Lucille A. Cooke, a beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on February 1, 1939, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Lucille lived a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to her family.

With her mother passing when she was a teen, Lucille’s incredible maternal side emerged early as she helped to raise her two younger siblings. Lucille was married to her soulmate, Bill Cooke, in 1958, with whom she shared a deeply loving and cherished bond. They met in an ice cream shop, and it was simply love at first sight. After his passing a year and a half ago, they are now joyfully reunited.

A skilled nurse by profession and a devoted homemaker, Lucille cared deeply for others, bringing comfort and joy to everyone who crossed her path. Her compassion extended beyond her career as she cultivated a legacy of kindness and generosity within her family.

Lucille and Bill split their time between their home in Bayonne and their place at the Kymer Campgrounds. Summers with Bill in their camper, lovingly referred to as “Nanny’s Kitchen,” were filled with countless amazing memories. She loved gardening, canning foods, making jams, cooking on an open fire, and always had a knitting or crocheting project on the go. Some recurring highlights included catching “lick-fish,” picking blackberries, and going to the fair with the family.

Known for her many famous dishes, Lucille was always ready to cook up a fabulous meal. Her kielbasa and sauerkraut, Christmas roast, and Yorkshire pudding are just a few of the family’s favorites. Those recipes have been passed down and are still being enjoyed to this day.

Lucille is survived by her sister, Johanna Fekete, and her brother, Edward Pax. She is also survived by her loving daughter and best friend, Dawn-Marie Hawkins, her son-in-law, Jim Hawkins, and her cherished grandchildren, Jamie and Brooke, who brought her immense delight through their marriages and the families they built. Brooke and her husband, Zach, blessed Lucille with two great-grandsons, Lincoln and Sullivan, while Jamie and his wife, Rachel, gifted her with two great-granddaughters, Olivia and Saylor.

Lucille cherished her role as “Nanny,” showering her four great-grandchildren with unconditional love. Despite the distance, she made them feel her presence through her famous “Nanny boxes,” which she lovingly prepared and sent weekly. These tokens of her adoration, filled with treats, surprises, and fun goodies, made every delivery a special occasion.

Known for her sharp humor, quick wit, and undeniable charisma, Lucille was an icon in every sense of the word. She brought light and laughter to all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of joy, resilience, and love.

Lucille/Nanny will always be loved and deeply missed by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched, the lessons she imparted, and the stories held close to everyone’s hearts.