Vanessa L. Cooper

Vanessa Lynn Cooper, 47, of Bucyrus died early Thursday, December 31, 2020 at her home under the care of her family and Heartland Hospice after a courageous battle with throat cancer.



She was born in Marion on January 17, 1973 to Ken Hensley and Nellie (Naveja) Morris who both survive in Bucyrus. She met Herman Cooper in the summer of 1990 and began dating late in the year. Vanessa graduated from Bucyrus High School in 1991 and she and Herman were married that fall on October 5. She wanted to be a mother for many years and was later blessed with daughter Sierra and son Sawyer.



Vanessa worked for several years at BPT and returned to Walmart where she served in a variety of positions but especially liked the photo department and last worked at the service counter. She will be remembered as a simple person with and huge heart who loved making a difference in the lives of others. Whether it was being a loving aunt while longing to start her own family or offering a hug to someone ordering photos after losing a loved one, Vanessa always cared no matter how difficult her own circumstances were. She was a great mom who supported her kids with their activities. She especially loved cheering for Sawyer when he was on the football field or grappling with opponents on the wrestling mats. She shared some good times socializing with friends at the Moose Lodge and was a fan of OSU and Cincinnati Bengals football. At home, Vanessa enjoyed family time, playing games on her phone, and was a great cook, especially her lasagna and enchiladas.



In addition to her dad and mom, Vanessa is survived by her husband of 29 years, Herman Cooper; their children, Sierra and Sawyer Cooper; granddaughter, Raven Shope; siblings, Kenny (Katrina) Naveja, Jennifer Glines, and Patricia (Matt) Horsley, Brad Brown, Kenny Hensley, Amber Hensley and Austin Fox; father-in-law, Herman (Sammy) Cooper; brother-in-law, Michael A. Cooper; and many loving extended family and friends.



She was preceded in death by stepdad, Randy Morris; grandparents, Tita & Papi Naveja and Stanley & Jane Hensley; step grandparents, William & Patricia Morris; and mother-in-law, Hannah Cooper.



Vanessa’s family will receive friends at Wise Funeral Service on Tuesday, January 5 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Her funeral will be private before she is laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery.



Donations to the funeral home to assist with expenses are appreciated. Photos and memories can be shared on Vanessa’s tribute page.