Obituary of Barbara A. Cooper

Barbara Cooper, age 67, of Hewitt died peacefully on February 17th, 2020, with family by her side. Barbara was born on December 23rd, 1952 in Astoria, NY to William and Mary Lou Mack. She graduated from Northern Highlands Regional High School in Allendale, NJ, and received her degree in Social Work from William Paterson University. After many years in the field, Barbara decided to work closer to home and earned her real estate license. She worked with Real Estate Consultants as an agent until her retirement. Barbara is survived by her husband, Richard Cooper; her children, Jason Oliver and wife Jennifer, Kristy Ascone and husband Ryan; Richard’s children Heather Cooper and Adam Cooper; grandchildren, Braiden, Carter and Samantha Ascone, and Julie Oliver, siblings; Stacey McMahon, Kim Mack, and William Mack. She is preceded in death by her parents William and Mary Lou Mack. Barbara grew up in Connecticut and Upper Saddle River, NJ. Her family also maintained a cottage in Stoddard, NH on Highland Lake where many childhood memories were formed. Because she loved adventure, Barbara explored western Europe by backpack during her teen years. Later in life, with a family of her own, Barbara summer vacationed in Virginia and the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but some of her greatest adventures were those near and within West Milford where she raised her family. An afternoon visiting a local farm was an afternoon Barbara loved. She could appreciate seeking out the best seasonal fruits, vegetables and flowers for her gardens. One of the best trips she would recall was the beloved one she took with her husband to Lancaster, PA where they would visit the famous Sights and Sounds theater followed by dinner at an Amish style buffet. Barbara loved the variety they offered of Amish and home-style culinary fare. Creating lasting memories with her friends and family was Barbara’s greatest dedication. She valued hosting barbeques, notably with wings and her famous brisket, along with holidays, graduations, birthdays and two of her favorites - bridal and baby showers, that marked the growth of her precious family. Time with family was always Barbara’s greatest joy. She adored being surrounded by the ones she loved. As Barbara’s health began to decline and she was unable to continue traveling, she made the best of her situation. She befriended almost every nurse, doctor, and technician she encountered gifting them bracelets and trinkets she knew would brighten their day. Scrapbooking, drawing, and other arts and crafts were activities that brought Barbara much joy over the years. She made beautiful books honoring her family and their accomplishments and when that became too much she hand made cards and picture frames for her loved ones to enjoy. Barbara was always thinking of others and now we will always think of her and the love she had for us as we navigate life without her. A memorial service will be held at Living Word Alliance Church, 93 North Lake Shore Dr, Hewitt, NJ 07421 on March 7 at 1 pm with a reception to follow. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Barbara’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Living Word Alliance Church in Barbara’s honor.