John Richard Cook, Jr. ("Rick")

September 9, 1956 – May 7, 2025

Rick Cook, 68, of Alpharetta, GA, passed away peacefully at home on May 7th with his beloved Carol at his side — just the way he would’ve wanted it, with love, and probably a joke on his lips.

Born in Pensacola, FL, Rick later moved to Macon, GA, where he graduated from Lanier High School. After some time in Mt. Pleasant, SC (where he no doubt made an impression), he settled in Atlanta and spent the majority of his professional life working with his brother and cousins lighting up rooms—literally and figuratively—at Hemma Lighting Solutions, retiring in 2024.

Rick was, in every sense, a shining light. His quick wit and knack for humor made him unforgettable. He was, as many would say with a grin, “quite the character.” And while he could make you laugh until your stomach hurt, he also loved with all his heart. His absence leaves an unfillable gap in the lives of those lucky enough to have known him.

He was preceded in death by his mother Elizabeth “Bebe” Cook of Macon, and father John Richard “Dick” Cook of Auburn, AL. He is survived by his partner of 30 years, Carol Barron, who shared his life, laughter, and love through thick and thin. Also surviving are his siblings: Lisa Ballew (Mark), Bill Cook (Jeanne), and Tricia Dye (Chip); and the nieces and nephews who adored him: Baker Ballew, Betsy Michaelis, Macon Cook, William Cook, Walker Cook, Emme Cook, Chris Dye, Chelsea Long, and Megan Dye—as well as a growing crew of great-nieces and nephews.

Though Rick is no longer with us in body, his spirit (and probably his one-liners) will live on in every memory, every laugh, and every loving story we share. May his memory be as enduring as his sense of humor — and just as cherished.

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