Don Cooper, the longtime White Sox pitching coach who helped guide the 2005 championship team, has died at 70.
His family shared the news first on Facebook through his personal account, writing, “On September 22, Donald James Cooper passed away in Brentwood, TN, leaving Earth to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” the family wrote.
They described a man whose life was defined by baseball, faith and family.
“His fierce passion for baseball, and the coaches and players around him, brought him a life filled with great pride, stories, and accomplishments.
“This passion was superseded only by his unbreakable love for his family and friends. He cared immensely for his loved ones.
“He lived a life blessed by God, which he talked about whenever he had the chance. He was very thankful for his blessings and success both in and out of baseball.
“He checked in with his friends and family constantly, and was always a call away, willing to lend an ear and give his sincere advice and encouragement.
“Thankfully, we believe Don passed away peacefully.
“We’ll communicate funeral arrangements once established.”
The White Sox followed with their own statement on social media, honoring a coach who spent decades in the organization.
“The White Sox send our condolences to the family, friends and fans of Don Cooper, who has passed away at 70.
“Don Cooper spent 33 seasons as a coach in the White Sox organization from 1988-2020, including 18 full seasons as the major-league pitching coach. Cooper served as the pitching coach for the 2005 World Series champion club, which became the first team since the 1928 Yankees to toss four consecutive complete games in a single postseason.
“Forever in our thoughts.”
Tributes began coming in from people who worked with him, including former White Sox bench coach Joey Cora, who posted on Instagram.
“R.I.P, Not only a great coach, a great Person, all he wanted to do in life was to help people,” Cora wrote in his caption.
Former White Sox right fielder and 2005 World Series MVP Jermaine Dye also reacted in the comments.
“Coop will be missed,” Dye wrote.
The White Sox community is mourning the loss of one of the most familiar voices and presences from that championship era.
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