James M. "Jim" Cooke Sr.

Jim passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. He was born in Five Points, Alabama and graduated from Lanett High School in 1943. He graduated from Auburn University in 1949 and the School of Consumer Banking, University of Virginia in 1960, and the National Commercial Lending School, University of Oklahoma in 1973. Jim was a banker for 40 years and know by many as the "people's banker". Jim was also a veteran of WWII and was a member of St. Mark UMC.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ethel Cooke, and his sisters Kathlyn McGlown and Mary Jo Bailey and his brother Russell Cooke. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Rosemary Cooke, and his children Jimmy Cooke, Myra Leigh Gerontakis (Ernie), and John Cooke (Janet). Jim is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Jay Cooke (Dee), Jackson Cooke, Spriro Gerontakis, Peter Wallace Gerontakis, Jeremy Cooke, Justin Cooke, and Julie Cooke. He is also survived by many nephews and nieces and his favorite brother-in-law, Wallace Graddick (Barbara). The family will receive friends on Friday, April 29th 10-11 at Ridout's Valley Chapel with the funeral service to follow at 11. The family would like to thank Kim Underwood and St. Vincent's Hospice for their care and compassion. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made in his memory to the Alzheimer's Association or St. Mark United Methodist Church.

Arrangements under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel, Homewood, AL.