Jaclyn Eleanor Cook

A beautiful young woman has left this world. On Sunday, July 2, 2023, the angels in heaven came down to take Jaclyn Eleanor Cook into the loving arms of Jesus. Jaclyn was cared for by and a resident of a specialized facility in Tallahassee, Florida for the past few years.

Jackie, which was the name she was called by her loving family, friends, and caregivers, was diagnosed with Retts Syndrome. This rare neurological disorder may have taken her ability to talk and walk away, but not her childlike and angelic spirit and face. Even though Jackie was not able to talk anymore, her ability to communicate with her facial expressions and eyes was very evident every day as well as a part of her personality. Jackie had thick, flowing, dark brown hair which her mother always made sure was neatly styled or in a braid. In addition to her beautiful hair was her creamy, soft complexion that gave the effervescence of an angel.

Watching Disney movies was one of Jackie’s favorite pastimes and she would smile and laugh at different moments in the movies. Jackie could recognize her family members, especially her parents. When she heard a familiar voice, like her mom’s and dad’s, Jackie’s face would light up with a smile. Jackie could break out in a laugh and it would make you start to laugh and feel happy inside. In Jackie’s 27 years, she touched the hearts of many people, caregivers, and family members, and Jackie will remain in our hearts forever.

Jaclyn Cook was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Bernard Kneeland and Eleanor Kneeland of Niceville, Florida.  

Jackie is survived by her Mother, Joanne Cook of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Father, Michael E. Cook (Julia) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Sister, Kierston Cook of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Grandparents, Kenneth and Tina Cook of Pinson, Alabama, Her Uncles: Bernard Kneeland Jr.(Leonardtown, Maryland), John Kneeland (Jaynee) of Niceville, Florida, Michael Kneeland (Becki) of Van Buren, Arkansas, Kenny Cook of Pinson, Alabama, Her Aunts: Karen Davis (Joe) of Wetumpka, Alabama, Debbie Freeman of Coosada, Alabama, Diane Mertins (Lee) of Atlanta, Georgia, Kim (Steve) Sebastian of Odenville, Alabama and several first Cousins: Caitlyn, Dylan, Paul M, David M, Lee Jr, Paul D, Matthew D, Joanie, Katie, Patrick, Stacey, Chris, Brian, Joseph K, Ryan K, Daniel K, Brodie, and Sarah.

The family extends a very special thank you to all Jackie’s caregivers over the years.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the International Rett Syndrome Foundation.

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