Eula Cook

A tribute to our mother

Our mother, Eula Arlene Cook, was born in Cape Girardeau to Lester and Cinda Bishop.

While living in Missouri, she met and married the love of her life, Truman Cook, with whom she shared 66 years of marriage and four daughters, Jane Howry (Bob), Nancy Hamlet (John), Cindy McClanathan (Michael), Mary Ann Castelhano (Ed); 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

They will always remember the endearing twinkle in her eyes and the smell of her homemade rolls baking.

In 1955 our devoted mother unselfishly agreed to leave family and friends to relocate in Phoenix to build a life and future. She supported our father in his business endeavors as his bookkeeper throughout his career as a contractor and developer. Her life was full with the busyness of career and a well-managed home, with four active daughters.

Her endless strength and energy created a welcoming home full of warmth, love, laughter and the aroma of southern cooking. Our family's needs were met first, and we did not recognize that her days included little time for herself with never a complaint.

Our mother was our role model, and her life created a foundation for our future as adults. Through her daily living, she taught us how to love and care for our husbands, children and grandchildren. She encouraged us to never take the easy way out and, when needed, reminded us, "You are made of tougher stuff than that."

Our mother's steadfast faith in her Lord was the prevailing force throughout her life. Prayer was the avenue she took to find guidance, comfort and strength. In God's chosen time, she left the presence of this earth and was welcomed to her new home by our Lord. We love you, Mom. You taught us well and your memory will live on in our hearts and lives.

All our love,

Your Family

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arizona Baptist Retirement Centers, Skilled Nursing Memory Care, 11315 W. Peoria Ave., Youngtown, AZ 85363.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of our mother will be held at 2 p.m. Jan. 14 at Sunland Memorial Park and Mortuary, 15826 Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, Ariz.