Phyllis Ann Cooper

Phyllis Ann Cooper, age 78, of Trenton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

She was born on March 30, 1947, in Russell County, Kentucky, to the late David and Elizabeth (Kelsey) Cooper.

Phyllis was a strong, determined woman who was stern in her ways, yet deeply forgiving and full of love. She was known for her unwavering spirit, her love of home cooking, and her well-known fondness for A&W Root Beer. Her candid honesty, dependable nature, and generous heart made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

A true trailblazer, Phyllis broke barriers throughout her life. She was among the first women to do cost estimates for the state of Kentucky and one of the earliest female welders in her field. She helped pioneer the inclusion of women in labor unions and pursued a diverse career as a watchmaker and inventor. In the 1960s, she even ran an underground newspaper, undeterred by the risks it posed, she was always standing firm in her convictions.

Phyllis is survived by her loving family: her brother, David (Connie) Cooper; sisters, Connie (Ronnie) Karns and Sherry (Dale) Burton; special niece, Lisa Curry; daughter, Stacey Gupta (Carl Collins); son, Kevin (Meredith) Crank; and her grandchildren: Shawn Gast, Laura Gast, Chris Crank, Angela Crank, Emily Isaacs, Owen Bates, David Wukusick, Jasmin Gupta, Carmella Gupta, and Nina Gupta.

She will also be missed by many dear friends: Tina Crank, Linda Begley, Linda Meyers, Tammy Bochard, Vivian G., Retha Walters, Andi Mackleham, and many other beloved family members and friends.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, David and Elizabeth Cooper; her sister, Loretta Curry; brother-in-law, L.J. Curry; nephew, James (Jamie) Curry; granddaughter, Destany Crank; and her dear friend, Joan Begley.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Baker-Stevens-Parramore Funeral Home, 6850 Roosevelt Ave., Middletown, OH 45005. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 2:00 PM at the funeral home, with Pastor Jeff Carns officiating.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at

www.bakerstevensparramore.com.