Donna “Sue” Cooper, a loving mother, Nene, sister, aunt, and friend, left our lives on August 31, 2022, at Solace House of the Ozarks in Joplin, MO.

Sue was born on December 5, 1948, sharing a birthday with her father. She was the daughter of the late Leland and Lois (Cary) Leach. Sue graduated from Webb City High School in 1966. She worked for General Mills for over 40 years before her retirement. She was dedicated to her job as a logistic coordinator. Longtime friend and boss, Kevin Wilson, described her as a “trail blazer”. “She was a single mom who worked very hard, loved her daughter and grandchildren more than anything and was incredible at her job. She helped shape the facility into what it is today. She cared about her coworkers and the people who worked the floor doing her best to balance their lives with the needs of the business.

Sue’s greatest joy and achievement was her daughter Jenny Lynn Cooper. She instilled a strong work ethic and encouraged her to achieve her dreams. Sue was an incredible Nene to her grandchildren Hunter and Emma Simkin. She helped shape them into the people they are today and was incredibly proud of being their Nene. She loved them more than anything and spent the last 17 plus years living with them and her daughter.

Sue is survived by her daughter Jenny Cooper, Joplin, Mo. Her grandchildren Hunter and Emma Simkin, Joplin, Mo. Her sister Becky Hopper, husband Steve and nephews Phil and Travis Hopper and their families. Her sister Judith Trist, husband Brian and nieces Kristi and Kim and their families.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Solace House of the Ozarks in Joplin, MO, the staff, and volunteers for helping love Sue in her final days providing peace and joy for not only her but also her family.

Sue touched many lives throughout her precious years here on earth and will continued to be loved and missed by many.