Samantha Ann Cooper

Saying goodbye to someone we love and cherish is always difficult. With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Samantha “Sam” Ann Cooper (Ponca City, OK). Sam passed away on September 22, 2021 at the age of 38.

Sam was born November 17, 1982 in Oberlin, KS to David LeRoy Cooper and Mary Janette Huffaker (Matheny). She attended school in Oberlin, KS, graduating from Decatur Community Jr Sr High in 2001. Sam moved to Ponca City, OK in 2004. While working through the Opportunity Center, she discovered her passion for powerlifting with the Special Olympics. In 2007 Sam qualified to compete in Shanghai, China Special Olympics World Summer Games. Sam brought home a Gold and three Silver medals in powerlifting. Three years later Sam showed her strength once again. Sam brought home a 1st, 2nd and two 3rd place medals from the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games held in Lincoln, NE. Participating in the Special Olympics was Sam’s heart and soul. Unfortunately, injuries from competing at a high level ended her Special Olympics career. Setting the heavy weights aside, bocce ball became Sam’s new passion. Sam cherished the lifelong family and friends she gained through the Special Olympics.

Sam is survived by her aunt Janet Matheny, three sisters: Sherry A. Walls (Cooper), Sharon A. Lampe (Cooper) and Sabrina A. Cooper and Daniel Engel (significant other). Five nephews and two nieces: Christopher Lawe, Joseph Guernsey, Lindsey Lampe, Justin Walls, Ryan Engel, Diamond Walls, and Barrett Engel.

She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Ethel Cooper (Griffin), Cecil and Freida (Tauber) Matheny, brother-in-law Christopher James Walls, nephew PFC Kyle James Samual Walls, and cousin SGT Randy Jay Matheny. Sam was very special to all of us. She had a way of impacting every person she met. Her smile will always shine on! We invite all her friends and family to join us in celebrating her life, Saturday, October 23, 2021 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Ridin High, Ponca City, OK. We will be planning a celebration of life in the Spring of 2022, in Oberlin, KS for family and friends in that area. (Time and date to be determined) In lieu of flowers, we ask donations to be made in her name to the Okie Dream Team (Special Olympics). Opportunity Center Inc. C/O Okie Dream Team 3007 N. Union St. Ponca City, OK 74601.  Remembrances may be shared online at www.stittsworthfuneralservices.com.

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