Richard J. Cooper

“Coop”

Surfside Beach, SC

Pine Bush, NY

Our hearts are broken as we mourn our loss. Richard died at home on July 14, 2026  in South Carolina after a long illness. He was 66. Rich was a resident of Surfside Beach, SC and a former long time resident of Pine Bush, NY. The son of the late Richard C. Cooper and Margaret “Peggy” Hanley Cooper, he was born on September 16,1959 in Manhattan. A Veteran, Rich served in the US Army as a Ranger.

Rich worked as a Secure Hospital Treatment Assistant at Mid Hudson Forensic Psychiatric  Center until his retirement after 30 years of employment. He also volunteered for many community functions while living in Pine Bush.  Rich coached youth soccer for many years, also coached girls softball. He enjoyed it very much. A Family statement reads: “Rich was a loyal Husband , Father, Uncle, Brother, Grandfather and friend. His humor was contagious, generally leaving those who knew him laughing for a long time. He loved his vacations at the New Jersey shore with his sister Mary and Ray and all the kids! Above else he loved his family and  friends tremendously. He will be missed by those who loved him.”

Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Mandi Cooper at home, daughters, Mallory Cooper and fiancé, Sean Pack of Surfside Beach SC., Alise Cooper and her partner of Socastee, SC., 2 grandsons who he was devoted too, Caleb Cooper and William Kell  both of SC, sister, Mary Perry and her husband Ray Perry of Pine Bush (Rich’s friend and partner in crime). Rich is further survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He loved and appreciated you all. He is predeceased by his mother and father  Margaret “Peggy” Cooper and Richard C. Cooper, his son, Richard J. Cooper II, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday July 29, 2026 from 4-7pm at the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc. 1525 Burlingham Rd. Pine Bush, NY. Funeral Mass will be offered on Thursday July 30, 2026 at 10am at the Church of Infant Saviour.  Burial will follow at New Prospect Cemetery in Pine Bush, NY.  To leave an online condolence, please visit www.wmgaganfuneralhome.com.