Constance Marie Cooper

Constance M. Cooper passed away at her home in Mission Hills on May 18, 2016 after a life fully lived. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thom R. Cooper, chairman of the board and owner of the Jack Cooper Transport Co.

Best known for civic and philanthropic contributions, Connie had a long and impressive history of supporting local charities. She modeled the Hope Diamond, the Star of the East Diamond, and the 40- carat Marquis Diamond in 1950 while they were on tour to benefit the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis. Connie was quoted as saying of this privilege, “It made me feel good, and I was proud to be able to wear them.”

From this honor, she became the first woman elected chairman of the March of Dimes in the Kansas City area. She was also a member of the Board of Directors of the K.C. Sheltered Workshop for the Handicapped, Johnson County Agency for Sexual Assault, Girl Scouts, Planned Parenthood of Greater Kansas City, Kansas City Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and she served on the VIP Panel for the Variety Club of K.C. Telethon.

Connie’s business career began at A.C. Allyn & Co (now Smith Barney). She was the first female Account Executive with Barickman Advertising, Account Executive for the first American Royal Rodeo, and an Account Executive with Beverly Norman Public Relations. Professional affiliations included American Women in Radio and Television and the Radio & T.V Council of Greater Kansas City.

A member of the Methodist Church, Mission Hills Country Club, and Indian Hills Country Club, Connie never met a stranger. She was a great beauty – both of body and spirit- and brilliant woman truly ahead of her time. Connie lived by the Golden Rule and leaves a widespread collection of friends who will truly miss her fun-loving and caring personality. She never left a joyous gathering without marking the moment with a photograph and then graciously sending a copy to the host. Ever immaculately mannered, she would immediately send thank you notes for any gift or luncheon in her honor and return RSVPs the same day she received an invitation.

Connie was a dear and loyal friend to many, and she considered her friendships a most valued possession. Her broad number of interests in golf, sailing, hunting, ice boating, and astrology were exceeded only by her thoughtfulness in bringing happiness to her many friends.

Friends and family are invited for a visitation 10:30-11 a.m., funeral service 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 24, 2016, at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman, 10507 Holmes. Burial Mount Moriah Cemetery.

Arrangements under the direction of Mt Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.