Barbara Anne Miller Cooper passed away on April 30th surrounded by her loving family.
Barbara Anne (Coop) (Aunt B) Cooper was born on Mother’s Day, May 13, 1956 to Kathy (Metully) and Tom Miller at the Barrett Hospital in Dillon, MT. She attended elementary schools in Darby, Corvallis, and Kessler, and C. R. Anderson in Helena. Coop graduated from Helena High in 1974 and enrolled that fall at the University of Montana where she remained a life-long Griz Fan. She majored in Spanish with French and Chinese minors. After completing her undergrad, Barb spent a quarter studying the Spanish language and culture in Mexico. She continued her education earning a Master’s Degree and completing all course work for a Ph.D also at the University. For the past 27 years Coop taught in the Helena Schools, primarily teaching 8th grade Spanish and JMG (Jobs for Montana Graduates) at C. R. Anderson Middle School.
While attending the University, she met and married Attorney Julio Morales III. From that union, the light of her life, her son Nick was born. After their divorce, she married David Cooper, a Helena High School English teacher. Following their divorce, Coop’s partner and companion for 15 years has been Colleen Lippke. Colleen lovingly cared for her especially during her recent illness.
Coop had a natural ability in language. Besides the Spanish, French, and Chinese she was proficient in four other languages, not including sarcasm and wit. Her language skills only enhanced her wonderful storytelling ability. Her family and students were often found rolling in laughter after hearing her tales. Coop showcased her talents as a guest actress as Jane “Appalling” Pauley at Helena’s Saturday Night Live Performances. Coop also performed as a Bombette, complete with a bright pink wig.
It is possible you could have seen Barb dressed in a cow costume, a sock monkey costume, a tutu, or a Kentucky Derby hat at the starting line of any running race, especially Bloomsday, the Governor’s Cup, or the Icebreaker in Great Falls. When she wasn’t running, Coop could be found nose deep in a book or watching HER Green Bay Packers; she was a shareholder in the Packers franchise.
Coop will be most remembered for her ability to make connections with any person, or animal, she met. Her heart was the biggest heart in the world and she always stood up for the underdog.
Barb is survived by her son Nick Morales, granddaughter Adelle, partner Colleen, Colleen’s mother Peg, parents Tom and Kathy, former husbands David Cooper and Julio Morales, former step sons Julio and Karel, brother Tom (Carolyn) his son Thomas, brother Scott (Carolyn) and their children Drew (Kendra), Lauren, Matt, Mary, and grandson Saxon, several cousins around Montana, and her beloved dogs and cat Mr. Higgins.
Barb “Coop” Cooper loved with all her heart and will be greatly missed. She leaves a legacy of love and acceptance, and a deep-seeded comfort in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lewis and Clark Humane Society in Coop’s name. Please see below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Barbara.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
3:00 p.m.
Thursday May 4, 2017
Anderson Stevenosn Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Immediately following her celebration of life
Thursday May 4, 2017
Social hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
3:00 p.m.
Thursday May 4, 2017
Anderson Stevenosn Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Immediately following her celebration of life
Thursday May 4, 2017
Social hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana
Helena, Montana 59602
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Josh Collins says
She was an amazing teacher and always brought some kind of joy to all her students. She also had a great since of humor. I will never forget her personality, her smile, and her kindness. I hope that she is now in a much better place and is truly in peace. I also hope her family can rest now knowing she is in a better place and they are held in many people’s hearts
Deb Hahm says
I remember Coops infectious laugh, her outrage about social injustice, but mostly her love and appreciation for each of her students. She was champion of all underdogs be they child or adult and I’m proud to say she was my friend.
I will miss her sometimes outrageous behavior and quirky personality
Diana Tavary says
Barb was one of two teachers that accepted my daughter McKenzie who had autism in her class. She taught her class in such a way that Spanish soon became McKenzie favorite language and chose it over English. McKenzie is non verbal, yet Barb helped her open her mind and her voice to a new way to communicate. Barb was certainly McKenzie’s favorite teacher and will be missed by many. Barb was instrumental in helping McKenzie continue her education in Spanish including one year at the Tech. The world will not have near so much color with out Barb in it.
McKenzie, John and Diana Tavary
Reagan Wood says
Mrs. Cooper was one of the most optimistic, loving people I have ever had the pleasure of being taught by. Her happiness was always so contagious and it breaks my heart to see her go.
Jeff and Hina Wiest says
Nick and Colleen, so incredibly sorry for your loss. I know how much your mom meant to you Nick and what a wonderful partner she was to you Colleen. She lives on in your hearts!
Sarah Linden says
What heartbreaking news. She was such a beautiful light, I feel so lucky to have had her as a teacher. She brought so much joy and wisdom far beyond any curriculum she taught. Sending all of my love and strength to you Nick & Colleen.
Larriann Murphy says
Colleen and Coop’s family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Coop was a great, fun loving woman and will be greatly missed. My prayers are wit you all.
Larriann
Serena sides says
Mrs Cooper was amazing she encouraged me and believed in me when no one else did and was the major reason I stayed in school my 8th grade year she was unique and was so much fun I always knew no matter how depressed I was Mrs Cooper would always making things better she was my life line and was definitely more then JUST a teacher she was a best friend to all she came across and a should to lean on she will be so deeply missed
Walter G. Ebert says
As you neighbor I had the pleasure of meeting COOP a few times. She came across as a very gentle soul and loving person. She would kid me about being in the yard in my robe, and we would have a good laugh.
She would also update me on how Tom and Kathy were getting on. She will be missed, and as I told Kathy I will remember to keep her in my Moring Prayers, where I touch base with all my family who have passed.
Chris findley says
To the family of Barb, “coop”.
It is difficult for many right now, I just want you all to know what a very dear friend Barb was to me. I have been with her in JMG for several years and work with the kids in the special education classroom which she welcomed in her class always!
Some of the things I will miss most…
I will miss terribly going into her room every morning to say hi, miss seeing and hearing her in the cafeteria telling kids to sit down or go outside, miss her laughter and sense of humor. The love we shared for funky shoes. The way she looked over her glasses when she read to the class. Miss her having me organize her toys and creatures. Miss her and I talking about the wizard of oz and how much we loved it! Her cow costume that one of our special needs kids tried to milk and how we tried so hard not to laugh. The way we looked at each other when the kids said something completely random, which was often, and again trying not to laugh. I will miss the love she had for life, for her mom and dad, for her family, the kids at school, and her critters. I will miss the stories she told us in class and the pride she showed for her family.
I will miss much more but most of all what a beautiful person she was inside and out!
Thank you for sharing her with us!
Will remember her always with nothing but fond memories
Yenta Jaques says
Barb was the real deal–caring, open-minded, authentic, fun, and passionate. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Barb through Jobs for Montana’s Graduates where she positively influenced many students throughout the years. She adored Adelle and I applaud Barb for being such an active presence in her granddaughter’s life. Those memories and experiences can be cherished. Her spirit and light will be missed!
Jamie (Sparing) Bright says
I still remember so much of what Barb taught me! She left an impact on me and I am grateful for her teachings!
Tonher family: I am so sorry for your loss. It’s so hard to say goodbye to one of the greatest……
Joseph Anderson and family says
Brings sadness to the ♥️. Barb taught down the hall from me and we shared so many laughs and good cheer throughout the year. One of our kids told the story of how Barb told the class,” Now the principal will be coming to visit our class. If you know the answer raise your right hand and if you don’t know the answer raise your left hand!” Beautiful. Our prayers go out to all who loved and cherished this delightful woman.
Michele Abney says
Tom and Kathy, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter. Your hearts must be broken. I am thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers.
Cass Mitchell says
Colleen: we hold you in our hearts and in community, during this life changing and very tragic event. We are sending you love and light.
Trudi Mathews says
Barb was the first person to welcome me to CR Anderson when we were in fifth grade. I had moved to Helena from a very small town and knew no one. I will always remember her kindness. She was such a friendly, fun person. My sympathy to her family and friends….
Jacob Bartow says
I remember when coop told us all of her stories from college and being in Mexico. She was the best story teller. She was the best teacher.
Julie Bivins says
We had constant fun at CR with Barb! She was always up for an adventure or for just an after-school game of “bowling with keys” down the hallway! Life was a grand adventure for this accomplished, amazing woman. My thoughts go out to Kathy and Tom.
Julio K. Morales says
Barb, thanks for your love and for our son, whose love continues to enrich me. I treasure our memories, your spunk. Miss you. God has a special place for you, as do I.
Vicki C. Weida says
Dear Colleen and Nick, We just heard about Coop’s death and are so sorry. We know how much you both loved her and what joy she added to your life. Colleen, I will long remember your telling me you had a wonderful new woman in your life….yes, 15 years ago; and then we ended up back door neighbors. Coop was a positive influence on our grand daugher, Gabriella and her brother, Talon. We’ll see ya in the alley….until then, wrapping you in comfort and wishes for peace. vicki and john
Donna Coman says
Scott, Carolyn & family
I’m so sorry for your loss. She sounded like s great lady. So many wonderful things are being mentioned about her.
Donna Coman
Isaac "Louis" Ruggles says
Oh Señorita Cooper! I can’t believe you are gone. ? You were one of my favorite teachers. You made Introductory Spanish and Spanish class fun and exciting every day. You were an amazing person and I’m thankful to have been your student.
Granted, I never learned how to speak Spanish fluently (my fault) but what you did teach me was still pretty cool. You taught me comedy and that laughter is important to help get through the day. I learned about Steve Martin through you (How many times did we watch the Three Amigos as a class!?) or Ferdinand the Bull! How many 100’s of times have I watched it since?
You were so supportive of your students and loved us all. Looking back I can remember numerous times meeting with you in the band room before school so you could hear a new piano piece I created. You would sit in a chair with your eyes closed meditating taking the music in while i played. Sometimes, you fell asleep….
Once the music was done it was always followed by you clapping and saying “Oh Louis! That was wonderful!” Even as an adult, I was always Louis, the Spanish name you had given me in 7th grade. ?
Thank you Señorita Cooper! Thank you for your time, thank you for your presence! You will not be forgotten.
Doug Dellwo says
Barb, As all of the notes above attest to, YOU WILL BE MISSED! The students you influenced by your sense of fun, laughter and joy will carry that forever and pass it along to their kids. More than a few will want to become a teacher “like Mrs. Cooper.” I aspire to that too and have for the years I have worked with you. You were a piece of work
and a very serious teacher. You cared about kids and strove to have them learn. I am amazed by how much fun you could have and at the same time teach. It all was just about being “Coop” and doing it so very well. Blessings to you and all who loved you.
Kelly Cresswell says
Mrs. Cooper was a favorite teacher among all three of my children. Thank you for sharing your love of learning and your gifts of humor and compassion with your students. Your life made a positive impact on so many people!
Colleen Murphy says
Colleen, I am so sorry for your loss. You and Coop made a great team! I remember our last conversation about politics in Safeway and how witty and passionate Coop was. And of course her Saturday Night Live performances will live on in legend! Peace and love to you my friend.
Randi and Sharon says
Colleen,
We were surprised and saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved Coop, may her memory be a blessing. Please know that Sharon and I are holding you in our hearts and thoughts during this difficult time.
Marilyn Connor says
My grandson loved having her as his teacher -one of his very favorites. I didn’t realize until today who her parents were – explains so much ! My children both were taught by Mrs Miller and knew Mr Miller from the years they were at Hawthorne. What a beautiful legacy to Helena. As a Mother and Gramma – Thank You ! – our children were blessed to share a small part of your life.
Doris copenhaver says
Oh coop how heavy my heart. I will miss everything about you… Subbing, races, potlucks..Your voice, laugh and jokes..But mostly your love of teaching and students and life. There will never be another like you. Love to Colleen. I will check on her often and speak to you in my prayers
Michelle bright says
Mrs cooper was the best teacher I ever had she sat and listened to me I was going through some hard times and Middle School and she gave me some powerful advice she was the only teacher who would listen I have a very grateful for that I will miss her very much
Audrey Blomquist says
Miller Family – Sending you thoughts and prayers during this sad time. May you find comfort in the love and support of family and friends.
Lu Lo Coco says
Coop was one of the dedicated teachers in Helena who recognized the seriousness of my home situation when I was going to school. Coop was kind, compassionate, caring, and made a huge difference in my life. She went out of her way to talk to me, check on me, and eat lunch with me; even after my family removed me from her classroom. Coop inspired in me a love and passion for language, especially spanish and the other romance languages, that I will always cherish, continue to kindle, and carry with me always. She always had time for heart talk and to listen. Thank you for accepting me as I am, and encouraging me to show myself love and acceptance.
TP says
Coop was an amazing colleague, friend, teacher, and person. She always stood up for the ones who needed it the most and that is where my heart and hers connected. When I came to CR Anderson, she was the first person to come welcome me. She was also the first brave soul to enter my classroom and offer to let my students with special needs join her JMG/Spanish classes. That is where change and development happened for many kids. She had an amazing ability to reach the hearts of every single student she taught (especially the ones who struggled to learn in a conventional way). She connected with these students and fostered a love for learning in a unique way. Coop continually gave kindness, love, compassion, and encouragement to all she encountered. She welcomed all of my students with kindness whether they tried to “milk the cow” when she wore her cow costume or claimed to be Steve Jobs to a guest speaker in her class ?. I will miss seeing her smiling face and hearing her greeting as I walk though the lunch room every morning. I will miss interacting with the beautiful person she was. I will really miss the many costumes and headpieces she wore (especially on picture day, that always made a great photo in the yearbook). Though she will be terribly missed, she will live on in the hearts of the many lives she touched. The memories of Coop will never be forgotten. I now have a fellow Packer fan shining down from above. Go Pack Go!!! Love you Coop!
Debbie Kent says
To the Miller Family,
My sincere condolences are with you during this time. May you find peace and comfort knowing Barbara is always with you. Her positive energy surrounds you through sunrises, rainbows, and twinkling stars.
Hugs and love, Debbie
Jake West says
The world lost an amazing and inspirational women who touched so many lives. She was a wonderful friend and colleague who taught me so much. Her legacy will live on forever! I miss you Coop!
John Ilgenfritz says
Colleen and family,
Having read the comments above mine, its obvious the impact Coop had on all those she came in contact
with. I knew Barb primarily through my friendship with Colleen, who I had worked with for many years.
Barb warmed one like the sun. She is joy and fun “personified”. I remember her SNL in Helena role as an anchor reporting the legislature’s deeds and misdeeds. She had a way of making the unbearable, somewhat bearable.
Condolences to Colleen and family
Chrysley Márcia de Paiva Silva Pimenta says
Dear Family,
Mom and Dad Miller, so sorry for your loss! Our loss…
Barb was part of my life at a very special moment, when I was lucky enough to spend some time with this wonderful family… we became sisters and friends! We kept talking and connecting so far! She was kind and nice, and friendly…
Deep in my heart I feel the pain of not having her around anymore…
Please remember that you are not alone. I am always here for you! Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same. With caring thoughts. And deep love! Chrysley
Winnie Skaarland says
One of the worlds brightest stars went out when Barb (Moonbeam) left us. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Jim Lambert says
To the many who adored Barb, it is with much sadness that we say goodbye to one of the most influential members of the education arena! I worked with Barb for a few years in the JMG program and remember her fondly! She connected so well with the students and they returned their respect through much adoration. Barb was a quick-witted, intelligent, loving, and most importantly – a very accepting person who cared deeply for the children! Her tenacity and will to educate was evident each time I visited her classroom. She motivated and enlightened many with her humor and stylistic approach, but Barb was always there when needed, for her life was about serving. Although, I have been away for a few years, I will still remember those who touched my heart! I will miss you, Barb Cooper!!!
Ben Fowler says
Coop was my 8th grade Spanish Teacher and she instilled a love of the language and desire to learn Spanish. I have many fond memories of her, including going to lunch with her at Emiliano’s. She had an incredible ability to teach and inspire. I remember writing Spanish music for her. I also remember visiting her after graduating high school and she gave me some Spanish textbooks to help me prepare for an upcoming Mission in Mexico. I’m so sorry to hear of her passing and I am grateful that I was under her tutelage. My condolences to her family and partner. Tom Miller was also my principle in Elementary School. Ben Fowler, Bloomington, Indiana
Theresa & Mike King & Burgess Family says
Kathy, Tom, Nick, Scott, Carolyn and Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear about Barb. She was such a wonderful person. We knew her from the days at Kessler School, and daughter Maggie went to school with Nick. Our Family all sends their condolences and heartfelt sympathy. Mr. Miller knew all of the Burgess’s during his time as principal and his family holds a special place in all our hearts. May God Bless you all.
Carol Ann Dietzen says
I was so very sad to read about Barb’s recent passing. She taught Spanish a couple classrooms from my own at Helena High School years ago. I truly enjoyed hearing her classes sing La Bamba at the time!
Knowing Barb was truly one of life’s gifts. Barb was a passionate, interesting teacher, one adored by her students!
Barb made the most of her life, and passed away too young, but I am certain that she touched many people’s lives in meaningful ways.
We who had the luck to know Barb will always smile at the mention of her name. She touched our hearts deeply.
Jasmyn Johnson says
Miss. Cooper was such a loving teacher for all of us, we will never forget how kind and awesome and funny of a teacher she was, but at least we know Miss. Cooper isnt in pain anymore. My condolences to Miss.Coopers family and parents.