Vernon H. Cook

Vernon H. Cook, 84, of Panhandle and formerly of Miami, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026 in Amarillo.

Memorial services will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Miami Methodist Church with Pastor Josh Reeves, pastor, and Rev. Tom Stribling, retired Global Methodist minister, officiating. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory.

Vernon was born on May 2, 1942, in Perryton to Howard Albert Cook and Winifred Evelyn (McCartor) Cook. He was the first grandchild of William and Audrey Anna (Bowles) McCartor and Annie (Nelson) and Mont Albert Cook. Vernon graduated from Perryton High School in 1960, where he was actively involved in 4-H and FFA, serving as an officer in both organizations and earning numerous honors in stock show competitions. He went on to attend Texas A&M University, initially majoring in Pre-Veterinary Medicine before changing to Agricultural Education. During his senior year, he served as Chapter President of the Texas A&M Collegiate FFA Chapter. He graduated in 1964 with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education.

Following graduation, Vernon began his career as a Vocational Agriculture Teacher at Miami High School in Miami, Texas. On November 20, 1965, he married the love of his life, Judy Ann Allen, at the Methodist Church in Pampa. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service. Their family grew with the birth of two sons, David Lloyd Cook and Howard Allen Cook, both born in Pampa. Judy passed in December 1994.

In 1971, Vernon transitioned from education to the private sector, accepting a position in sales with Miami Implement Company. In 1972, the family moved to College Station, where Vernon pursued his master’s degree in Agricultural Education at Texas A&M University, which he completed in 1974. He then began a long and distinguished career with the Texas A&M Agricultural Extension Service, serving Roberts County and becoming a valued member of the agricultural community. In June 1981, Vernon left Texas A&M to work in the family oil and gas operations across Gray, Carson, Hutchinson, and Moore Counties.

Vernon dedicated much of his life to public service. In January 1991, he was sworn in as County Judge for Roberts County, a position he faithfully held until November 2015. His leadership and commitment left a lasting impact on the community he served. He was deeply involved in numerous organizations and held many leadership roles, including: Member and President, Miami I.S.D. Board of Trustees, Member and President, Miami Chamber of Commerce, Member, Panhandle Regional Planning Commission Board of Directors, Member and Vice Chairman, Panhandle Regional Water Planning Group, Member and Board Chairman, West Texas County Judges’ and Commissioners Association, Member and Chairman, Texas Association of Counties Health Insurance Pool, Member and Chairman, and Texas Association of Counties Board of Directors.

In February 2009, Vernon married Georgia Ann Roach Lane at the Methodist Church in Miami, and they shared many meaningful years together. They enjoyed traveling to meetings all across the state together.

Vernon will be remembered for his strong work ethic, leadership, dedication to agriculture, and unwavering commitment to his community and family. His legacy lives on through those he loved and the many lives he influenced.

He is survived by his wife, Georgia Ann Cook; his son, David Lloyd Cook and wife Laura of Fort Worth; daughter-in-law, step son, Kelly Lane of Panhandle; step daughter, Karrie Smith and husband Shawn of Panhandle; sister, Karma Sue Brown and husband Jack of Midland; two nieces, Kristy Brown of Midland and Stacy Brown of Perryton; daughter-in-law, Velvet; three grandchildren, Kelly Martinez and husband Anival of Katy, Kimbra Hill of Katy, and Hanna Charlesworth of Fort Worth; great grandchildren, Eisa Martinez, Kynlee Martinez, Cruz Martinez, Creed Martinez, Addie Martinez, Brayden Cook, and Cayson Cook; bonus grandchildren, Chad Smith and wife Amanda, and Jason Smith and wife Kelly; and bonus great-grandchildren Ayden Heard, Grantley Smith, Pierce Smith, Ariel Fike, Aurora Fike.

Vernon is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Winifred Cook of Perryton, wife Judy Cook of Miami and his son Al of Katy.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Dieguez, BSA Staff, and Texas Specialty Hospital. Also, to Callie Crouch and Betty Crouch-Lynch for all of their love and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Miami Fire Department, Miami EMS, or Miami Methodist Church.

Sign the online guest register at www.carmichael-whatley.com