30 a.m.

Temple Shalom

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FRANCES COOPER Obituary

COOPER--Frances "Ranny". Ranny Cooper, 78, of Newton, passed away after a long illness with Alzheimer's disease. Ranny was the beloved daughter of the late Audrey and David Cooper and the devoted wife of the late David Smith. She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Marion and David Pollock; her cherished nieces, Sara DeMedeiros (Rodney) and Liz Pollock (Elan Babchuck); five great-nieces and nephews; her stepdaughters, Lisa Cook and Jessica Smith; many Cooper and Leventhal cousins; and a myriad of dear friends and admirers. Her lifelong commitment to politics and public service began when she volunteered on the Massachusetts congressional campaign of Father Robert Drinan, where she ultimately became Chief of Staff. Ranny later became Chief of Staff to Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Following her years in government, she served as President of Weber Shandwick's public affairs practice, leading the firm's research and advocacy advertising divisions. Donations in Ranny's memory may be made to Emily's List https://emilyslist.org/ Jacob's Pillow https://donate.jacobs pillow.org/rannycooper or the Edward M. Kennedy Institute https://emkinstitute.org/

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Oct. 12, 2025.

Memorial Events
for FRANCES COOPER

Oct

24

Memorial service

11:30 a.m.

Temple Shalom

175 Temple Street, Newton, MA 02465

Funeral services provided by:

Levine Chapels

470 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446

Memories and Condolences
for FRANCES COOPER

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1 Entry

George Thoma

October 13, 2025

Dear Marion
It was shocking to hear of Ranny's passing. We had not been in touch for many years and I always assumed she was doing well in her political and later career. What an amazing career she had!

I met Ranny in 1975 and we were together for many years. Through her I became acquainted with Father Drinan and later with Sen. Kennedy, both of whom I admired greatly. Due to her position, I was honored to attend President Carter's inaugural.

I always enjoyed her Dalmatian Corby - taking him for walks and playing with him and spoiling him as much as she did!

I remember meeting you and your parents at dinner at their home.

She was so kind and so honorable. I am so sad at her passing. With every sincere condolence to you and the family.
George Thoma

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