Judith "Judy" Cooper

Judith "Judy" Cooper, a beacon of love, creativity, and organization, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, surrounded by the family that was the center of her world. Born on October 23, 1942, in Wyandotte, Michigan to the late Virginia and Joseph Amorello, Judy's journey was marked by her loving nature and the countless moments of joy she brought to others.

Judy's life was one of active service and dedicated love. She volunteered throughout her children's school years as a grade school teacher's aide, as a member of countless committees, and in celebrations of their graduating classes. Judy was also active in her community, most notably with her involvement with Saratoga and Cottage Hospitals. She helped Cottage Hospital's Auxiliary and Gift Shop Guild fundraising efforts through several events such as "An Evening with the Phantom," "A Night on Broadway," a fashion show, and most significantly, three Kitchen Tours (and the associated Preview Nights for benefactors). She also coordinated theme basket fairs, gold sales, and annual raffles. She loved volunteering on her brother-in-law's many Wayne and Macomb County Commissioner and State Senate Campaigns. Among her many roles, Judy shone brightly as Treasurer of the Michigan Liquor Vendors Association and as the publisher of the SCCA North East Michigan Region Fifth Wheel Magazine.

The same passion and commitment Judy brought to her professional and volunteer pursuits were evident in her lifelong love of her husband, J. Lewis Cooper, Jr. Their endless devotion began in 1958 when she asked him for a dance at a Notre Dame High School event. He liked her beautiful smile and cute ponytail. Judy and Lewis built a life full of beauty, tradition, and shared experiences that would span the remarkable duration of 68 years.

Judy had a special touch for selecting the perfect gifts. Her "$pecial Book$," lovingly crafted for her grandchildren, were filled with hidden $ bills, demonstrating her unique blend of creativity and thoughtfulness. Her passions were extensive and diverse. A collector of books, she instilled the love of reading in her children and grandchildren, creating precious memories along the way. Judy reveled in the art of celebration, whether decking the halls for holidays, crafting custom costumes, holding family summer camps at their Harsen's Island cottage, or hosting magnificent gatherings, her attention to detail ensured that everyone, from adults to the youngest guests, felt included and cherished. Judy was also a very talented calligrapher and had beautiful penmanship. She shared this gift generously through lovely invitations, Christmas cards, and thoughtful notes of encouragement.

Her best friends in life were her twin sister, Janine, and younger sister, Janice. Together they would enjoy many adventures including shopping, dining, and trying their luck at the slots! In addition to Las Vegas and California, they traveled the world together and visited such wonderful places as England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Malta, and even the Monaco Grand Prix. The "triplets" were real globe trotters! But it was the journey through their ancestral roots in Sicily and Romania that stood out as a heartfelt highlight, threading together family history in a vivid tapestry of lineage and love.

Even as Parkinson's disease presented profound challenges, Judy faced them with unwavering dignity, grace, and poise. Her resilience was a testament to her inner strength and the depth of character that guided her throughout her life.

Judy's legacy is lovingly cherished by her devoted husband, J. Lewis Cooper, Jr.; her proud children, J. Lewis (Susie) Cooper, III and Elizabeth (Rob) Allaer; her treasured grandchildren, Ashley, Jay, Cameron (Aimee), Nolan, Austin, Danny, and Will; her dear sisters, Janine (Fred) Scensny and Janice (John) Hertel; her caring sisters-in-law Kathy Cooper, Mary Cooper (Tom Janzito), Joyce (Bryon) Quinlan, and the memory of Gretta (Dick) Stricker; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who found inspiration in her life.

In loving memory of Judy, her indelible spirit of kindness, creativity, and thoughtfulness will continue to resonate through the many lives she touched. An exemplary member of her community, a guiding light in her family, and a true friend to many, Judy Cooper's love and generosity will never be forgotten.

Gifts in Judy's memory made to the Michigan Parkinson Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

https://parkinsonsmi.org/

Friday, March 13th - Visitation from 4-8pm at

Verheyden Funeral Home

16300 Mack Ave

Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230

Saturday, March 14th - Instate 9-10am with 10am funeral Mass following at

Our Lady Star of the Sea Church

467 Fairford Rd

Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236