Mr. James L. Cook

James L. Cook was born on April 15, 1936 in St. Louis, Missouri. His parents were James Lester and Sammie Cook. He was the oldest sibling. He had 6 sisters and 5 brothers; Brenda, Linda, Diane, Kathy, Kim, Susan, Steven, Anthony, Pie and Winfred.

James attended school in the St. Louis public schools and graduated from Vashon High School. Later, James joined the United States Marines, once stationed in Korea preparing to defend our country.

James met Shirley Chapman at the post office and they married on February 28, 1961. Together they left St. Louis, and moved east to Philadelphia, PA James worked at Boeing Vertol Helicopter Plant in Pennsylvania, while diligently pursuing a career in “show business”. He traveled all over the country chasing his dream. He became a full time comedian, doing “stand up”. As he evolved, James wrote screen plays, one act plays, and became an avid book writer. He never stopped writing, and he never stopped working.

James was a community man. He loved children, teaching and showing them values and principles necessary for success. He taught Andre and all of his and all my childhood friends to do our best, do well in school, and respect everyone. Mainly, respect yourself. He was a big proponent of education. A coach of all sports. An inspiration for the fatherless. A man of his word. God fearing. He died living! James always had 3 things for you: 1. A story (any topic) 2. A joke (probably a corny one) 3. A bit of sound advice on how you can get better. Or how you should give yourself some credit for doing a heck of a job already. Perhaps remind you that you are a "king" or a “queen”. Especially black people!! He loved being black and loved his heritage.

The Lord called James home to rest on June 18, 2020. With honor and celebration, James is survived by: his daughter-Starr (Howard); his son-Andre (Cornelia); grandchildren: Jamaal, Shaahida, Fontè, and Ashley; great grandchildren: Kaiwillow, Quincy, and Najid; a host of truly loved nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends. 

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