Roderick Shannon Cook

Roderick Shannon Cook of Rocky Mount, Virginia, died on February 12, 2024, after a brief illness. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife Ann Lee Alexander Cook and his beloved parents, Chester V. Cook and Maybelle Ruth Edgecomb Cook.

He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Shannon Cook Jeans and her husband Robert C. Jeans of Glade Hill; his daughter LeeAnn Alexander Cook and fiancé Christopher Horn of Rocky Mount; two beloved granddaughters, Rachel Justine Mathena and her husband Brandon Mathena, and Elizabeth Ann Alexander Jeans; and grandson John Berger Jeans and his wife Hannah. He is also survived by his brother, Theodore Malcolm Cook, his wife Sarah Cook of Prescott, Washington; his brother-in-law, Judge William N. Alexander, his wife Sarah Davis Alexander; and many adored nieces and nephews. Rod also leaves behind countless and dearly cherished friends he met through life’s journey.

Rod graduated from Prescott High School in 1952. He worked on a farm until beginning college at Central Washington State. Before completing his education, Rod enlisted in 1955 for the Army and served in the Korean War.  After serving in the military, Rod moved to San Fransico, California, and completed his education to become an engineering technician. Roderick felt the call to serve his country again in 1960. This time he joined the Air Force and served during the Vietnam War. After his service, Rod found his way to Yorktown, Virginia, where he met the love of his life, Ann Lee. He worked for the Newport New Shipyard until 1979 when he left to work for Engineering Incorporated until his retirement in 1996. During his time in York County, Rod served in the Kiaros Christian Ministry. Known as the “cookie ministry”, Rod helped to create strong Christian communities among the residents in correctional institutions. 

After retirement, Rod and Ann Lee moved to Franklin County, Virginia. He attended Trinity Episcopal Church and enjoyed serving his community. He loved volunteering at The Harvester and helping others through the Wood for Warmth program. 

Memorial services will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, February 15, 2024 at Trinity Episcopal Church with Reverend Dr. Philip A. Bouknight officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, PO Box 527, Rocky Mount, Virginia 24151. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.