Ret. TSgt. James E. Cook

The shepherd has called home another member of his flock, Ret. TSgt. James E. Cook, Sr., age 72, of Ocean Springs, MS. He left this world for everlasting life on January 28, 2008, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. James was born on December 1, 1935, in Shelby, NC to the late Reverend Marvin and Marie Cook of Kings Mountain, NC. He served in the National Guard prior to enlisting into the Air Force. He served with honor and pride for 21 years. Upon his retirement from the military he was employed by the State of Mississippi as a bridge tender until he retired from the State. Of the things that mattered the most to James was his family. James met and married his wife of 54 years in 1953. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. James enjoyed playing pool and was a member of the Jackson County Horseshoe League where he played for the Angle Inn and JoJo's Lounge. He was also a member of the VFW Post #2434 of Biloxi. James is survived by his wife, Retha, daughters, Retha Ann Edwards and her husband, Jim, of Theodore, AL., Tina Gomez and her husband, Nerio of Douglasville, GA., and a son, James E. Cook II and his wife, Debbie of Hurley, MS., eight grandchildren, Jimmy, Melissa, Selina, Johnathan, Alicia, Jamie, Kim, Jason and their respective spouses. In addition to 12 great-grandchildren, he leaves behind two brothers, Charles and Floyd Cook of NC as well as many nieces, nephews and numerous good friends. He was preceded in death by a brother, Reverend Carl Ray Cook of Kings Mountain, NC, a grandson, James E. Cook III of Hurley, MS., a granddaughter, Josie Cook of Douglasville, GA. and a favorite cousin, Frank Simpson of Casar, NC. The family wishes to express their thanks and appreciation for the care and concern shown by Biloxi Regional Medical Center and their staff and the Hospice of Light and their staff during this difficult time. Visitation will be on Thursday, January 31, 2008, from 6-8 PM, at the Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home. On Friday, February 1, 2008, friends may visit from 9-10 AM in the funeral home, followed by a 10 AM procession for an 11 AM graveside service at the Biloxi National Cemetery.