Dr. Fred Leon Cook

1949 - 2026

Dr. Fred Leon Cook, known affectionately as Leon to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at Atrium Health Navicent Medical Center. Born on the Fourth of July in 1949, Leon's life began on the family farm in Butts County, where the values of hard work and dedication were instilled in him from a young age. He was a man who lived a life as rich and vibrant as the Independence Day fireworks that marked his entrance into the world.

Leon was predeceased by his loving parents, Fred Perry Cook and Laura Louise Smith Cook. His legacy continues through his devoted wife of 51 years, Mary Patricia (Patsy) Cook, and his caring sisters, Martha Pulliam (Fred), Vivian & Wesley Leverette, and Nita Lunsford, all of Jackson. Leon's spirit will also live on in the hearts of his nephews, Derek, Derron, and Dustin Lunsford; his niece, Melissa Griffin; and his great-nephews, Chase and Chad Griffin, Drake, Durden, Landon, Grant, and Gage Lunsford, great-niece Malorie Lunsford, along with great-great-niece Lorraine (Rainey) Griffin who will miss their uncle's loving guidance and generous nature.

A proud alumnus of Jackson High School, he graduated in the class of 1967 as Valedictorian, Leon's thirst for knowledge and passion for education led him to Georgia Tech where he was known for his expertise in textile and polymer chemistry; he earned both his BS (1971) and PhD (1975) from Georgia Tech. He became Assistant Professor of Polymer/Textile Chemistry in 1975. He gained tenure in 1980. After serving as interim director of the Polymer, Textile, and Fiber Engineering School from 1987-1989 he was promoted to full Professor and School Chair, serving dual roles until 2002. Later retiring as Professor Emeritus. He received numerous awards, his work won the AATCC Intersectional Technical Paper Competition in 1981, later serving as President of the AATCC from 2009-2010 and the Olney Medal in 2015 which recognizes outstanding achievements in textile or polymer chemistry. Before retiring Leon shared his wisdom and inspired countless students. He assisted numerous others in earning much needed scholarships to further their education. Despite his academic achievements, Leon remained a farmer at heart. He found solace in the simplicity of the land, raising cattle and horses with the same patience and care he bestowed upon his students.

His interests extended into the fields and arenas of sports. An avid fan, Leon's heart beat strongest for his Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and competition. Leon was a lifelong member of Stark Methodist Church.

Those who knew Leon would describe him as a loving, generous, and kind soul. His presence was a source of comfort and strength, and his actions a testament to his character. Leon's life was a beacon of generosity and kindness, illuminating the path for others to follow.

A Funeral Service for Dr. Fred Leon Cook will be held in the Chapel of Haisten Funeral Home on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 2 PM, Dr. Ed Hoard will officiate. You may visit with the Family for one hour immediately prior to the Service, beginning at 1 PM at the Funeral Home, or Friday and Saturday, January 23 & 24 at the residence of Melissa Griffin, 260 Hickory Ridge in Jackson. He will be laid to rest in the Stark Methodist Church Cemetery following the Service. Please visit www.haistenfuneral.com to express condolences and special, memories online.

At the family's request, please consider flowers or donations to Butts Mutts, PO Box 474, Jackson, GA 30233 or Classy Cats of Butts County, PO Box 11, Jackson, GA 30233 in lieu of flowers.

His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the stars guided him back to the farm after long days of teaching and tending to his beloved animals. Leon's story does not end here; it lives on in the hearts of those he loved and the many lives he touched with his gentle spirit.

Nephews and great-nephews: Dustin, Derek, Derron, Gage, Chase, Chad and Landon will serve as pallbearers.

Haisten Funeral Home of Jackson is serving the Cook Family.