Mr. William Wilkins Cook, Sr., known by all as “Bill”, age 88, entered into eternal rest Sunday morning, June 14, 2026, surrounded by his family at his home in Silver Hills of Walterboro. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, the light of his life for sixty-two years, Mrs. Betty Terrell Cook.

Born January 30, 1938, in Mebane, North Carolina, he was the last surviving of five children born of the late Roy Knight Cook and the late Mary James Cook. n 1961, he met the love of his life, Betty, in North Carolina while working as her family’s milkman. The two were married in 1962 and built a life together marked by hard work, dedication, and love.

In 1972, he began his career with Burger King as a janitor at a local restaurant in North Carolina. Through determination, an exceptional work ethic, and natural leadership, he steadily worked his way through the company, becoming a District Manager in 1979. That same year, he was offered a position in Charleston, South Carolina, where he relocated his family.

Not long after, he was given the opportunity to become a Burger King franchise owner, opening his first restaurant in Walterboro, South Carolina. Through years of hard work and business success, he expanded his operations to become Cook Enterprises and, at the height of his career, proudly owned five Burger King restaurants. His story was a true example of the American dream—beginning as a janitor and rising to become a successful business owner through perseverance, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to providing for his family.

He was a member of Welch Creek Baptist Church in Walterboro. An avid Nascar Motor Sports race fan, he dearly loved Dale Earnhardt and was the proud owner of a signature edition Montecarlo. He was also a member of the Dogwood Hills Country Club as well as the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

His accomplishments in business were significant, but his greatest pride was always his family. He possessed a giving heart, and all throughout his career, he remained dedicated in doing for others, always supporting unselfishly church, clubs, and non-profit organizations. He also had a special love for animals.

Surviving are: two children, Kimberly Cook Stroble and her husband Curtis of Adams Run and William W. “Billy” Cook, Jr. of Walterboro; five grandchildren, Melanie Bell Jarrell and her husband Cliff, Joshua R. Bell, Courtney Stroble Smoak and her husband Jamie, John Curtis Stroble and his wife Jessica, and Rose C. Preston; and nine great grandchildren, Kylie M. Bell, Naomie A. Bell, Amelia E. Jarrell, Colton Stroble, Braxton Stroble, Willow Stroble, Hartley Smoak, Bennett Smoak, and Fowler Smoak; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that memorials be directed in his memory to: Welch Creek Baptist Church, 536 Welch Creek Road, Walterboro, South Carolina 29488.

The Relatives and Friends of Mr. William W. Cook, Sr. are invited to attend his funeral service which will be conducted at 1 o’clock Saturday afternoon, June 20, 2026, from Welch Creek Baptist Church, 536 Welch Creek Road, Walterboro. Interment will follow Monday afternoon at 1 o’clock in Hebron Churchyard in Mebane, North Carolina.

The family will receive friends from 6 o’clock until 8 o’clock this Friday evening at THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408. Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndon.com.