Helen (Marie) Cooper Dobard

Mrs. Helen Cooper Dobard passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025. She was born on September 30, 1932, in Houston, Texas and was the second child of Jack Cooper and Helen Casterman Cooper. Helen attended Yates High School in Houston, Texas and later went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree from Dillard University in New Orleans, LA. While studying psychology at Dillard, she met Farriel Dobard, the love of her life and husband of 64 years. They were married in 1956 and from this union had two daughters, Lisa Shawakhi and Michelle Dobard-Anderson. Helen had a zest for learning and continued her education by getting a master’s degree in psychology from Clark Atlanta University. Helen was a devoted wife and mother, she loved travel, dogs, television, movies, and theatre. She had a kind and loving spirit that inspired all who knew her. Helen became an avid member of the church choir thanks to her passion for music and faithfulness to her religion.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Helen Cooper; husband, Farriel Dobard; brothers, Walter Cooper and Robert Cooper; sister, Jean Cooper Smith. Helen is remembered by her daughters, Lisa Shawakhi and Michelle Dobard-Anderson, and her grandson, John Dobard and family. She also leaves to cherish her memory, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will sadly miss her.