James Leonard Cook, 79, of Royalton, passed away at 3:20 P.M., Saturday, August 26, 2023 at his residence surrounded by his family.
James had worked at Bluebell, Norge (Maytag) and as a coal miner for Old Ben #21.  He also worked for Crownline, Mariah, and Bombardier boat factories.  James had last worked at Jones Hydroblast.  He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Royalton.
He was born November 11, 1943 in Du Quoin, IL, the son of William C. and Pearl (Pierce) Cook.
He married Marvlin Chitwood on December 11, 1961 in Du Quoin, IL and she survives.
He is survived by his wife of Royalton, one son - Kevin Cook and wife Erin of Royalton, one grandson - Darren Cook, and four sisters - Janice Hart and husband Kenny of Jerseyville, IL, Kathy Stanton of Dowell, Sharon Welch and husband Chuck of Florida, and Joan Malotte and husband Bob of Wintergarden, FL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers - Billie Cook, Brian Cook, and Bobby Cook, and four sisters - Nancy McClanahan, Norma Sweatland, Ruth Ann Reeves, and Joyce Lucas.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M., Friday, September 1, 2023 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Rev. R.H. Chitwood officiating.
Friends may call from 9 A.M. until the time of service on Friday at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.
Burial will be in the Blairsville Cemetery in Blairsville, IL.
Friends may make memorials to the Blairsville Cemetery and will be accepted at the funeral home.