Rutherford R. Cooke

1941 - 2023

COOKE

RUTHERFORD R. COOKE

Rutherford R. Cooke; born October 5, 1941 in Lusby, MD. The son of Giles N. and Ella Mae Cook, he was the fifth of their eight children. He is survived by his loving wife, Ann, and their four children; Kenneth (Cheri), Kevin (Bethany), Kathryn (Brian), and Kristin Cooke. He is also survived by his siblings; Major (Bea), Giles, Lynndey (Anne Marie), Jimi (MaryAnn), and Sybol (Lane), and beloved niece Joan (James). Rutherford and his wife Ann were married for 55 years. They have 13 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He transitioned on Sunday February 19, 2023 at the age of 81. Rutherford was a faithful member of Vermont Avenue Baptist Church where he served his church community in many capacities for 63 years. A veteran of the US Air Force, he worked as an Airplane and Helicopter Mechanic. For much of his professional career, he worked in Information Systems. He went back to college at 53 where he received a BS in Information Systems from the University of Maryland. He later went on to complete his M.Div at Howard University at the age of 67. Highlights of his vocational career was serving at the DC Central Union Mission where he was the Director of Overnight Guest Ministries. He also served in other capacities. He enjoyed working with special needs kids as a substitute teacher at the MCPS Virtual Academy. Rutherford loved fishing. He was also a "fisher of men". He is loved and will be deeply missed, but his assignment on earth is complete. He now stands in the presence of our Lord hearing those words… "Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter the joy of your lord" (Mt 25:21). Funeral Services Information: Thursday, March 9, 2023. Vermont Avenue Baptist Church 1630 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009. Viewing 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Services begin at 11 a.m. Private burial at Quantico National Cemetery. No repass. In lieu of memorial flowers, Memorial donations can be made to: Central Union Mission, PO Box 96763, Washington, DC 20090-6763. Please include a note that the gift is in memory of Reverend Rutherford Cooke. This is a men's shelter where he served. (MASKS REQUESTED, PLEASE)"