Daniel Lynn Cook

Daniel Lynn Cook, 69, of Raleigh joyfully entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on November 19, 2024. Diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes at the age of 14, Dan defied all odds and overcame countless complications. His will to live was so strong and to be admired.

Born on May 19, 1955, Dan was preceded in death by his parents Rose Burgess Cook and John Daniel Cook of Boone, NC.

Dan grew up in West Jefferson and moved to Boone for high school. He attended Gardner Webb University, where he proudly served as a cheerleader. Dan had an infectious warmth (and laugh) and loved to tell stories. He genuinely cared for his friends he made across the United States, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Dan is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Fairley Bell Cook, and his two cherished sons Benjamin Daniel Cook (Hannah Streetman-Cook) of Charlotte, NC and John Caleb Cook (fiancé Katie Schmitz) of Raleigh, NC. He is also survived by his beloved granddaughter Reynolds Kacie Cook of Charlotte, NC and caring sisters Allison Hodges (John) of Boone, NC and Jan Cook Deckert (Jeff) of Raleigh, NC. Also, brothers-in-law, Victor E. Bell III (Mary Grady) and McNair Bell (Laura), both of Raleigh, NC. Dan leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished by aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, great nieces and special cousins.

Dan retired from NC Electric Membership Cooperatives as Director of Management Services. He loved meeting a wide variety of people with the same energy and training them to become better leaders. Dan was a dedicated servant of his church, Saint Andrews Presbyterian, where he faithfully served as Elder, praise team member, local florist and Sunday school teacher. Having grown up Baptist, he believed Sunday School was foundational to one’s faith. Dan considered his church an extension of his family.

Dan also participated in 4-H where he served in many roles including the NC 4-H Development Fund Board of Directors, President of the NC 4-H Honor Club and Co-Chair of the 4-H Evergreen Gala. He was recognized with the 4-H Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his lifelong belief in the 4-H motto of service. As Dan faced increased healthcare needs, he found a new calling in patient advocacy, serving on the Rex Patient and Family Advisory Council. Dan was involved with March of Dimes and Kiwanis in his earlier days, crediting those experiences and people he met along the way, for shaping him into a kind man who always put others before himself. “Well done good and faithful servant.”

Dan loved his friends, but most of all he loved his family. He was known by many fond names: Danny, Pops, G. Pops, Dan the Man, Lt. Dan, Daniel and Dr. Cook. Happy memories with family were made in Montreat NC and Myrtle Beach SC. He was an avid Wolfpacker and was seen in wolfpack gear almost daily! He loved cheering on football and basketball games constantly urging “hands up”! He took great joy in watching his boys play all their many sports and had a fondness for watching and playing along with Wheel of Fortune. He loved long phone calls with old friends and always made time to stay connected with those he cared about. Dan never met a stranger; his kindness and generosity left a mark on all who were fortunate to know him.

Dan’s celebration of life will be held on November 23, 1:00 pm, at Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church, 7506 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC. Immediately following the service, the family invites everyone to join them in the church fellowship hall for a reception. All who wish to attend are invited.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Saint Andrews Presbyterian Church, 7506 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615, NC Agricultural Foundation (Dan Cook 4-H Career and Workforce Development Fund), Campus Box 7645, Raleigh, NC 27695-7645 or UNC Healthcare Foundation (Rex Cancer Center), PO Box 1050, Chapel Hill, NC 27514.

Brown-Wynne, 300 St. Mary’s St, Raleigh, is serving the Cook family.