June 26, 85,

William Robert Cooke, age 85, passed away Friday evening at his residence. Born in Watauga County, he was the son of the late John Paul Cooke and Pearl Elizabeth Jones Cooke. William was a retired Veteran of the US Air Force having served in Vietnam. He enjoyed gardening, doing mechanic work and helping others in his community.

A service to celebrate William’s life will be held Tuesday at 2:00 pm at the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with Pastor Pete Radford officiating.

Mr. Cooke is survived by his wife, Joyce Cooke; sons, Robert Cooke and wife, Ella, Roger Cooke and wife, Nancy, and Richard Cooke; a sister, Frances Caudell; four grandchildren, Jessica, Marianne, Willie and Mariah; a great grandchild, Christina; and his special canine companion, Lexi.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Community Home Care & Hospice, 2309 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534.

Shumate-Faulk Funeral  Home is serving the Cooke family and online condolences may be directed to www.shumate-faulk.com