Joseph John (Jay) McCook, 89, of Athens, Alabama, passed away on May 18, 2024. Born on May 11, 1935, in Syracuse, New York, he was the youngest of three boys and spent his early years in New York and Chicago. As a boy, he was adventurous and resourceful, navigating the bustling cities with a fearless spirit. He went on to attend the University of Illinois and proudly served as an officer in the United States Navy. After his service, Jay began a successful career in the automotive industry with Ford Motor Company in Arizona, where he met his beloved wife, Adair. Together, they moved to Illinois and raised a family of four children. He eventually transitioned to auto dealership leadership, all the while nurturing a passion for collecting and restoring classic cars, particularly his cherished 1955 Porsche Speedster.
A man of many interests, Jay was a dedicated fitness enthusiast with a love for weight training. His optimistic and outgoing nature made him much loved among friends and family. His favorite TV show, “Air Disasters,” reflected his enduring curiosity and fascination with the complexities of life. In 1992, Jay and Adair moved to Athens, Alabama, where he became an active member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Catholic fraternal service order. He found joy in serving his community, including Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful (KALB) and the Huntsville Ski Club.
He also enjoyed his work with the U.S. Census Bureau, traveling around the Athens and Huntsville areas. After the passing of his wife in April 2019, Jay found friendship and support from his caretaker, Chrissy, with whom he shared a lively and unique bond.
Jay is survived by four adult children, Allison McCook of Dallas, Texas, Farrell McCook Dalsing of Cave Spring, Georgia, Adam McCook of Murfreesboro, Tennessee and Erin McCook Gomer of Winder, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his wife, Adair McCook.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, May 21st at 11 a.m. at St Paul Catholic Church in Athens, with a visitation beginning at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful and/or Georgia Pet Food Pantry (Erin’s Non-profit) both of which can be found on Facebook.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Chrissy Nave, Affinity Hospice Care, Home Instead Senior Care and Greg Greene with Limestone Chapel Funeral Home. Jay will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
