Donald Lee Cooke

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Donald Lee Cooke of Huntingtown, Maryland who passed away on July 24, 2023, just shy of his ninetieth birthday. Formerly of Forestville, Maryland, Donald valued his family, his ability to maintain peace even in the toughest of situations, and his long teaching career that impacted the lives of thousands of students. 

Donald grew up on his family farm in Upper Marlboro and attended Sasscer High School where he met the love of his life, Lois Rush Cooke (1933-2013). He cherished the friendships they made together during those sweet high school years and always remained close with his graduating classmates. He enjoyed living in the Chesapeake Bay region, playing poker with beloved family and friends, visits to the Shenandoah Mountains, family vacations to Ocean City and Deep Creek Lake, and taking care of the many loved ones in his life.  

Donald was proud of his years as a Horticulture teacher at Gwynn Park High School where he put in immeasurable hours raising beautiful poinsettias in preparation for Christmas each year.  He also taught Driver's Education to thousands of Prince George's County students who still fondly talk and laugh about their adventures with Mr. Cooke as their driving instructor.   

In addition to Lois, his beautiful bride of more than 57 years, Donald is predeceased by his beloved parents, Harold and Ursula Cooke; all three brothers, Harold, Samuel, and Alfred Cooke; his sister-in-law, Joan Cooke; his mother-in-law, Louise Rush; as well as one niece, Cynthia Cooke, and two nephews, Andrew and Greg Cooke.  

Donald is survived by his daughters, Susan Ballinger (David) and Nancy Stillwell (John); his grandchildren Crystal Honeycutt (David), David Ballinger (Julia), and Amy Hess (Ryan); five great-grandchildren, Lexi, Kaylie, Brody, James, and Lainey; his sister-in-law, Lorraine Cooke; his niece and Goddaughter, Linda Hurd; nephews, Gary Cooke (Sue), Lee Cooke (Debbie), Tom Cooke (Chris), and Danny Cooke; several great-nieces and great-nephews; plus many treasured friends – old and new.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Donald’s life on Friday, July 28, 2023, from 3:00-7:00pm at Lee Funeral Home Calvert, 8200 Jennifer Lane, Owings, Maryland 20736 where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at 11am. Interment will be private at a later date.