Rincon – Heaven gained a sweet gentle spirit when, Maurine Cook Santoro, 96, passed away September 28, 2024 at Effingham Hospital.

The Bulloch County native was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.  She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who was always there when we needed her the most, offering wisdom, support, and love to all that knew her.  She was a fabulous cook and homemaker, a role model to many.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lee Roy Cook, Sr. and Joanna Cone Cook; her husband, Jean C. Santoro to whom she was married to for 66 years; and her siblings, Inman, Myrtle Flake, Mary Ewing, Lee Roy, Jr., Eugene, and John.

She was very much loved by not only her family, friends, but also her neighborhood family.  She shared a special relationship with her cousin, Vivian Geiger.  The two were like sisters and chatted daily about life.

Survivors include her son, Tony Santoro (Susan); grandchildren, Christopher Santoro (Sarah Joanne) and Sarah Kathryn Santoro; numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, October 3, 2024 at the funeral home followed by funeral services at 3 p.m. in the chapel.

Interment will follow in Effingham Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers please donate to St. Jude Children's Hospital.  stjude.org/donate

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel, 2460 Hwy. 21 S., Rincon, GA 31326. 912-754-6421