Sue Cooper

Sue Cooper

January 8, 1955 – December 11, 2025

With heavy hearts and grateful spirits, we announce the passing of Sue Cooper, honoring a life that touched so many. She was surrounded with the love of her family and the warmth of shared memories.

Susan Marie Rohrmann Cooper, lovingly known as Sue, was born on January 8, 1955, in Yonkers New York to Margaret and George Rohrmann. She grew up in Madison, New Jersey, where she graduated from Madison High School in 1973 and developed the strong, independent spirit that would define her life.

Sue's life was one of curiosity, creativity, and compassion. After briefly attending Ann May School of Nursing, she followed her artistic side and trained in cosmetology, becoming a talented hair stylist and make-up artist who helped people feel confident and seen. In 1976, Sue married, and while stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army, she welcomed twins, Jason and Jaime Terwilliger, in 1978 - one of the greatest joys of her life.

In 1982, Sue returned to the United States and settled in Grass Valley, California, where she raised her family and put down deep roots. Eventually, she returned to her calling in healthcare, becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant and later a Unit Secretary in the surgery department at Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital. For more than 30 years, Sue was a steady, trusted presence - known for her dedication, honesty, sharp wit, and no-nonsense compassion. She retired earlier this year, proud of a career spent helping others.

Sue lived life with humor, heart, and passion. She was funny, direct, and fiercely loving - especially when it came to animals. She adored her rescue dog, Chloe, and volunteered at the animal shelter where Chloe was adopted, giving her time and love to animals who needed it most.

Music filled Sue's world. She had a beautiful singing voice and an uncanny ability to sing harmonies with ease. Whether listening to The Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Andrea Bocelli, or Barbra Streisand, Sue sang along joyfully, music always close to her heart. She also loved her plants, the beach, country living, thrifting adventures, and most of all, spending cherished time with her granddaughter.

Sue's greatest legacy is the love she gave so freely. She is survived by her daughter, Jaime Terwilliger; her granddaughter, Shelby Chapman; her sister, Barbara Gilmore, and brother-in-law, Andrew Gilmore; her daughter-in-law, Kristen Terwilliger; nine nieces and nephews; and six great-nieces and great-nephews. She will also be remembered fondly by countless friends, coworkers, and all who were lucky enough to know her.

Sue lived authentically, loved deeply, and laughed often. Her voice, her strength, and her love will continue to echo in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to an animal shelter or Sammie's Friends in Sues honor, reflecting her deep love for animals - especially rescue dogs.