Lydia I. "Gram" Cooper, age 96, of Canton passed away Friday morning February 2, 2018 in the comfort of her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania on March 28, 1921 to the late George W.D. and Stella (Moul) Cooper.

She was pre-deceased by her husband Wilbur, son Steven, and son-in-law Robert Duggan. She is survived by her children Patricia Duggan, James A. (Diana) Cooper, John D. (Carolyn) Cooper, Constance (Stephen) Carmany, 15 grandchildren and their spouses, 22 great-grandchildren, several "adopted" children and grandchildren, a large extended family, and more friends than could possibly be listed.

She worked at the M. Conley Company as a young woman, and then traveled the United States with her husband while he was in the army during WWII. They returned to Canton, where they raised five children. She taught piano and was a volunteer in the schools. She graduated from Kent State University at age 55 and taught in the Canton City Schools.

In 1986, she was named "Woman of the Year" by the Canton chapter of the American Business Women's Association. In 2009, she was made an Honorary Alumna of Malone University due to her unceasing hospitality to countless Malone students, faculty and staff. She was a lifelong member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union and an active member of the First Church of the Resurrection for all of her adult life.

She loved every person she ever met and loved animals, too, especially her dog Molly. She leaves behind an undying legacy of goodness, love, faith and hospitality. The family would like to thank Aultman Palliative Care and Hospice and her many faithful caregivers for their compassion and competent care.

Calling hours are Friday 4-7 PM at First Church of the Resurrection and an hour prior to services Saturday 10-11 AM. Funeral services are Saturday 11 AM in the church with Rev. Dr. Bruce Mont officiating. Committal will be at Forest Hill Cemetery with a meal to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to First Church of the Resurrection.

Arnold 330-456-7291 www.arnoldfuneralhome.com