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Nancy Jean Dickens Cooke, age 86, passed away on October 19, 2024 in her home in San Antonio, TX. Born to parents Melvin and Margie Dickens, Nancy grew up alongside younger sister Linda in San Antonio, graduating from Brackenridge High School in 1956. After earning her degree from The University of Texas, she started her teaching career in Brazoria, Texas. She would eventually return to San Antonio, where she continued her teaching career, while also spending much of her life caring for her family and friends. Nancy married the love of her life, John Cooke, in 1959. In 65 years, they built a family and multiple successful businesses together. She would be quick to tell you that he’s never tired of looking at her legs! But no success can be counted more highly than their two daughters, Allison and Lauren, whom she cherished deeply. Her grandchildren Zachary, Kara, and Risa, brought her immense pride and joy. A lifelong learner, Nancy inspired hundreds of students during her 20 year teaching career at Highland Heights Elementary, Leon Valley Elementary, Anson Jones Middle School, and Hobby Middle School. She was frequently stopped by former students with heartwarming tales of the paths they charted after Nancy’s engaging classes. Whether in the classroom or on one of her many travel expeditions abroad, Nancy’s spirit of curiosity shone as brightly as her infectious smile. Her love of learning often made her ahead of her time, exploring yoga and meditation before it was hip; becoming a trained Color Consultant for fashion and makeup; sourcing and baking breads with organic whole grains when no one but living museums was doing so; or exploring the world of essential oils before anyone else had even heard of such a thing! She was always curious and open to new ideas. Nancy was also curious and open to people. There were no strangers for Nancy. She was always having what she called Angel Experiences, where she would just feel the need to talk to someone and it turned out they were in need in one way or another. She used her grief in the death of her youngest child Lauren in 1982 to comfort and encourage others, even those she had never met. And although Nancy managed chronic pain, many would never know, as she was a force of nature - pushing herself to live, love, and serve. Managing invisible pain made her particularly tender to many. Nancy found solace in her faith as a longtime seeker and learner. What joy the heavens will know as she finally gets to meet her Savior and ask Him all of those questions! Often the epicenter of social gatherings, Nancy was known as a generous host and bright, gregarious friend. You were fortunate to have shared a game of bridge, a cocktail at the Petroleum Club, a sunset sail on Canyon Lake, or a bowl of her chicken and dumplings. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, sister Linda Gamble, and daughter Lauren Cooke. She is survived by her husband John; daughter Allison and husband Alan Pyle; grandchildren, Zachary Pyle, Kara Pollette, and Risa Evans. “Nana” leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire those who knew her. A memorial service to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held at the Fred J. Tips Mausoleum Chapel located at the rear of Mission Burial Park North Dominion, 20900 IH West on Sunday October 27th. Visitation begins at 1 pm followed by a celebration of life at 2 pm, and a graveside service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Women’s Club of San Antonio in her honor.

Tributes

Nancy Jean Dickens Cooke

April 11, 1938 - October 19, 2024