Llewellyn Jay Cook

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Llewellyn Jay Cook, affectionately known as Lew, who departed this world peacefully in his sleep on the evening of Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the age of 94.

Born on July 25, 1931, in Lansing, Mich., before moving to St. Petersburg, Fla. at 6, Lew’s life was a tapestry of love, music, service and education, woven with threads of passion and dedication.

Lew was the cherished son of Orville Dewey Cook and Vera Bell Pace Cook, who, along with his five siblings, preceded him in death.

He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Sandra Lee Peters Cook, with whom he shared 59 joyous years of marriage until her passing in 2014. Together, they built a family grounded in love, respect and laughter.

He is survived by his devoted children, son Jay Theodore Cook and his wife Betsy Bryant Cook, daughter Bonnie Cook and daughter Lee Anne Cook Arnold with her husband John Ross Arnold II. Lew’s legacy is further carried on by his six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his later years.

A scholar and a soldier, directly out of high school, his sense of duty called him to serve his country as a member of the U.S. Air Force, where he was stationed in Guam during the Korean conflict.

After the conflict, Lew’s pursuit of knowledge led him to St. Petersburg Junior College, where he met Sandra, the love of his life. He continued his studies at the University of Florida, graduating in 1958. After which he re-entered the armed forces as a member of the U.S. Air Force reserves until he retired in 1990.

Lew’s professional journey found its heart in education, where he inspired countless students as a teacher at Seminole High School. His passion for mathematics earned him the title of head of the math department, a position he held until his retirement in 1990. Following his retirement, Lew moved to Shinglehouse, Pa. in 1992, where he lived out the rest of his life with his one true love in their home. His influence extended beyond the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

Music was Lew’s constant companion. As the choir director at Lake Seminole Presbyterian, he shared his love for harmony and melody with his community. He was a proud member of the Society for the Preservation and Enjoyment of Barbershop Singing in America, the State Line Stragglers and the Bent Brass. His talented voice and vibrant personality could captivate any audience, whether through a song or a story.

Lew was a man of boundless enthusiasm and a larger-than-life presence. His warmth, humor and ability to connect with people were as much a part of his legacy as his love for music and teaching. He was a true American, dedicated to his family, his students and his community.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Rick and Maria for their unwavering love and care for Lew, especially as distance made their role even more vital.

Lew will be deeply missed but his spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be remembered always and forever in our Hearts.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Guenther Funeral Home, 1303 E. State St., Olean, N.Y.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.