Howard Reid Cooper, born on December 17, 1952, passed away on March 6, 2025. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Jacobs Cooper; his children, Adam Cooper (Andrea Downs), Brian Cooper (Lisa Field), and Ilana Gainey (Patrick Gainey); and his eight cherished grandchildren: Jack, Stella, Molly, Cece, Quinn, Boden, Charlie, and Bennett. He is also survived by his brother, Stuart Cooper. He was predeceased by his sister, Phyllis Dinitz. 

Howard grew up in Flushing Meadows, New York, and attended Francis Lewis High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Miami and a Master of Science in Urban Affairs from Hunter College. 

Howard led a life of purpose, dedicating the first part of his career to public service and furthering the hopes of others. He worked as the Director of Social Services for the City of Trenton, then as an Executive Director in New Brunswick, NJ. He later transitioned to serve as the Director of the New Jersey Society of Optometric Physicians, where he continued to make an enduring impact.

He was also a dedicated volunteer, and gave his time to Opening Eyes Special Olympics New Jersey and contributed to the Lake Naomi Club in the Poconos, serving on the Finance Committee and the Board of Governors.

Howard never missed a chance to laugh and play with his grandkids, who were a source of unwavering love that he shared back two-fold.  Young at heart and youthful in his outlook, ‘Poppi’ as he was affectionately referred, viewed his eight grandchildren as one of his greatest sources of happiness.

Above all, Howard found joy in time spent with Sharon over a marriage that spanned 47 years, both travelling the world and watching TV together after a long day of pickleball. He will be deeply missed.

Howard leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of his loved ones. Though he is deeply missed, the love and laughter he shared will forever be a beacon of light to those who knew him.

Services to honor his life will be held on Sunday March 9th at 11:00am, at Burns Funeral Home (1514 Woodbourne Road, Levittown, PA 19057). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to CHOP (Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia) or simply an act of kindness in his memory.

Following the Service there will be a luncheon at Café Antonio’s at 107 East Trenton Avenue, Morrisville, PA 19067.