Lois Cooper

Lois Jean Haimerl Cooper, loving mother and grandmother, passed away on July 5, 2025, in DeLand, Florida. She was 91. Lois was born at home in 1934, just outside Columbus, Ohio, where she was raised on the family farm. From a young age, she developed a strong work ethic, a love for animals, and a talent for numbers. She briefly attended Ohio State University, studying finance and accounting—a foundation she later used to help run the family business, Presto Electronics, in DeLand, Florida. Lois balanced motherhood with her professional life, contributing not only to the success of the family business but also later in her career at the Health Department, where she led customer service improvements that left a lasting mark on the organization and the community.

Lois had a remarkable gift for conversation and an unshakable radar for what she’d call a “scam for old people”—leaving her often “just dumbfounded.” Her favorite phrases—“I’ll be darned,” “aww gosh kid…”—were familiar comforts to family and friends, as was her ever-curious, ever-warm presence. Lois was passionate about animals, from dogs and cats to birds. Her support of pet adoption and animal welfare remained strong throughout her life, a reflection of the compassion that defined her.

 Lois is preceded in death by her beloved husband Edward Cooper, her son Craig Cooper, her sister Joyce Haimerl, and her great-granddaughter Avery Cooper. She is survived by her daughter Cathy Bryan and her son James Cooper; her sister Vera Hunter; her grandchildren Francis "Sonny" Bryan, Rebecca Rouse, Clinton Cooper, Jessica Cooper, Matthew Bryan, and Justin Cooper; and her great-grandchildren Emily Rouse, Madilynn “Madi” Rouse, and Wyatt Cooper. 

Lois leaves behind not only a legacy of resilience and warmth, but also countless stories and sayings that will live on in the memories of those she loved and who loved her in return. A memorial service to honor her life will be held on Friday August 1st at 7:00 PM EST at Lankford Funeral Home, DeLand, FL. Visiting with Family and Friends from 6-7PM.