Raymond Smith Cook III, beloved husband, father, "bop bop", brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on August 5, 1963.

Ray was the devoted husband of Debbie (Kempski) Cook, and the loving son of Raymond Smith Cook, Jr. and Shirley Cook. He was a cherished brother to Linda Benzon (Gary), Margie (John) Yandziak, Pam Arzinger (Ray), and Wendy Leeper (Dwight).

He was the devoted father of Raymond Cook IV (Carla) and Jessica Cook (Alex), and a proud "Bop Bop" to his three grandchildren, AJ, Maren, and Sadie. Ray is predeceased by his daughter Christin Ray.

Ray was a proud graduate of the University of Delaware, completing his degree in just three years. He began his professional career as a CPA at Belfint Lyons & Shuman and went on to work in both public and private accounting. Along the way, he built lasting friendships and was deeply respected by colleagues at M. Davis & Sons and Gordon Fournaris & Mammarella.

Ray had a deep love for Philadelphia sports, especially the Phillies and Eagles, and for all things baseball. He was an avid collector with an extraordinary baseball card collection and a lifelong appreciation for the game. He also enjoyed photography, traveling, and technology-always eager to try the newest iPhone or Apple device. His home was often filled with the timeless music of Frank Sinatra, which perfectly matched his personality and style.

Ray especially enjoyed shuffleboard and poker, often played during gatherings of the St. John the Beloved Athletic Association, where camaraderie, competition, and laughter were always close at hand.

A man of faith, Ray was actively involved in parish life through the athletic association, finding joy in fellowship and service, and valuing the sense of community it brought to his life.

Following an accident in 2020, Ray received exceptional care that greatly enriched his life. His family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the caregivers at Bayada and Senior Helpers for their compassion, dedication, and phenomenal care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ray's memory to St. John the Beloved Parish.

Ray will be remembered for his intellect, his passions, his humor, and the love he had for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A visitation for Ray will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at St. John the Beloved Roman Catholic Church, 907 Milltown Road Wilmington, DE 19808 where friends and family may call from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. with a mass of Christian burial following at 11:30 A.M.  Burial will follow at All Saints Cemetery.