Merle Jones Cooper

Merle passed peacefully in her sleep into the beloved arms of Jesus after suffering from Alzheimer’s. 

Merle was born in Washington DC to Nathan and Sybil White. She grew up and attended school in Hyattsville Maryland and has resided in Upper Marlboro Maryland for the last 35 years with her husband Gary Cooper.

Her affection for children was admired and exhibited in her leadership as the Director of the Hyattsville-Hyette Majorette, Drum Corp and Color Guard.  She led them to many Maryland State Championships at the Maryland State Firemen’s Convention as well as long distance performances.  They attended the National Soap Box Derby Parades in Akron Ohio several years, they performed in the York Pennsylvania Halloween parade, parades in North Carolina, New Jersey and all over the state of Maryland.

This passion for families and children made her a natural fit for her administrative work with College Park Youth and Family Services and Attic Towers where she enjoyed working with the families providing supportive services for families in crisis and need. She had an entrepreneurial spirit and passion for technology which led to the creation of “Word Processors” her business that serviced many property management companies

She enjoyed playing the piano sewing and crocheting which brought her great joy and awards.

She is survived by her husband Gary Cooper, daughters Cindy Stambaugh and husband Karl, Sharon Chartos and husband Bobby, Carol Jones and step daughter Susan LaDue and husband Gary, grandchildren Lynn Peaper, Lori Townsend, Matthew Chartos, Michael Chartos, Nicole LaDue and  Garrison LaDue along with 5 great grandchildren, a brother Charlie White and wife Ellen.  She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.  She was predeceased by her daughter Donna Moritsugo and grandson Marc Hobart.    

In lieu of flower, donations can be made to Alzheimer’s Research, BrightFocus, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, Maryland 20871.