Mildred Avis Elerick Cook, known to all as Avis, passed away the morning of Monday, February 16, 2026 in Fresno, CA, 19 days shy of her 103rd birthday. She lived a long life surrounded by a loving spouse, a caring family, a strong church community and many friends. Avis is survived by her daughter, Patti Cook Hyder (Les), sons Chris Cook (Ann) and Tim Cook (De), 8 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, James (Jim) Edward Cook, her parents and her sister Patricia.

Avis was born on March 7th 1923 in Hastings, MI to Katherine Rozetta Day and Maynard Anderson Elerick. When she was two years old she moved to Detroit, MI where she grew up and attended school, graduating from Cass Technical High School in June 1940. She married Jim, a neighborhood friend who she dated after he returned from WWII, on June 8th, 1946. He was a devoted husband, loving father and good provider for their 67 years of marriage. Avis had studied costume illustration, learned typing and shorthand, and combined both art and business for her last job for the Saturday Evening Post. She left that job in 1950 to come to Sacramento, California when Jim was recalled for the Korean War.

Avis dedicated her life in support of her husband, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the constant presence at home during Jim's military service, work travel and their moves for his career in aeronautical engineering. She was a member and president of the Bell Wives Club in 1956. She was a Cub Scout leader for Chris and Tim and a Brownie leader for Patti. She was a member of the Republican Women's Club in Yuba City, a member of the Red Hat Society and played bridge and mahjong regularly up until the last 6 months of her life. She was known for her "elephant" collection, which totaled over 265 elephant figurines. Jim and Avis loved to travel. They spent time in Okinawa, Japan, England and went on 15 cruises all over the world. Jim and Avis always supported and encouraged the education and growth of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Avis was always so proud to share about her family, and their lives and accomplishments.

A Memorial Service will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Fresno, CA at 2:00 p.m. on May 30, 2026, followed by an Interment at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, where she will join her husband Jim.