It is with deep sadness that we announce that Nancy Stotesbury Cook, 85, of Gaston, left her earthly home and entered her Eternal Rest on Friday, August 28, 2026, with her family by her side.

Nancy was born in Hyde County on December 2, 1940, to the late Dr. Reuben Bennett Stotesbury and Mary Louise Weston Stotesbury. 

After graduating high school, Nancy attended several years of college before becoming a vital part of the family grocery store. She had varied interest in life and was passionate about mowing the yard like clockwork, riding her 30” Snapper; washing her cars, working in her yard with all the flowers she loved, taking in the breathtaking wonder of hummingbirds, painting whatever needed it, and cleaning—she enjoyed taking care of things and making sure everything was pristine. Above all else, Nancy’s greatest passion was for her ever-growing family, whom she loved deeply.

In addition to her parents, Dr. R.B. and Louise Stotesbury, Nancy is also preceded in death by her son, Joseph Bennett Hobbs. 

Nancy leaves to cherish her memory her husband of over 40 years, Phillip M. Cook; daughter, Joan Long (Ricky); grandchildren, Cortney Hammack (Jeremy), Lee Powers, Brent Powers (Whitney), Alyssa Dennis, Kalyn Shearin (Justin), and Colin Long (Sydney); great grandchildren, Karlee Paige, Sophia Claire, Braxton Bennett, Connor Barklee, Brylee Gray, Brent Weston, Jr., Bentlee Joseph, and one more due in November, Emma Jo; and great great grandchild, Sutton Marie. 

The family will receive friends on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Wrenn Funeral Home, 1015 West 5th Street, Roanoke Rapids. 

A Graveside Service will be held for Nancy at 3 pm on Tuesday, September 1, in Swan Quarter, NC, at Soule Cemetery, 20421 US Hwy 264, Swan Quarter, NC 27885, with Rev. Dr. Norma Roberts and Pastor Jerald Craddock officiating. 

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Wrenn Funeral Home and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.wrennfh.com