Jaxson Michael Cooper

“Love is how you stay alive, even after you are gone.” — Mitch Albom

Jaxson Michael Cooper was more than a cat, he was family. People often assumed that Jaxson was named after the famous pop star, but the truth is, when I walked into a shelter looking to adopt, Jaxson climbed up the bars of his cage and called out to me.

From the start, he was tiny but feisty...a little rebel who loved to jump into cereal bowls, climb up legs, and cause mischief. He adored his older brother Mylo, who predeceased him, often climbing on his back and riding him like a horse. Mylo loved every second of it.

We named him Jaxson after the main character on Sons of Anarchy--a leather jacket-wearing outlaw with a good heart. His middle name, Michael, honored Jennifer’s late brother. But just like the pop-star he shared a name with, as a kitten, Jax was BAD — so bad that no one could’ve imagined he’d grow into such a calm, sweet, and loving soul. And no one was prepared for how big he became, earning his title as a true gentle giant.

Jaxson’s black-and-white fur made him look like he was always dressed for an occasion. A true tuxedo-wearing gentleman, although he hated collars, he looked so handsome in his bow ties and I would put one on him

anytime I could. His favorite things were cozy corners, boxes, and TREATS. Jax never discriminated with affection, he loved everyone. He trusted people so deeply that I’m convinced he would’ve welcomed a robber into my apartment as long as they offered him treats and a warm spot by their feet.

He embodied peace and warmth. You could fuss at him for being in the way, and moments later he’d be back, ready to snuggle ...because he never held a grudge. In his final moments, when he was scared and confused, he still trusted me completely. At the ER, he hissed at everyone who approached him, everyone except me. He just kept his eyes on me, making sure I was okay and that both comforted me and broke my heart at the same time. I’m grateful I was able to be there with him as he took his final breaths. I thanked him, told him how much he's meant to me over the years, gave him lots of final snuggles, told him I loved him and wished him well on his journey. ❤️

Jaxson will be remembered for his big heart, gentle spirit, and quiet companionship. He’s reunited now with his brother Mylo and leaves behind his loving sister Maggie and a human who will forever be grateful for the thirteen beautiful years we shared.

Jaxson leaves to mourn his parent, Eren Cooper; his sister, Maggie; his grandmother, Sheree Cooper; his aunties, Kristen, Bethany, Ceonn, and Amber (his favorite); his uncle, Alex; seven cousins; and a host of relatives and friends, including Alero Adokpaye and Patrick Anders.

Rest easy, my sweet boy — you were so loved.