Carol Ann Cook

Carol Ann “Cookie” Cook, 73, of Falling Waters peacefully departed this life on Monday December 1, 2025, in the care of Heritage Hall, Leesburg VA with her two sisters at her side.

Born March 3,1952 in Martinsburg, she was the daughter of the late Carl F. “Buddy” Cook Jr. and Joan Adele Haas Cook. Carol was very bright and absolutely loved learning. She attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School where she graduated 2nd in her class in 1970, which was the last graduating class of that school. She was grateful for the excellent education she received.

While still in High School Carol began taking advanced courses at Shepherd College (now Shepherd University) where she was welcomed by the classmates and professors. She continued her higher education there and in 1974 she graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Technology. Though she interned at the VA Medical Center during her college years, upon graduation Carol opted for a position in the Laboratory at City Hospital (currently WVU- Berkeley Medical) where she was a valuable and loyal employee for 47 years.

Carol was dedicated to her vocation. She had a true calling and was passionate about the science, accuracy, and timely execution; knowing her performance and that of her team were saving lives. Over the years she made many dear friends. Whether colleagues, equipment service technicians, or those delivering supplies, she knew stories of their families, she celebrated their successes, and she provided support and encouragement during their losses. Each year Carol looked forward to “Shark Week”, Angel Tree, and the book fair where she would always pick out the perfect book or cookbook for family and friends. Though able to retire during COVID 19, she elected to stay on with her team during a time when they needed all hands-on deck. She retired in October 2021.

This past August was the first time Carol was ever in the hospital, and the same place where she cared for others was the very place that gave her compassionate and competent care. Carol was so proud of “her” hospital and truly grateful to the Berkeley Medical staff and EMT’s.

In her younger years Carol was active in sports with Softball being her game of choice. She was a member of the Martinsburg-Berkeley County Girls Softball League beginning at Lambert Park, then moving “up on the hill” to Charlotte Prather Park. This was a wonderful community where she made life-long friends. With her dad coaching, mother cheering, and siblings in tow, it was a true family affair. Once out of the fast pitch league she continued to play slow pitch for many years.

She enjoyed playing basketball, bowling, walking, playing guitar, art, pottery making, and landscape photography. Carol was an avid reader, she loved to travel, loved to read about traveling, enjoyed gardening and bird watching and felt her greatest peace when she was embraced by nature.

Over the years attending her nieces’ dance recitals and sporting events were precious to her.

Carol truly enjoyed watching television and was a commercial enthusiast. Carol was clever, witty, and had a unique sense of humor. She was quick on the comeback and always one to make you laugh. Carol was also kind, compassionate, and thoughtful. She lived a life of service and generous to those in need.

As big sister, she was the model of integrity, responsibility, and courage. Not one to ask for help, she was indeed one to give it.

She referred to herself as the “ultimate procrastinator,” however she always encouraged others to follow their hearts and dreams.

Carol is survived by her two sisters, Barbara Bartley of Martinsburg and Wendy Headley and husband, Ty of Seabrook Island, SC. She is also survived by nieces Alyssa and Jenna, great-nephews and great-nieces, numerous cousins, and many dear friends. Her last three months were spent at Heritage Hall where she made new friends and continued to touch lives with her respect, advice and encouragement. Carol and family are truly indebted to that compassionate team of caregivers.

In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her brother Carl F. “Skippy” Cook III.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday December 15, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Brown Funeral Home with Father Alfred Obiudu presiding.

Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice or consider doing a random act of kindness in Carol’s memory.

Online condolences may be offered at www.BrownFuneralHomesWV.com.