Lorna Catherine Newson was born to parents Leonard and Tula on August 2nd, 1943 in Los Angeles, CA. She is the younger sister of Jack Howell. When Lorna was a young girl, they moved up to Northfork after Leonard took at job working as a mechanic for the US Forest Service . After a few years they moved down to Fresno so Lorna could attend school in town. She went to John Burrows Elementary, Yosemite Junior High and was part of the first graduating class from the brand new McLane High School class of 1961. In 1965 she married Garret Nelson Cooper in a small chapel in Las Vegas and together with his children, Joseph and Kimberly, they welcomed their sons Garret-Dean in 1966 and Bryan Blaine in 1969.
Gary and Lorna inherited the Cooper family farm out in Burrell, CA and together they farmed over 600 acres of cotton, barley and alfalfa. Gary would haul bales of hay over to the house for Lorna to sell to the neighbors and she was affectionately known as “The Hay Lady on West Shields”. In addition to raising her boys, Lorna kept books for both her and Gary’s farm and also for her brother-in-law James Muzio. Lorna was especially gifted at math and numbers.
Lorna loved antiquing, collecting blue and white dishes and crafting- making wreaths, jewelry and crocheting. A favorite past time of her and her girlfriends was to go “junking” and hunt for treasures!
Lorna never met a stranger. Her warm and vibrant personality lit up every room and in a matter of minutes she would have everyone laughing. She was authentic and genuine, a true friend and a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She was thoughtful and considerate- always ready to help her family and friends. Above all, Lorna was generous. She was always gifting little knick knacks to her friends- you could never leave a visit with her empty handed.
Lorna leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and friendship. We are so blessed to have been loved by Lorna.
Lorna is preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Tula, brother Jack Howell (Violet), her son Garret Dean and Husband Gary Cooper. She is survived by her son Bryan and stepchildren Joseph (Lisa) and Kimberly (Kevin) as well as her many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and her best friends from childhood- Priscilla, Gloria, Sharon, Gloria Jeanne, Janice and Jackie.
A Graveside service will be held for Lorna on Thursday, November 6, 2025, 11:00 am at Belmont Memorial Park.
Lorna will be remembered for her dedication to her family and her community. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
