Aletha Mae Cooks Waring

Aletha Cooks Waring was born April 13, 1947 in Los Angeles, California to Leroy Cooks and Anna Louise Fredericks Cooks. Her parents were part of the U.S. Second Great Migration of Black Americans who left behind Jim Crow laws of the South for greater opportunities and a better life in California.

Aletha was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Leroy “Butch” Cooks, Jr., and her husband, Bradford Waring. Some may be surprised to learn that in her younger years, Aletha was an avid roller skater and spent countless joyful hours at the Hollywood Rollerbowl skating rink on Sunset Blvd. Following high school, she joined the Peace Corps, living out her quest for adventure, as well as her desire to live a life of service to those in need.

Aletha began her career as a Certified Nurse Assistant in Chicago, Illinois. Her concern for others’ well being was only matched by her empathy and style of care. Although she resided and worked in Illinois and Georgia, Aletha ultimately laid down roots in Las Vegas, Nevada, which she proudly called home.

Aletha also had a creative and gifted nature. She was known and often called upon for her exceptional craftsmanship at sewing, crocheting, and knitting.

Aletha leaves behind her dearest friend and beloved roommate, Donald “Ray” Nathan, as well as family members throughout the U.S. including the Rieux family in Southern California, and the Fredericks family in Chicago, Illinois and Pass Christian, Mississippi. (For genealogy researchers, Aletha’s maternal lineage includes Ashley, Toulman, and Fredericks surnames.)

A woman of deep faith, Aletha was a devout Catholic and member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her life was marked by resilience, creativity, and enduring friendships. As in life, may Aletha’s infectious smile and laugh be remembered and continue to evoke heartfelt memories.