Bernice Riggs Cook

Bernice Riggs Cook is now telling jokes and stories at the 19th hole in Heaven. She was born December 4, 1932 and departed this world peacefully in her home, surrounded by family September 4, 2016. She was a life-long member of the Smackover community and First Baptist Church. Bernice was known for her gregarious nature, open heart, giving spirit, and big smile. She and J.O. Cook were charter members of Pine Hills Golf & Country Club. Bernice was an active member of the Ladies Golf Association.

She was married June 29, 1951 to James Neal Graves, and was widowed May 21, 1953. On January 15, 1955, she married J.O. Cook. They were married until his death in 2001.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, and infant twin brothers. She is survived by son, Jim Cook (Deb) of Smackover; son, Jo Cook (Patti) of Camden; grandchildren Sean Cook, Josh Cook, Gabe Cook, Summer Prado, Brandon Butler, Chris Cook, Claudia Sanders, Jay Cook, and Scott Cook; as well as many great-grandchildren, and one great –great granddaughter. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends whom she considered as family.

Bernice lived a long and fruitful life. She loved her friends, family, especially her grandchildren, her flowers, and golf. She was a staunch Razorback fan. She was also a proud former Buckaroo cheerleader and athlete. She will forever be missed, loved, and remembered by everyone who knew her. Our hope is that she has been reunited with her sisters and she and J.O. are dancing in the Heavens.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 5pm to 7pm at Young’s Funeral Directors.

Funeral services will be 10 am, Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at the First Baptist Church Smackover with Rev. Carly Davis and Rev. Ray Wells officiating. Interment will follow at Smackover Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Smackover Public Library, 700 Broadway Street, Smackover, AR 71762 or The First Baptist Church Smackover, 201 West 7th Street, Smackover, AR 71762

An online registry is available at www.youngsfuneralhome.com