Ann C. Cook

Ann Cook passed away peacefully on December 4th 2023 from pneumonia. She was at her home in Centreville VA surrounded by her loving family. Ann was born on December 1, 1952 in Washington D.C. to Edith and Patrick Cook. She lived a life marked by adventure, kindness and generosity.

Ann graduated from Falls Church High School in 1971. She attended Radford College for two years before leaving to begin a career as a dental hygienist for Doctor Robert DiValentin in Vienna VA. In August 1977 Ann took a vacation to travel cross country, most notably out west to visit the mountains. It was while on this vacation that Ann had a diving accident that left her paralyzed and a quadriplegic. After very intense rehabilitation Ann began her new life which included learning to drive again, living independently with help from friends and family, and beginning a career with the Defense Mapping Agency. This career spanned 25 years and included many awards and honors. Ann eventually had to retire for health reasons.

Ann was known for her kindness, always a contagious smile on her face, a deep faith, and great love for her family and friends. Ann was an avid baseball fan and diehard Nats fan. Many summer days you could find Ann at the ballpark; she even worked for the Nats for a few years as a customer ambassador showing guests to their seats. The guests would have a hard time keeping up with Ann as she zipped in and out of the crowds in her wheelchair which was quite comical to watch.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by 6 siblings: Pat(Corinne), Mike, Chris, Timothy(Melba), Dennis, and Andy(Dominique). Ann left behind 8 nieces and nephews: Jeanne Cook(Steve Holler), Caroline Cook(Andrew Weixel), Michael Cook(Keri),
Matthew Cook(Kristin), Marcus Cook, Abigail Ballard(Chris), Courtney Graham(William, deceased), Lauren Lewia(Chris); and 9 great nieces and nephews: Liliana, Fitzpatrick, Kensley, Kennedy, Oliver, Hudson, Teddy, Sutton, Henry, Lylah, and Robert. She was very interested in, and constantly asking about, their lives and adventures. In addition there are so many cousins and friends left behind. Especially in the last few years care and friendship was given to Ann from 4 people in particular: Denise Erwin, Kathryn Schoellig, Ann Marie Cook, and the late Karen White. All Ann’s family will dearly miss her but are comforted in knowing that she is at peace with her savior Jesus Christ.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday December 13th, 1:00 P.M., at Saint James Catholic Church. 905 Park Avenue, Falls Church VA 22046.

Immediately following the service there will be a celebration of Ann’s life at the Hilton Garden Inn, 706 West Broad Street, Falls Church VA 22046.

Interment will be on Thursday at 11:00 A.M. at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax VA 22032.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Saint James Guardian Angel Fund https://membership.faithdirect.net/givenow/VA50/4197 or the Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation. https://www.christopherreeve.org/