James Joseph Cooke, Jr.

James Joseph Cooke, Jr. died peacefully on January 23, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 22, 1931 and was preceded in death by his loving wife of 41 years, Ruth Jacqueline "Jackie" O'Boyle Cooke and his parents Gertrude "Dot" Cooke and James J. Cooke. He is survived by his four daughters, Laurie Cooke Johnson (Pat), Pamela Cooke Gits (Ed), Alicia Cooke Winterfeld (Bill) and Jennifer Cooke Talbot (Bobby); five grandchildren, George "Ricky" Rickoll Jr. (Heather), Rachael Kuivinen (Matt), Jason Upton (Kacey), Stephanie Hostetler (Jonny) and Emily Weaver (Rob); and four great-grandchildren Ayla Kuivinen, Ian Kuivinen, Logan Upton, and Colton Hostetler.

Jim graduated from Jesuit High School in 1949. He attended Louisiana State University and served in the United States Coast Guard during the Korean conflict. He spent his professional career in the insurance industry and served as President of the Independent Insurance Agents of Greater New Orleans and on the board of the Independent Insurance Agents of Louisiana. Jim was a member of the President's Advisory Council of Jesuit High School and was a founding board member of Boys Hope of New Orleans. He served on numerous tourism-related boards and was an active member of and served on the Board of Directors of the Krewe of Bacchus for many years. He participated in annual retreats at the Manresa House of Retreats for 48 years.

Jim loved life. He thoroughly enjoyed music to which he would sing and dance with his family and friends, especially his daughters and granddaughters. His family and friends will always remember his often belting out "Sweet Caroline" and "Who's Your Daddy?" Many of his family members and friends enjoyed a fine glass of wine and a cigar with him while having interesting conversations. He was a great conversationalist; he could strike an entertaining conversation with literally anyone. Jim will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be private. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the Assisted Living and the Nursing Care Staff at Lambeth House and St. Anna's and the staff of Guardian Angel Hospice. Donations may be made in his memory to Jesuit High School, 4133 Banks Street, New Orleans, LA 70119.