Samuel "Sammy" Ray Cook, 55, of West NC 10 Hwy, passed away
peacefully at home on Saturday, March 5, 2011, after a brief battle with
pancreatic cancer.  

He was born on June 9, 1955 in Catawba County, and was a graduate of Fred
T. Foard High School.   He worked at Catawba Sox, Inc in Newton for over 20
years until his illness.

Sam will be remembered for his competitiveness and love for all sports,
especially softball and bowling.  He traveled the country for years playing
softball for various state and nationally ranked softball teams. 

He was preceded in death by his dad, John Henry Townsend.

Survivors include his loving mother, Evelyn Cook Townsend, of Vale, who
cared for him during his illness; four brothers and three sisters-in-law,
William and Rebecca Bridges of Hickory, Johnny and Tracey Bridges of
Claremont, Robert Townsend and partner Sandra Bourgeois of Fallston, and
Keith and Jennifer Townsend of Hickory; three nephews, David Bridges of
Rocky Mount, John Bridges Jr of Vale, and Blake Bernath Bridges of
Claremont; and two nieces, McKenzie Townsend and Maddie Grace Townsend of
Hickory; and all of his dear friends and co-workers at Catawba Sox, Inc.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Palliative Care Center and
Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658.   The
family extends its gratitude to all of the loving caregivers of Hospice who
assisted Sam and the family during his illness.  

The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Stamey
Funeral Home, Fallston.  Condolences may be made online at
www.stameyfuneralhome.com.

A private graveside service will be held at St. Paul Baptist Church, Casar.

Stamey Funeral Home of Fallston is serving the Cook Family.