Obituary of Pamela Cook Ray

Pamela Eloise Cook Ray was born in Columbia, Louisiana on March 19, 1956 to the union of her parents, William Iverson Cook and Vida Idell Reeves Cook; she went to her heavenly home on April 9, 2021 after an extended illness. She was preceded in death by her parents. Pam was a faithful member of Columbia Heights Baptist Church where she loved singing in the choir. Her love of music and desire to worship the Lord led her to the role of music director at Columbia Heights Baptist Church where she served for approximately thirteen years. She loved her church family and showed her love to them relentlessly. Pam enjoyed helping others and she did so selflessly. Pam’s musical talent led her to continue answering the call to serve her Christian community when she accepted the role as music director at First United Methodist Church of Columbia. She served in that position for several months, continuing her devotion the Christian community. Pam worked in the Caldwell Parish School System for over 20 years as an educator, serving countless children across the parish. She had a passion for education and worked effortlessly to help children with special needs and ensure all students were successful in the classroom. Her desire to help children extended beyond the classroom where she was committed to supporting teachers and administrators to strengthen practices that greatly impacted the success of all children in school. When she saw a need, she was always there to offer a helping hand. Pam consistently put the needs of others first. She was a devoted mother who loved her daughters unconditionally, standing by them in good times and bad. Pam loved her grandchildren with all her heart. She will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Those left to cherish her memory are her daughters: Katie Elizabeth Ray and Carrie Clarissa Ray; brothers: Sammy Cook (ReNeau) and William Michael Cook; sisters: Deborah Branch (Steven) and Jackie Stamper (Doug); her beloved grandchildren: Emalee Grace George, Noah Layne Ray, and Charlotte Elizabeth Ray; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 AM, Saturday, April 17, 2021 from the sanctuary of Columbia Heights Baptist Church, 7450 Hwy 165, Columbia, LA with a private inurnment service for family afterward. Visitation will be Friday, April 16, 2021 from 5 PM until 8 PM at the chapel of Riser Funeral Home, 7131 Hwy 165, Columbia, LA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, P. O. Box 4196, Monroe, LA 71211 or by visiting their website at: lbch.org. The Children’s Home had a special place in Pam’s heart, and she appreciated the work they do.