Geraldine D. Cooper

Geraldine ‘Gerry’ Dellinger Cooper

February 4, 1932-October 28, 2019

Geraldine ‘Gerry’ Dellinger Cooper went home to be with her Heavenly Father on October 28, 2019 in Avon, Indiana at the age of 87. She was preceded in death March 3, 2016 by her husband of 63 years, Leonard W Cooper.

After their marriage September 2, 1952 they moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico and in 1954 to Cincinnati Ohio where they lived for over 60 years. They were members of St Paul United Church of Christ in North College Hill for over 60 years. Gerry moved to Avon, Indiana in March, 2019 to be closer to her daughter Amy Richards, her husband Bob Richards, and grandchildren Dylan and Devin.

Gerry was born February 4, 1932 in Stevens City, Frederick County, VA to Fletcher Dellinger, Sr. and Edith (Ludwig) Dellinger. She was the 8th of 17 children born in the family and grew up on the family farms in Middletown, VA. and Stephens City, VA. Gerry graduated from James Wood High School in Winchester, VA in 1951.

She is survived by daughters Diane Frandoni (Gary) of Cincinnati, Deborah Feldmann (Herb) of Tarpon Springs, Florida; and Amy Richards (Bob) of Avon, Indiana; and son Philip Cooper (Kathy) of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She deeply loved her 9 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren.

Gerry is survived by sisters Reba Cooper of Front Royal, VA.; Ellen Clark of Logan, OH; Kenneth Dellinger of Stephenson, VA; Evelyn Hollar of Woodstock, VA; Irene Evans of Kansas City, MO; Charles Robert Dellinger of Athens, OH; and Margaret Merritt of Fredericksburg, VA. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Katherine ‘Kitty ’Mullikan, Edward Dellinger, Everett Leo Dellinger, Fletcher ‘Junior’ Dellinger, Mary Williams, Alice Faye Blye, JoAnne Cullers, Hope Dellinger, and Francis Dellinger.

Gerry had the heart of a caregiver, having assisted with raising livestock, farm crops, and seven younger siblings using skills taught to her by her parents and her seven older siblings. Her very large family never had much in material wealth, but none of them ever went hungry. Mama and Pop made sure of that, with provisions produced on the family farm or bartered with neighbors. Gerry said she had the most wonderful childhood and wouldn’t change a single thing.

Gerry worked for Federated Department Stores, Mt. Healthy Christian Home, and Star Bank (US Bank). She was very active in North College Hill Schools in band boosters and as a room mother; and in the choir of St Paul UCC. Following the passing of her husband, she was greatly helped with chores, friendship and meals by North College Hill neighbors Dave Dieters, Linda Dieters, David Dieters, Tom Small, and Tina Small.

Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon November 1, 2019 in the chapel of Flanner Buchanan Funeral Home, Indianapolis, Indiana, 2706 Kessler Blvd W Dr., followed by a service at 1:00pm. The service will be officiated by Pastor Barry Bordenkircher, St. Paul United Church of Christ, Cincinnati. A catered meal will follow.

The family suggests any memorials be made to Life’s Journey Hospice, 10241 E CR 100N, Indianapolis, IN 46234; www.lifesjourney-avon.com. Life’s Journey is a family ministry providing compassionate end of life care that made Gerry’s final days more comfortable.