Ms. Renee Natalie Cook

Renee N. Cook, 42, departed this life on September 24, 2023. Renee was born July 25, 1981, to Cassandra Cook and Rudolph Terell in Harvey, IL and was the oldest of three children. Renee accepted Jesus Christ as a teenager and was baptized at Mt. Pisgah, where she also grew in her talents in the youth group as a poet and singer. She was known for her skill of writing poetry and theatrics since high school. It continued to blossom in her college years, as she attended Parkland Community College majoring in Theater. It was there that she met the love of her life, Elton Cleaves. Together they raised their three children: Teriyah, Fred, and Faith in Humboldt, Tennessee for 9 years. With Renee’s enthusiasm to learn, she earned many certificates including Business Essentials and Pharmacy Tech. After the passing of Elton in 2014, Renee remained committed to raising her three children in the state of Illinois. She furthermore continued her focus on her gift in writing; gaining awards and recognition for her poetry and plays. She performed for African American Sororities held event, The Jule Foundation’s Poetry Slam, for promotions of the East Peoria community and much more. Her work has been shared and performed in various church’s, displaying the glory of God, throughout Illinois and Tennessee. She served at St. James Baptist Church in TN as a member of the Worship Arts Ministry. Renee reinvented herself in a new community within East Peoria. She worked to create a home she loved and established with her kids. Her greatest joy was watching them graduate and mature. During her last three years of her life, Renee proudly served her Christian duties; helping the homeless and becoming a faithful prayer warrior at Greater Peoria House of Prayer in East Peoria. Renee leaves to cherish her loving memories to her three children: Teriyah, Fred, and Faith; two brothers: Micheal and Mario Jones; and stepfather: Mike Jones. She also leaves many remembrances to a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, church families, and friends whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her mother Cassandra, her grandmother Mary Cook, her grandfather George Cook, and the love of her life Elton Cleaves. Services will be private. Arrangements were made especially for the Cook family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial Chapel. Online condolences and acknowledgments will be made at twparkschapel.com.

Ms. Renee Natalie Cook

July 25, 1981 - September 24, 2023