Kenneth R. Cooke

-Kenneth Ronald " Ronnie" Cooke, long time resident of Corner, AL passed away on Saturday, September 24th, 2016 at the age of 70. Originally from Dothan AL, he proudly served in the US Navy and was a Vietnam veteran. Following naval service, he graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Alabama and pursued a career in graphic design and advertising.

He was a faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Corner, Alabama. He enjoyed painting, cooking, baking, landscaping, bird-watching, spending time with family and friends and cheering for the Alabama Crimson Tide.

His legacy is one of faith, love, optimism, humor, and a strong desire for knowledge.

He was talented artist and painter from an early age. His passion for cooking was passed down by his mother and he was a masterful chef that enjoyed crafting true southern recipes. His family and friends always anticipated his creations in the kitchen. He loved the outdoors and was an abide bird watcher. He cultivated a beautifully landscaped yard that blossomed every spring. His interests were extensive and his curiosity and passion for knowledge was one of his most enduring qualities. His friendly demeanor and love of information made him an exquisite conversationalist, seldom finding a stranger with whom he couldn't find common ground.

He was a loving husband and exceptional father, fostering the values of hard work and education as an example for his children. He shared a very special bond with both of his children. He would later welcome their his spouses with open arms. He enjoyed spending quality time with all 4 of his grandchildren. The memories they shared at "grandaddy's" house will last a lifetime. He was compassionate, honorable and kind hearted. His sister Pat said it best, "they broke the mold when they made Ronnie". He was very close to all of his siblings.

He is survived by his wife Marjorie Merrell Cooke, son Patrick Cooke (Jillian), daughter Ami Adams (Michael Kelly) and grandchildren Catalina and Hudson Cooke, Hannah and Kristen Adams. He is also survived by his brothers Tom Cooke (Ilene) and David Cooke (Arlene), sister-in-law Margaret (Merrell) Prater (Garey); several neices and nephews.

He was preceded in death by father Howard Cooke, mother Gladys Cooke, brother James Cooke and sister Pat Cooke.

Visitation will be at 6 p.m. Thursday September 29 at Ridouts Gardendale Chapel. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday September 30 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Corner, Alabama with Dr. Sammie Reid officiating. A burial with military honors will immediately follow services in the Mt. Zion Baptist cemetery.