Cecil Roosevelt “Daddy Mack” Cook, Sr., a cherished father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at the age of 92, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on November 9, 1932, in Havana, Alabama, Cecil was a man of wit, wisdom, and a heart filled with stories that brought laughter to all who knew him.
Cecil was preceded in death by his loving parents, George W. Cook and Gesna Epperson Cook York, his siblings John D. Cook, Leland Cook, Clifford Cook, Bertha Cook Gay, and Gracie Cook Speed, and his great-grandson, Ryder. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, carried on by his devoted children, Sherline Hudson (Mike) of Columbia, AL, Lynn Laham (David) of Benton, KS, and Bubba Cook (Rebecca) of Dothan, AL. His spirit will continue to shine through his six grandchildren, Jeremy, Paul, KC, Tiffany, Zach, and Tasha, his eight great-grandchildren, Daniel, Jesse, Caitlyn, Hiram, Kennedy, Barrett, Gabe, and Aspen, and his great-great-grandson, Colton.
Cecil’s life was a testament to hard work and dedication. He spent his career as an electrician at Burns Electric, where he not only excelled in his trade but also took great pride in mentoring apprentice electricians, passing on his knowledge and passion for the craft. His work ethic and generosity in sharing his expertise left an indelible mark on the industry and those who had the privilege of learning from him. His dedication to his work was paralleled only by his service to his country, having served in the United States Army during the Korean War.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Cecil was a man of many interests. He was an avid reader, with a particular fondness for westerns and his Bible. His love for the genre extended to the screen, where he enjoyed watching western films. He was a true fan of Auburn Football, exclaiming “War Eagle!” with the kind of fervor only a lifelong supporter could muster. Cecil was known for his banter and his ability to tell tall tales that captivated and amused his listeners. His quick wit and penchant for pranks made him a delightful presence, and he was always ready with a joke or a clever comeback.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Extendicare Health Center and Gentiva Hospice for their compassion and care in Cecil’s final days. Their kindness and support were a comfort to him and his loved ones during this time.
A Graveside Service to honor and celebrate the life of Cecil Roosevelt “Daddy Mack” Cook, Sr. will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Memory Hill Cemetery. The service will be directed by Ward Wilson Funeral Home, providing an opportunity for friends and family to gather in remembrance of a life well-lived and a man deeply loved.
