Anthony Ray Cook

Anthony Ray Cook, age 62, of Houston, Texas, passed away in his childhood home on August 25, 2024. Tony was a man who never met a stranger, possessing a remarkable ability to see the good in everyone he encountered.

Tony was a passionate sports fan who loved cheering on the Dallas Stars, the Houston Texans, and the Houston Astros. Whether it was a nail-biting hockey game, a Sunday football showdown, or a summer baseball evening, Tony’s enthusiasm was infectious, and his sports knowledge unmatched.

Tony proudly served on the Kingwood High School custodial team for six years, earning a reputation for his dedication and friendly demeanor. Before joining the school, Tony spent over 20 years with the City of Houston Water Company. Whether by fate or coincidence (we’re still not sure), he later became the official "Hydration Specialist" for not one, but TWO professional women’s football teams: the Houston Energy and the H-Town Texas Cyclones.

Within minutes of meeting Tony, he would eagerly show off his Texas Cyclones Super Bowl ring, his most treasured keepsake, and dive into the story behind it. With the enthusiasm of a live broadcast from the end zone, Tony would recount how he played a pivotal role in leading his team to a 39-10 victory over the West Michigan Mayhem in the 2008 National Women’s Football Association Super Bowl. Every member of the team cherished Tony, grateful for his dedication and the warmth he brought to their lives both on and off the field.

Tony had many passions, from sports to singing karaoke—especially his signature rendition of "Elvira." He loved playing bingo, testing his lucky numbers on Pick 3, and never missed an episode of Wheel of Fortune. Family game nights were a highlight for Tony, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and treasured memories. His love for his family and the joy he found in these simple pleasures were at the heart of who he was.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Tommie and Armando Morales, and his beloved brother, Johnny Cook. He is survived by his loving siblings, Sherry Lugo and her husband, Frank, and Lisa Morales Fegen. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly: Frank Wesley Lugo, his wife, Wendi, and their daughters, Adriana, Elizabeth, Naomi Jean, and Chani; Daniel Lugo, his wife, Martha, and their children, Elise and Jakob; and Reese Fegen.

"In the end, we'll all become stories." --Margaret Atwood

Dear, sweet Tony, you will always be loved and cherished, living on in the stories we tell and the memories we hold close.