Barry W. Cook

Barry W. Cook, 77, of Berkshire, passed away Wednesday at UHS Wilson Medical Center following a brief illness.

Born in Scranton, PA, Barry lived in several communities throughout the U.S. before settling in Central New York in 1984. A graduate of East Brunswick High School, he went on to earn his master’s degree in theology from Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO. Barry devoted more than 50 years of his life to Christian ministry, faithfully serving as a pastor at several churches and ministering through the New York State Department of Corrections. A devoted member of the Church of the Nazarene, Barry's unwavering faith was the foundation of his life. He had a genuine passion for sharing the love of Jesus Christ with others and dedicated his life to spreading God's word, offering encouragement, and helping those in need. His ministry extended far beyond the walls of the church, as he touched countless lives through his kindness, compassion, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Barry was a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures. An avid fisherman, he treasured the peace and tranquility of being on the water. He also enjoyed woodworking, taking pleasure in working with his hands and creating things.

He was an enthusiastic reader who loved staying informed about current events and keeping up with the news. Known for his wonderful sense of humor, Barry always had a joke ready to share and enjoyed bringing laughter and smiles to those around him. Barry and his wife, Marissa, shared a love of traveling and especially cherished their day trips together, finding joy in exploring new places, enjoying each other's company, and making lasting memories along the way.

His warm personality, generous spirit, and genuine interest in others made him a beloved presence wherever he went.

Above all, Barry was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with those he loved. His children and grandchildren were a tremendous source of pride and happiness, and he especially enjoyed attending their sporting events, activities, and special occasions. Whether cheering from the sidelines or simply spending time together, Barry treasured the memories they created. His legacy of faith, love, laughter, and service to others will live on in the hearts of his family and all who were blessed to know him.

Barry was predeceased by his first wife, Paula; parents, Leslie and Rose; and brother, David Cook.

Surviving are his wife, Marissa; sons, Barry (Sharon) Cook of Syracuse and Paul Cook of Marcellus; daughters, Darlene (Eric) Pappert of Rochester and Nicole (Buddy) Buckhout of Camillus; grandchildren, Elijah, Sydney, Benjamin, Chelsea, Cassie, Natalie, Allison, Ryan, Joshua, and Erica; great-grandchildren, Della, Conrad, and Sparrow; sisters, Elaine (Alan) Brown of Lexington, SC, and Joy Gann of Lake Lotawana, MO; father and mother-in-law, Elwyn (Marilyn) Berg of Newark Valley; stepdaughters, Molly (Adam) Orasi of Auburn and Emma Graves of Vestal; stepson, Dan (Savannah) Graves of Owego; step grandchildren, Quincy and Azalea; brother-in-law, Martin (Rhonda) Berg of Binghamton; and many nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Barry’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Monday, November 9, 2026, from noon to 1 p.m. at Christ Community Church,3644 Warners Rd., Syracuse.

A funeral service will follow at the church.

Barry will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, Owego Church of the Nazarene, 3732 Waverly Rd., Owego, NY 13827.