Joe Dee Cook

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Visitation Schedule
Roller-Owens Funeral Home
5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd
North Little Rock, AR  72116
Thursday, July 7, 2016
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Service Schedule
Central Baptist Church
Fairway
North Little Rock, AR  72116
Friday, July 8, 2016
11:00 a.m.
Cemetery
Arkansas State Veteran's Cemetery
1501 W. Maryland Ave.
North Little Rock, AR  72120
Memorial Contributions
Central Baptist Church
5200 Fairway Avenue
North Little Rock, AR  72116


The Gideons International
P. O. Box 140800
Nashville, TN  37214


John K. Cook, Jr. and Lucille W. Cook Endowed Scholarship in Nursing UAMS Institutional Advancement
4301 West Markham Street, #716
Little Rock, AR  72205
I served in the Air Force.
Joe Dee CookI am a Veteran.

of North Little Rock, AR

October 23, 1947 - July 2, 2016

Joe D. Cook, 68, of North Little Rock went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 2. He was born October 23, 1947 in Little Rock, Arkansas to John K. Cook, Jr. and Lucille Wanamaker Cook. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, of 40 years and sons Joe D. Cook, Jr. (Michelle) of Cabot, Gary D. Boyer (Robyn) of Bella Vista, James Scott Cook (Charis) of Little Rock, and Steven W. Cook (Becky) of Little Rock. Grandchildren, Chasity Cook, Kelly Ashe, Megan Cook, Emily Boyer, Shelby Boyer, Luke Boyer, Skyler Cook, Gabe Cook, Lucy Cook, Ira Cook and great-granddaughter, Roriee Ashe; brothers John K. Cook III (The Woodlands, TX) and Jeffrey W. Cook (San Antonio, TX).

After graduating from North Little Rock High School, he attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, receiving his bachelor's degree and later his masters degree from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. Joining the U.S. Air Force immediately after graduation, he served his country for 20 years. After retiring, he moved back to North Little Rock and began his second career working at UAMS in the College of Nursing, The Department of Psychiatry, and the Jack Stephens Spine Institute over the next 26 years. He was a volunteer for numerous organizations and causes and would gladly serve when given the opportunity. He particularly loved his work with the Arkansas Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, serving as its chairman for many years and working with Craig O'Neal and the Jingle Bell Run.

Joe was a member of Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock where he served faithfully as a Sunday School teacher for over 20 years. He also was a long-time member of the North Little Rock Gideon Camp and served as their Chaplain for a number of years.

Joe was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was exceptionally gifted with the ability to make friends and to be a wonderful and inspirational leader in everything he undertook. There is no way to estimate the number of people he inspired and influenced during the course of his life. He truly lived out his faith in Jesus Christ every day and made it his aim to be an example to those around him. He will be deeply missed and his life will be forever cherished by his family and friends.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the UAMS Cancer Institute for their kindness and compassion and particularly Dr. Arnaoutakis and Dr. Meena who went out of their way to answer questions and provide a positive and meaningful outlook.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 7th from 6-8 P.M. at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock, 5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock (501-791-7400). A celebration of Joe's life will be held Friday, July 8th, at 11:00 A.M. at Central Baptist Church of North Little Rock. Interment to follow at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Central Baptist Church Great Commission Fund, Gideons International or to the John K. Cook, Jr. and Lucille W. Cook Endowed Scholarship in Nursing within the UAMS Foundation Fund.





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73 Condolence(s)
Scott & Sandy Sanders
Jacksonville, AR
Liked
Friday, September 9, 2016

To Marilyn and family, our condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with you. Joe is an incredible man. He set very high standards for all of us in every area of his life, family, friend, faith, and service to others, including as a military officer. Sorry for the delay in getting in touch, we just found out. May God's love and grace be your comfort and strength as wait for the day when all God's children will be together again. Scott and Sandy Sanders

Scott & Sandy Sanders
Jacksonville, AR
Liked
Monday, September 5, 2016

To Marilyn and family, our condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with you. Joe is an incredible man. He set very high standards for all of us in every area of his life, family, friend, faith, and service to others, including as a military officer. Sorry for the delay in getting in touch, we just found out. May God's love and grace be your comfort and strength as wait for the day when all God's children will be together again. Scott and Sandy Sanders

Meg Rains
Richmond, VA
Liked
Thursday, July 14, 2016

I was lucky enough to work with Joe at UAMS Psychiatry. What a solid, smart, kind soul. Sending love and light to his family.

Donna Chachere
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, July 14, 2016

Joe was a joy to work with at UAMS. He always had a smile with a positive and generous attitude.

Praying for peace and solace for his family and friends.

Vanessa
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Oh my, I just saw this. It is very sad. Joe was a great guy. I recall doing a clean up project with him and a small group of us. Also, the House of Delegates and his kindness. He will be sorely missed. May God comfort his loved ones left behind without him. Rest in Peace Joe. God's blessings to his all that will feel the loss of this great man.

Rafid Filat
NLR, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 12, 2016

So sorry for your loss. A truly great and inspirational man for sure! I loved working with him at UAMS. May he rest in peace!

Gaylynne Anglin
Cabot, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 12, 2016

This makes me so sad. I worked with Joe off and on for over 20 years. Although we were never in the same department, he was always a mentor of sorts. My boss at the time had asked him to help me when I assumed the role of business manager for our division. He always took time out of his busy schedule to help me with a variety of issues and I know I drove him crazy with phone calls and emails, but he never seemed to mind. He was a super nice guy and would do anything to help people. I will never forget him and his encouragement and support. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family...

Alexa R
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Monday, July 11, 2016

Joe always had a smile on his face and a can do attitude. I remember asking him why he still drove an old truck when he could afford a new car with the latest technology. He said, "It still runs". I now try to use that same type of mindset in my own life. He set such a good example of sharing and helping others. I will always remember what a wonderful person he was, and his smile. God blessed us with knowing him.

Dennis Lucy MD
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Saturday, July 9, 2016

I had the honor and pleasure to have worked with Joe. He was a great asset to the Dept. of Neurology and to me personally. I miss him and share in his loss.

Becky Patterson
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Friday, July 8, 2016

Joe Cook. was definitely "one of the good guys and one of a kind". I met and worked with Joe in the College of Nursing in the 90's. . During that time, I was a PI on a major program grant (my first grant). I would never had made it through if it had not been for Joe. He was my advisor, my confidant and friend. He was always positive and encouraging, no matter what. He taught me so much. Now many years later, I try to remember his lessons.

I also remember how much he laughed at and with me when I had to confess to him that I had accidently flushed my pager down the toilet. I told him that it just jumped off my belt and escaped into the drain. He laughed so hard!! (It was such a good "true" story, that he didn't make me pay for the pager.) :):)
"Joe, Heaven is all the richer because you are there. Looking forward to the day with I will see you again."

Herta Jesse
Maumelle, AR
Liked
Friday, July 8, 2016

I am sad to know that he has left us so soon. I have worked with him on numerous occasions and it was always a pleasure. It is a comfort to know that he belonged to Christ ad we will see him soon.
Sincerely,
Herta Jesse

Mary Tucker
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Friday, July 8, 2016

Mr. Joe Cook-such a sweet man! I just want to tell the family that Joe was one of the nicest people that I'd worked with at UAMS. we worked on the same floor and building for about 5 years. He was respectable and very well respected. Most of all he was always so kind, funny, and fair--and he loved to tell stories, especially those about his mother. I still have my place mat that she knitted for us in the pain office. He is in a better place now and I will always admire his strength. My sympathy's and prayers to his wife and family!

Michelle DuJardin
lakewood ranch,
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

Joe was a true gentleman. He was my mentor and my friend and he will be missed.

George Belew
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

I worked with Joe at UAMS in different capacities over the years. I so appreciated Joe's wit, candor and knowledge. He was engaged in so many activities and handled all of them effortlessly. As we exchanged email's during his sickness, he was so positive and energetic regarding his treatment and recovery. It is so extremely sad to hear of his passing. My prayers and thoughts are with the family.

Cummins Lue
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

I had the honor to work with Joe on the Leadership Council of the Arthritis Foundation. He was not only a great leader , but always placed the need of others on top of his priorities. He projected a natural kindness and competence. He will be badly missed by all of us.

Pam Reid
Pine Bluff, AR
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

I worked for Joe Cook 9 years and he always had a positive attitude and appreciated his employees. Joe believed that part of his job was making people happy. Joe was a very compassionate, well-respected, fun-loving, precise, and courteous person. He had the sweetest spirit and always a pleasure to be around. Joe was a strong Christian man that truly indeed let his light shine bright. Joe was family to me and the best boss in the world. One of his most memorable sayings at the end of each staff meeting was” Go forth and do great things”. It has been a great privilege to have known such an extraordinary gentleman. He will be greatly missed. Joe you are still in charge but now you are our Chief angel watching down from heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with the Cook family.

Ken Easter
Little Rock,
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

I have known Joe for most of the years he worked at UAMS. From the time I met him he has been the same "good" person for all those years. He was always a leader, friend, and a great example of what a human being should be like!!
To the family:May your memories of Joe get you through these tough days ahead.

Steve and Becky Morley
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

May the prayers and kind words of those who knew Joe and who care about you be a great comfort.

Steve and Becky Morley

Sherry Bryant
North Little Rock,
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

Joe you were one the sweetest and kindest person I ever met. When you called and asked could I work for neurosurgery to help out I did not hesitate. It was an honor and a privalage to work for you. I will miss your smiling face. I know heaven is brighter with your presence. Rest soilder you are in the arms of the Lord.

Joanna Patterson
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Thursday, July 7, 2016

I worked with Joe Cook on many occasions at UAMS, I knew him personally and professional. He was always the perfect gentlemen and went above and beyond expectations when asked to take care of something. I am thankful to have know such a wonderful caring man.

Wayne Holcomb
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Sorry for your loss. Joe was a good friend and working companion. I know he is now safe in the arms of Jesus and has heard Him say: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." I am on vacation and will not return in time for any service. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Deborah Carman
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

I worked with Joe at UAMS CON for many years. His willingness to help, his work ethic, even temper and perpetual smile were always present. He had a genuine love for the College of Nursing and the people within it who were fulfilling its mission. I never met your family, Joe, but my deepest sympathy for their loss.

Deborah Dorsa Carman

Kim Bonner
Maumelle, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

I didn't know Joe personally; I had met him a few times and knew his name from working in UAMS Purchasing years ago. He was know as a very positive person and always willing to help. My thoughts and prayers go to the Cook family.

Jim Warren
Little Rock,
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

We weren't ready to let you go Joe! Love & miss you! Our thoughts are with Marilyn & the boys!! Jim

Carol Kirkpatrick
Sherwood, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Joe meant a lot to me as my Sunday School Teacher for a while and he always made me feel like he was glad to see me, that I was worth something. I will miss him and am glad to know he is in heaven. What a wonderful example he was to everyone!

Latashia Pearson
North LittleRock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

I've worked with Joe here on the 11th floor of the spine Institute for 4 years. My prayers go out to the family of Joe Cook for he was loved will be greatly missed. I continue to remember Joe whistling as he was making his rounds around the 11th floor and urging me to get out of the office and go home. In his words.."Do not work too late and get home to your family".
I will miss you Joe! God knows that he has an angel in his home!

Renee Raines
Hazen, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

My words cannot express the heart felt sympathy and
condolence I feel for all of you. Joe was a wonderful person and he will be truly missed. Even when he was sick, enduring chemotherapy, he was a positive inspiration. I was lucky to have known him as a collegue and friend. I pray you are able to take comfort in knowing he was a wonderful joy to all those who knew him. May peace be with you.

Cindy Mosley
Benton, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

I have known and worked with Joe in a number of capacities at UAMS over the last 26 years. He was without a doubt one of the most positive uplifting people I have ever met. It never mattered what administrative nightmare UAMS threw his way, he always did it with a smile. He was the ultimate UAMS team player. We also shared the love of spending time with family at the lake. Imagine our surprise when we ended up owning condos 4 doors down from each other. There will never be another Joe. I will miss him so much. My prayers go out to Marilyn and the family. He was a very special man and loved his family so much.

Chuck Desjardin
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

I knew Joe for many years. He truly will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. His passing saddens me greatly .. May peace be with him now

John Warren
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

I pray for comfort and peace for the Cook family during this time. I know Joe will truly be missed, but remember all of the good times and memories you had with him. I have know and worked with Joe here at UAMS at various times for a little over 25 years. He was a man of integrity, full of love and joy. Family stay prayerful and be blessed.

Lance Ferguson
Vilonia, AR
Liked
Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Joe is what we all strive to be, a Desciple, a shepherd, a parent, a friend, a mentor, and more.
Words simply can’t fill the hole that his absence leaves in our hearts.
I will miss you chief!

Sarah Smith-McKee
Benton,
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I worked with Joe at the Spine Institute back in 2004. He gave me my first job at UAMS and I will never forget what a great man he was. He was always kind and funny. I will deeply miss him as he was one of the best bosses I have ever or will ever have. My thoughts and prayers go out to his lovely wife and family during this time. All my love, Sarah

BK Dobbs
Pensacola,
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was an inspiration to all who had the privilege of meeting him.
Thank you for your service to our country and to UAMS.
Prayers for his family.

Ginny Becton Williams
North Little Rock,
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was the kindest gentleman I've ever had pleasure to know. I am so sad about his passing, but I'm happy in the knowledge that he is resting peacefully in the arms of our Lord and Savior! Prayers of comfort and peace for his entire family.

Pam Abbott
NLR,
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Dear Marilyn- I am so sorry for your loss. You and Joe have been at Central Baptist for as long as I can remember. You both have always been so kind and friendly to everyone and both awesome teachers of God's word. I pray for God's peace during this difficult time. Love-Pam Abbott

Kinshuk Sahaya
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was truly an inspiration deserving every bit of respect, and admiration. I cherished every day I had the honor of working with him. Rest in peace, Joe.
Kinshuk Sahaya, MD

Gina L. McGee
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss.

Donna Mattingly
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was one of the kindest people I've ever met here at UAMS. He always had a smile on his face and was very polite and professional, yet often would make you smile and laugh. He never met a stranger, I'm sure. We are already missing him here in the Spine Building. Rest in peace, Joe. Your family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers.

Richard and JoAnn Smith
Searcy, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe Cook was in the role of Administrator for the UAMS CON when Richard and I joined the faculty in the early 90’s. We recognized and appreciated his thoroughness and also his efficiency in providing administrative support, allowing us to focus on our primary teaching responsibilities. He was soon known to us as a leader among leaders and we observed Joe’s characteristic of inspiring both faculty and staff members to emulate his military ‘can-do’ spirit. He made our work environment a happy and proud place to be.

Kimberly Scruggs
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

My condolences to the family of Mr. Joe Cook, whom I had the pleasure of working with in the College of Nursing at UAMS. He was such a genuine person and had a very giving spirit. He will truly missed, may the Lord comfort this family during their bereavement.

Sharanda Williams
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I worked with Joe in the House of Delegates at UAMS beginning in 2004. Joe had more institutional knowledge about the policies and procedures for UAMS and his name will continue to be respected here on campus. His heart was for the people and I could always count on Joe to be a cheerleader for our countless outreach projects. I will miss his warm smile and positive attitude. He was a shining example of a "good man" who loved his country and countrymen. I pray strength for family and peace in knowing that Joe is at peace as well.

Isaac FIlat
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Rest in Peace Joe

Tony DeJarnatt
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I am honored and blessed to have known Joe. He was truly a blessing to everyone he met. May God give you peace during this difficult time.

Karen Barnett
Sherwood, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was such an amazing human being. It makes me sad that he is gone from earth but I know he is up in heaven working on something big and special. I worked with him at UAMS for 20 years and he was always such an amazing asset to any work group he was on. He was smart and had great ideas but he also had that big smile and sense of humor that could add much needed levity to the meetings we were in. He always talked fondly about Marilyn and his kids and grandkids. He was so proud to sponsor a Jingle Bell Run team from UAMS. I will pray for you, Marilyn, and your family. I will not be able to go to visitation or the funeral but I plan to pay a visit to the Arkansas State Veteran's Cemetery over the weekend to say goodbye. God bless you.

Faye Smith
Sherwood, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I will miss Joe so very much. I have known him since he began his career at UAMS in the College of Nursing. I worked with him in Nursing and in Psychiatry. He was the kindest and most honest man I've ever had the pleasure of working with. His awesome smile always made even the darkest days light up. I know there is another very bright light in heaven now that Joe is there. My prayers of peace and comfort go out to Marilyn and the rest of Joe's family. Rest in peace, my dear friend.

Ginny L Morrison
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I served with Joe on the UAMS Veterans Appreciation Committee. He was such a joy to work with and an honor to know. He cared so much for his fellow veterans and had such a respect for all military personnel. Joe was committed to honoring our veterans the best way possible and was active in making sure our veterans events were excellent. I am so thankful I was able to work with him on such an inspiring committee and I will truly miss him. To his family and friends, I pray God will grant you peace as only He can. Ginny Morrison, UAMS

Dana Trickey
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I worked with Joe Cook at UAMS. I wasn’t lucky enough that it was directly but through the House of Delegates, several committees, and through several construction projects. One of my first meetings was when Joe spoke to the 2007 UAMS Management Academy about coaching and leadership. He handed out some policies that I have shared with others over the last 9 years, his style was one of a kind. He had a way with words that would take something that may have seemed impossible and turned into just doable. His spirit, positive outlook, no nonsense style, and get it done attitude will live on here in our hearts for many years to come. After his diagnosis he told me “the Man upstairs has a plan for me and I won’t question it”. It comforts me to know he was and will always be at peace through his faith. Prayers to his family.

Laura McGowan
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Joe was my boss in PM&R for over a year. I am very honored to have worked with him. He was the most positive, can-do man I have ever had the pleasure to work with. He will be greatly missed by all.

Donna Gullette, PhD, APRN, Associate Dean for Practice, College of Nursing
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Praying for you and your family. He will be greatly missed.

Brenda Scisson
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I express my deepest sympathy to Marilyn and the entire family on the loss of Joe. We have lost a wonderful man of integrity and faith. God bless the family as they deal with this loss.

Bashir Shihabuddin
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe will be missed greatly by many. I have greatly enjoyed knowing and working with Joe. He was a great administrator and always had something postitive to say. He always found a way to get things done. I thought of him as a friend. He would always stop to talk when we meet in the hallways at UAMS. I will miss our conversations greatly. A void is left that is hard to fill.

Kerrey Roberto
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I knew Joe from the House of Delegates, Jingle Bell Run and Spine Institute. What an asset he was to UAMS. He will certainly be missed by many who had the pleasure of working with him. My sincere condolences to all of Joe's loved ones.

Twyana Rhodes
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I was honored to have known Joe as my supervisor at the Spine Center. He was very direct and honest. During my tenure there he became an awesome mentor, advisor and encouraged not only me but others to step out on faith. Joe was always on the go, lending a helping hand in several departments. One of the friendliest people you could ever meet at UAMS and outside of work. Joe left a lasting impression on me and with UAMS.

Kelly Brewer
Cabot, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I will miss Joe. I am blessed to have known Joe as my first supervisor at UAMS, but also as a friend. He was an excellent mentor and encouraged me to do things I never thought I could. I will be praying for you all in the days ahead.

Tim Taylor
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was one of the hardest working but alos one of the friendliest people I ever had the pleasure to know at UAMS. He did so much for this campus but also for the people here. He was always available to help out, no matter what was needed. Joe left a lasting impression on this campus as well as on the people lucky enough to know him. I am truly a better person for having worked with Joe and will miss him immensely.

Kristy Jones Caldwell
North Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe,
You left a positive impact on anyone who met you. Since the moment I met you here at UAMS twelve years ago, you were nothing but kind to me and others around you. You will be missed. Rest on in love my friend.

John Sara Langston
North little rock,
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Joe was such a special man to so many people. He truly lived his faith and served as a quiet but loving witness for the Lord. His kindness was exceeded only by his honesty. It was an honor to know him all these years. His loss will be monumental to those still here, but what a celebration there must be in heaven right now

Amy Wanamaker
Austin, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

It's difficult to imagine a world without Cousin Joe. Named after my father, Joe always had a special place in my heart. He loved his Savior, Marilyn, his family and friends, and was the epitome of a gentle-man. He was also quite funny and very kind. He will be so missed!

Deanna Stout
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

I will miss Joe tremendously. From the first moment meeting him I knew he was a Man of integrity. His smile was so contagious. I have never known a more kind, caring and hardworking person as Joe. Prayers for his family and all of those who knew Joe.

Leigh Goss Parks
Tampa Bay, FL
Liked
Tuesday, July 5, 2016

My deepest condolences to the family of Joe Cook.

Marshall&Mary Blain
Sherwood,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

Joe is a special friend and will always be my Brother in Christ.He has touched so many lives, in the way he lived and died. I will miss him so much, but the Lord has gained a special follower of Chtist.

Vicki Weed Dumboski
Vadumboskii@gmail.com,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

I lost my husband a year & a half ago & my thoughts & prayers are with you & your family!

Vicki Dumboski
North Little Rock,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

Joe was such a good man who touched so many lives in such a wonderful way - he will be so missed and be remembered by his extraordinary spirit & love!
He will be missed & loved by all who's lives he touched!

Chuck Cooper
Indianapolis,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

Marilyn, Please accept the condolences of the entire Cooper family. We are better for having had him in our lives.

Joe was a leader's leader, a devout follower of God, a loving family man, a tremendous father and an outstanding friend.

His loss leaves a huge void in the hearts of those who loved him. We will always cherish the time we spent with Joe and his family while stationed in Turkey. I'm blessed I got to see Joe before his last hospitalization. The visit we had will remain with me forever. I am grateful and better for having known Joe.

The Coopers

Allison Streepey
Little Rock, AR
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

Dear Marilyn and Joe's sons and family:
I used to tell everyone Joe Cook hung the moon because he did. Joe was one of the most wonderful people that any of us ever met and I had the good fortune of having him as my boss in the College of Nursing. What a great person and a great leader. He always was positive and encouraging, no matter what. He led by example. The world will be a sadder place without him. Joe meant so much to all of us in the UAMS House of Delegates. He gave so much of himself in every endeavor. One of my fondest memories is of visiting your church for a dinner theatre fundraiser and Joe Could sing too! That was not a surprise. He gave everything he did 110%. Please know how much Joe loved us all and we all loved him. How lucky we are to have known him.
Many thoughts and prayers are for you to heal during this sad time. Respectfully,
Allison Streepey

Eric Lamcaster
,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

Too many words and thoughts to express, but in simplest terms, Joe's finest moments may have been the last few he spent here on earth. When faced with a probable death sentence, Joe remained his usual upbeat self, telling everyone he talked to that his sole purpose was to glorify God through his fight, and that either way things turned out, he won. His optimism never waned, even as his health did. Joe told me that God had chosen him for this honor (yes, that's what he called it!), and he counted it a blessing to be able to use it as a way to share his faith. The apostle Paul famously said: "For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Never have I seen someone live that out like I saw Joe Cook live it out. How should a Christian suffer? Paul preached it. Christ lived it. I've read about it. Now I have witnessed it firsthand.

Steve Hooks
Memphis,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

I knew Joe in high school and he was a great friend. He has lead an amazing life! My prayers go out to everyone who knew him. NLRHS 1965

Linda Shock
Conway,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

I worked with Joe at UAMS-CON for several years. Never knew a better man. He lived his faith every day and always went the extra mile in everything he did. Everyone loved Joe. He was an amazing man and I feel blessed to have known him.

Carolyn Killman Eakin
Nashville,
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

I'm sending thoughts and prayers to Joe's family.
Carolyn Eakin
NLRHS class of 1965

Mark Wanamaker
Greenwood Village, CO
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

Words cannot express how much I will miss you Cousin Joe, and the great positive influence you had on my life and others. I know you are now at peace and joy at God's side. We love you and our prayers are with Marilyn and your family.

Mark, Suzanne, Sabrina, Madeline and Chance Wanamaker

ART WIEGAND
ENGLEWOOD, CO
Liked
Monday, July 4, 2016

JOE AND I WERE CLOSE FRIENDS GROWING UP, AND I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER HIM AND ALL THE FUN WE HAD. MY WIFE SUSIE KNEW JOE AT THE U OF A AND WAS ALSO SADDENED AT HIS PASSING. KNOWING THAT HE WAS A MAN OF GOD,WE KNOW THAT HE IS WITH HIS LORD.
YOUR FAMILY IS IN OUR PRAYERS.

ART AND SUSIE WIEGAND

Olan and Nancy Nugent
North Little Rock, AR
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Monday, July 4, 2016

Marilyn and Family, Nancy and I want to express our sincere sadness in hearing of Joe's passing. He was a wonderful person and was an inspiration to all who knew him. He never turned away for problems or challenges, Cancer included. He met each with faith, honor and the kind of spirit found in Hero's and Joe was definitely one of those. Sorry we will not be able to attend the service but we will be with you all in our thoughts and prayers. Isaiah 40:31 – but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Joe is doing this as we miss him. Love, Olan and Nancy

Larry Talley
Sherwood, AR
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Monday, July 4, 2016

My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Joe's family and friends, all of whom have been truly blessed by his caring and compassionate presence in our lives, along with my gratitude to Joe for going out of his way to comfort me during my urgent care heart issues and surgical procedures at UAMS. Our conversations and reminiscences about our life experiences, our travels, and our families are moments I will always cherish. A sweet spirit has left us far too soon.