Barbara June Harper Cook, 85, of New Market, Alabama, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 20, 1940, in Lewisburg, Tennessee, to James Murrey Harper and Beatrix Lurlene Howard Harper, June was raised in Lewisburg before later making her home in North Alabama. She lived in New Market for the past 25 years and, prior to that, was a longtime resident of Huntsville. A devoted Christian, June found comfort and strength in her faith and faithfully attended church throughout her life.
June retired from Redstone Arsenal after many years of dedicated service. She was known for her strong work ethic, unwavering honesty, and resilient spirit. No matter what challenges she faced, she never felt sorry for herself—she met each day with determination, made the best of every situation, and kept moving forward with quiet strength.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Irma Eugene “Gene” Cook; her sisters, Rachel Norton and Ophelia Horton; her brother, James William “J.W.” Harper; and her grandson, Austin K. Cook.
She is survived by her children, Philip Cook (Stephanie), Brian Cook (Diana), and Barbara Cook-Merryman. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to ten grandchildren, Tyler Cook (Deborah), Dalton Cook (Ashley), Brianne Finch (Wesley), Lane Cook (Kelsey), Megan Gilliam (Philip), Michael Merryman (Ellie), Josh Lack (Brooke), Grace Johnson (Jared), Natalie Rogers, and Paige Merryman. She also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren who brought immense joy, laughter, and love into her life.
Affectionately known as “Memaw,” June treasured her family above all else. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She enjoyed riding her golf cart around her property, always keeping a watchful eye on things and taking pride in her home. She had a special gift for making people laugh—sometimes even through tears—and her straightforward honesty was part of what made her so uniquely loved.
June was truly one of a kind. Her strength, humor, steadfast faith, and unwavering love for her family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Love you. Mom
Love you, Memaw.
Visitation will be from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 2, 2026, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. Burial will be in Valhalla Memory Garden.
Memorials may be made to CCI, 3601 CCI Drive NW, Huntsville, Alabama 35805.
