The Coopers and their Lasting Commitment to Marco Island and NCH

For Thomas and June Cooper, Marco Island was never simply a place to visit. It was a community they loved, invested in, and ultimately helped shape.

What began as seasonal visits in the 1980s soon became a lifelong commitment to the Island, its residents, and the organizations that helped make Marco Island the special place they came to cherish. Thomas “Tom” Cooper III, the couple’s youngest child and only son, recalls how fully his parents embraced island life after arriving on Marco decades ago. The Coopers became active members of the community, dedicating their time, leadership, and philanthropy to causes that strengthened the island for future generations. That spirit of service was deeply rooted in both of them.

June, the youngest of ten children, often reflected on growing up on her family’s Pennsylvania farm, where she learned the values of humility, hard work, family, and helping others. On Marco Island, she became a devoted NCH volunteer and remained actively involved in numerous community organizations.

Tom’s path was similarly defined by leadership and service. Before building a distinguished career in banking and financial services, he began in Christian ministry. Throughout his life, he devoted his time and talents to organizations focused on healthcare, community well-being, and helping others.

Together, the Coopers shared a belief that strong communities do not happen by accident. They are built by people willing to invest in them.

That philosophy guided much of their philanthropy, particularly their support of healthcare.

As Marco Island continued to grow, the Coopers recognized the importance of ensuring residents could access exceptional care without leaving the community they loved.

According to Cooper III, his parents wanted “to create something better for people on Marco Island so that they didn’t have to leave the island for quality healthcare.”

Their first gift to NCH supported healthcare initiatives on Marco Island before their philanthropy expanded to include emergency, heart, and stroke care throughout the region. They understood that when families face a medical emergency, having trusted, high-quality care nearby can make all the difference.

“The closest and best resource for healthcare, and in particular heart and strokes, was Baker,” Cooper III said.

Even after both of his parents’ passing, their commitment to healthcare continues through estate gifts benefiting the NCH Heart, Vascular, and Stroke Fund.

For Cooper III, seeing that impact continue is a source of pride.” I am proud that my parents have left such a legacy on Marco Island and to NCH,” he said, “and hopefully their gifts will continue to inspire others to give generously.”