Oct. 6, 1948 – May 1, 2021
Frank “Steve” Cooke, 72, passed away peacefully at his home in Fredericksburg on May 1, 2021 after a valiant struggle with neurological issues. At his side was his wife of 52 years who stayed with him until the very end.
Steve was born on Oct. 6, 1948 to Claude and Mary Cooke of Covington. After graduating from Lane High School in 1967, he went on to play football and study education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
After graduation, he landed his first job as a coach and Special Education teacher in Virginia, kicking off a career that spanned twenty-five years throughout multiple counties serving thousands of students in his lifetime.
Steve met Billie while in elementary school. They wed in 1968, and went on to have two sons, both of whom he was quite proud, as one continues his work in education while the other protects the country he so loved.
After retiring, Steve spent time doing those things he enjoyed most: watching University of Tennessee football, working in his yard, playing billiards, golfing, hunting, fishing, boating and spending time with friends and family. Among his greatest achievements were earning the “Master Blaster” title among the hunters of Craig’s Creek and being the ultimate Paw-Paw in the eyes of his grandchildren.
Steve is survived by his wife, Billie Plott Cooke of Fredericksburg; two sons and their spouses, Dennis and Barbara Cooke of Midlothian and Travis and Gina Cooke of Bristow; grandchildren Sienna Francesca and Adam Steven, also of Bristow, and a brother Bill Cooke of Florida. All will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Mary Cooke, formerly of Covington, and a brother, Nick Cooke of Chesterfield.
A private Celebration of a Life Well-Lived will be held at a later time.