Harriet A. Cook

Harriet Alfreda Cook, 89, of Fulton, MD, passed away on December 2, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and unwavering dedication to family and community.

Born in September 1934 to Harry Alfred Gericke and Rose Marie Gericke, Harriet’s life journey was a testament to love, faith, and unbreakable bonds. A lifelong member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Laurel, she found solace and joy in the embrace of her faith, sharing Sundays filled with friendship and worship with her late husband, Richard.

Harriet's love story with Ric Cook spanned nearly 70 years, creating a bond that transcended time and left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to witness their connection. Inseparable in life, it seems fitting that Harriet would follow Ric soon after his passing in October 2023, their spirits now eternally intertwined.

As a devoted mother,  Harriet dedicated her early years to raising her four children, enjoying the roles of Girl Scout Leader, Cub Scout Leader, choir singer, and the family's cherished Chief Hugging Officer. Her commitment to family extended beyond the home as she later pursued her Associates Degree and embarked on a successful career at Ryland Mortgage, where she quickly rose to prominence as a respected leader.

Harriet's exuberant personality was a beacon of positivity in the lives of all who knew her. Always adorned with the biggest smile, she had an uncanny ability to uplift those around her. Her beautiful voice, a gift she cherished, resonated with joy as she sang alongside her beloved Ric, who played the guitar. Whether at church, family gatherings, or simply enjoying the serenity of the water, Harriet found her truest sense of home surrounded by those she loved.

Harriet Alfreda Cook leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family and community. She will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for the kindness she shared and the countless lives she touched.

Harriet joins her husband Ric in heaven and is survived by her children Linda Cook and her husband Wayne Lesonick, Richard Cook, Jr. and his wife Denese Cook, Pam Cook and her husband Myron Weiner, Laurie Cook and her husband Michael Burkholder.

Harriet ADORED her grandchildren: Michael Hancock and his wife Trista, Daniel Hancock and his wife Heather, Wendi Gauss and her husband Chad, Richard Cook III, Ryan Conroy and his wife Siobhan, Julianne Conroy, Holly Conroy, Kevin Weiner and his wife Michelle and Lisa Reed and her husband Curtis.

Harriet’s great grandchildren:   Presley Hancock, Brynley Hancock, Harley Hancock, Daniel Hancock, Jr., Dylan Hancock, Zoey Gauss, Maisy Gauss, Mason Garvey, Melina Parker and Abigail Reed. Her great great grandchildren:  Skylar Hockaday and Caleb.  Harriet was preceded in death by her parents, Harry Gericke, Rose Hibbard and her husband Edward Hibbard, her brothers, Carl Albers, William Albers and George Gericke and granddaughter, Casey Garvey.

Relatives and friends may visit Donaldson Funeral Home of Clarksville, 12540 Clarksville Pike, Clarksville Md on Friday, December 8 from 2:00-4:00 and from 6:00-8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at Emmanuel United Methodist Church,10755 Scaggsville Rd.,Laurel, MD on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 2:00 PM. Interment to follow at Emmanuel UMC Cemetery

We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall.