James Boxley Cooke, a former T. Rowe Price executive known for his multifaceted interests in aviation, music, and sailing, passed away last month at the age of 89 due to natural causes. He died at Blakehurst Senior Living in Towson, Maryland.
Born in West Virginia, Cooke pursued his education at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, before attending Brown University. After marrying his high school sweetheart, Jane Claire Cooke, he settled in Maryland, where he embarked on a career in finance. He initially worked at Merrill Lynch before joining T. Rowe Price, eventually serving as vice president of marketing. Colleagues and family described him as approachable and down-to-earth, contrasting with the typical aggressive culture of investment banking.
An avid aviator, Cooke completed Air Force pilot training and served as a second lieutenant in the West Virginia Air National Guard. He later flew with the Maryland Air National Guard and owned a Cessna 172, which he piloted across the United States and to destinations such as California and Bermuda. Family members recalled his day trips flying to nearby towns like Ocean City, where he would combine his love for flying with cycling and dining.
Beyond aviation, Cooke was committed to mentoring young people. After retiring, he volunteered with nonprofits in Baltimore, offering guidance on job interview preparation. He also led a state program introducing underserved youth to aviation careers, providing them with opportunities to experience flights firsthand.
Sailing was another of Cooke’s passions. On weekends, he often cruised the Chesapeake Bay in his 1966 Boston Whaler, which he named "Still Here" as a tribute to a family tradition. Music played a central role in his life as well; a skilled pianist who played primarily by ear, he favored jazz and blues, citing artists such as Stan Getz and Oscar Peterson among his influences. Cooke was a familiar presence in Baltimore jazz venues, where he sometimes joined musicians during breaks, and he treasured memorable encounters with legends like Dizzy Gillespie.
Predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Jane Claire Cooke, he is survived by his daughter, Julia Cooke Guth of Owings Mills; sons James Boxley Cooke Jr. of Towson and Douglas Reid Cooke of Frederick; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Visitation is scheduled for August 11 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Mitchell-Wiedefeld Funeral Home in Towson. A funeral service will follow on August 12 at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Redeemer in Baltimore, with a reception afterward. Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Redeemer.