Obituary

Gladys Juanita Cook (Garland) was the fourth child born to the late Clarence and Gertrude Garland on March 13, 1927, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She graduated from Industrial High School. Gladys was baptized at Zion Tabernacle AME Church on Castle Hill. In the early 1940’s Gladys moved to California to join her sister, Sarah. Gladys and Sara both worked for Douglas Aircraft in Santa Monica to support the war effort.

Gladys married the late Allen Cook in Los Angeles, California and this union produced two children: Gary and Barry Cook. Gladys and Allen remained married until Allen’s passing in 2013.

In 1955, Gladys began her career as a social worker for Los Angeles County. Gladys was responsible for supporting a program that provided social service support for Vietnam immigrants during the mid-1970s. After 28 years of service, Gladys retired.

Growing up, Gladys loved to spend time with her mother and learn new recipes. As a result, Gladys loved to share her culinary gifts with her family and friends.

On Christmas night, December 25, 2021, Gladys J. Cook was called home to be with the Lord. She is preceded in death by her siblings Clarence, Mary, Rose, James, Sara, and Irma. Gladys leaves behind two children Gary and Barry, her grandson, Gerald, and her Goddaughter, Shannon. Gladys also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.