Reverend Donald Theodore Cooper, C.S.B.
Class of 1940

Father Don Cooper has been associated with St. Thomas High School since he entered the school as a freshman in 1936. His class was the last one to graduate from the campus located at the corner of Austin and Hadley Streets. He has served as a scholastic, priest, treasurer, principal, coach, guidance counselor, Associate Director of Development, Chairman of the St. Thomas Foundation Board, and organizer and advisor of the Alumni Association.

Born in 1923 in Houston to Gladys and Denver Cooper, he attended public school before entering St. Thomas. Following his graduation he entered the Novitiate of the Basilian Fathers and was professed in 1942. Upon receiving his B.A. from Assumption College in 1946 he was assigned to teach as Mr. Cooper at St. Thomas for two years. He then continued theological studies in Toronto and was ordained on June 29, 1950.

Returning to his beloved St. Thomas in 1951, he taught language, journalism served as tennis coach, and was principal from 1968 - 1976. Following his tenure as principal, the Basilian community assigned him to St. Theresa's parish in Sugar Land, where he served the parishioners until 1982.

From 1979 to 1989, Father Cooper served as the Western Regional Representative for the Basilian Fathers and served on the Basilian General Council.

In 1988, Father Cooper came back home to St. Thomas and filled several capacities which included Associate Director of Development, substitute teacher, organizer and advisor of the Alumni Association, guidance counselor, and advisor to all who needed his help. He also served on the Board of John Paul II School and was the Chairman of the St. Thomas FOundation Board.

Father Cooper was the link between the 1940s and the 1990s. He passed away in September 1995 but left a legacy for students and faculty to follow. This wonderful priest was "Mr. St. Thomas."