Richard F. Cooper, Jr., 90, West Long Branch, passed away peacefully September 18^th at home.

Richard was born in Long Branch and raised in West Long Branch.  He graduated from Long Branch High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from West Virginia University.  Richard served his country honorably in the U.S. Army. He retired from Jersey Central Power & Light after 35 years.

Richard was an active member of the West Long Branch Borough Council, serving as Council President for many years. While on Council, Richard served on many committees, including Finance, Police, Parks & Recreation and was the Council Representative for the Planning and Board of Health boards.  He was a member and ex-captain of the West Long Branch First Aid Squad; an exempt member of Borough Chemical and Truck Company No. 1; and past president of the West Long Branch Lions & Leisure Club.  Richard was a certified EMT and served as a committeeman and Merit Badge Advisor for West Long Branch Boy Scout Troup 118.  He  served as a Little League and basketball coach for WLB youth recreation programs.

Richard enjoyed taking long walks with his wife, Paula and beloved dogs as well as organic gardening and family camping and fishing trips.  He was a lifelong member of Old First United Methodist Church.

Richard is predeceased by his son-in-law Mark Burney, and his sister & brother-in-law Jeanne & Donald Scott. Surviving is his wife of 65 years Paula; his children Janice Cody (Bruce); Sharon Burney and Richard Cooper (Linda) and his grandchildren Thomas, David, Brett, Luke, Jack (Maggie), Matthew and Patrick.

Visitation Monday, September 23^rd 4:00 – 8:00 pm at the Woolley-Boglioli Funeral Home, 10 Morrell Street, Long Branch.  Funeral service Tuesday, September 24^th 11:00 am at Old First United Methodist Church, 197 Locust Avenue, West Long Branch.  Burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s memory to the WLB EMS; westlongbranchems.org or the Old First United Methodist Church, 197 Locust Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764.