Gary Cook

Gary Cook, age 84, of Nancy, KY, passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family who cherished him.  He was a man with a big heart, a quick wit, and a gift for turning strangers into friends in an instant.

Gary was born on August 29, 1941 in Nancy, KY to the late Leonard Cook and Anna Margaret Simpson Cook.  Gary Cook was the funniest, most loving, and devoted husband, dad, brother, and grandpa anyone could ever hope for. 

One of the greatest joys of his life was his wife Phyllis of 63 years, his truest companion and very best friend. Their love was steady, warm, and unwavering—a partnership built on laughter, hard work, and a lifetime of shared memories. They were inseparable, each one the other’s biggest supporter, closest confidant, and constant source of comfort. Their bond was a beautiful example of devotion, showing everyone around them what it means to love deeply and wholeheartedly.

Gary was a member of the Piney Grove Baptist Church #2.  A proud graduate of Nancy High School, Class of 1961, he treasured the lifelong bond he shared with his classmates. They met often, stayed close through the years, and remained an important and joyful part of his life. 

For over 40 years, he owned and operated Cook Insulated Building, pouring his hard work, dedication, and pride into everything he did. When he wasn’t working, you could find him junkin’, searching for treasures, and telling stories that kept everyone laughing.

He was also a farmer through and through, happiest when outdoors tending to his animals. He especially loved his chickens—they brought him joy, entertainment, and more than a few good stories to tell.

But nothing meant more to him than his wife and family. He was the best dad, offering endless support, humor, and love. As a grandpa, he was pure magic—singing to his grandkids, making them laugh, and creating memories that will stay with them forever.

He was a devoted member of Piney Grove Community, where his faith, kindness, and gentle spirit touched many.  He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and generosity that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Dick Cook of Nancy; one son, Shannon (Lesia) Cook of Nancy; one daughter, Shaun (Jerry) Sweet of Nancy; one sister, Trudy (Bernie) Denham of Nancy; one sister-in-law, Kathy Cook of Nancy; grandchildren, Jessica Sturgill, Nichole Cundiff, Kyra Hylton, McKenzie Cook Blacketer (Aaron) and Eli Cook; great grandchildren, Michael Blackburn (Audrey), Alexis Day, Natalie Cummins, Isaiah Sweet, Christine Cook, Chloe Cook, Jolee Blacketer, Tyson Sturgill, Charley Cundiff and Paislee Blacketer; one special aunt, Alfreda Tarter of Somerset; and other family members, friends and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Anna Cook; and one brother, Jerry Cook.  

Visitation will be on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at Lake Cumberland Funeral Home.

His funeral service will follow on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 1:00pm at the Chapel of Lake Cumberland Funeral Home with Bro. Travis Strunk and Bro. Joe Warren officiating.  Burial will be at Piney Grove #2 Cemetery in Nancy.  Pallbearers will be Eli Cook, Michael Blackburn, Aaron Blacketer, Isaiah Sweet, Bo Brown and Bill Baker. Honorary pallbearers will be Tyson Sturgill and Charley Cundiff.

You are welcome to view the obituary and send condolences to the family at our website: www.LakeCumberlandFuneralService.com

Lake Cumberland Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements for Gary Cook.