Rosa Lee Cook (Workman), 69, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice Center. Born on February 28, 1955, in Parsons, West Virginia, she was the daughter of Charles Workman and Alleta (Helmick) Workman.
Rosa was one of three children and was known for her joyful spirit, love of nature, and warm heart. She married her first husband, Walter Rollins Jr., with whom she had two children: a son, Walter Rollins III, and a daughter, Kristy Lynn Rollins. Following their later divorce, Rosa found love again and married Larry E. Cook on October 19, 2007, forming a beautiful, blended family in Laredo, Texas.
She had a deep love for life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed true camping—tents, not campers—fully immersing herself in nature’s beauty. Her passion for games was shared with those around her. She excelled at board games, card games, and puzzles, delighting in playing with family and friends. Rosa’s kind heart and competitive spirit made every game night memorable, leaving her loved ones with cherished memories.
Rosa was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Walter Rollins III; her brother, Richard Workman; her father- and mother-in-law, Alfred and Dorothy Cook; her stepdaughter, Sheree J. Chestnut; her step-granddaughter, Tristan Baker; and her step-great-granddaughter, Ramona Chestnut.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Larry Cook of Wichita, Kansas; her loving sister, Brenda of Georgia; and her daughter, Kristy (Albert) Mendoza of Laredo, Texas. She also leaves behind two stepdaughters: Sindi (Joe Miller) Baker of Glasgow, Montana, and Lacey Cook of Wichita, Kansas; four stepsons: Shad (Bonnie) Cook and Shawn Cook, both of Gove, Kansas; Shaylon (Cassie) Cook of Glasgow, Montana; and Joshua (Gabriela Gonzalez) Cook of Wichita, Kansas.
Rosa is also survived by one grandson, Trey Mendoza; 25 step-grandchildren; 26 step-great-grandchildren; her brother-in-law, Wayne (Mary) Cook; and numerous extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
Rosa’s love for family, her joyous spirit, and her playful soul will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, fun, and unshakeable love.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Donations can be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Memories and words of support may be shared with the family by signing the guestbook at www.schmittfuneral.com.