Joan Gillian Cooper

Joan Bryson Gillian Cooper, age 76, loving mother, sweet Nana, and friend to so many, passed away on January 9 from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident. She was en route to her favorite place, Central Baptist Church in Round Rock, Texas.

Joanne Marie Bryson was born in Los Angeles, California to Margaret Mary Harmer and Jodie T. Bryson. She lost both of her parents at an early age, and in 1963, she married David Foster Gillian. In 1965, she welcomed her first daughter, Dava. In 1970, her daughter Debbie was born, and in 1973, she had a son, David.

Joan worked hard to care for those in need, most often as a live-in caretaker for the elderly. She helped many families through the most difficult days. Her sweet smile and tender care made such an incredible impact on those she served. She also worked for many years as a medical assistant at Cornerstone.

Joan was a woman who suffered incredible loss. Her profession was difficult because she loved and cared so much for those who were in their last days. In addition, Joan lost her husband, David, her grandson, Danny, and her daughter, Debbie. Later, she remarried Red Cooper, and they enjoyed many years together until his passing in 2016. Even still, Joan was able to constantly find the good in things. Her faith in Christ grew stronger as she clung to Him through so many hard losses.

Joan built strong relationships with the ladies in her church groups. She was active in her Sunday School class and in her quilting group. She was known for showing up early and jumping in to greet or serve whenever there was a need.

Joan was a loving and supportive mother, but her favorite role was as Nana. She loved to watch her grandchildren compete in sports and performances. Her presence at their special events made such a great impact on their lives. She enjoyed spending her time taking care of her grandchildren in their younger days. Those days were so special because Nana loved to spoil those babies!

Joan was an incredible mom, Nana, and friend. She listened because she really cared. She would do anything to help a friend or family member in need. Her smile was so beautiful, and her laugh would fill the room. She was an absolute treasure.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Dava Stahl, and her husband, John, of Del Valle, and her son, David Gillian, and his wife, Sara, of Round Rock. She was grandmother to Jacob, 23, Becca, 19, Za’Kira, 9, Lorena, 8, and April, 6.

The family invites you to join them for the viewing on Thursday, January 18, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas. The memorial service will be held at the Texas Baptist Children’s Home on Saturday, January 20, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a light reception in the Activities Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Texas Baptist Children’s Home.