News Summary
Jenny Koo, an esteemed culinary artist and matriarch, has passed away at 85, leaving a rich legacy of love, family, and extraordinary cooking, especially her famous Chinese dumplings. Born in China and later residing in various countries, Jenny’s journey was marked by resilience and creativity, touching the lives of many with her warmth and culinary skills. She is survived by her husband, Yung-Hsen Koo, and her three children, who benefited from her nurturing spirit.
Houston, Texas – Jenny Koo, a beloved matriarch and renowned culinary artist, passed away at the age of 85. Born near Beijing, China, on March 22, 1938, she leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and exceptional cooking, particularly known for her made-from-scratch Chinese dumplings.
Jenny was the youngest of seven children born to Pu Tang Chu and Yu Wei Xin. Her childhood was marked by hardship, including the loss of her mother at the tender age of 12. In 1949, Jenny relocated to Taiwan with most of her family, where she would later meet her future husband, Yung-Hsen Koo, who lived next door.
Education and Early Career
Jenny pursued her education diligently, earning a degree in Home Economics from Shih Chien University. Beyond her culinary skills, she was an accomplished watercolor artist, seamstress, knitter, crocheter, and hairstylist. Before the rise of cooking shows, Jenny was already giving cooking demonstrations at Bloomingdale’s in Flushing, New York, showcasing her passion for food.
Family Life
In October 1960, she married Yung-Hsen Koo, and together they built a vibrant life, welcoming three children. Their journey took them across several countries, including Taiwan, Thailand, and Canada, before eventually settling in Washington, D.C. After their youngest daughter graduated from high school, Jenny joined her husband in Saudi Arabia, where he worked as a Project Manager for Exxon/Mobil MRDC.
A Life of Travel
The Koo family’s adventures led them around the world, living in California, Boston, Korea, and Singapore, which Jenny adored. They finally settled in Houston, Texas, in late 1977. All three of Jenny’s children attended Stratford High School and The University of Texas at Austin, benefitting from a nurturing and supportive family environment.
Legacy and Community Impact
Jenny was remembered for her kindness, generosity, and spirited personality. Her feisty energy and passion for cooking endeared her to many. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Leader, who would have been 64 years old this year. Jenny is survived by her husband, Yung-Hsen Koo, two daughters and their spouses: Emerald and Alasdair Greig, Grace Koo, along with her beloved grandchildren: Andrew Greig (and wife Paige), Tara Greig, Cameron Joey Koo, Trinity Frank, and Eliot Frank.
Throughout her life, Jenny Koo embodied the values of love, resilience, and creativity, impacting everyone around her through her culinary skills and the warmth of her character.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Kwei-Lien Koo
- Wikipedia: Culinary Arts
- Dignity Memorial: Jenny Koo
- Google Search: Culinary Heritage
- Dignity Memorial: Jenny Koo Memorial
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Matriarch
- Dignity Memorial: Jenny Koo Tribute
- Google News: Houston Obituaries
- Dignity Memorial: Leader Koo
- Google Search: Legacy of Family
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
