Barbara Griffin Cook

Barbara Etta Cook (Griffin), age 88, of Monterey passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024, while surrounded by her loving family. Barbara was born on March 13, 1936, in Stamping Ground, Kentucky. She was the daughter of the late Thomas and Maude Griffin. Barbara was known to those close to her as “Tiny.” Other than her small, petite size, her nickname was contradictory to the large heart she had for God, her family, and those around her.

Barbara’s husband, James Edward “Jim Bob” Cook, preceded her in death on April 4, 2023. Barbara and Jim Bob were married for 69 years and enjoyed their long, married life in Monterey, Kentucky. Barbara’s legacy lives on through her family. She is survived by her children: Reba Darlene (Michael) Wainscott and Philip Edward Cook; five grandchildren: Deborah (Rodney) Parker, Michelle (Brad) Dunavent, Shannon Cook, Jason (Marlene) Wainscott, and James Philip “JP” (Kristina) Cook; nine great-grandchildren: Kirsten Parker, Olivia (Matt) First, Luke Dunavent, Kaitlyn (Kameron) Kelly, Savannah Anderson, Lucy Dunavent, Wade Cook, Brennan Cook, and Memphis Cook; and two great-great-grandchildren: Marlee Jane First and Baby Kelly.

Barbara’s first career was working for the Kentucky Department of Transportation. After 19 years, she retired and pursued a second career as a devoted homemaker. With her unwavering dedication, she juggled countless responsibilities but that never inhibited her from living life to the fullest. She was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and Kentucky Historical Society and was also named a Kentucky Colonel. She loved to eat out and shop, seizing every opportunity to spend Jim Bob’s money. Barbara also never missed her weekly hair appointment or a Kentucky Wildcats game. On game days, she would be decked out in blue from head to toe to support her favorite team.

Barbara was a faithful servant of God and was a lifelong member of Monterey Baptist Church for 70 years. She was a Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School leader, and a member of the women’s group. She enjoyed playing the piano and singing in the His Majesty’s Messengers Choir Group. After God, she was most faithful to her family whom she held most near to her heart. She created years of memories with her family while on the farm and Sawdridge Creek. Like the flower beds she enjoyed tending and watching grow, she felt no greater fulfillment in life than caring for her family and also watching them grow.

New Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements.  Family will receive friends at Monterey Baptist Church on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 11 am until 2 pm.  Funeral services will follow at 2 pm with Bro. Jeremy Warren presiding. Burial will be in the Monterey Cemetery and memorial contributions may be made to either Monterey Cemetery or Monterey Baptist Church.