URGENT UPDATE: The community of Santa Cruz is grieving the loss of Sally Cooper, a cherished educator and youth soccer coach, who passed away on December 1, 2025, at the age of 72. Known for her unwavering dedication to her family and community, Sally’s impact spanned decades.
Born on November 4, 1953, in Long Beach, California, Sally moved to Santa Cruz at the age of nine. She graduated from Soquel High School in 1971, where she met her lifelong partner, Kevin Cooper. The couple celebrated an incredible 54 years of marriage, building a family that includes three sons—Chris, Brian, and Jake—and a daughter, Amy, alongside five beloved grandchildren.
Sally was more than a mother and wife; she was a passionate community member who devoted herself to coaching youth soccer and working within the Soquel School District. Her energy and kindness profoundly touched the lives of countless students and families, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion.
The funeral mass for Sally Cooper will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, located at 435 Monterey Ave, Capitola, on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Friends and family are invited to honor her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the SPCA, reflecting Sally’s love for animals.
As the community mourns her passing, tributes are pouring in, highlighting Sally’s extraordinary spirit and dedication. Her beloved cat, William, was a source of comfort and companionship throughout her life, embodying the warmth she shared with everyone around her.
Sally Cooper’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, urging everyone to embrace kindness, community involvement, and love for family. The outpouring of affection from those she touched serves as a testament to her profound impact.
The community encourages all who knew Sally to come together to celebrate her life and share their cherished memories during the upcoming service.
