Judith “Judy” Ann Cooke, age 61, of Rocky Mount, NC formerly of Newark, DE passed away at her home on Monday, October 5, 2026.
She was born in Beauford, SC and was the daughter of the late Shirley Marie (Hampton) and Edwin Pennington. Judy graduated from Concord High School, Wilmington, DE in 1983. She operated a daycare while her children were young.
Judy had a special way of making people laugh, bringing joy wherever she went, and making the people around her feel loved. Her sense of humor and bright personality were a gift to everyone who knew her.
She loved bowling and enjoyed many years making memories on the lanes. Family was always at the heart of Judy’s life. She was an active and devoted mom, cheering her children on through their sports and activities. She even stepped onto the field herself as a baseball coach for her son, Dan. During her own high school years, Judy loved playing softball, carrying that same competitive and fun-loving spirit throughout her life.
Judy had a few simple favorites that everyone will remember—especially her beloved Diet Coke and sweet tea! She loved sunshine, warm days, and most of all, the beach. There was something about being by the ocean, feeling the sun on her skin, and soaking in the moment that made her happy. But Judy also had a love for the beauty of fall, and one of her favorite getaways was a trip to West Virginia, where she could enjoy the changing leaves, crisp air, and beautiful scenery.
Above all, Judy loved making memories with the people everywhere she went. She did not know a stranger & loved making jokes. Her laughter, her joy, her sense of adventure, and the little things that made her unique, Judy will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Judy is survived by her husband of 38 years, Greg Cooke; two children, Dan Cooke and his wife Lauren and Britney McCraw and her husband Carson; four grandchildren, Sophie Cooke, Raylan McCraw, Everett Cooke and Madison McCraw and three brothers, Lem McMaster and his wife Darlene and Michael McMaster and Vincent “Purkey” Pennington.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, October 10 from 9-10 am at the McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803 where a funeral service will follow at 10 am. Burial will be at Chester Bethel Cemetery, Wilmington.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Humane Animal Partners701 A Street, Wilmington, DE 19801: Home - Humane Animal Partners
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
