Joe Ryan McCook

Mr. Joe Ryan McCook, age 89 of Hiawassee, passed away July 24, 2018 at his home. Mr. McCook was born September 7, 1928 in Lizella, Ga to Leon Ennis McCook and Julia Elma Hicks McCook. And was the youngest of 5 children. He attended the Lizella Elementary School until moving to Miami, Fl. in 1936. There he attended Andrew Jackson High School. He also went to Tech High. In 1945 he went to work for Southern Bell as a PBX installer and repair man. He worked in Alaska for three years for AT&T on communication and microwave systems. He belonged to the Telephone Pioneers and also Woodsmen of the World. He was raised Methodist and attended Hiawassee United Methodist Church until his health prevented him from doing so. In 1962 Joe married the love of his life, Ann DiLavore who loved Joe so much. (Ann said " they just don't make them like Joe anymore".) Joe retired from Southern Bell in 1982 after 361/2 years of service. In 1985 Joe and Ann moved to Hiawassee, Ga. where they have enjoyed the mountains and Lake Chatuge.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, and their only daughter Santa, who was stillborn.

Those left to cherish his memory include: His loving wife of 56 years Ann; two sons, Robert P. McCook (Shelley) of Leesburg, Ga.; David W. McCook (Vickie) of Blountsville, Al.; He also leaves four (4) nephews, two (2) neices, five (5) grandchildren and one (1) great grandchild.

Funeral services: will be held at Cochran Funeral Home of Hiawassee, Saturday July 28, 2018 at 3:00 pm with Robert McCook, officiating; Music provided by: Family Members. Interment will follow in Union Memory Gardens in Blairsville, Ga .

The family will receive friends and neighbors from 2:00 pm until the funeral service starts.

Arrangements entrusted to the Cochran Funeral Home of Hiawassee, GA. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.

Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made to Methuen Memorial Music Hall, Inc. Mail to Mrs. Elaine Morissette, Trustee--Methuen Memorial Music Hall, Inc.--10 Overlook Drive--Methuen, Massachusetts 01884-2372