Richard D. Cook

Richard David Cook, 88, of Hilliard, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026 in Dublin, Ohio.

Richard was born on May 10, 1938, in Newark, Ohio, to Clayton and Pauline Cook. He was a graduate of Columbus Central High School, Class of 1957. On August 23, 1959, he married the love of his life, Judith Ann (Finley) Cook, beginning a marriage that would span more than 67 years.

Richard spent much of his life in Hilliard, Ohio, where he became deeply involved in and supportive of his community. He was a longtime supporter of the Hilliard Music Boosters and Marching Band and was a member of the Hilliard Senior Center and Hilliard Happiness Club. He proudly served in the United Staes Army, Reserves.

Throughout his working life, Richard had a unique career as a pipe organ builder, working for A.W. Brandt, Inc. and People’s Herzog, Inc. He later became the owner of Homeworks of Central Ohio.

Richard loved being outdoors camping, and could often be found gardening and feeding and watching the birds. He was a member of the League of Ohio Sportsmen and Oakland Park Conservation Club. He found particular joy in family vacations and in early morning walks along the beach.

To his family, Richard was so much more than the things he did. He was always the man behind the camera, making sure the moments that everyone else was busy living were captured and remembered. Because of him, countless family memories will continue to be passed down through his photographs.

Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Judith Ann Cook; daughters, Lisa Cook and Wendy (Robert) Fox; grandchildren, Brittany (Drew) Schultheis and Emily (Samuel) Schmelzer; great-grandson, Callen Schultheis; brother-in-law Joseph Condo, brother-in-law John (Nancy) Finley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton and Pauline Cook; his sister, Lois Ann Condo; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Alma and John Finley.

Richard’s greatest legacy will be found in the work he accomplished, the places he visited, in the family he loved, the memories he captured, and the people whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family will receive friends from 2:00p.m.-4:00p.m. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2026 at the TIDD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich Street, Hilliard, OH 43026 (614)-876-1722, where his Memorial Service will follow the visitation hours and begin at 4:00p.m. SUNDAY, with Reverend Phil Conrad, officiating. United States Army Honors will be rendered at the conclusion of the service. Richard will be laid to rest privately by the family at Wesley Chapel Cemetery.

Please visit www.tiddfuneralservice.com to share your favorite memories and to send your condolences to the Cook Family.