Vena "Dorris" (Barrett) Cook

Vena Dorris Cook, age 93, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, in Matador, Texas.

Dorris was born on January 26, 1932, in Spur, Texas, to Vernie Barrett and Maude (Brock) Barrett. She spent her life rooted in Spur, where her faith, independence, and strong opinions were well known.

In 1952, she married Leonard Skinner, and together they had one daughter, Linn Schellinger. She later married William “Bill” Cook. Dorris is survived by two grandsons, Justin and Matthew, and one great-granddaughter, Abbigail “Abby.” She was preceded in death by her daughter, Linn Schellinger; her brother, R.V. Barrett; and her parents, Vernie and Maude Barrett.

Dorris’s faith was the foundation of her life. She was a devoted, lifelong member of Community Bible Chapel, where she was the church’s oldest member. If the doors were open, Dorris was there. Many times, she would walk down the alley from her home just to attend services. Her church family was truly her family, and she loved them deeply.

An avid reader, Dorris read everything she could get her hands on. Books were her constant companions, and for most of her life she preferred reading to television, finally owning one only in recent years. She was opinionated and strong-willed—once Dorris made up her mind, it was made.

She adored animals of all kinds, especially dogs, and at one time cared for nearly twenty. She often said, “I tolerate people, but I love animals.” Her beloved dog Buddy was a faithful companion and brought her great comfort.

Dorris was anything but quiet. She was outspoken, honest, and unafraid to say exactly what she thought. Her opinions, quick wit, and unmistakable giggle made her unforgettable to those who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Community Bible Chapel in Spur, Texas, with C.C. Noland officiating. Interment will follow at Spur Memorial Cemetery, under the direction of Zapata Funeral Home.

Vena Dorris Cook will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her love of reading, her devotion to animals, her bold spirit, and the church family she cherished.