Obituary of John A. Cook, Sr.

John A. Cook, Sr, born on October 28, 1945, in San Francisco, CA, passed away on March 28, 2024, in Columbia, SC. He was the beloved son of John C. Cook and June Lauder Cook.

John was a devoted husband, having been married to Naomi Cook for 55 years since December 20, 1968, in Long Beach, California. He was a loving father to two sons, John Cook, Jr (Shonna) of SC, and Joe Cook (Renee) of MO. John is also survived by his brothers; Bruce Cook (Jane), Bobby Cook (Tammy), sisters; Kathy Hamilton of Decatur, IL, and Linda Kerr, all of Illinois.

John was a dedicated grandfather to Makysa Webb (Mitchell) of TN, Gabrielle Cook Ransom (Paul) of Alaska, Caitlin Cook (Triston Tharp), Zoey Cook, Ben Cook, and Becca Cook, all of MO. He was also cherished by many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A proud veteran, John served as a Lance Corporal with four years of active service and completed four tours of Vietnam. He was honored with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal for his service to the nation.

In his professional life, John worked as a truck driver for 28 years. He was a life member of the VFW, showing his commitment to serving his community and fellow veterans.

John was a family man through and through, finding joy in spending time with his loved ones and creating lasting memories with them. He was preceded in death by his father, stepmom, Betty Cook, sisters, Donna, Sandy, and a great-granddaughter, Tennley Renee.

A private funeral service will be held to honor and celebrate the life of John A. Cook, Sr. His legacy of love, dedication, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

The South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Family and friends may sign the online guest book by clicking on the “Tribute Wall” tab above.