Walter Ray Cooke Sr., 76, of McDade Road in Hephzibah died on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at his residence.

In keeping with Mr. Cooke’s wishes no services were held.

Mr. Cooke was retired as SFC from the United States Army after 23 years of service. He served in both Korean and Vietnam Wars and was awarded the Purple Heart, Good Conduct, 4th Award, Vietnam Service Medal with a bronze star and an Army Commendation Medal with 1st oak cluster. After retiring from the Army, he enjoyed working in construction, fishing, hunting, traveling, and mostly goofing off with his family.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Emma M. Cooke and his granddaughter, Patricia

Survivors include his children, Brenda C. Garcia of North Augusta, Jasper Cooke and his wife, Judith N., of Thomson, Walter Ray Cooke Jr. of Hephzibah, Robert Wayne Cooke and wife, Patricia S. of Blythe, Wanda Jean Angelle and husband, Doug of Port Arthur, Texas, Roger S. Cooke and wife, Judy of Lincolnton, Erma M Cooke and spouse, Heather, of Jacksonville, N.C.; his sister, Harriet Kraweic of Vineland, N.J., ; grandchildren: Faye, Jessica, David, Jennifer, Brandey, Brook, Kimberley, Lisa, Walter III, Maximilian, Alexander, Christopher, Bryanna, Wyatt, and Wesley; great-grandchildren, James Dominique, Miaya, Hannah, Angelina, Treven, Alexandrea, and Jody Jr.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2607 Commons Blvd, Augusta, GA 30909

Poteet Funeral Home in Augusta was in charge of the arrangements.