Lowell Ray Cook, of Morgantown, formerly of Clendenin and Pinch, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Ruby Memorial Hospital. He was born January 10, 1937, and raised in Ovapa, Clay County.
Lowell was preceded in death by his parents, Icie and Burl Cook; his beloved wife of 53 years, Susie A. Cook; brothers, Leo, Lawrence, Lewis, and Larry Cook; sisters, Alberta Ashley, Opal Burns, Oleta Aeiker; and his goldendoodle, Toby.
He is survived by his son, Jeff and daughter- in-law Ida, with whom he resided; grandson, Nate and fiancee Maddie McNeil, all of Morgantown. He is also survived by his sisters, Orphus Ann Monroe of The Villages, Fla., and Ondra Wilson (Gary) of Elizabeth; as well as many nieces and nephews. He remained especially close to his niece, Alice Cook Yelton and husband George of Crossnore, N.C.
Lowell graduated from Clay County High School and later married the love of his life, Susie A. Monroe. They were married at Epling Chapel Church in Looneyville, where they later served for many years as caretakers of both the church and cemetery. Lowell was a devoted Deacon of the church until Susie’s passing in 2012. He continued his walk with his Lord and later became a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Charleston.
He spent his career working for Union Carbide and then for Columbia Gas Transmission (formerly United Fuel), where he dedicated 32 years of service. Many of his coworkers knew him simply as “Cookie.” Lowell retired from Columbia Gas in 1997, when his grandson, Nate was just nine months old.
Retirement brought Lowell purpose, especially in the time he spent with Nate. As Nate grew older, the two traveled frequently, flying to Miami on Sunday mornings for Dolphins games, and following WVU football and basketball across the country. A proud and passionate Mountaineer fan, Lowell attended most home games in Touchdown Terrace and many away games with Nate. He and Nate also attended a significant number of NASCAR races, following the career of Carl Edwards, who he thought the world of. Their last trip together was to Carl’s Hall of Fame induction in Charlotte last February.
Lowell loved the outdoors and took great pride in caring for his property. He could often be found on his John Deere tractor, ensuring the yard and landscape were in perfect condition.
Above all, Lowell cherished his family. He filled his days the last eight years of his life with his son, Jeff building and caring for their new home in Morgantown, and loving his dogs, Taz, Teddy, Tori and Tyson.
Lowell leaves behind a legacy of kindness, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Per his wishes, a private graveside committal service will be held Thursday, June 25 at 2 p.m. at the Epling Chapel Cemetery in Looneyville, with the Rev. Ron Fisher officiating.
John H. Taylor Funeral Home, Spencer, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.taylorfuneralhomeinc.com
