Jean Shirley Cook

Jean Shirley Cook (nee Southard), 91, of West Deptford, NJ, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to her family.

Jean was the heart and soul of her family, the matriarch who led with strong will, steady guidance, and endless care. She was loving, generous, and always there for those closest to her, offering support, wisdom, and warmth in every stage of life. Family meant everything to Jean, and she took great pride and joy in the generations she helped shape.

She is survived by her daughter, Sherry Discepola; her niece Debbie (Mike) Edelen and her nephew Charles (Beverly) Southard; her beloved grandchildren, Christina (Brett) DeFalco and John (Dana) Discepola; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Eloise DeFalco, who brought her much happiness and joy. She was predeceased by her husband Benjamin Cook; son Larry Nichols; son-in-law John Discepola; parents Laura and Caleb Southard; brothers John and Charles Southard and sisters Esther Carpenter and Evelyn Rockhill.

Jean found joy in the simple and meaningful things; music, reading, gardening, and time spent with loved ones. She was a very active member of Grace Episcopal Church in Pemberton Borough. She served on the Vestry, was a delegate to the Diocesan Communion in Trenton and the Burlington County Convocation. She was a member of the Grace Church Choir for over 57 years and the choir librarian. She was also a Lector and Teller for many years. Jean loved to sing and while living in LeisureTowne she was a member of the LeisureTown Singers; the Harmonizers and several Quartets. She was a longtime member of the LeisureTowne Curtain Callers, a group of amateur actors who staged plays twice a year.

She shared a beautiful life with her husband, Ben, filled with love, laughter, and a deep sense of partnership. Together, they enjoyed traveling, exploring the country on long road trips, and creating lasting memories on trips abroad.

Jean will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, and the deep love she gave to her family. Her presence was a gift to all who knew her, and she will be missed more than words can express.

Visitation Wednesday, April 1st 9:30am until the service at 11am at the DAVIS AND WAGNER FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES 171 Delaware St. Woodbury, NJ. Interment Lakeview Cemetery, Cinnaminson, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in honor of Jean Cook to Alzheimer’s Association. Memories & condolences shared at daviswagner.com