James Eugene Cook

James Eugene Cook, 81, of New Castle passed away Thursday, August 1, 2024 at the Willows of New Castle following a seven year battle with dementia. He was born January 12, 1943 in Richmond to the late John and Vera (Brown) Cook.

Jim was known for his kind and friendly demeanor, always ready to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. He spent 6 years of service in the National Guard. During his 37 years at Chrysler Corp., Jim took pride in his role as an inspector. In his free time, Jim found joy in watching his grandchildren participate in various sports activities. He would cheer them on enthusiastically from the sidelines, proud of their accomplishments. When his own children were younger, he also volunteered as a little league coach. 

He loved spending time in his garden growing tomatoes and marigolds. Additionally, he found pleasure in feeding the birds. Jim was a past member of the Elks. Above all, Jim cherished his family dearly. He was a loving husband, father, and papaw, always there to support and encourage his loved ones. His warm and welcoming nature made him beloved by all, and he had a knack for making strangers feel like friends.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 54 years, Pat Cook; children, Carol (Shane) Phelps and Jimmy (Jenn) Cook; grandchildren, Masen (Lilly) Phelps, Averi Phelps, Jordon Cook, Lyla and Ella Shue; nephews, David (Cindy) Cook, Danny (Stephanie) Cook and John (Connie) Cook; nieces, Brenda (Scott) Blitchington and Sue Cleek; brothers-in-law, Dan (Liz) Baker and Dick (Bonita) Baker; sister-in- law, Gerry Baker; several other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, David Cook; father and mother-in-law, Ed and Pat Baker; sister-in-law, Delores Cook and brothers-in-law, Jim and Tom Baker.

The family would like to thank The Willows and Henry Community Health Hospice for the exceptional care Jim received.

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service with Pastor Paul Baty officiating. Burial will follow at South Mound Cemetery, West Lawn Addition. Visitation will be from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. prior to the service on Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601. You may express condolences or share a memory of Jim at www.hinsey-brown.com.