Barbara “Bobbie” Cook Anderson, 63, passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center following a sudden illness.
Bobbie was born Dec. 3, 1956, in Clinton to the late Harold C. and Helen Royal Cook.
Bobbie earned a B.A. Degree in Psychology from East Carolina University in 1980 and returned to ECU, where she earned an M.A. Degree in Special Education in 1983.
She began her teaching career at Laney High School, Wilmington, in 1983, and taught there until her retirement in 2007. Bobbie loved her students and job at Laney so much that, upon retiring, she continued to substitute teach there as well as other local high schools until her death.
Throughout her life, Bobbie was a voracious reader. If you saw her sitting down, there was most likely a book in her hands. When she found literature she thought was worthy of reading, she would recommend it and loan her library of books to friends and students to read themselves.
Bobbie was a lifelong equestrian, riding and owning many horses since she was a young child. She earned many awards, ribbons, and trophies throughout the state for her excellent riding skills. In fact, she loved all animals and owned many pets during her life, including an African ball python!
Every spring, she planted wildflower gardens and vegetables she tended throughout the summer. She loved working outside and gardening. The ocean was her “happy place,” where she enjoyed boating, fishing and hanging out with her son and friends. Most of all, Bobbie adored her son, Noah, who was the light and meaning of her life. She loved life, lived it to its fullest and will be missed fiercely by friends, family and students.
Bobbie is survived by her son, Noah Cook Anderson, and her beloved Brittany Spaniel, Maggie, of the home; sisters, Susan Cook of Clinton and Raleigh and Frances Hairr (Carl) of Clinton.
A celebration of life will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 27, at Wilmington Funeral and Cremation to share stories and fond memories of Bobbie with the family. Dress is casual, as Bobbie always insisted her friends be comfortable.
Memorials may be made in her name to The Good Shepherd Center, 811 Martin St., Wilmington, NC 28401.
Share online condolences with the family at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation.
