Phillip Earl Rooke, 86, died May 13, 2019, in his Roanoke Rapids home following a period of declining health.

Earl was born October 5, 1932, in Halifax County, the son of Lofton and Louise Gray Rooke.

He was a retired textiles supervisor.   

Earl could almost always be found enjoying his pipe and tobacco.  

A winner of countless games and pool tournaments over the years, Earl was described as being "one hell of a pool shark.”

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Phillip Earl Rooke, Jr.; and also by his sister, Evelyn.

Survivors include his primary caregiver, Phyllis Moody; brother, Leon Rooke; additional caregivers, Hope Frappier, Anissa Shotwell, Kathy Little and Bobby Tritt; a niece and a nephew; as well as a number of cousins.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 - 12:30 pm Thursday at Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service.   The funeral will follow at 1:00 pm in the funeral home chapel, with burial to follow in Crestview Memorial Cemetery.  Pastor Rick Ragan will preside.

Online condolences may be left at hockadayfs.com

Memorials may be sent to Home Health and Hospice of Halifax,  220 Smith Church Rd, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870.

Arrangements are under the care of Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service.