James L. Cook

Capt./Ch James Leary Cook, USNR-Ret, 85 years, of Hillsboro, passed away Sunday morning, August 4, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, respected grandfather, and distinguished Navy veteran.

Born January 13, 1939 in Winston-Salem, NC, he is preceded in death by his parents, James E. and Jimmie Lee (Foster) Cook, Jr., his younger brother, Tommy Earl Cook, and niece Robin Walk.

Jim was a 1957 graduate of James A. Gray High School in Winston Salem, NC. He went on to the Cincinnati Bible Seminary, AB; University of Cincinnati, BA, (Psychology); Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, M.Div; Xavier University, M.Ed.; and University of Cincinnati, Ed.D.
He was a member of Psi Chi (National Honor Society in Psychology) and a Certified Instructor in Parent Effectiveness Training (P.E.T.).

He was an ordained minister in the Christian Church/Churches of Christ, serving several congregations in Kentucky, Indiana and North Carolina. He was also an Associate Professor for 9 years at the Cincinnati Christian College and Seminary (previously Cincinnati Bible Seminary) and later at Florida Christian College in Kissimmee, FL. He taught at the Central Christian Church's Christian School in St. Petersburg, FL, and later served on the board of the Hillsboro Christian Academy. He was dedicated to benevolent causes and missions, serving on the board of Christian Arabic Services for several years.

He was commissioned as a chaplain to the U.S.A.F. Active Reserve, October 23, 1973; then transferred to the U.S. Navy Active Reserve for most of his career where he retired as Captain. During his Naval chaplaincy, he served assignments in the states and abroad, and with both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Coast Guard.

After retirement, the Cooks moved to Hillsboro where he was a member of the Hillsboro Church of Christ family. An unexpected invitation to join the broadcasters at WOBO resonated with his lifelong love of music. Over the years, he dubbed his Big Band shows: "Dancing in the Dark", "Big Band Showcase", and "Serenade of the Bands". Many listeners both here and abroad enjoyed his engaging style.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Christine DeCamp (Mackey) Cook, whom he married on June 13, 1959. He is also survived by 3 loving children, Sharon Cook Price, Elizabeth Ann Cook and David Earl (Michelle) Cook; as well as 7 grandchildren, Jonathan (Kathryn) Maupin, William Maupin, Andrew Thomas, Samuel Thomas, Gabrielle Cook, Elisha (Harley) Cook, and Ethan Cook; 5 great grandchildren, Quinlyn Maupin, Teagan Maupin, Harrison Maupin, and twins on the way; and 8 nieces and nephews, Donna (Eric) Case, Tommy (Tracie) Cook, Jr, Martha Mackey, Kathleen (Al) King, Virginia Graham, Tristan Mackey, Stuart (Amber) Mackey, and Mark (Susan) Mackey.

Chaplain Cook leaves behind a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to know him, and his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were touched by his kindness, courage, and dedication. He is remembered for his unwavering commitment to the Heavenly Father; his love for family, friends, and country; and the Father's work worldwide.

Visitation will be held at the Hillsboro Church of Christ, 155 W. Walnut St., Hillsboro, OH. 45133, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Friday, August 09, 2024,

Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, at the Hillsboro Church of Christ with Brad Clouse officiating.

Graveside Service will take place following at the Hillsboro Cemetery where he will be laid to rest with military honors conducted by the Highland County Honor Guard.

Family requests memorial donations to the Hillsboro Church of Christ.

To sign Jim's online guest book, please visit www.thompsonfuneralhomes.com , or to leave a like, comment, or share, visit the Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Care Facebook Page.