Gary Div. Obituary
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Age 82, peacefully went home to the Lord on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, formerly of Akron, OH. Loving Husband of the late Evelyn (Martin) Cooper. Cherished Father of Deborah (Will) Brandt and Jonathan (Jyll) Cooper. Grandpa "G.Pa" to Dawn (Eric) Snatchko, McKennan Cooper, Kennedy Cooper, Kendra Brandt, and Wilbur Brandt who carries on his legacy of love and kindness. Son of the late John "Jack" and Helen Cooper. Brother-in-Law of the late Dr's Richard and Ruth Haude.
Gary was a dedicated servant of the Presbyterian Church, holding the position of Pastor at the First United Presbyterian Church in Sodus, New York, Concord Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the First Presbyterian Church of Marietta, Ohio. His warm spirit and commitment to his congregation endeared him to all, adopting many as his unofficial "kids" and "grandkids," and leaving a lasting impact in their lives.
Recognized as a visionary, Gary founded Present Help Inc., a Cancer Ministry that continues to deliver essential spiritual support to cancer patients and their families across Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas. His legacy of compassion further flourished through his roles as Organist and Choir Director at Brentwood Presbyterian Church and as a proud member of the Bach Choir of Pittsburgh.
Gary's love of music resonated deeply within his soul, and his harmonious contributions uplifted many over the years. He lived a rich and fulfilling spiritual life, a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to others.
Funeral services will be held to celebrate Gary's remarkable life on November 1, 2025, at the Impact Christian Church 330 Hookstown Grade Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, at 10 AM with family and friends gathering to share in song, and prayers in honor of a man who touched so many lives.
As we mourn the loss of Gary Jon Cooper, we also rejoice in the memories of his joyful spirit, celebrating an extraordinary life filled with faith, love, and music. His warmth and wisdom will continue to inspire us all as we remember a true servant of God.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Rev. Gary Cooper to Impact Christian Church via the following link https://impactpittsburgh.com/give/
www.ReadshawFuneralHome.com
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3 Entries
Thomas P. Lauritzen
September 27, 2025
Gary Jon, as he seemed to prefer, was an enduring close friend of mine for many years and we shared wonderful times together. His preaching, instrumental, singing, counseling, conversational, intelligence, languages acumen (fluent in several) and praying talents were extraordinary. I participated in many of his talent applications with vigor. His faith in Our Lord and Savior was nonpareil. By my comments you may know that he was a remarkable Christian who lived a full life and shared it humbly with all whom he affiliated. I will miss him dearly, and look forward to celebrating his life on November 1st. I praise God for the presence and privilege of Gary Jon's association with me, and I'm content that he is now fully embraced in Jesus' care.
I know his children well, love them, and pray God's blessings will support them, his grandchildren and all others in the family as they grieve.
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Betty Lynn Davey-Pepka
September 26, 2025
Gary aka "The Rev" was a very special man. He and his wife Evelyn pastored Concord Presbyterian Church in Carrick (Pittsburgh) Pa throughout much of my life. He gave many altar calls, bringing many to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. I will never forget him. I rejoice that he is now singing with his Savior and his beautiful wife.
Brad Barker
September 25, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear of Gary´s passing. Gary´s kindness and generosity were evident in everything he did-whether sharing a smile, lending a hand, or making us laugh with his wonderful sense of humor. His love of Disney reflected his playful spirit, and his love of helping others reflected his true calling. I´ll never forget picking his brain of ideas for taking my girlfriend (now wife) on a surprise trip to Disney to ask her to marry her. Gary accidentally let the surprise slip the Sunday before we were leaving because he was so excited and was going to be down there around the same time, but it took some of the pressure and anxiety off of me at the same moment. We still laughed at that up until his passing.
His years of service as choir director and organist at Brentwood Presbyterian Church left a lasting impact on all of us. He guided our music with both skill and heart, lifting spirits each Sunday and reminding us of the joy that comes through worship.
We are grateful for the many ways he touched our lives and enriched our church family. May his memory continue to inspire us to live with the same joy, compassion, and faith that he so beautifully shared.
With deepest sympathy and prayers,
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1503 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15210
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