Dr. James R. Cooke, Jr.

Dr. James Ralph Cooke, Jr., 87, a pillar of the Staunton community and a devoted family man, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Shenandoah Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Fishersville.

Born in Staunton on December 3, 1937, to the late James Ralph, Sr. and Jane Fretwell Agner Cooke, he dedicated over fifty years to the art and science of dentistry, earning the unwavering respect of countless patients throughout his career.

A proud graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in Staunton (today, Staunton High School), he demonstrated early promise in both academics and athletics, excelling as a football player at Bridgewater College, from where he also obtained his undergraduate degree. His pursuit of knowledge and expertise culminated in a PhD in dentistry from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, a distinction which set the trajectory of his remarkable journey.

His service to the community transcended his professional endeavors, serving honorably as a captain in the United States Army, where he both practiced dentistry and embodied the spirit of service that defined his life. As a longtime, active member of First Presbyterian Church in Staunton, he impacted the lives of many, serving diligently in various roles, including as an elder, trustee, and church treasurer.

Dr. Cooke's commitment to public service radiated throughout his various community engagements. A devoted son of the city he cherished, he served two terms on the city council with dedication and vision. He served over four decades as a loyal member of the Staunton Kiwanis Club and contributed his insights on the Blue Ridge Criminal Justice Board. His leadership skills flourished in his role as board member of Staunton's Community Bank to which he was appointed in 1984. He earned the title of chairman in 1997, a testament to his unwavering dedication that lasted until 2013.

In those early days, he found delight in running and playing tennis. He was also an Eagle Scout - a testament to his leadership from a young age and a reflection of his lifelong commitment to fostering goodness in others. Yet, it was the fairways of golf that truly captured his heart. He became a founding member of the Charlie Brown Invitational, remaining an integral part of this storied annual event for more than forty-five years, marking him as one of its last surviving founders. Likewise, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Country Club of Staunton (now known as the Club at Ironwood), leaving a lasting mark on the area's golfing community.

Beyond his community endeavors, Dr. Cooke shared a loving journey through life with his wife, Lucinda, creating many cherished memories, traveling and vacationing extensively throughout the United States - none more beloved than those spent at Lake Lure, NC.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lucinda Hamilton Liggett Cooke; his daughters, Linda Marie Cooke Gabbert and her husband Wayne, and Diane Elizabeth Cooke; his grandchildren, Emily Camille Gabbert, Christopher Pate Gabbert and his wife, Fariah Bhuiyan, Derek Matthew, and Jason Daniel Cooke; and his loving cats, Violet and Grace.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, James "Jay" Ralph Cooke III, as well as his brother, Arthur Edmond Bingley Cooke.

A memorial service celebrating his contributions and legacy to his community, family, and faith will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Staunton with the Reverend Doctor Jeff Binder officiating.

Inurnment at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that those desiring may make memorial contributions to First Presbyterian Church (100 E Frederick St, Staunton, VA 24401), the Augusta Regional SPCA (PO Box 2014, Staunton, VA 24402), or to the Valley Mission (1513 W Beverley Street, Staunton, VA 24401).

The family would like to especially thank all the nurses and staff of Shenandoah Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for all their care, kindness, and compassion.