Elizabeth Carol Cook

Elizabeth (Carol) Collins Cook died peacefully at home on Monday, February 23, 2026 at age 100. She leaves her four daughters, 3 sons-in-law, 6 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Carol was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, H. Irvin Cook, her brother John (and Ann) Collins, step-brother Bob (and Mary Ann) Williams, and son-in-law Rick Parsons.

Carol was born on October 13, 1925 in Lexington, KY but moved to the Washington, D.C. area when she was young. She graduated from the University of Maryland and worked there briefly before her marriage to Irvin in 1948. Once the children were born, she stayed home to raise them, but always found time for various volunteer positions.

After Irvin retired, he and Carol bought and operated a plant shop near the University of Maryland, fueling Carol’s love of gardening and growing indoor plants.

They moved to Florida in 2003 and were members of Suntree United Methodist Church.

Carol was a life-long learner either from self-study or by taking classes. Her interests varied from the arts, history, and music to religion, politics, and current events. She was also a “health nut” before that term was even popular. To that end, she continued to attend exercise classes well after her 100th birthday.

Relationships were important to Carol, especially family. She welcomed family and friends (and friends of her children!) into her home regularly and was always gracious and generous. One always knew Carol was truly interested in them because she actively listened and engaged people in conversation.

Carol had a warm smile for anyone she met. She was always welcoming, kind, and compassionate, and she will truly be missed.

In lieu of flowers, Carol requested that donations be made in memory of her son-in-law, Rick, to:

Multiple Myeloma Foundation

4400 Coldwater Canyon Ave., Suite 300

Studio City, CA 91604

A Celebration of Life will be held at Life Event Center At Florida Memorial, 5950 S US Highway 1, Rockledge, FL 32955, US, on June 13, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.