Wilene Parker Cook

May 24, 1939  -  January 1, 2025

Mrs. Wilene Parker Cook, age 85, died Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at her residence, under the loving care of Ogeechee Area Hospice. While we mourn her loss, we find comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, reunited with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whom she served faithfully throughout her life.

Born on May 24, 1939, to L. Wiley Parker and Azalia Braswell Parker, Wilene grew up in Screven County, Georgia, where she graduated from Screven County High School in 1957. She dedicated 40 years to a career in the banking industry, working for the majority of that time in the same building as Savannah First Federal evolved into Great Southern Federal, Wachovia, and finally Wells Fargo.

Wilene was a devoted member of Eastern Heights Baptist Church, where her faith in Christ was the cornerstone of her life. She was a faithful member of the Mary Martha Sunday School Class, serving as its secretary for many years. Her church family and service to the Lord were among her greatest joys.

Above all, Wilene loved her family unconditionally and took immense pride in their achievements and happiness. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Mindy and Dewayne Skinner; her four grandchildren, Paige (James) Wilson, Judd (Callie) Skinner, Erin Skinner, and Ben Skinner; and her five great-grandchildren, Eli Wilson, Emma Grace Wilson, Anderson Skinner, Caroline Wilson, and Quinn Skinner. She is also survived by her dear sister, Cherry Parker Kelly and her niece, Joy (Floyd) Waters and family.

She is preceded in death by her husband James T. Cook, her parents, her sister Doris Parker Kelley, her brothers-in-law Bill Kelley and Ross Kelly, and her beloved canine companion, Lady, who brought her years of joy.

Wilene was known for her simple pleasures: sipping Coca-Cola, cheering on the Atlanta Braves, and faithfully following The Young and the Restless. These small joys, along with her love for her family and faith, were central to her life.

Pallbearers will be Judd Skinner, Ben Skinner, James Wilson, Eli Wilson, and Floyd Waters. Honorary pallbearers will be the members of the Mary Martha Sunday School Class.

We would especially like to thank the following for providing excellent care for Mama throughout the years: Dr. John Rathbun, Dr. Thad Riley, Dr. Zach McGalliard, Southern Pharmacy, CenterWell Home Health, and Ogeechee Area Hospice. We would also like to thank Melanie Spence and Donna Jones for always making Mama’s hair so beautiful. 

A visitation will be held on Sunday January 12, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Eastern Heights Baptist Church followed by a celebration of life service at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Nicky McCreary officiating.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Ogeechee Area Hospice P.O. Box 531, Statesboro, GA 30459 or to Eastern Heights Baptist Church 23805 E. Hwy 80, Statesboro, GA 30458.

Heights Baptist Church.

Joiner-Anderson Funeral Home & Crematory of Statesboro is in charge of the arrangements.

Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:23

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