The Princeton community is remembering Jerrod Ramsey “Monkey” Cooper, a well-known local coach and family man who passed away on October 23, 2025, at the age of 34.
Friends and family describe Cooper as a man with a big heart, quick wit, and a willingness to help anyone in need. Deeply involved in community sports, he spent much of his time coaching Youth, Inc. Baseball and encouraging local children to do their best on and off the field. When he wasn’t coaching, he was in the stands cheering for his son or spending quality time with his daughter.
Cooper was known as a jack of all trades, skilled in welding, roofing, and construction work. Those close to him say he found joy in simple pleasures — fishing, sharing laughs with friends, and being surrounded by family.
“He was always the first to lend a hand and the last to leave,” one friend said. “He brought people together wherever he went.”
Jerrod is survived by his longtime companion, Stephanie Strazzabosco of Princeton; his daughter, Jezlea Cooper; sons, Jaxon Cooper and Camrun McGregor, all of Princeton; his mother and stepfather, Brenda and Jeff Vinson Sr. of Eddyville; and his father, Chris Kimbrough of Princeton. He also leaves behind his maternal grandmother, Beverly Noel of Paducah; paternal grandparents, George and Gloria Kimbrough of Princeton; several siblings; aunts; uncles; nieces; nephews; and close friends who considered him family.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Frank Cline, and his brother, Kenyon Childress.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Morgan’s Funeral Home in Princeton. Funeral services are set for Tuesday, October 28, at 11:00 a.m., with Bro. Mark Faughn and Bro. Anthony Dyer officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery.
Family and friends say Cooper will be remembered for his humor, hard work, and the love he showed to everyone around him — a legacy that will continue through the lives he touched.