Geraldine R. Kopp 1940-2024

Gerry will always be remembered for her commitment and unconditional love as a wife, mother, “Sittee,” cousin and friend. Her beautiful soul, kindness, generosity and loving ways touched so many throughout her life.

She was born Oct. 17, 1940, in Warren, the daughter of Joseph and Julia Betras George and as a young child came to Youngstown, where she remained her whole life. Gerry grew up on the South Side of Youngstown and attended St. Dominic’s school. She met the love of her life, John “Coach” Kopp at Ursuline High School. While at Ursuline, she was a majorette and a member of “Y Nots.” Gerry and John graduated together in 1958. She continued her education at Youngstown State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education and was also a member of Tri Sigma sorority. Her teaching career began in Austintown at Charles Watson Elementary School, where she taught from 1962 to 1967.

John and Gerry were married, July 30, 1966, at St. Christine Church. They were blessed with five children. When her first child was born, Gerry chose to stay home and dedicated her life to raising her children. She was a relentless supporter of Coach throughout his career and was adored by his entire football family. Gerry supported and encouraged her children in all their activities and was their biggest fan.

Gerry, a longtime parishioner of St. Christine Church, returned to education in 1987 as the director of the St. Christine Preschool. For 20 years, she touched the lives of young children and their families in the same way she touched her own family. To this day, countless students and parents talk of their wonderful days at the preschool with Mrs. Kopp.

Gerry enjoyed hosting family get-togethers that often included the many friends of her husband and children. At the center of even the smallest gatherings was Gerry’s warmth. Through food, conversation and her genuine interest in those gathered, she made everyone feel special. Gerry’s many gifts as a wife, mother, teacher and friend stemmed from her genuine faith and devotion to God and the Blessed Mother.

Her husband of over 57 years, John R. Kopp; her beloved children, Neal (Angela) Kopp of New Middletown; attorney Brian (Lori) Kopp of Tampa, Florida; Julie (Richard Troisi) Kopp Leslie and Daniel (Cindy Juillerat) Kopp, both of Canfield; and Leslie (Jimmy) Dambrogio of Pittsburgh; her grandchildren, whom she adored, Johnny, Joseph, Giovanna, Julia, Ally (Cristian), Olivia, Emma, Ava, Audrey, Amelia, Daniel, Grace, Francesca and Nico; and her great-granddaughter, Mila; along with many cousins and friends, will carry her memory forward.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her grandson, Jacob Matthew Leslie.

Family and friends may pay their respects 9 to 10:45 a.m., Saturday, April 27, 2024, at St. Christine Church, 3165 S. Schenley Ave., Youngstown. A funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. Saturday, at the church.

Burial will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Austintown.

In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made in Gerry’s name to the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, 2759 N. Lipkey Road, North Jackson, OH 44451.

Gerry’s family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the oncology staff of The Cleveland Clinic and Hospice of the Valley for the care and compassion shown to Gerry during her battle with cancer.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Boardman.

Family and friends may visit www.rossisantuccifh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Gerry’s family.

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