Betty Cooper

Betty Cooper, 100, a long-time resident of Lower Askam and Lake Silkworth, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 20, 2025, just two days before her 101st birthday.

Born in Nanticoke, Betty was the daughter of the late Frank and Margaret Woolacot Davison. She graduated from Hanover High School in 1942 and contributed to the World War II effort by working in a factory producing supplies for the defense industry. Later, she earned her certification from beauty school and held various jobs while raising her family.

On Oct. 4, 1947, she married the love of her life, John "Jack" Cooper. Together they raised their family in Lower Askam and eventually retired to their beloved cottage at Lake Silkworth. They enjoyed being active in their church, traveling to Florida during winters and spending time with family and friends.

Betty's infectious laugh and warm spirit were the heartbeat of the Cooper family. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren will forever treasure the memories of playing pitch with her—a highlight of every family gathering. She was a devoted Penn State football fan and renowned for her Huckleberry Tart, Welsh cookies, and ensuring every gathering was filled with food and warmth.

Betty was a lifelong member of Askam United Methodist Church, where she and Jack were honored in 2014 for their years of service. She found joy and friendship in the women's club and her church community.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Frank and Earnest Davison; son-in-law, Herbert Woodeshick; grandson, John Longenecker; and great-granddaughter, Cana Josephine Paules.

She is survived by her children, Carol Longenecker (Marshall), Susan Woodeshick, Janet Jones—all of Lake Silkworth—and John Cooper Jr. (Rebeca) of Orlando, Fla. Betty was a devoted mother and proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

On her 100th birthday, Betty was interviewed by Chelsea Strub and featured on Channel 16 news, where she credited her longevity to a daily breakfast of one egg, two slices of bacon, toast and a cup of coffee—and her love of playing cards with family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Commonwealth Home Health and Commonwealth Hospice, as well as Joan Strub and Roseanne Moser for their loving care and support in recent years.

A celebration of Betty's remarkable life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, in Askam United Methodist Church. Family and friends are invited to visit beginning at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Craig Mark, her pastor, will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made in Betty's memory to the Askam United Methodist Church, 2811 S. Main St., Hanover Township, PA 18706

Arrangements are in the care of Dinelli Family Funeral Home, Nanticoke.

To leave the family a condolence or expression of sympathy, please visit the funeral home website: www.dinellifuneralhome.com.