David Sherril Cooke, of Bowdon, Georgia, passed away on June 29, 2026, at the age of 72.

David was born on September 15, 1953, in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, to the late George Hartsell Cooke and Dorothy Cooke Lavoie. From an early age, his life was marked by a deep love for music, faith, family, and service to others.

Following high school, David attended North Carolina State University, graduating in 1975. He later continued his education at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he earned his degree in 1978. David went on to faithfully serve in ministry at churches throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Georgia. He retired as a minister of music, having most recently served at Old Camp Church and Stripling Chapel Methodist Church.

Music was one of David’s greatest gifts and lifelong passions. He was an accomplished pianist, soloist, and songwriter whose love of singing brought joy to many. David was a proud member of the Carroll County Community Chorus and faithfully coordinated music for Bowdon’s Founders Day for more than 20 years. Through his music ministry and community involvement, he used his talents to encourage, inspire, and bring people together.

David was also an enthusiastic sports fan. He loved all things related to the N.C. State Wolfpack and enjoyed spending time on the golf course. Locally, he enjoyed working with the University of West Georgia Wolves football and basketball teams. While music and sports brought him great enjoyment, nothing meant more to David than his family. He especially cherished his grandchildren, who were truly the apple of his eye.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Elizabeth Grace Cooke, and his mother-in-law, Janice Duncan.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Janet Warren Cooke; his children, Matthew Cooke and his wife Teresa, and Peter Cooke and his wife Jessica; his grandchildren, Micah Cooke, Hannah Cooke, Caleb Cooke, Noah Cooke, and Ethan Cooke; his siblings, Kevin Cooke and his wife Cindy, Douglas Cooke, and Beth Southern and her husband Dan; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, church family members, and all those whose lives were touched by his kindness, music, and faithful service.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Rainwater Funeral Home, with Rev. Marlin Miller officiating. Eulogies will be offered by family and friends. A private interment service will follow.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. until the service hour.

Flowers will be accepted. Those wishing to assist with David’s service expenses may contact Rainwater Funeral Home at 770-258-7239 or mail contributions to: Rainwater Funeral Home, 317 N. Carroll Street, Bowdon, Georgia 30108.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC is providing local information and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com