Hendersonville, TN, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Kate Wilson Cook, a cherished member of the Hendersonville community, has passed away at the age of 94. Known for her kindness and dedication to her family, her legacy will be fondly remembered. Born in Virginia and a graduate of nursing school, Kate had a successful career in healthcare while also pursuing her passions for writing and the arts. Visitation and a Celebration of Life service will be held at Hendersonville Memory Gardens.
Hendersonville, TN – Kate Wilson Cook, a beloved member of the community, passed away at the age of 94 on September 21, 2025. Her legacy of kindness, professionalism, and dedication to family will be cherished by those who knew her.
Born Emma Kate Wilson on September 16, 1931, she was the first daughter and second child of Lewis Summers Wilson and Ruth (Shore) Wilson, who married in 1926. Kate spent her formative years in the small town of Meadowview, VA, creating precious memories with her parents and two siblings. She shared a close relationship with her Aunt Stella Wilson and formed a strong bond with her sister Roma, who passed away in 1998.
Kate graduated from Meadowview High School in 1949 and went on to attend Johnston Memorial Hospital Nursing School in Abingdon, VA. From 1951 to 1953, she worked as the office nurse for Dr. John Marcy in Bristol, VA-TN, a period she fondly regarded as one of the happiest times of her life. Later, she served as a floor manager on various medical units at Nashville Memorial Hospital, working part-time in the early 1970s and full-time from 1982 until her retirement in 1994.
Kate is survived by her son Michael Rutter and daughter-in-law Sherri (Coleman) Rutter. She is also remembered by her grandchildren Briana, Matthew, and Andrew Rutter. Kate’s deceased son, Joey Rutter, passed away in 2022, and her husband, Jerry Cook, also passed away in 2023. She still has one sister, Doris Musick, residing in Abingdon, VA, along with several nieces and nephews. Throughout her life, Kate valued her role as a mother and grandmother, affectionately known as “Grankate,” and found fulfillment in her family.
Aside from her family life, Kate was recognized as a hardworking homemaker who took pride in caring for her home. She maintained high standards in her professional career, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. In addition to her nursing career, she was a talented writer with a passion for creating poetry, short stories, and heartfelt messages. She loved the arts and music, considering them an important part of her life. An avid reader and culinary enthusiast, she prided herself on her cooking as a way to express love and care for those around her.
Kate was known for treating others with kindness and respect, embodying a sweet spirit and loving soul that made a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Visitation for Kate Wilson Cook will be held at Hendersonville Memory Gardens on September 27, 2025, from 6-8 PM and on September 28, 2025, from 1-2 PM. A Celebration of Life service will take place on September 28, 2025, at 2 PM. Arrangements are being handled by Hendersonville Memory Gardens, located at 353 E. Main St., Hendersonville, TN.
FAQ
Who was Kate Wilson Cook?
Kate Wilson Cook was a beloved community member who passed away at the age of 94 on September 21, 2025, known for her kindness and dedication to her family.
What was her early life like?
She was born Emma Kate Wilson on September 16, 1931, in Meadowview, VA, and cherished her childhood experiences with her parents and siblings.
What was her professional career?
Kate worked as an office nurse and served in various positions at Nashville Memorial Hospital until her retirement in 1994.
What are some of her personal interests?
Kate was a talented writer, avid reader, and culinary enthusiast, with a passion for the arts and music.
What are the arrangements for her visitation and service?
Visitation will be held on September 27-28, 2025, at Hendersonville Memory Gardens, with a Celebration of Life service on September 28, 2025, at 2 PM.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kate Wilson Cook |
| Birthdate | September 16, 1931 |
| Date of Passing | September 21, 2025 |
| Education | Johnston Memorial Hospital Nursing School |
| Professional Achievements | Office nurse and floor manager at Nashville Memorial Hospital |
| Family | Survived by son Michael Rutter, grandchildren, and one sister |
| Visitation Date | September 27-28, 2025 |
| Service Date | September 28, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Hendersonville Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Emma Kate Wilson
- Tennessean News
- Google Search: Kate Wilson Cook
- Tukios Website
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kate Wilson Cook
- Hendersonville Obituaries
- Google News: Hendersonville Kate Wilson Cook
- Tukios Website Obituary
- Google Scholar: Kate Wilson Cook
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
