James Larry Cook, Sr.

James Larry Cook, Sr, 81, of China Grove went to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 15, 2023 at his residence following a period of declining health.

James was born January 29, 1941, in Stanly County, NC a son of the late James Larry Cook “Bunk”, and Lottie Mae Morton Cook. Also preceding him in death were three brothers; William Williams, Blunt Williams, and Bill Williams along with two sisters Miriam Williams and Julene Davis.

He attended Southside China Grove Church of God. James was employed by Hoechst-Celanese Industry in Salisbury until his retirement after 45 years of service.

James was an avid coon hunter and was known as the “black and tan man”. He was a member of the Tar Heel Coon Club.

He loved to fish and hunt, working on cars, always having his garden and sharing the fruits of his labor with others. He never met a stranger.

Family members left to cherish his memory include his wife of 62 years; Shirley Bethea Cook, three children; Cindy Cook of Salisbury, James Larry Cook, Jr. and wife Barbara of Ellerbe, NC, and Jenny Raymer and husband Donald of Salisbury.

He is also survived by four grandchildren; Daniel Williams (Jessica), Dustin Williams (Ashley), Travis Ramer (Kristian), and Heather Cook (Chris); his eight great grandchildren; Jerah, Paige, Cassie, Devin, Tyler, Cheyanne, Maddison and Hudson, and two special great nephews, Ted and Clint Williams.Special people in his life include Rose Williams and Dennis Harris. He is also survived by his best friend Robert Pope.

A Memorial Service to celebrate his life will be held at 4:00 P.M. Saturday, January 21, 2023 at Whitley’s Funeral Home Chapel conducted by Rev. Mike Williams. The family request no flowers, but suggests that memorials be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105 or to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5000 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.