Everything about Christmas brings love to mind, and the same can be said of Joe Cooper, III, who found eternal love and peace on Saturday, December 13, 2025, after his second courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Joe was born on October 30, 1993, in Covington, Louisiana, to Tina Rohacevich (Fisher) and Joe Cooper, Jr. He later graduated from Gilboa-Conesville Central School in 2011.

Like many little boys who grow into energetic teenagers, Joe poured his energy into sports and loved every minute of playing basketball, soccer, and baseball. His quieter side found peace and serenity in casting a fishing line into the water in hopes of the perfect catch. His senior-year talent show performance still brings smiles and laughter to all who witnessed it—something Joe did best. His enthusiasm and zest for life lit up every room he entered. Known as the life of the party, Joe's dancing, quick wit, and sarcasm guaranteed laughter. Even his notoriously lousy karaoke performances were unforgettable, as he sang with the confidence of a true superstar.

Joe worked for the New York State Department of Corrections at Greene Correctional Facility and most recently for Valet Park of America. Wherever he worked, he made lasting friendships and earned the respect of coworkers and peers through his strong work ethic and professionalism.

In 2013, Joe's charm and personality captured the heart of a sweet young woman named Nicole, beginning a new chapter in both of their lives. Together, they loved traveling, exploring new places, and creating lifelong memories and friendships. Their love and devotion grew stronger with time, leading to their marriage in 2021. Their bond stood as a shining example of devotion through sunny days and courage and strength through life's storms.

Joe's inner child shone brightest with the birth of his son, Jaxsyn. From the very first day, they were inseparable, and Joe's world revolved entirely around his boy. Jaxsyn was blessed with the best teacher, sports playmate, and father a child could ever wish for, just as Nicole was blessed with a best friend, soulmate, and family partner beyond measure.

Joe will be forever loved by his wife Nicole (Morse) Cooper; his son Jaxsyn Cooper; his mother Tina (Jon) Rohacevich; his father Joe Cooper, Jr: his siblings Christian Cooper and Hope Cooper; his niece Olivia Rode; his mother-in-law Sharon Myers; his sister-in-law Gabriela Myers; and countless extended family members and friends.

Family and friends are invited to visit with Joe's family from 5:00–7:00 PM on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Coltrain Funeral Home, LLC, 134 River Street, Middleburgh, NY 12122. A Celebration of Joe's Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 27, 2025, also at the funeral home.

Joe's family requests that memorial donations in his honor be made to:

National Bank of Coxsackie, 4507 State Route 30 Middleburgh, NY 12122

Reference: Jaxsyn Cooper (Account Ending -0806)