Gerald Ellis (Jerry, Dr. Cook) Cookinham

Jerry loved life so much that he will miss it as much as all of us who loved him will miss his smile and sense of humor. He fought a long, hard fight against cancer for well over 3 years. During that time, he received exceptional care from his doctors and nurses. 

He is survived by his brothers Richard (Ellen) and John; sisters Connie, Cheryl (Elias) Sarkis, Debbie and Donna; many nieces, nephews and countless friends. He is predeceased by his parents Bruce and Janet; brother Doug and sister Marti. 

Jerry enjoyed a successful career as a salesman with Time-Warner Cable and Spartan Beverage.  Later on, he worked as a Team Manager with the United States Census Bureau. He spent several years living in Memphis, TN where he loved to volunteer with "Memphis in May" World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Jerry had many fond memories spending time in the Adirondacks, especially on Hinkley Lake and in Old Forge. He was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and Syracuse Orange; and he loved playing golf, hosting parties, dancing, skiing and winning in Las Vegas. He even managed to find his way into a Super Bowl along the way.

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, January 15th from 4 - 7 PM, concluding with a brief Prayer Service, at James R. Gray Funeral Home, 1530 Buffalo Rd. Interment in Webster Rural Cemetery on Thursday, January 16th, 2025 at 11 am. 

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