Debra A Cooper

Debra Ann Cooper (née Harshman), of Dayton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on November 21, 1955, in Dayton, Deb grew up in a big, close family—one of seven children of Mary Ellen and Don Harshman—and carried that sense of family and belonging into every season of her life. 

In February 1982, Deb married the love of her life, Gary Cooper, and together they built a home marked by quiet faithfulness, simple joys, and a deep, steadfast love. Though health challenges arrived early and persisted throughout her life, Deb met them with courage, humor, and a heart that remained open to others. She often said that love is measured in the small, daily choices we make for one another; Gary agrees that this is how their story was written—one faithful, ordinary day at a time. 

Deb’s working years were shaped by illness, yet she found meaningful ways to contribute and connect. She briefly worked at the downtown library and later volunteered at the Troy Street branch, combing through old newspapers to help assemble archival obituaries and family records. That quiet, meticulous work fit her perfectly: she honored other people’s stories, preserving names and dates so families could remember. It was an act of service that mirrored how she approached life—patient, attentive, and full of care for details that matter. 

A gentle soul, Deb loved nature. She delighted in birds and hummingbirds, sunflowers and evening light, and the peaceful rhythm of watching the world from the porch. In younger years she and Gary wandered trails at John Bryan, Glen Helen, and along the Tennessee River, tucking away little moments of beauty. At home, she kept feeders full and eyes open, enjoying the chatter of birds and the flicker of hummingbird wings. As her senses dimmed, she listened more closely—soaking in the sounds of wind, leaves, and the low chorus of neighborhood life at sunset. 

Deb had a gift for making home feel like refuge. Evenings were simple and sacred: she’d bring over her giraffe blanket and zebra pillow, settle in close to Gary on the couch, and they would be—together. Their dog Molly knew the routine and waited for her treat, content to curl up as the house grew quiet. These were Deb’s favorite hours: unhurried, ordinary, and full of love. 

Deb is survived by her devoted husband, Gary, and a large extended family of siblings, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who became family along the way. She was preceded in death by loved ones who welcomed her Home, and whose memories she kept tenderly in the stories she told and the recipes she baked. 

Deb’s life was anchored in faith. She cherished fellowship, prayer, and the kindness of a church family that walked with her and Gary through hard seasons. She believed the Lord would carry them, and she lived that trust with a quiet steadiness that encouraged everyone around her. 

Those who knew Deb will remember her gentle presence, her love of simple beauty, and the way she saw—and saved—other people’s stories. In honoring her, we will keep doing the same: noticing what is good, caring for one another, and making time to sit together at day’s end. 

Service Information November 21, 2025, 6pm — BellHop Cafe/WINGS Christian Fellowship, 26 N West St, Bellbrook, OH 45305 

Memorial Contributions In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes all gifts/donations to support [surviving spouse / church benevolence fund], causes that reflect Deb’s love for Christ, stories, and community.