Dr. Michael A. Cooke

Michael Anthony Cooke, PhD was born on July 13, 1951 in Washington, District of Columbia to the late Clarence Edward and the late Ruth Thelma Cooke. He entered into eternal rest on Monday, April 7, 2025.

Dr. Cooke graduated from Washington, District of Columbia’s Spingarn High School. He went on to further his education by earning a Bachelor  of Arts degree from Duke University, a Master’s degree from the University of Maryland and PhD in Philosophy from the University of Maryland. He began his teaching career at the University of Maryland- Eastern Shore campus. He later taught in the History departments at Winthrop College, Virginia Tech and the University of South Carolina. He became Chairman of African American History at Western Illinois University. He moved on to become Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Western Alabama. His last teaching positions were as adjunct History Instructor at Talladega College in Alabama and Northeastern Technical College in Cheraw, South Carolina. 

Michael married Reverend Berry Matthews in 1986 and from that union welcomed children, Melissa and Robdrecaus Cooke.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Berry; and his youngest sister, Delores E. Cooke.

He is survived by his sisters, Jacqueline Cooke and Sandra Cooke and by Deborah Marshall, his loving companion.

Michael lived his life as a servant of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He joined Cumberland United Methodist Church under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Frederick Yebuah. He served his Church in the capacity of Treasurer.

Remember Michael for the vibrant manner in which he lived- he was passionate about his family, his career and his Washington, District of Columbia’s football team. We will miss him. We will ALWAYS love him. Rest in peace thou good and faithful servant. You have earned your rest in Glory.

The family asks to please consider donations to the American Kidney Foundation at www.givekidneyfund.org in honor of our beloved Michael.

Please keep the family of Dr. Michael A. Cooke in your thoughts and prayers.