News Summary
Franklyn Thomas Cook, a revered community leader and philanthropist from Cumberland, RI, passed away at home at the age of 85 after battling Alzheimer’s. He is survived by his wife, three children, and six grandchildren. Cook dedicated his life to serving others through various organizations, including the American Cancer Society and as founder of Fund Consultants Inc. A Requiem Eucharist will be held in his honor, and donations are requested to the Church of the Good Shepherd in lieu of flowers.
Cumberland, RI – Franklyn Thomas Cook, a well-known community leader and philanthropist, passed away peacefully at home on October 17 at the age of 85. He was surrounded by his beloved family after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Born in Lonsdale, Cook was the youngest child of Sidney and Mary (Conn) Cook. He is survived by his wife, Roberta Collins Cook, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Cook leaves behind three children: Robyn (Nick) Bellamy of Pawling, NY; William (Danielle) Cook of Plainville, MA; and Jennifer (Philip) Alarie of Warwick, RI. He was also a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Sam and Will Bellamy, Max and Hannah Alarie, and Ben and Libby Cook. In addition, he is survived by several nieces and nephews.
Cook graduated from Tolman High School in 1958 and attended the University of Rhode Island (URI) on a U.S. Army ROTC scholarship, graduating in 1963. He completed his Army training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and served as a Captain at the Infantry Training Center at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Cook continued his service as an Army Reservist in Bristol, RI, until 1972.
Throughout his career, Cook dedicated his efforts to serving others, starting with his work at the American Cancer Society and the United Way. In 1970, he founded Fund Consultants Inc., a fundraising consultancy that provided services to a number of prestigious hospitals, universities, and arts organizations throughout New England. Recognized for his ability to forge meaningful relationships, colleagues and staff often regarded him as family.
A passionate volunteer, Cook held leadership positions with the Jaycees and contributed to various community organizations. He was particularly proud of his work with Big Brothers and was actively involved in the Sigma Chi fraternity, offering his fundraising expertise to the fraternity house at URI. His service extended further as an active member of the National Society of Fund Raising Executives, Good Shepherd Church in Pawtucket, the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island State Council of Churches.
A Requiem Eucharist will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Church of the Good Shepherd, located at 490 Broadway, Pawtucket. Public visitation hours will take place on Thursday, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, at Bellows Funeral Chapel, situated at 160 River Road, Lincoln. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church of the Good Shepherd at 490 Broadway, Pawtucket, RI 02860.
For additional information or to leave a message of condolence, interested parties can visit www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com.
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- Obituary: Paul Bettencourt
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Obituary Source: Providence Journal
- Google Search: Franklyn Thomas Cook
- Obituary: Cheryl Margaret Hockman
- Google Scholar: Philanthropy
- Obituary: Kelly Wiggins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Leadership
- Obituary: Joseph F Nield Jr.
- Google News: Alzheimer’s disease
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