Shantique Elise Cooper, born on January 1, 1973, in the Bronx, NY, The only child to Norman and Janice Cooper, the world could hardly imagine the spark and energy that this little firecracker was about to bring. Shantique departed her earthly life at Bon Secour St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, VA on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.
During Shantique’s formative years, her family moved to St. Paul, Minnesota, where she attended school. She quickly became popular and well-loved, embracing life with her trademark motto: “unapologetically me.” Despite the distance, Shantique remained close with her family as she also gained a “chosen family” of close friends in St. Paul because of her joyful demeanor and magnetic personality.
Family and friends meant everything to Shantique. She had a real knack for hosting holidays, birthdays, and get-togethers, always putting in the extra effort to make every event memorable. Her gatherings were always full of joy, thanks in no small part to the love and support of her partner, Leon. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home where their blended family could come together, celebrate, and flourish. Shantique had a laugh that was truly infectious and loved cooking, entertaining, and, in true Cooper family style, diving into a lively game of cards or anything else that brought people together. Spending time with her nine grandchildren and family was always her top priority. As a mother and grandmother, Shantique was a nurturing and supportive presence, offering wisdom and discipline that guided her loved ones through life. She took a keen interest in Shaniyah’s development during her early years, guiding and supporting her with unwavering love and attention. Her home was a haven of warmth, where kindness and support were never in short supply.
Shantique’s friendships were deep and meaningful. She had a special way of making the world brighter, whether through her attentive listening or simply by being her joyful self. For those lucky enough to know her, she truly made a difference.
In her career, Shantique’s natural leadership and dedication shone brightly. She worked as an optical assistant technician and eventually took on a management role at Access Eye Ophthalmology Clinic in Fredericksburg,VA. Her passion for her work and her vibrant personality made a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.
Shantique was predeceased by her mother and leaves, to cherish her loving memory, her father Norman, companion Leon Perkins Jr, daughter Shadeyna (Michael), Sons Michael (Haley) and Sampson (Karla), grandchildren Shaniyah, Shajayah, Julian, Kyrie, Willow, Malcolm, Shalayah, Michael III and Amorah; bonus children Nhytavia, Daniel, Darius and Serenity, as well as aunts, uncles, a host of cousins, the Perkins Family, and loving friends.

Shantique’s laughter, love, and generosity will be deeply missed.