WINTER 2023-2024 29 Gary pursued his doctorate at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Sheila continued her work as an educator, a central passion of her life. For 18 years, Sheila served in the classroom as a teacher. With tremendous compassion and patience, she took the time to educate those who needed extra care and attention. At the elementary and middle school levels, she spent 14 years with students who had learning differences, for two years she taught remedial reading to junior high students, and for another two years, she helped mentally challenged students at the junior high and high school levels. Shortly after the Cooks were married, Dr. Cook was called to pastor First Baptist Church of McGregor, a small town just outside of Waco. Two years later, they moved to Waco, as Dr. Cook became a part of the Baylor University faculty and administration. Sheila continued her teaching career during this time, and when she was not in her school classroom, Sheila could be found in the church, teaching Sunday School, Mission Friends classes, Vacation Bible Schools,and Young Women’s Auxiliary groups. She served on pastoral care committees, preschool committees, long-range planning committees, and even served as the accompanist for the preschool choir. Always warm and welcoming, Sheila made people feel at home and encouraged them along in their walk with the Lord. During this time, the Cooks also welcomed into the world two sons, David Daniel and Mark Andrew, and Sheila discovered one of the greatest joys in her life, being a mother. Through the years, she loved and cared for her boys, serving as a teacher, encourager, cheerleader, Dr. Mark and Shannon Cook; Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook; Dr. David and Nicole Cook Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook with grandchildren Molly, Caleb, and Gracie Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODc4ODgx