Sidney (“Sid”) Cook, 83, peacefully entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

Born August 15, 1942, to Maude Williams Cook and Sidney Ricks Cook, Sr., Sid was predeceased by both of his parents.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Beverly Hawks Cook; two daughters, Jacqueline Hedblom (Troy) and Julianne Eldredge (Alden); and five cherished grandchildren—Kessler, Burke, and Jonathan Hedblom (Lydia), and Sydney and Sutton Eldredge—all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Sid attended Colonial Heights City Schools and was a member of the first graduating class of Colonial Heights High School, graduating in 1961. A gifted athlete throughout high school and college, he was inducted into the Colonial Heights Hall of Fame in 2024. After playing football at Ferrum College and East Carolina University, Sid enlisted in the United States Air Force. Upon returning to Colonial Heights, Sid met and married Beverly, beginning their lifelong partnership. He then returned to college, changed his major, and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a job offer with Carpenter Company in 1973—the same year he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Despite this challenge, Sid immediately began his career with Carpenter as an accountant. He then, while working full time, earned his master’s degree in business administration from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1982. He enjoyed a long and successful career with Carpenter Co., retiring in 2000 as Assistant Controller. In 2010, in recognition of his outstanding contributions at Carpenter, Sid was inducted into the Carpenter Pantheon, the company’s elite Hall of Fame.

Sid was a member of the founding group from Immanuel Baptist Church who met in the Walker home to establish Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Colonial Heights. A charter member of Mount Pleasant, he remained dedicated from its inception, serving in many roles: deacon, usher, communion preparer and server, Children’s Church teacher, Sunday School class treasurer, and Church treasurer. Sid found great joy in volunteering his time and talents daily until he was no longer physically able to do so.

Sid’s love of sports continued well past his college years. Despite his struggles with MS, he played both basketball and golf as often as he could, even continuing with golf after retiring. When his condition required him to use a wheelchair, Sid didn’t abandon his passion for golf; instead, he discovered the Paragolfer mobility chair, mastered using it, and began playing golf again. His determination and perseverance, and the willingness of devoted volunteers Doug and Linda Chaffins to make the Paragolfer available for Sid, allowed him to remain active in a sport he loved.

Even in his later years, Sid’s drive and determination, and love for his family, propelled him to attend every activity and sporting event he possibly could in which his grandchildren participated, undeterred by limited accessibility options, uneven terrain, weather conditions, or his own physical challenges.

Sid displayed quiet, inspirational strength, choosing to make the most of every day. Although his Multiple Sclerosis progressed over the 53 years he fought it, he never complained and never questioned why him. He faced every new challenge with grit and determination and without self-pity, defying the odds of his condition for decades. His abiding faith, along with his determination, strength, leadership, and deep love for his family, served as examples to all who knew him and leave a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Brittany, Kelsie, Shameka, Venessa and Kelly, and the ACG Hospice team, for their compassionate care of Sid during his final months.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 3110 Greenwood Avenue, Colonial Heights, VA 23834, with the Reverend Dr. Joey Anthony officiating. Interment will follow in Southlawn Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 10:00-11:00 a.m., at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Colonial Heights, Virginia. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.