Matthew Alexander Cook

Matthew Alexander Cook, aged 53, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday July 22, 2025. The days prior to his passing, he was surrounded by his wife, children, and family members in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. A beloved husband, father, uncle, cousin, and friend, Matthew had a smile that would light up any room he would walk into. Matthew took pleasure in being around his family, friends, and loved ones. He loved to host family gatherings and listen to his music on repeat in his special space in his home he often referred to as his “lab”.

Born April 16, 1972 in Roanoke, Virginia to Katie Catheleen Cook (affectionately known as Cheetah) and his father Daniel Patrick (affectionately known as D.B.). Matthew was an only child. He attended William Fleming High School and Patrick Henry High School where he graduated in 1990. After completing high school, Matthew attended Job Corp at the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania for two years where he earned his certification in welding. In 1993 Matthew met and married who he often referred to as “His blessing from God”, Nailah Cromwell Cook. Matthew and Nailah were married for 30 years. They happily lived in Roanoke, VA raising their three children, Jasmine, Jaleel, and Jaylen Cook before relocating to Northern Virginia in 2013, and finally settling in Upper Marlboro, MD in 2017.

Matthew was a talented musician, rap artist, and lyricist joining forces with his brothers from another mother known as the “Pack” of Star City, Roanoke, VA. Matthew, whose stage name was Sage the Infinite, would record and perform locally with the Pack for many years. Matthew was extremely proud of his group of brothers, often discussing their future while reminiscing about the fond memories of the past.

Matthew enjoyed spending time with his family, and his wife, Nailah, was his joy. He delighted in the special moments he spent with his children who were his shining light. Matthew was saved at the age of 11 years accepting Jesus as his savior and becoming a member of High Street Baptist Church where he joined and participated on the junior choir for many years. Matthew embraced life with fullness and joy and never allowed his willfulness, hope, and faith to whither, even into his final days.

Matthew is preceded in death by his loving mother, Katie Catheleen Cook (Cheetah) of Roanoke, VA, his father, Daniel Patrick (D.B.) of Philadelphia, PA, his grandmother, Gladys Reynolds Cook, of Roanoke, VA, his grandfather, Willie Cook of Virginia, and his aunt Mary Geneva Paige, of Roanoke, VA. Matthew is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Nailah Cook, their three children, Jasmine Kathleen Cook, Jaleel Alexander Cook, and Jaylen Matthew Cook, his aunt Marlene Tinsley of Roanoke, VA, his uncle Willie Lee Cook Jr. (Pam) of Roanoke, VA, his aunt Vera of Philadelphia, PA, and his beloved cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service to honor Matthew’s life and legacy will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 10: 00 am at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home, 7250 Washington Blvd, Elkridge, MD. A reception / repass will follow immediately in the fellowship hall.