Connie Cook

Mary Constance (Connie) Cook passed away peacefully at home in Pittsburgh, PA on Sunday, November 10 at the age of 86. Connie was born September 25, 1938, in New Brighton, PA to John Geyer Cook and Beulah Veiock Cook. From birth, Connie was challenged by a number of intellectual and physical developmental disabilities. At a time when most individuals like Connie were relegated to large state-run institutions, her parents chose to care for her at home. There she thrived in the company of her older siblings, the late John (Jack) Cook and Nancy Green, and a supportive extended family.

When the responsibility for Connie’s care shifted to her siblings in 1968, most individuals with IDD were still being institutionalized, but there was nascent change on the horizon. Nancy became an advocate for greater family services in Allegheny County, and together with the support and assistance of her building contractor brother Jack and the local mental health agency, she developed the first residential group home in suburban Pittsburgh for adults with IDD. Though this residence met with initial community resistance, it proved to be an excellent neighbor, and its success provided a model that flourishes to this day and is considered the standard of care.

Connie was one of the pioneering first residents of this group home, and she spent the rest of her life in the company of friends and caregivers in evolving models of community supportive housing now provided by Mainstay Life Services. Thanks to the inspiration that Connie provided, countless individuals with disabilities are now able to live in dignity and surrounded by love.

Connie is survived by her sister, Nancy Green, and multiple generations of nieces and nephews. A private service is being planned at Bower Hill Community Church on December 7. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Mainstay Life Services.    Arrangements entrusted by FREYVOGEL-SLATER FUNERAL DIRECTORS (412-835-1860) 112 Fort Couch Rd., Bethel Park 15241 (Opposite Macy’s South Hills Village).