Maritza Cooper

Maritza Peña Cooper, born April 21, 1966, in Carolina, Puerto Rico, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida. Maritza carried her vibrant culture, strength, and deep love for family with her throughout her life. She was a devoted wife , mother , grandmother, daughter , sister , sister in law , aunt and friend whose presence brought warmth and comfort to everyone who knew her.

Maritza was the beloved daughter of the late Juan Peña and the late Ramona Falero. She grew up surrounded by family and strong values that she carried with her throughout her life.

She is survived by her loving husband, Charles Otis Cooper, Sr., with whom she shared a life centered on family, loyalty, and unconditional love. Maritza was a proud and devoted mother to Rebeca Malave, Charlene Cooper, Victoria Cooper, and Charles Cooper, Jr. Her children were the center of her world, and she took great pride in watching them grow and build lives of their own.

Her greatest joy came from being a grandmother. She adored her grandchildren Isaiah Cruz, Jalena Cruz, Carmelo James, Ismael Serrano IV, and Tahani Cooper. They brought immense happiness to her life, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Maritza is also survived by her loving siblings Carmen Falero Rodriguez, Luz V. Machicote Rivera, Milagros Peña Galarza, Rosa Peña Mercado, Hector Peña, and Edwin Cordero. She was preceded in death by her brothers Jose Machicote, Santiago Machicote, and Wilfredo Correa.

Maritza dedicated her life to caring for her home and family as a housewife. She was the heart of the household, always making sure everyone felt loved, supported, and cared for. In her quiet moments, she enjoyed playing games and exploring AI on her cell phone, something that sparked her curiosity and kept her entertained. Above all else, she loved spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren, creating memories that will live on in their hearts forever.

Throughout her life, Maritza formed deep bonds with many people who became like family to her. She also had a few very special adopted sons in her life—Edwin Cordero, George Thompson Jr. (Sonny), Hector Peña, and Joel Benitez (deceased)—who loved her dearly and will miss her tremendously. She also shared a special bond with her beloved godson, Edwin Cordero Jr., who held a very special place in her heart.

Maritza will also be fondly remembered by a host of loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives she touched throughout the years.

Although sweet in nature, Maritza also had a stubborn streak about her, but her heart was truly golden. Her strength, kindness, and deep love for her family defined the beautiful person she was.

Maritza will be remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. Her laughter and unwavering love for her family will never be forgotten. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will live on through the many lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held at Hodges Memorial Dignity Funeral Home to honor and celebrate her life. Family and friends will gather to remember her, share stories, and celebrate the love she gave so freely.

Maritza’s legacy is one of love, devotion, and family.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will be held at Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park, 12777 State Road 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913, US, on March 14, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 4:01 pm.