Judy L. Cooper WINTERHALTER, 82, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Monday, February 23, 2026, in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville.
Born January 5, 1944, in Cuba, she was the daughter of Doran and Millie Vockovic Cooper.
A graduate of Belmont High School, Judy was a business owner and familiar face in the Belmont community. She owned and operated Hair Styling by Judy and later with Georgia Watson, co-owned and operated Design Image, both in Belmont. For many years, she also worked at the Belmont Hotel as a waitress and bartender, where she formed countless friendships. After moving to Wellsville, she became Steward at the Wellsville Elks Lodge, where she worked for many years and found a second family. Judy gave her time and heart to the Lodge and in 2004 was named Elk of the Year — an honor that reflected how deeply she cared about her Elks community. In recent years, you could often find Judy at Kent Beer Company, serving beers and their famous K & J cocktails alongside her dear friend Karol.
Judy lived life on her own terms — golfing, gardening, exercising, and spending time with friends that became like family to her. Whether behind the bar, on the golf course, or gathered around a table with friends, Judy was in her element — social, strong, and unapologetically herself.
She was a member of the Wellsville Country Club, a life member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and a life member of the Wellsville Elks Lodge.
She is survived by two children, James (Julie) Manning of Blandon, PA and Kari (Daniel) Gambino of Frederick, MD; four grandchildren, Jami (Chad) Stauffer, Ryan Manning, Riley (Chance) Sullivan, and Madison Zenoski; four great-grandchildren, James, Carter, Cooper, and Millie; a brother, Bradley (Pamela) Cooper of Belmont; two nieces; a nephew; and many close friends, including Karol Marciano and Brenda Joyce.
She was predeceased by her parents; and her life partner, Patrick Lester.
A gathering to celebrate Judy’s life will be held at Wellsville Elks Lodge, 77 East Pearl Street, Wellsville on Saturday, April 18, 2026, starting at 1:00 PM. Memorials may be made to the Comfort House of Allegany County or the SPCA Serving Allegany County.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
