Suzon C. Cocks

Suzon C. Cocks (née Lake)

June 27, 1939 – June 18, 2026

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Suzon C. Cocks (née Lake), who entered eternal rest on June 18, 2026, just days before her 87th birthday.

Born on June 27, 1939, in Guadeloupe, Suzon spent her childhood in the beautiful village of Grand Case, Saint Martin. She was the beloved daughter of Charles Lake and Melanie Brookson, who instilled in her the values of faith, hard work, compassion, and family that would guide her throughout her life.

As a young girl, Suzon found great joy in music and worship. She was an active member of her church choir and developed a lifelong love for singing hymns. Even in her final days, the comforting melodies of her favorite hymns brought her peace and reflected the steadfast faith that sustained her throughout her life.

At the age of nineteen, Suzon courageously left the familiarity of her island home and journeyed to the United States in pursuit of greater opportunities; not only for herself but also for her family. Her determination, resilience, and selflessness became defining characteristics of her life. Through sacrifice and unwavering dedication, she built a life rooted in love, service, and family.

Soon after arriving in the United States, Suzon met the love of her life, Gilbert P. Cocks. Together they shared an extraordinary marriage of sixty-one years, creating a home filled with love, laughter, faith, and devotion. Their partnership served as a shining example to all who knew them. Together they raised seven daughters: Patricia Rohan, Elizabeth Lamadieu, Sandra Cocks, Judith Williams, Renee Henriquez, Shaniqua Noelle Cocks, and Nancy Cocks. Suzon poured her heart into her role as a wife and mother, nurturing her family with endless love, wisdom, patience, and strength. Suzon also shared a special bond with her beloved nephew/son, Timothy Bryan, whom she and her husband held close to their hearts throughout her life.

Family was the center of Suzon's world. She treasured gathering her loved ones around the table, especially for her beloved Sunday dinners. Her kitchen was more than a place to prepare meals; it was a place where memories were made, stories were shared, and everyone was welcomed with warmth and generosity. Friends, neighbors, extended family members, and anyone in need of comfort often found a seat at her table.

In addition to opening her home to her sisters, nieces, and many other family members as they came to Staten Island in search of greater opportunities and a better life, Suzon also lovingly welcomed numerous foster children into the safety and warmth of her home. She provided not only shelter, but also guidance, stability, compassion, and unconditional love. To many, she became a source of comfort, encouragement, and hope, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those fortunate enough to be embraced by her caring spirit.

A dedicated healthcare professional, Suzon devoted many years to caring for others as a Patient Care Assistant at both Saint Vincent's Hospital and Staten Island University Hospital. Her compassion, gentle spirit, and commitment to helping those in need touched countless lives. Whether caring for patients, comforting family members, or supporting colleagues, she approached every interaction with kindness and dignity.

Suzon was blessed with a large and loving family. She is survived by her cherished sisters, Elaine, Vivianne, and Claudia, and her brother, Darry. She was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Mary, and her brothers, Alex and Lucien. She also leaves behind countless nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends here and throughout the Caribbean and France. While too numerous to name, each was treasured by Suzon and touched by her love, kindness, and generosity.

Her greatest joy was being a grandmother. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Joshua, Warren, Jessica, Sebastian, Ashley, Amanda, Christopher, Jeanine, Chloe, Taylor, Zachary, Callie, Cody, Chelsea, Zoey, Jude, Jordan, Audrey, Mia, Ayden, and Sienna, each of whom brought immeasurable happiness to her life. She was also blessed with three great-grandchildren Hunter, Alexander, and Archer.

Suzon's legacy is one of unconditional love, unwavering faith, quiet strength, and selfless service. She taught those around her the importance of family, perseverance, generosity, and compassion. Her life was a testament to putting others before herself and finding joy in the simple blessings of life.

Though she built a beautiful life in the United States, her heart never left Grand Case, Saint Martin. She often spoke fondly of her childhood home, the beaches, the people, and the memories she cherished there. One of her deepest wishes was to visit Grand Case once more; a place that remained forever woven into her heart.

While our hearts ache with her absence, we take comfort in knowing that her love lives on through the countless lives she touched. Her wisdom, kindness, faith, and enduring spirit will continue to guide her family for generations to come.

Suzon was a devoted wife, loving mother, treasured grandmother, caring sister, faithful friend, and compassionate caregiver. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated nurses, social workers, and home health aides of the Visiting Nurse Service (VNS) for the compassionate care, comfort, and support they provided to Suzon during her final journey. Their kindness, professionalism, and unwavering commitment brought great comfort not only to Suzon but also to her family during a difficult time.

The family also extends their deepest appreciation to Dr. Louis Emmer, Dr. Wahib Zafar, and the gentle and caring staff of the Richmond University Medical Center Outpatient Oncology and Infusion Unit. Your compassion, expertise, and dedication touched Suzon's life in meaningful ways, and your support will never be forgotten.