Charles William Cook

Charles William "Bill" Cook passed away August 30th. He was born May 30, 1936, to W.E. and Irma Cook in Louisville, KY. His family eventually settled in Sherman, TX, where he attended Sherman High School. He also met the love of his life, Beverly Shannon. while a teenager. He went on to attend the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas, where he received a dual degree in Architecture and Engineering.
He and Beverly married in 1958 and settled in Dallas, TX, where they raised four children. Bill was a successful architect and engineer for many years in the Dallas area, and he mentored many young architects. He was also a coach and mentor to many young athletes in soccer, softball, baseball, and any other sport that his kids played.
In his 50s, he changed careers and moved to Monroe, LA, where he served as the Director of the Physical Plant at the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He also became an instructor in the Department of Construction. In 2020, he and Beverly retired in their beloved state of Texas, moving to Gilmer to be near family.
Bill was always one of the smartest people in the room, and had a comeback ready in any conversation! He loved being involved in his children's lives, and could always be found at their school programs, on their athletic fields, and in their Sunday School classrooms alongside them. He loved socializing with friends, planning family vacations, serving his church, and watching TV with Beverly. They were married for 63 years.
Bill was preceded in death by his sister, Carolyn Cook Goodwin. He is survived by his wife, Beverly, and his four children: Lezlie Cook Baile and husband Mike; Lacey Cook Southerland and husband Brad; Randy Cook and wife Kathy; and Paul Cook and wife Cyndi. He is also survived by grandchildren Tailor and Carleigh Cook; Tyler Cook and wife Rachel; Kyle Cook and wife Alison; and Sarah Ann Southerland. In addition, Bill has two great-grandchildren: Weston Cook and Carter Cook, who was just born on August 26, 2021! Bill is also survived by a dear cousin, Martha Peninger Brandon, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.