Mary Cook Obituary

Part-time Durango resident Mary Johnson Cook died of ovarian cancer on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, at her home in Winston-

Salem, N.C. She was 59.

Mrs. Cook was born to James V. and Geit Thurston Johnson on June 5, 1950, in Statesville, N.C. She earned a bachelor's

degree in child development at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

On July 21, 1973, she married Ashby M. Cook Jr. in Charlotte, N.C.

“Mary was active in many community volunteer activities where she played a leadership role, inspiring others with her

passion, enthusiasm and love for others," her family wrote.

Among the organizations she donated her time to were hospice, Hope Presbyterian Church and the Wake Forest University

Athletic Department.

Mrs. Cook enjoyed traveling and trips to the beach with her family. She enjoyed the outdoors and especially trips to

their home in Durango. Her husband said they loved Durango in all seasons, but particularly summer and fall. Mrs. Cook

enjoyed hiking, jeeping and many other activities. One of her favorite things to do was walk, talk and shop in downtown

Durango.

“She brought a smile to everyone's face and was loved by many," her family wrote. “Her faith and positive attitude

supported her throughout her illness."

Mrs. Cook is survived by her husband of 36 years, Ashby M. Cook Jr. of Durango and Winston Salem; daughter, Jessica

Thurston Cook, of Charlotte, N.C.; son, Ashby M. Cook III, of Greensboro, S.C.; mother, Geit Thurston Johnson, of

Statesville; sister, Ann J. Burns, of Greenville, S.C.; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, 910 17th St. NW, Suite 1190, Washington, D.C.

20006; or the Mary J. Cook Athletic Scholarship Fund, c/o Wake Forest University Athletic Department, 499 Deacon Blvd.,

Winston Salem, NC 27105. Her husband said the scholarship will go to a female athlete who demonstrates enthusiasm, zest

for life or sport and leadership.