Richard Russell Cook

Ret. Colonel Richard Russell Cook, of Woodville, GA, died Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital in Greensboro, GA at the age of 87. He was born on November 10, 1930 in Sandersville, GA, the son of the late Lum Heard Cook and Willie Mae Edgar Cook.  He was named after Senator Richard Russell who served as the Governor of Georgia and in the United States Senate for almost 40 years.  He attended school in Woodville and was a graduate of Union Point High School.  He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Business at the University of Nebraska Omaha and his Master’s Degree in Economics from the University of Alabama.  While attending the university, he served as the president of the Alabama Graduate School of Business Association and became a lifelong fan of the Crimson Tide.

In 1952, Richard was drafted into the United States Army and decided to make this his career.  With a recommendation letter from Senator Richard Russell, he was accepted into Officer Cadet School.  On August 1, 1954, he married the former Mary Grace Paul of Lexington and together they made the perfect military couple.  Richard proudly served his country in the Korean War and the Vietnam War where he received the Bronze Star of Valor as well as a Purple Heart.  Richard retired as a full Colonel after a distinguished career of more than thirty-one years of service.

After his retirement, Richard returned to Woodville where he was actively involved in the community.  He served as the Mayor of Woodville for many years and considered the establishment of the Welcome to Woodville signs, the city sidewalks, and the holiday decorations as three of his proudest accomplishments.  Richard was a member of the Woodville Baptist Church where he also served as a Deacon.  

Richard enjoyed farming, bird hunting and fishing at his lake.  He was noted for his sense of humor and for his ability to tell and pull off the perfect joke.  He adored his family and spending time with his grandchildren especially at the beach. He also treasured his friends and the many pets that enriched his life.

Survivors include his wife Mary Grace Cook of Woodville, GA; two daughters, Gracie Branch of Norman, OK and Catherine White and her husband Rick of College Park, GA; three grandchildren, Cassy Lynn Mathis, Logan Calaway Branch and Austin Cook Branch.  He was preceded in death by his sisters, Hallie Cook Davison and Eudene Hill “Cookie” DeGood.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 29, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Woodville Baptist Church, 1191 Peachtree Avenue E., Woodville, GA 30669 with Dr. Lee Smith officiating.  Interment will follow in the Woodville Cemetery.  A reception will follow the service at the School House.  Serving as pallbearers are Johnny O’Neal, Russell Brock, Phil Brock, John Hill O’Neal, Logan Branch and Austin Branch.  The family will receive friends Friday, December 29, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. until time for the service at the church. The family requests that any memorials be made to the Oconee Regional Humane Society, 1020 Park Avenue, Suite 101, Greensboro, GA 30642. Callaway Funeral Home, 208 N. Rhodes St., Union Point, GA, (706) 486-4138, is in charge of arrangements. Visit us at www.callawayfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest register.

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