In the heart of Stewart Acres resides the vibrant Cooper family – Erin, Jeremy, Charlie, and Lyla – a dynamic crew filled with love, laughter, and a furry entourage: Stella, a St. Bernard, Sky, a Husky, and Ivy, a charming cat.

Erin and Jeremy, both educators with a passion for shaping young minds, share a bond that began on a blind date. Originally from Morgantown and Columbus, Ohio, respectively, their journey brought them to Winfield where they've built a life centered around family, community, and shared moments.

Erin is originally from Morgantown and Jeremy is from Columbus, Ohio. Erin shared their educational background, “I went to West Virginia University and the University of Charleston with a bachelor's degree in multi-categorical special education and English education and a master's degree in Special Education. I then completed a certification in Autism through Marshall University. Jeremy attended the University of Dayton and received a bachelor’s in computer information systems and then Western Governors University for his master's in Math Education.”

Professionally, Erin works in the self-contained special education classroom at Buffalo High School, guiding students with intellectual impairment and autism. Jeremy, a math teacher at Winfield High School, also teaches Computer Science and Robotics.

Married for six, Erin and Jeremy are parents to Charlie, a lively five-year-old in kindergarten at Eastbrook Elementary, and Lyla, a fourteen-year-old freshman at Winfield High School.

The Coopers find joy in various family activities, with travel topping their list. From skiing and ice skating in winter, to beach outings in summer, the family relishes making memories together. The kids enjoy horseback riding, and the FMC pool is a regular spot for quality family time. Grateful for proximity to Erin's parents, visiting their house is a cherished tradition for Charlie and Lyla.

Speaking of traditions, the Coopers have a yearly beach vacation with close friends, a tradition spanning over a decade. Additionally, Christmas Eve brings the whole family together for a cozy evening of opening one gift, drinking hot chocolate, and enjoying How The Grinch Stole Christmas.

Erin, a proud WVU graduate, expresses their sports allegiance: "We are TEAM WINFIELD all the way! My husband is a Michigan fan, although he grew up in Columbus, and I bleed blue and gold as a WVU graduate."

For family dinners, steak or crab legs, baked potatoes, and salad take the spotlight. When dining out, hibachi and sushi win unanimous approval. With busy schedules, the rare moments of sitting down together for dinner become cherished family time.

Digging into the family's roots, Erin shares a surprising fact: "My grandfather, Bood Lodge, was a famous dirt track race car driver and was inducted into the Elkins Raceway Hall of Legends."

Living in Stewart Acres since 2014, the Coopers embrace the close-knit community. The neighborhood's camaraderie and the children's shared experiences evoke a sense of nostalgia for Erin. “I will have a bunch of neighborhood kids sitting on my porch eating popsicles and playing in the sprinkler in our front yard. It reminds me of when I was growing up and I am glad my kids get to experience that.”

Erin shared with Stroll Winfield that finding time to relax can be rare. “Between all the kids’ activities we are constantly on the go! We occasionally go to catch a movie or go to dinner. It’s tiring being busy, but we know that in the blink of an eye are kids will be off to college, so we are appreciating the time we spend together. My parents will take over sometimes so Jeremy I can sneak off to a cabin for some R&R.”

Deeply involved in the community, Jeremy tutors at STAR Club, supporting underprivileged kids in the St. Albans area. The family tries to be present and attend as many Winfield games as

possible. Jeremy also coaches Little League T-ball, soccer, and basketball and plays softball in the local church league.

 The Coopers attend Good Shepherd Baptist Church, where Charlie participates in AWANAS. She also enjoys playing softball, basketball and gymnastics. Lyla is a Winfield High School cheerleader and plays clarinet in the WHS concert band. She is also a member of the Emerald Elegance Show Choir.

Reflecting on their community involvement, Erin notes, "It is a great community. All our neighbors know each other, and our kids play together. It's a great neighborhood for kids to grow up in."

We are thrilled that the Cooper family calls Winfield home.