February 22, 1928 – December 1, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that the family of the late Gladdie Alexandra Cooper (nee Hodge) announce the passing of their beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend at the age of 95 years.
Gladdie was born at home in Savage Cove in 1928, the first of five children. Following her adored mother’s passing in childbirth, 15-year-old Gladdie left school to care for her siblings. Shortly after, her family moved by dog sled to Main Brook, to be closer to relatives. There Gladdie met and married Thomas Cooper in 1947. They had two children before moving to St.Anthony in 1954.
Gladdie always held education in high regard. Once her family were raised, she continued her education by achieving her high school diploma in night school. Then she completed a correspondence certificate in practical nursing which would eventually lead her into a career in health care. She always encouraged her children and grandchildren in their studies, and celebrated their every accomplishment.
Rightly named, Gladdie had a beautiful smile and warm heart. She was a sincere and caring person who loved welcoming and supporting others. She began her career by serving her community as a friendly face of the several general retail stores on the East Side of St. Anthony. Later she transitioned to work at the IGA Dr. Charles S.Curtis Memorial Hospital as a switchboard operator. Her kind and engaging attitude made her a natural choice for on the job training as a dental assistant. In that role, she made many friends and happy memories, and brought reassurance to many dental patients (young and old) until she retired.
She had a deep commitment to her faith in God during her lifetime and was a dedicated member of the church. She was an active member of the ACW at St.Mary’s Church, St.Anthony for over 60 years.
The happiest times of her life were shared with her family and friends, particularly annual summer vacations in their truck camper and motor home. Gladdie treasured her memories of the people and places that brought so much joy to her life. She particularly enjoyed connecting with her cousins. Her family was of utmost importance to her, each one holding a special place in her heart.
Leaving to mourn with a lifetime of fond and loving memories are her daughter Rose (Arne Helgeland), son Kevin (Dora), grandchildren DeAnn Vincent (Fred), Dana Cooper (Ben), and Michael Cooper; great-grandchildren: Emily Vincent, and Liliane Cooper-LaChance as well as many other nieces, nephews, extended family and friends, especially those living in the area who frequently visited Gladdie and supported her in the absence of her immediate family.
Gladdie was predeceased by her much-missed husband Thomas; her parents Philip Hodge and Rosanna Hodge (White); Siblings; Cora Cassidy (Reg), Dulcie Hancock (Willis), Bill Hodge (Mary), and Dan Hodge (Marie); In Laws, Wilfred Simms (Goldie), Cornelia Sweetland (Art), Cyril Cooper (Fanny), Harold Cooper (Effie), Joe Cooper (Annie), Lillian Sansford (Harry).
The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to the numerous healthcare professionals at Dr. Charles S. Curtis Memorial Hospital and the staff at Shirley’s Haven. Their expertise, compassion and patience will never be forgotten.
Visitation to take place from Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home in St. Anthony on Monday, December 4, 2023 from 2-4 pm and 7-8:30 pm with family prayer taking place from 8:30-9 pm. The funeral service will be held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church in St. Anthony on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 11:00 am with Rev. Arthur Kinsella officiating. Interment to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Mary’s Church at parishofstanthonynl@gmail.com.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Kerry M. Fillatre Funeral Home, St. Anthony and Roddickton, Alicia Reardon Funeral Dreictor.
