Obituary of Rebecca Mary Cooke
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rebecca Mary Cooke, who passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on June 9, 2025.
Born on Christmas Eve of 1940 in Tiffin, Ohio, to Robert and Ripple Jentgen, Rebecca was one of four siblings and grew up in a loving home filled with warmth and laughter. From a young age, she showed a spirit of adventure and independence that would define her life. In her early twenties, she made a bold move to New York City, where she began working in a typing pool. It was there that she met the love of her life, Richard Cooke. The two quickly fell in love, married, and began a beautiful life together in Denville, New Jersey.
Together, Rebecca and Richard raised three children, pouring their hearts into creating a home full of love, encouragement, and cherished memories. Rebecca later earned her associate’s degree and embarked on a rewarding career as a nurse at St. Clare’s Hospital Franciscan Oaks in Denville, where her compassion and steady presence touched countless lives.
Outside of work and family, Rebecca had many passions that brought her joy. She loved playing tennis, cooking for those she loved, and gathering around the table with friends for spirited games of bridge. A voracious reader and enthusiastic student of history, she spent hours researching genealogy and exploring the threads of her family’s past. Her intellectual curiosity led her across the globe, often on educational cruises, as she embraced every opportunity to learn and see the world. Whether traveling with her husband Dick, her travel group, or solo, Rebecca’s journeys took her across the continental United States, Europe, and parts of Asia—each adventure feeding her soul and expanding her world.
Rebecca’s life was defined by deep love, unwavering strength, and a fierce independence. Her presence was steady and vibrant, and her legacy lives on in those who survive her.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Lexie Dejewski(Al) and Tim Cooke (Mary Beth); her grandchildren, Jordan (Izzy), Sydney, Aidan, Elise, Kayleigh, and Macklin; her brothers, Richard Jentgen (Mary Ann) and Ron Jentgen (Kathy); as well as many nieces, nephews, dear friends, and neighbors who were touched by her life and spirit.
Rebecca is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Cooke, her son, Richard, her sister, Roberta Jentgen, and her parents, Robert and Ripple Jentgen. While her absence leaves a profound void, we find peace in knowing she is joyfully reunited with those she held dear.
If you would like to continue Rebecca's memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the Joey Bella Fund, which helps families in need in the Denville area. Donations can be made via JoeyBella.org
Hours of public visitation for Rebecca will be held on Sunday, June 15, from 12 to 3 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services. A funeral mass will be held the following day, June 16, at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church of Denville, with a graveside service to follow immediately after. Please use this page to send a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to let Rebecca’s light continue to shine!
