James Edwin Cook
1943—2026

James Edwin Cook, age 83, of Riverside, California, formerly of Martin County, Kentucky, passed away July 12, 2026.

Born June 27, 1943, in Debord, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Edwin and Drethel Spence Cook.

James is survived by his two sons, Brian (JoAnn) Cook and Duane Cook, both of California; two grandsons, Joshua Cook of Texas and Jared Cook of California; two great-granddaughters, Kaydence Cook and Hailey Cook of Iowa; his sister, BeaJae (Benny) Vega of Louisa, Kentucky; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Scalf Cook; his son, James Cook Jr.; and his sisters, Sarah Cook, Goldie Mollette, Gladys Fulton and Irene Price.

James will be remembered for his enduring love of music and his deep appreciation for his Kentucky roots, of which he was immensely proud.