Yes, I remember Jay from our class of '56' High School and maybe Jr. High.  

Arlon R. Sibert
Las Vegas, NV.

He was liked by so many of the students at Valley. I received my GED because of a letter he wrote to me after I dropped out. It was encouraging. 

Mr. Cookman was my High School Counselor I was assigned to at Valley High School. Class of 1984. He was always there with an encouraging word and smile.  He kept me going through HS. Graduation Day 1984 he walked up to me and handed me a small key ring with a pouch for change. I cant remember exactly what he said, but that one moment meant alot to me.  I'm very grateful  to him for everything he did in my time there. I'm so sorry for your loss!

Mr. Cookman was my counselor at Valley.  I was a handful.  He once asked me what I wanted to do with my life and I told him: I want to be wild and free til I'm an adult then I want to marry, have children and be a wife and mother.  Then when I'm old I can look back at my crazy times and smile.  
Fast forward to several years ago when I was ushering in our children to church at Hope and Mr. Cookman was opening doors for the parishioners.  He saw and unbelievably recognized me and remembered!!  He said: Jodi, I see you got your wish.  
We shared a smile that I held that whole day.  He was an amazing man that I will never forget!

Dear Annette, Jeff, Jaynette and family, I was saddened to hear of Jay’s passing. I have very fond memories of Jay as my counselor, friend and mentor during my days at Valley High School and FCA. Your family was incredibly welcoming to so many young people and that generosity made a lifelong impact on so many. I hope your memories of Jay will help to sustain your spirits in the coming days. Much love.

Annette, my heart grieves with yours at the passing of sweet Jay. I just heard.  Oh I am so sorry. Praying for you and your family, and I know Jay is rejoicing with Jesus. Love you!  Cheryl


Jay and I lived in the same neighborhood in Mason City had some good times with all the other kids in the area.  We graduated in the same class from MCHS.

I never had the pleasure of having Mr. Cookman for a counselor at Valley High School, but it didn't matter. He was always out greeting kids in the halls and getting to know ALL of us.  He constantly had a huge smile on his face and encouraging words. Thankfully, I continued to run into Mr. Cookman and his wife in recent years as my son played ball for leagues and schools in West Des Moines. He was always a joy to see and talk to. The world will miss his never-ending optimism. God's Blessings to Mrs. Cookman and family.

I remember sitting in Mr Cookman’s house many times enjoying the FCA meetings.  That was such a fun part of my life and will be forever grateful.  So sorry for your loss!!

My sympathy to Annette and family. Jay always exemplified what it means to love God and love neighbor. His care of others became a shining light of God's love and hope to so many known and unknown to us. Well done my good and faithful servant!

Our sympathy to you Annette and your family.  Sure glad you two made it to our class reunions. Jay and I both attended Roosevelt Junior High and of course MCHS.  Jay was a wonderful person.   We were truly sorry to read about his passing.  God Bless

Jay and Annette came to my aqua classes at Mercy. Jay always had that great smile!  
I’m sorry for your loss. 

Met Jay and Annette at a farmers market in Waukee Triangle. Over the years enjoyed many more markets and craft shows. Jay was always there to help me after my husband passed away. He will be missed by many and hope to see him someday in the future. 
God bless you Jay.

Jay was an inspiration to my wife Kennie & I since we came to school at Drake in 1971. I knew he wasn’t the greatest Football  player at Drake. But that never stopped him from being Drake sports greatest fan. His smile was infectious and his love for Jesus & the Fellowship of Christian Athletes second to none. We love ya Jay! We’ll see you again someday, in a much better place. 
Bob & Kennie Smith

Annette, this news is bittersweet -- sad for those of us who will miss Jay so much, but what a victory over death for Jay!   He is in the arms of his savior, where he has always known he would go.  

Thought I would share with you that Jay was the person responsible for bringing me back to church.  He never gave up on me, always calling and asking if the two of you could swing by and pick me up  for a Sunday service!  I think it was God's hand in the mix that headed my car toward Valley E-Free that first time, where I found you and Jay there as greeters! I just wonder how many others like me found their way back to God because of the two of you!

Jay used to love to tease me about always having my cell phone in my hand when I walked into Valley to see a student teacher -- I wish he could have taken that cell phone with him to Heaven, so we could talk to him now.  

You and Jay have made so many wonderful memories in your lifetime.  I hope you are drawing your family and close friends around you now, and sharing all those wonderful memories!  My love to you, Marcia Jensen

Jay was a great man of God!  We shared many FCA memories with Jay and Annette. Jay was always so uplifting and encouraging to all that he encountered. We will miss him until we meet in heaven!!

Beyond wonderful to have crossed paths with you two nearly 50 years ago. I have many fond memories of how you invested in me and others in ways that will outlast us here. Thanks for living and giving courageously. My deepest brotherly love to you and yours.

The glory of God is man fully alive.



We are so sorry to hear about Jay’s passing.  I loved seeing you both at the fitness center and at the farmer’s market. We will be praying for you and your family.  Michael and I enjoyed our couples bible study with you, and will miss seeing Jay.

Annette, I am so sorry to hear about Jay. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jay was the counselor for both of our kids and will always be in our memories of  VHS. I pray that your wonderful family memories of Jay will bring you all comfort and peace. 
Barb Rice

Mr. Cookman was such a calm, positive presence at Valley. I was so privileged to have him as a counselor, and later to enjoy the support of Mr. & Mrs. Cookman in the stands at Drake games when I was a cheerleader. All our love & prayers are with you, Mrs. Cookman & with your family. Much love always ~ Tina Santos & family

Jay was the BEST! He encouraged us all to study hard, work hard, and show up!
He and his lovely wife invited us into their home and often filled our tummies with home baked cookies.
You will be truely missed !!!!!!
Thank you for your years of treating each and everyone of us with your kindness and enouraging us to become good human beings and guardians of this planet.
Sending loving thoughts 

Annette and Family, I'm sorry to hear of Jay's passing.  It was a shock to me.  I remember how Jay's smile used to light up our Aqua Swim class.  I used to enjoy having him and you in our class.  Please let me know if I can do anything.  Maybe after you've had some time to grieve we could get together.  I'm thinking of you.  Sincerely,  Karen

Jay not only talked the talk, but he also walked the walk of his Christian faith every day.  Annette and family, I pray that God will bless you with the strength to bear the sorrow you feel. But Jay would not want you to be sad because he is now united with his Lord and Savior. It has been such an honor to be a friend of Jay and Annette. 

Annette, I'm so sorry to read of Jay's departure. He's no doubt joining in a lively conversation with those who went before him - including just recently, my husband, Ted. You and Jay were always so kind to us and our children, when we attended church at Valley E Free. Then, just a few years ago, I ran into Jay in the hallway of the cancer wing at Methodist (where Ted and I stayed for several weeks after his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer). I can only imagine the LONG LIST of people you both impacted for God's Glory. I pray for peace and joy for you and your family, even in the midst of your heartache. You and I know God's plan is the best, and that's what we can hold onto this side of Heaven. - Alicia Economos

Dear Annette & Family: our deepest condolences to you. Jay touched so many lives with his love, humor, and great care. He was truly a man who walked with Jesus & shared His love with everyone. We pray for your comfort & peace, knowing his place is secure with our Lord.

First Came the Cookmans to Valley West Drive.  A year later came the Leshers to Valley West Drive.  Between us we managed those two corner lots.  Lots of calling greetings back and forth,  visiting, celebrating family events, taking care of our four legged creatures at both homes, sharing joy and moments of sorrow.  
This past Sunday we celebrated All Saints Sunday.  As we remembered in prayer all of our dear ones who have gone before I remembered Jay standing in that wonderful group of folks.  As we sang," Lord hasten the day when our faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; the trumpet shall sound and the Lord shall descend, even so it is well with my soul.  It is well with my soul."

I met Mr. Rittman when I worked with his daughter Jaynette at Edmunds Elementary School.  He and his wife Annette were mentors at our school.  Jay always had a smile on his face when he came into the building and if there was enough time would stop and visit.
I want to send my prayers to the family during this time in their lives.  


I am so thankful to have met Jay and Annette while at Attivo. Jay always had a smile, “a word of wisdom”, or fun story to share that would make us laugh and smile. He had that blessed, God-given effect on people. He also reminded me of my grandfather in appearance and fun humor. He and Annette were among the first people I wanted to tell about my getting accepted into Drake University’s Masters in Counseling program. It’s an honor to share that with Jay. We also shared our faith in Christ together and I was able to see their faith stand up during this hard season that has tempted so many to feel down. What a testimony! I look forward to seeing him again in Christ and to hear even more of his stories. God bless to you, Annette, and the family. Thank you, Jay!

So very sorry to learn of Jay's passing. My family,  the  Fiala's  were next door neighbors to Jay and his parents.  We all grew up together & have so many wonderful memories of the neighborhood on 15th St in Mason City.  I believe the last time I saw you & Jay was when Connie & I came for a visit at Attivo.  Our sincere condolences to you,  Annette and your loving family.

I Remember back in 1957,  I first met Jay at Drake University.  It was just a few days after I moved into my Crawford Dorm.  A friend introduced us while we were mingling out on the Quad — overlooking the pond. . Jay and my future husband , Tom Hamilton were team mates on the Football team.  Since that time our paths crossed a million times- mostly in West Des Moines.  Kids went to Valley, both involved FCA,  adjoining seats at Drake Basketball etc. Annette and Jay both worked to set an example for and educate the kids of West Des Moines and I could go on and on..  I know one thing for sure — that my kids are better people today because of them.      Sending love and prayers to the family.  Gayle Hamilton

I remember Jay from volunteering at the Iowa State Fair.  He made me feel welcome.  My deepest sympathy to his family.

Annette, I know your heart is broken, and I send my deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Oh My!  Our dear Lord certainly "broke the mold" after Jay was born.   What  a guy.  We met Jay through Drake athletics.                  The man was more "in the know" than nearly anyone.  He had the ability to  get information out of folks,  because he was always more interested in listening, than talking.                                               We loved seeing Jay and Annette at Drake games.  They were always together. I would often wander over to their seats.  He'd see me coming, or if he didn't Annette would elbow him, and warn him. And there came that smile! Many times he'd be laughing before I even spoke.  From time to time he would stop by our seats, walking up with a serious look on his face.  He'd say: "hey, what do you think about.....?"  (usually sports or politics).  Sometimes he'd do it just to see me get riled up, then he would laugh!  He was always interested in the opinion of others. 
Jay knew my late father during and after his Drake football days.  Oh, he could tell a story.....
The memories from his Valley students are very touching.   It doesn't surprise us that he would go above and beyond in order to help kids with their private situations.  What a tribute! That is the Jay Cookman we knew, and will remember forever.
Our condolences to Annette and the family. 
Love, 
Kurt and Kathy Brewer

So many fond memories of Mr Cookman (will always be Mr)!  First started going to FCA because of him.  A truly kind and generous man.   Thought and prayers go out to the entire Cookman family and especially to my fellow 82 alum Jaynette...God bless you all

We send our condolences to the Cookman family. We have fond memories of Annette as a teacher at Fairmeadows that our four boys attended. Our boys still remember the FCA meetings, some in our basement. We send comfort to Annette and eternal peace to Jay, a wonderful, caring man.
Blessings - Marv and Karen Jepsen

When you grow up with a neighbor like Jay on 15th St SE - how wonderful it was ! This loss "hurts" tremendously -- Pat and I send are most precious sympathies and prayers to all his family members.

Jay was a childhood playmate - I followed his outstanding career with great interest. So very sad to learn of his passing. Condolences to his family.

I was fortunate enough to have Jay as my high school counselor, as well as to be in one of his FCA huddles.  Over the years, I have continued to see Jay and Annette at Drake games and church.  It was always a pleasure to be able to chat with them.  I feel blessed to have known Jay for so long.  He is without a doubt one of the finest men I have ever had the pleasure to know.  My prayers are with you Annette and family.

Both my wife and I were lucky enough to be Valley grads ('82,'83) and meet Mr. C as I called him, his daughter Jaynette was in my class. As we grow older it is easier for us to look back at some of the people who we were truly blessed to be a part of. Mr. C and his family are such people. God Bless
Leon and Sandy Freeman

As a high school student at Valley (class of '75) I vividly remember going to my first FCA meeting. It was the first time I had ever really started to read the Bible. That moment stands out to me like it was yesterday.  As a person of faith since that time, to say that meeting and that group profoundly changed my life is an understatement. I'm sure there are many others like me who were impacted by "Mr. Cookman" and his work, faith and leadership. His legacy is vast.  My condolences to his family and my praises to God for his life. May his memory be eternal. 

So sorry to hear of Jay’s passing. Always enjoyed seeing him at the fair! Our prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. May you find peace in the stories that will be shared with you these next couple of days. Prayers and hugs Annette.

Always had a good time at fair with Jay and Annette at the fair there wasn't anything that they wouldn't help with . We will miss him. Thinking about the family at this time.

I am so sorry for your loss. Jay will be sorely missed by all of us to volunteer at the Iowa State Fair.

Annette and family … I’ve been blessed to have crossed yours and Jays path for many years now.  We’d share hugs and stories at church to craft fairs.  But where the most memories were made was volunteering at the Iowa State Fair!!!  These memories will keep a smile in my heart.

Jay and his infectious smile will be missed!  Blessings and hugs!!!  


Jays smile is a family memory of arriving at Valley Church (usually a few minutes late) and Jay always “waited for us” before he would head into service. Then what a blessing to have him then begin to greet us at Lutheran Church of Hope! Always asked about the kids as he watched them grow from babies to adults.   Jay and Annette have left a legacy of service and love to so many!  We have been blessed. 
Our love to Annette and family. 

To the family of Jay Cookman,

My sincere sympathy to you at this sad time.  I grew up in the neighborhood.  I have fond memories of Jay and his friendship during our growing up years.  My dad always talked football with Jay.  Thinking of you!  

Nancy and I are so sorry for the loss of a great man.  Our community mourns while God’s Kingdom rejoices!   Jay has had impact in so many ways, and in so many lives.  His influence will be felt for years to come!  We are so proud to have known Jay,   Our lives are better because of him!  

Dear Cookman family,
We were fortunate to sit next to Jay and Annette at Drake women’s basketball games for the last 20 years or so. Jay always knew everything about the players. It was so much fun to hear where they came from, what their skills were, and what our hopes for them were. He was always right. What a great guy and a wonderful couple.  We have so many fun memories. 
Our hearts and prayers are with you!
Jon and Betty

Goodbye dear friend.  We were the baldest of the "Class of 56" 
Good times, Good friends, Good laughs.  You were a friend to all.
We will  miss you and your smile...

Arlon & Suzan Sibert

To Jaynette and family - my deepest condolences on the passing of your father Jay. He was a special man. He was my guidance counselor at Valley and helped me get a scholarship for college. May the memories you have of him help you through this time .  Bobbi

Annette, 
I was so sorry to hear about Jay.  He was a wonderful man that touched the lives of so many.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bonnie Rogers

My sincere condolences on your loss. I always enjoyed seeing Jay at Drake games.  He always was smiling and friendly and totally loyal to the Bulldogs. I will miss seeing him at the games.

Annette and family, although Jay's stay at Attivo Trail was too short, he made the most of it! No one was a stranger to him, and he always had a great story to share.  I consider myself blessed to have known him.

Annette and Family.  I was so sorry to hear about Jay.  He was such a bright, friendly person and it was my great pleasure to know both of you.

Please know that you and your Family are in my prayers.



My Blessings and love to you Annette and all your family.
Prayers and hugs too.
Mary Carey

Jay Cookman was my older son's guidance counselor at Valley High School in 1989....and Jay made a difference. Twelve years later my younger son was a student at Valley and Jay was his counselor. Upon our reacquaintance, I was shocked to learn that  12 years later Jay remembered my older son!!
I was delightfully surprised to be greeted by Jay and Annette one Sunday morning at Lutheran Church of Hope!!
I am so, so sad to learn that Jay passed away Saturday. He was one of the finest people I have ever met. God Bless You, Jay.

Annette and family, 
Janelle and I are saddened to hear of Jay’s passing, but remember and celebrate with you a life well-lived. Jay left a huge legacy of accomplishment in this community and, more importantly, shepherded many young lives to spiritual maturity. We share your confidence that heaven rejoices in his home coming. 
Art and Janelle

I first met Jay while at drake University in 1958~59. we were fraternity brothers in sigma phi epsilon. I always admired Jay for his friendly demeanor to all the people he came in contact with and  once you met him he became a friend for life.                                                         Jay was the advisor to all 4 of my children at Valley high school and they all adored him.                                                                                                                    Jay will be missed by all who crossed his path, rest in peace my friend and brother.                                                                                                           Jim and Nancy Schreck

I am so grateful the good Lord brought Jay & Annette Cookman into my life while I was in college.  They allowed me to live in their home during the summers so that I could find a job during the day, and have a competitive environment at night to help me as a college basketball player at Northern Iowa.  Together, those summers, we were also instrumental in starting a church in West Des Moines , sharing our common love for serving Jesus Christ.  Our involvement in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes also provided many incredible memories for us to share together, attending FCA camps, and my assisting them with the Valley HS Huddle while I taught and coached in the Valley system.  The way these two beautiful people modeled what it meant to truly love Jesus Christ and serve others was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing them.  I was just one of many lives they  touched and Jay will be missed but not forgotten.  This was a man and his family that were easy to love and admire!  Thanks for the Godly example you set on how to truly love and serve the Lord.  May the comfort and peace of  
 Christ's love surround this family through this time of transition.  Well done thou good and faithful servant!  Enter into thy reward.  

Our family was blessed to know Jay through our swimming at Mercy Wellness. Always a smile on his face and kind words for each of us. Jay lived a wonderful life and shared his love with all! Our thoughts and prayers are with Annette and her family.

Jay was a great guy! May he rest in peace. God bless.

     Our thoughts and prayers are with Annette and family.
Jay was an excellent Counsellor at Valley High School for many years and was a  great  help to both of our children.
     Rest in peace.
Lisle and Julia Shires

I was saddened to read about Jay this morning. He definitely was one of the good guys. Our friendship was shared over many years.  We did not see each other often but whenever we did his smile and kindness were always there.   One of our common threads was Drake University. I knew both Jay and Annette there when we were all students. Even better was the opportunity I had in meeting daughter, Jaynette when I was the elementary principal at Moulton School in Des Moines and she was a kindergarten teacher. What a pleasure that was!  My sympathy and prayers are sent to you all. My memories are many and I will hold them in my heart.

Sally Liechty Holmberg

Our sincere condolences to Annette, Jaynette, Jeff and family at this difficult time. Jay was the counselor for all 5 of our children at Valley: Brenda, Marsha, Brian, Kari, Sara. Praying for God’s comfort and peace for Jay’s family and friends. 

Mike and family are in prayer for such an accomplished Father and Grandfather.  I am confident his accomplishments will live on for many years to come.  



I will miss Jay’s infectious smile and hearty laugh, which I loved to see after some silly prank or funny quip.  The world needs more men like Jay to make everyone else’s day a better one.  Annette and family....you will dearly miss him, but most importantly you truly enjoyed him in this life....I did too.  Larry & Beth

Just a really great man that I was blessed to know. We had some fun in the old slow pitch softball times.  God Bless.

The world just lost one of our better people. A good man who will be missed by many and for all good reasons. Our condolences.
Bob and Susie Holliday and family. 

I am so sorry about the loss of Jay. I first knew Jay as a counselor at Valley High School as he was my daughter Katie’s counselor.  Jay was admired by so many Valley students and was always a friendly face at Valley functions. Then  much later I enjoyed talking  with both he and Annette at the warm water aerobics pool exercise at Mercy Fitness for many years until Jay started having heart problems. I will miss seeing he and Annette together and they were always together. He was a wonderful man full of encouragement to others. 

My deepest sympathies to your family as I remember what Jay meant to me as a student athlete and member of the FCA at Valley from 1985-88.  There are those special people who you always remember no matter how old you are and I have wonderful memories of Mrs Cookman and of Mr Cookman as teachers, mentors and friends.  Jay will be missed by everyone who knew him which says everything about the person he was.

i am sadden to hear about Jay, and I have and will miss seeing Annette and him at the exercise classes at Mercy Health and Fitness.  My sincere condolences Annette and family.

Our sincere thoughts and condolences to you Annette and to Jeff & Jaynette and their family’s.  We will keep you in our prayers for days of peace and lots of fun memories. 🙏  I can picture Brandy running to his lap 💙🐾

Mr. Cookman was an overall awesome guy!  The world will be a lesser place without him.  He was my guidance counselor at Valley and helped me and my folks a great deal when I was having a tough time at Valley High.  When I went to Valley E. Free Church the first time he was the greeter and he remembered me before my friend could introduce me.

Good Bye Mr. Cookman.  The world needs more men like you!

Dear Annette and family.  I’m thinking of you at this sad time.  Jay was one of the good guys in life and you consider yourself lucky to know him.  It was always fun to see the two of you on the volunteer crew at the Iowa State Fair.   Please accept my sincere sympathy.  Judy Coldiron

  Jay Cookman showed me what a life lived for Jesus looks like.  I would not be the person I am today if it wasn't for his influence.  While a student at Valley High, I spent a lot of time in his school office, his home, and just being around him.  During these times, he was constantly demonstrating what a Christ follower looks like.  So thankful for this faithful man.  

We have lost one of the best human beings in this world. A loving friend for the last 48 years. Jan and will miss your smile and positive attitude. Our condolences to Annette and the family.

Annette and family our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to you on the loss of Jay. My heart aches, as I continue through life without my big brother and dear friend Jay. I know you're in God's presence but I'll miss that big smile and chiding we launched at each other. Jay, I thank God for allowing our paths to cross. I love you man RIP.
Love,
Reggie and Sherry

Jay was my counselor at Valley High School in 1970. He had a big impact on me and I have considered him a friend ever since! I am so sorry for your loss!

As my high school guidance counselor, Mr. Cookman was a constant source of love and acceptance.  Whenever I ran into Jay as an adult, at church or out in the community, he would offer the biggest smile and a bear hug. He had the ability to make everyone he encountered feel worthy and important. Mr. Cookman embodied God's great love, and is surely at home in Heaven today. Praise the Lord!

Sending thoughts and prayers. Mr. Cookman as my 8th grade U.S. History Teacher and my h.s. Guidance Counselor at Johnston. He was instrumental in leading me to become a history teacher and coach. Thank you for your guidance.
 

Mr. Cookman was the most caring, giving, and amazing school counselor! As my personal counselor in 1992 I know I would not have graduated without the love and support he providers me! I lived on my own at 17- Mr. Cookman took the time to find out why, spent hours of time helping as I was working three jobs and going to school! My success not only with getting my diploma but in life is because of this man!!! He was truly my rainbow during my darkest thunderstorms! 

Jaynette and Jeff, what a blessing your father was to many of us who faithfully attended those FCA meetings so long ago. He taught generosity of spirit and love of family. Heaven has received another good man. May the richness of God's peace and mercy continue during this time and may God's love endure in everyone's hearts as you remember this wonderful man of God.


Annette, Jeff, and Jaynette, may the comforting words of Psalm 23 give you strength through this most difficult time. Know that Jay is now in the loving presence of the Good Shepherd and living in the Heavenly home that has been prepared for him.  Jay was an example to so many people by living a life  dedicated to his Lord Jesus Christ.  Your husband and father will continue to be by your side, guiding you, as you make your way through your life here on Earth. Vicki and I will continue to keep you in our prayers going forward. Love to you all, God bless!

Jeff and Jaynette and entire family. I am so sorry to hear this news. Your fathers life was a blessing to so many at Valley High and in West Des Moines. Hugs to your family. 

a servant...that is the best way to describe jay. he blessed so many of us through the years. his legacy will last forever.

I will always be grateful for the influence he had in my walk as a Christian. Grateful for a family that would open their home for so many for so many years to do the work for the Kingdom. Prayers for peace and comfort for the family.

I’m so sorry for your loss and our loss of Mr. Cookman.  He always wore a smile and encouraged me to think of others in a way I may not have before. In later years I loved seeing him and catching up a bit at Drake Women’s BB games. He was a sweet person. Thank you for sharing him with all those generations of kids. 

Mr. Cookman was not only my counselor while at Valley, he was one of the main influences on my life.  My family didn't go to church and thanks to a few persistent friends, God led me to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes huddle Mr, Cookman led at Valley.  Jay helped plant the seeds of faith for me and countless others.  He is one of God's great shepherds and will have an entire wing in heaven for all those he brought to faith.  I'm so sad about this news, but have zero doubt about where Jay is now.
Prayers for the entire Cookman family. 

Jay Cookman helped me so many times during high school.  He then joined our Class of 1971 Facebook page and commented on birthdays.  He was so awesome.  I loved him and all his care.  Many hugs to you all.

I'm so sorry to read of Jay's passing.  My thoughts and prayers go out the Anette and the family.  I have such special memories of the Cookmans opening their home week after week to a mob of high school kids for weekly FCA meetings.  Jay was such a positive figure to me and so many at Valley.  I can imagine his homecoming was quite a celebration.  

Annette, Jeff, and Jaynette, and families,
We are heart-broken to hear of Jay’s passing yet know there is rejoicing in heaven as he joins the saints before the Throne. I (Laura) will never forget as a timid, new-to-town freshman how “Mr Cookman”, as my counselor helped me feel welcome and at home at Valley High School. We were blessed beyond measure that after high school he and Annette became treasured friends and mentors to Bryce and I as we began our marriage. He touched innumerable lives and his legacy will live on in the people he drew to our Savior. 

Jay, you were not my High School counselor, but you taught me how to be led by The Counselor, the Holy Spirit; you were not my teacher, but you instructed me how to be educated by the word of God; you were not my pastor, but you modeled to me how to live and take care of the sheep; you were not my father, but you introduced me, through FCA, to the love and mercy of our heavenly father. 

I know that heaven is rejoicing today, but my heart is sad.  How I cherish Jay's influence in my life, and supporting my faith journey even into adulthood.  Thank you Cookman family for sharing him with not just me, but all of the Underfer's.

Words cannot express my gratitude for Jay Cookman. He was a LIGHT that shined brightly at Valley.  His commitment to the Lord through FCA literally touched the lives of hundreds of students. He and Annette graciously welcomed all into their home. It was a safe haven for kids to belong,  to be encouraged and to be loved on. Praying for you...  Love and Peace dear Cookman family... from Kimber, Jim, Jimmy and Alissa Underfer 

What fond memories I have of FCA at the Cookman home.  It was such wonderful fellowship--and I didn't realize until later in life what a gift the Cookmans gave a large group of high school kids. The respect, trust and openness Mr Cookman gave to that group taught lessons WAY beyond the bounds of the actual group. I remember specifically the first time the group gathered without any "adult" supervision--the Cookman home was just opened for us! (after having high-schoolers myself, I am even more thankful). The world has lost a good one. Thank you Jay Cookman for laying a firm foundation for many people!

If it hadn’t been for Mr. Cookman, I would never had graduated from high school. He was the only reason I continued to go to school and obtain my diploma in 1976.  I’ve spoken of him often since then and I will remember him always. 

Mr. Cookman wasn't my academic counselor but helped me through much family turmoil during my high school years. I loved being part of Peer Helpers under his leadership. The love of God was so evident through all he said and did. 

I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Mr. Jay Cookman my Valley High School Counselor. After declining a four year scholarship at Howard University Mr. Cookman in midsummer 1980 with a personal reference letter and Academic Achievement Scholarship awarded by Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity was able to get my acceptance letter from Drake University reinstated with Dorm privileges at the last minute.  (Rest in peace⚘💔) #MR.#COOKMAN #4EVERGRATEFUL

Mr. Cookman was my high school counselor over 20 years ago. He always took an interest in my education and checked up on me, he was so dedicated to the students of VHS. My prayers are with your family.

OBITUARY

Jay Preston Cookman

February 17, 1938 – October 31, 2020

McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel & Mortuary & Resthaven Cemetery

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