Frances Cooper

Ranny Cooper, 78, of Newton, passed away after a long illness with Alzheimer's disease on October 7, 2025.
Ranny was the beloved daughter of the late Audrey and David Cooper and the devoted wife of the late David Smith. She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Marion and David Pollock; her cherished nieces, Sara DeMedeiros (Rodney) and Liz Pollock (Elan Babchuck); five great-nieces and nephews; her stepdaughters, Lisa Cook and Jessica Smith; many Cooper and Leventhal cousins; and a myriad of dear friends and admirers.
Her lifelong commitment to politics and public service began when she volunteered on the Massachusetts congressional campaign of Father Robert Drinan, where she ultimately became Chief of Staff. Ranny later became Chief of Staff to Senator Edward M. Kennedy. Following her years in government, she served as President of Weber Shandwick's public affairs practice, leading the firm's research and advocacy advertising divisions.
Donations in Ranny's memory may be made to Emily's List https://emilyslist.org/
Jacob's Pillow https://donate.jacobspillow.org/rannycooper or the Edward M. Kennedy Institute https://emkinstitute.org/. See website for service infomation.
Levine Chapels, Brookline
www.levinechapels.com
617.277.8300