The Story Behind Our Organization

Marian Cooper graduated from college in Wisconsin in 1946 and moved to Port Jervis to begin her teaching career. What started as a professional journey soon became a deep personal connection, and Port Jervis became Marian’s home. She became an integral part of the community, giving of herself to numerous local organizations and its people. Her dedication and impact were recognized when she was named the Tri-State Gazette’s Citizen of the Year in 1994, the same year she unexpectedly passed away.

Early in her career as a high school gym teacher, Marian took a sabbatical to join the Women’s Professional Baseball League as a chaperone for the Fort Wayne Daisies, traveling extensively with the team. The Daisies, along with other teams in the league, inspired the movie A League of Their Own.

After returning to Port Jervis, Marian resumed her teaching career and married Stan Cooper. Together, they ran Cooper’s Dairy, all while Marian continued her career in education, eventually expanding to teach Health for over 30 years. Her love for her community extended beyond teaching and business, as she became involved in numerous charitable causes and local organizations.

Marian was the Auxiliary Board President and served on the advisory board for St. Francis Hospital (now Bon Secours), and she was vice president of the Port Jervis Depot Preservation Society, working to restore the railroad depot where she first arrived in town. She was also involved with the Minisink Valley Historical Society, Middle School PTA, Civil Service Commission, Port Jervis Planning Board, and School Board. Marian dedicated much of her energy to fundraising for organizations such as the Red Cross, American Heart Association, and American Cancer Society.

Throughout her nearly 50 years in Port Jervis, Marian worked tirelessly to preserve the town’s heritage while helping shape its future. Despite her many commitments, she always found time for her family, friends, and students, managing it all with grace, humor, and an unwavering passion for life.