Gaither Hamilton Cooke

Gaither Hamilton Cooke, 80, passed away September 10, 2025, at Frye Medical Center,

Hickory, NC. Gaither was born November 18,1944, to Rev. Robert Clell Cook and Velma

McLean Cook in Boone, North Carolina. He grew up in the Globe area of Caldwell County. He

entered the United States Army, serving three tours in Vietnam, tours in Germany and Korea,

and was stationed in Alaska working on the pipeline. He remained in the Army Reserves until

retirement while also serving as a diesel mechanic for American Airlines.

He is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife, Linda Combs Wolfferts. His children

include Monica Cooke Fausti (Luca), Daryl Cooke, Dave Cooke, Julia McDade and special

family Hunter Wolfferts, Amy Wolfferts, Jeffrey Wolfferts and Shandra Wolfferts. Grandchildren

include Megan Ard, Gavin Ard, Giulio Fausti, Giada Fausti, Joseph Cooke, Jacob Cooke, Sean

McDade. Great grandchildren include Levi Marshall, Leighton Marshall, Teagan Marshall,

Sutton Marshall, Stevie Ard, Lennon Ard, Emerson Cooke, Jameson Cooke, and several nieces

and nephews. His constant and steadfast companion of 14 was his beloved Chihuahua, Lady.

Gaither was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Jobe Cook, Herman Cook, Bobby

Cook, sister Sarah Jane Cook Thompson, and his oldest son Dwain Cooke.

Gaither truly loved his family and friends. He was generous, kind and always willing to find time

to help anyone in need. Stories from his past were freely shared to anyone interested. His

colorful personality and love will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Watauga County Veterans Services.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

Austin and Barnes Funeral and Crematory is serving the Cooke family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gaither Hamilton Cooke, please visit our floral store.