Linda Burkes Cook

She was born on October 13, 1951 in Kosciusko, Mississippi to the late Robert G. Burkes, Sr and Anne Eubanks Burkes. Linda retired from Alltel Communications after 20 years of service, afterwards she assisted Mr Cook with the operation of several small businesses, most notably the establishment of Tom's Fried Pies in Jackson before relocating to Richland. Her delicious recipes continue to delight many visitors at the "pie shop". Linda loved birds, yard art and enjoyed caring for her outdoor plants. Her lifelong affinity for keeping up with the newest technology, computers, and televisions kept her entertained upgrading to the latest versions. She had a caring spirit with a soft spot for animals, especially her beloved pups. Most importantly, Linda loved her family and invariably looked forward to Christmas Eve. She insisted that everyone open their gifts for this special season one at a time, as Linda always wanted the opportunity to treasure every moment that she was able to spend with her loved ones.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her cherished grandson, Joshua Hardin whom she missed dearly.

Linda is survived by her daughters, Martha Gilbert Hardin and Susie Gilbert both of Pearl, Mississippi; longtime beloved companion, Tom Cook; brothers, Robert Burkes, Jr of Clarksdale, Mississippi and Glenn Burkes of St. Louis, Missouri; stepchildren, Vickie Cook Chapman (Donald) of Richland, Mississippi and Thomas Cook (Andrea) of Birmingham, Alabama; Son-in-Law, Mark Hardin and grandchildren, Jagger Atchley, Sara Hardin Buckley (Frank) as well as numerous others.

The family will hold a private service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Mississippi Animal Rescue League at www.msarl.org

"The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it. The reason that birds can fly and we can't is simply that they have perfect faith. For to have faith is to have wings."

J.M. Barrie

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.baldwinleepearl.com for the Cook family.