Marla Jean Cook
Marla Jean Cook
Marla Jean Cook, 75, passed away on August 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family who meant everything to her.
Born January 19, 1951, in Grand Island, Nebraska, to Cecil and Bernice Halstead, Marla spent her early years in California before her family settled in Medford, Oregon. It was there that she met the love of her life, Steve Cook. They married in 1970 and spent more than 55 years building a life filled with family, friendship, travel, laughter, and adventure. For 27 of those years, Marla devoted herself as a proud military spouse, raising their children through more than 20 moves across different countries and states, creating a home wherever they went and building lasting friendships around the world.
Above everything else, Marla was a mother. She and Steve raised three children, Sean, Gina, and Chris, and there was never a moment in their lives when they questioned how deeply their mom loved them. She was always there—at practices, milestones, births, celebrations, and especially during life’s difficult moments.
Marla was a gifted artist, accomplished Bridge player, successful craft-store owner, and a woman who could turn a stranger into a friend within minutes. Her creativity, unmistakable laugh, love of conversation, and genuine interest in others made her unforgettable.
One of her greatest joys was being Grandma to Amelia, Natalia, Hunter, Sam, and Claire. She loved her grandchildren fiercely and treasured being part of their lives.
Marla lived with tremendous energy, courage, grace, and an extraordinary capacity to love. She leaves behind a family and countless friends whose lives are better because she was part of them.
She was a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, artist, and friend—but most of all, she was a gift to everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Services
Family and friends are invited to gather at Rader Funeral Home on Friday, August 21, from 4:00–7:00 p.m., with visitation prior to a memorial service at 6:00 p.m.
A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, August 22, at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of the Transfiguration in Fincastle, Virginia.
In remembrance of Marla, the family welcomes flowers or memorial donations to the Church of the Transfiguration in Fincastle in her honor.
