James Beckham Cooke

James B. Cooke

James “Jim” Beckham Cooke, 85, of Palmyra, passed away peacefully at home with family by his side on Sunday, August 23, 2015.  He was born Tuesday, December 10, 1929 in Parkers Lake, KY to the late James O. and Hulda (McDaniels) Cooke.  He is survived by his loving wife Erma (Weaver) Cooke.

James was retired from the United States Air Force with the rank of Master Sergeant, a parishioner of the Church of the Holy Spirit, Palmyra, a Sir Knight with the Knights of Columbus Assembly 973 Lebanon, and a Past Grand Knight of Council 10502 Knights of Columbus, Palmyra.  He was involved in the Harrisburg area Cursillo Movement.  He loved playing his guitar with the popular bands Echoes of Grace, Slabtown Pickers and the Down Home Country Bands. James was a former disc Jockey for WCTX for over 50 dedicated years as was widely known as "The Country Colonel."  He was a member of the Shellsville VFW, American Legion Post 72, member of the NRA and served with the Palmyra Ambulance Association for many years.  Most importantly he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother.

He is survived 6 children, Kenneth D. Cooke of Arlington, TX, Pamela K. Becker and husband Bud of Niceville, FL, David C. Cooke and wife Kat of Wilmington, DE, Joni M. Brock of Pace, FL, J. Michael Cooke of Palmyra, and Patricia A. Wilson and husband Denver of Palmyra; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and 2 sisters, Audrey West of CA and Ursula Stucker of KY.  He was predeceased by numerous brothers and sisters.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 29th at 4 PM at the Ono Volunteer Fire Hall, 10805 Jonestown Rd., Ono 17077.  A graveside service will be held in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at a date to be announced.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 25 West Pine Street, Palmyra 17078.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor Church of the Holy Spirit, 245 W. Pine St., Palmyra 17078.