James D. Cook

James (J.D.) Cook, whose love and kindness touched all who knew him, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025. Born February 5, 1937, in rural Hamilton County, Texas, to Alvin Jim Cook and Nina Lora Hughes, J.D. lived a life marked by generosity, integrity, and devotion to family and friends.

A proud Goldthwaite High School Eagle, J.D. discovered his interest in the agricultural industry in his teenage years. One memorable moment came when he borrowed a pickup, built sideboards, and took his ewe to the Fort Worth Stock Show—where it won first place that year and surprised everyone by giving birth to twin lambs.

After high school, J.D. moved to Jal, New Mexico, and began working for El Paso Natural Gas. In 1956, he married Wanda Lou Turk, with whom he shared two children and 56 years of marriage. They later settled in Sonora, Texas, where J.D. began his career in the wool and mohair industry. He eventually served as manager of West Texas Wool and Mohair in Mertzon, retiring from that position after 23 years. In 2012, he married his best friend, Shirley Hegdal Cook, and together they enjoyed traveling, dancing, and making the most of their time together.

J.D. is survived by his son, John David Cook; his daughter, Priscilla (Dick) Earhart; and his granddaughter, Lauren (Bayley) McCollum. He is also remembered by his sister, Linda Harvell; nephews, James Frank (Lindy) Cook, Andy (Cathy) Cook, and Doug (Angie) Turk; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by Wanda Lou Cook and Shirley Hegdal Cook; sisters, Blanche Biggs, Minnie Loyce White, and Wilda Harvell; and brothers, James Frank Cook and Kenneth Cook.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to Dr. Anderton and Sarah, Hospice of San Angelo, and Dr. Brewer for their compassionate care, and to Mary Ponce, Edna Johnson, and Norma Ornelas for their support and kindness.

A memorial service will be held at Grace Christian Chapel on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.