Jay W. Cook, 75, Muncie, passed away in his home at 12:57 pm on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. He was born in Muncie, Indiana, on Tuesday, March 7, 1950, to James W. Cook and Clara (Smith) Kelly. On October 8, 1972, he married Karen S. Robertson, who preceded him in death on March 6, 2022.
Jay enlisted in the United States Army in January of 1968, serving as a Green Beret during the Vietnam era. He was honorably discharged in December of 1970, achieving the rank of SP4. He was a member of the American Legion in Muncie.
In his younger years, Jay coached softball leagues for his daughters in Dunkirk. He also played the trumpet and could play TAPS very well.
Survivors include his daughters, Dawn M. (Chuck) Cook of Muncie and Heather Jo (Matthew) Dennison of Ocala, FL; mother, Clara (Carl) Kelly; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Charlotte (Ralph) Bright of Muncie; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was also preceded in death by father, James W. Cook, and daughter, Tamara Brannon.
The family will receive visitors from 9:30 am to 11:30 am on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a funeral service to celebrate Jay's life will begin at 11:30 am with Pastor Mick Simpkins officiating. Burial will take place at Marion National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105-1942 or Operation Smile Cleft Palate, 3641 Faculty Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23454.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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