Betty Cooper

Betty Cooper, born Betty Stauffer on June 6, 1945, in the vibrant heart of Iowa City, Iowa, has left us, peacefully passing away on November 6, 2025, in Clinton, Iowa. Her life, a colorful tapestry of laughter, love, and audacious frankness, will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to have shared in her journey.

Fun-loving, crazy, and unabashedly candid, Betty was a force of nature. Those who knew her could always count on her for an unfiltered opinion, often sprinkled with a touch of mischievous humor that illuminated even the darkest days. She had a unique way of seeing the world, expressing her thoughts with an unrestrained honesty that could make you laugh or gasp in surprise. Her playful heart soared with the music of the past, dancing through life’s celebrations with an energy and spirit that was truly infectious. In her youth, those dance floors became mere canvases, upon which she painted her exuberance and zest for life.

Not only did Betty find joy in lively gatherings, but she also had a tender side that shone through in her quiet moments. She adored her beloved cat, Sally, who was her constant companion, sharing the warmth of their home and the depths of her fondness. A devoted lover of Diet Pepsi, she would often indulge in the simple pleasure of a cold can, her laughter bubbling up like the very carbonation she adored.

Betty's proudest accomplishments were subtle yet profound. She poured her heart into cross-stitching blankets for her grandchildren, each stitch a testament to her unwavering love and dedication. Despite the meager means she faced in life, her generosity knew no bounds as she relentlessly sought to uplift those less fortunate, demonstrating a selflessness that inspired many around her.

Left to cherish her memories are her loving family members: her cherished sons, Richard Trude and Henry Cooper, along with Henry's wife, Jennifer; her caring daughter, Judy Reyes, and her husband, Genaro; her devoted daughter, Tina Baker, and her husband, Nathan. Betty also holds dear the company of her siblings: Larry Stauffer and his wife, Ruth; Eleanor Kay Stauffer; Bonnie Bauer; and Marvin "Doc" Turner, all continuing to celebrate the legacy of joy, candor, and love she imparted upon them.

Betty is welcomed into everlasting peace by her beloved departed family, including her father, John Stauffer, Sr., and mother, Esther Marie Clark, as well as her brother, John Stauffer Jr., who is remembered fondly by his wife, Cheryl.

In their embrace, Betty joins the ranks of the beloved, where her laughter can dance freely once more, echoing through the hearts of all who were touched by her spirit. She will forever remain a beacon of light, a reminder that life is best lived with a dash of craziness and a whole lot of love.