Thomas Howard Cook

Thomas Howard Cook, of Watkinsville, GA, passed away on the morning of December 31, 2022. Born May 6, 1930 in Indianapolis, IN, he was 92 years old, survived by his beloved wife, Ruth, to whom he was happily married for 69 years. Tom, affectionately referred to as "Poppy" by his grandchildren and great grandchildren, was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Lake Champlain during the Korean War.
After his service in the military, Tom served as a volunteer firefighter in his off hours from his regular job as a troubleshooter for the local gas utility, and later worked as a service instructor and service training manager for Whirlpool Corporation until his retirement in 1992. He was a devout Christian, having participated in the DeMolay International and was a member of Union Christian Church. Tom was also a member of the Freemasons and he was an active supporter of the Scottish Rite Foundation.
Tom was an ardent patriot of his country, a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather, and a wonderful friend. His hobbies included Rv'ing, enjoying the outdoors, woodworking, working with his hands, and he always enjoyed telling a great story. In addition to his loving wife Ruth, Tom is survived by his three children, Steve Cook (Rona), Edward Cook (Jaime), Betty Allen (Tommy), along with four grandchildren: Shea Cook, Zac Cook, Amanda Cook, Jake Averhart and two great grandchildren: Alexa Arnold and Clara Cook.
Funeral services will be at First Union Christian Church in Watkinsville, GA on Friday, January 6, 2023 at 11:00 A.M.Interment will follow at Union Christian Church cemetery.