M. Thomas (Tom) Cooke

M. Thomas (Tom) Cooke, aged 84, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Friday, January 17, 2025. His legacy was honored during a funeral service at the Church of the Holy Cross located at 2520 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482. Arrangements have been entrusted to J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mount Pleasant Chapel. 

Born on May 16, 1940, in Franklin County, North Carolina, Tom was a cherished son of the late Vinston Perry Cooke and the late Glennie Lassiter Cooke. Tom and his two older brothers, Maylon and Willis, grew up knowing the value of hard work as they helped on the family farm, where they grew tobacco, corn, and cotton. 

Throughout his younger years in Louisburg, N.C., Tom was active in various activities, including playing the Saxophone in the W.R. Mills High School Band and even driving the school bus. His educational journey continued at Louisburg College, which laid the foundation for a life of service and dedication. 

In 1960, Tom moved to Norfolk, VA, where he was a Machinist’s Apprentice at the Norfolk Naval Air Station. Tom then transferred to personnel management with the Navy Department at the Shipyard. Tom eventually transferred to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons in Washington, D.C. where he was Head of Pay and Position Management. After retiring from Civil Service in 2000, Tom took a job with the City of Virginia Beach in the Staff and Compensation Department. Tom officially retired on June 30, 2014, a day the city officially declared "Tom Cooke Day." 

Tom was very patriotic and loved attending air shows. He also loved woodworking, trains, music, photography, cooking, and helping others. A devoted member of the Church of the Holy Cross on Sullivan's Island, Tom's strong faith was evident through his active involvement in church life. He was an integral part of the Choir and generously volunteered with the “Kitchen Crew,” embodying the spirit of service and fellowship that characterized his life. 

Tom leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by two daughters: Allison Renee Cooke Oliverius and husband Craig of Mount Pleasant, S.C., and Angela Susan Cooke Peelen and husband Nicholas of Suffolk, VA. His legacy continues through his two grandchildren, Whitney Allysan Beauter (Michael) and Eliza Jewell Oliverius, his great-grandchild, Elias Robert Charles Beauter, and many nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his beloved parents, Tom was preceded in death by his siblings, Maylon Perry Cooke and Willis V. Cooke. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him and share in his life. 

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or Church of the Holy Cross on Sullivan’s Island, 2520 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482. 

A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com.