Grady O'Neal Cook's Obituary
Grady O’Neal Cook Jr., 94, of Locust, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on April 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Grady was born December 14, 1931, in Mecklenburg County and was the beloved son of the late Grady O’Neal Cook Sr. and Lucy Joyner Cook. He was also proceeded in death by his loving wives, Sarah Starnes Cook and Dollie Barbee Hatley Cook, his son David O’Neal Cook, his brothers Dixon and Don Cook and his sister Jean Cook Partee.
He retired with 22 years of service from Southern Railroad. He was known for his dependability and hard work. After retirement, he found a deep joy in the land - tending to his garden, raising cattle and goats, and doing the honest, good work that defined his character. He was a generous provider, a faithful friend, and a man genuinely loved by everyone who crossed his path.
Grady was a devoted member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and anchored his life in the truth of scripture. His favorite passage, Philippians Chapter 4, was not merely words he admired, it was a standard he lived by each and every day. Those who knew him recognized in him the peace, the gentleness, and the gratitude that those verses describe.
His family remembers him simply as the greatest - a good and godly man who loved the Lord, loved his family, and never wavered in either. He had a warm appreciation for music of all kinds and loved playing cards, specifically spades, with his family. He was a lifelong Duke Blue Devils fan and loved watching college basketball.
Grady is survived by two children, Wayne Benson Cook (Barbara) and Cynthia Ann Cook (Darrell), both of Locust; five grandchildren, Danielle Cook, Michelle Simmons (Bryan), Jesse Yandle (Sarah), Savannah Harpe (Chase), and Cody Yandle (Olivia); ten great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; his dear and special friend, Edna Tucker; and his lifelong childhood friend, Joe Taylor.
What’s your fondest memory of Grady?
What’s a lesson you learned from Grady?
Share a story where Grady's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Grady you’ll never forget.
How did Grady make you smile?