Edith L. "Edie" Cook

Edith L. Cook, age 90, passed away on July 16, 2024, at KC Hospice House with her daughter by her side.

Edith was born on November 14, 1933, in Independence, Missouri, to Henry Bennett McKinney and Olive Allene (Wilcox) McKinney.

She graduated from William Chrisman High School in the class of 1951 and earned an Associate of Arts degree from Graceland College in 1954.

She married Howard L. Cook on October 8, 1955, and they had two daughters, Linda and Karen.

Edith was a devoted homemaker, caring for her children as well as serving her family and community. She worked tirelessly to provide her handicapped daughter, Linda, with the best possible care and opportunities to thrive. She also encouraged and supported Karen in her many interests and activities.

She was a member of the RLDS Church, and later of the South Crysler Restoration Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ. Her faith was central to her life, and she often shared cherished memories of the young adults group at the Sugar Creek Congregation, attendance at many reunions, and activities with the Women’s departments at the East 39th Street Congregation, the Hill Cumorah Restoration Branch and the South Crysler Restoration Branch.

She was also very active in advocacy for the handicapped, participating in efforts in the 1960’s and 70’s that led to the establishment of a school for the severely handicapped in Jackson County, as well as group homes and the sheltered workshop.

Edith is survived by her daughters Linda Cook and Karen Thomas, grandchildren Alex Thomas (Melanie Kohls) and Kelsey Thomas, and many beloved nieces and nephews and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Olive McKinney, her husband, Howard Cook, her siblings Karl, Tom, Katherine, Cora Beth, Phillip, Jamie, Jane, and Anne, and other cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 29, at 10:00 am, with a funeral service at 10:45 am, at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, followed by a graveside memorial at Mound Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to KC Hospice House or Ascend Hospice, who took such wonderful care of Mom and Dad in their final days.