Mrs. Gertrude M. Cooke, affectionately known to her family and friends as “Bobby” or “Barbara,” was born on Nov. 28, 1934, in Middlesex County.
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the age of 90, she peacefully entered eternal rest at her home, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She was one of nine children born to the late Josh and Mattie Coleman of Middlesex County.
Barbara was a member of Antioch Baptist Church, where she accepted Christ at an early age. She received her education at St. Clare Walker High School in Middlesex. In the early years of her career, she worked at Oliver Lewis Restaurant. Barbara was deeply committed to serving her community. She worked at the Lewis B. Puller Center and later managed the Dragon Run Store through Bay Aging. She retired as the manager of the Essex Senior Center, continuing her dedication to community service through her work with Bay Aging.
