Rona Shavon Cook-White

Celebration of Life Honoring Rona S. Cook-White

2/28/1973 - 4/23/2025

Rona, affectionately known as "Rib Tip" by Darin and "The Sergeant" by Suzanne Cook, graced our family with her presence on February 28, 1972, in Gardena, California. Born to Roy Edward Cook and Suzanne Taylor as the eldest of two children, she naturally embraced the role of protector and leader from a very early age.

Growing up in Compton, California, she attended Tibby Elementary and Vanguard Junior High School before graduating from Gardena High School. At the tender age of 14, Rona accepted Christ and shared her beautiful voice as a member of the choir at Praise Sanctuary Church.

Her professional journey began at the Compton Library, and she later ascended to a managerial role in the Human Resources Department at Countrywide, reflecting her dedication and steadfast commitment to excellence. Beyond her career, Rona’s leadership shone through in her community, where she consistently demonstrated genuine love, care, and service towards friends and family.

A deep bond with her father enriched her life, and after her parents’ separation, she courageously supported her mother through difficult times while guiding her sister through the challenges of growing up. Family was always paramount to Rona—when the family matriarch passed away, she took on the vital task of keeping everyone united and connected.

Her legacy of unwavering leadership, kindness, and devotion to family and community will forever remain in our hearts.

To know Rona is to love her, but to KNOW RONA, is to know this: Time is not of essence. She loved to hit the town, and was the life of the party. When you were around her, you would always know you were going to have a good time.

Rona White was a beacon of love and strength, a woman whose unwavering kindness and devotion touched the lives of all who had the privilege to know her. Whether in times of joy or hardship, she was always there—a steady presence, a source of comfort, and a reminder of the power of compassion.

In 2005, Rona met the love of her life, Darin White. Their connection was instant, a love that blossomed and led to their wedding on August 4, 2007, at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, CA. Earlier that same year, she earned her bachelor's degree, embodying the dedication that would define her journey.

In 2008, the couple moved to El Paso, Texas. Committed to growth and excellence, Rona pursued and obtained her MBA in 2010. While challenges arose, they were soon graced with their greatest blessing—a beautiful daughter, Debra Rayne White in the summer of 2011.

The family’s adventures took them to Okinawa, Japan, in 2012, and they returned to California, Camp Pendleton specifically in 2014. Darin eventually retired from the U.S. Marines in 2017

after which they settled down in Los Angeles. Rona embraced the roles that meant the most to her—wife, mother, and unwavering supporter of her family.

Eight days prior to Darin’s last day of service, Rona was diagnosed with lung cancer, a challenge that she faced with remarkable courage. Rather than retreat, she took action, becoming a fierce advocate for the American Lung Association. Her resilience propelled her into a new calling—raising awareness, standing for others, and fighting for change.

During this journey, Rona rediscovered her passion for writing, sharing her voice and becoming a published author with the Billbrew Writers Group.

By 2022, she had become an integral force within the American Lung Association, ultimately serving as a spokesperson for its Los Angeles chapter. Her dedication led her to Washington, D.C., where she participated in advocacy day in 2023, making her voice heard on a national stage. She also took on leadership roles as Chairperson for Climb for Life at the LA Coliseum in 2024 and co-chair in 2025—her impact reaching far and wide.

Beyond her advocacy, Rona lived life fully. Her love for hip-hop culture was infectious, and her laughter—a sound so warm and radiant—drew people in. Whether sharing meals with loved ones, watching her favorite shows, or simply enjoying life’s everyday moments, she carried a presence that made others feel at home.

Rona was a woman of deep faith, keeping God at the center of her life. She lived by the words of Philippians 4:13, her guiding scripture: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

On April 23rd, Rona found her eternal rest. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering determination. She is survived by her devoted husband, Darin, her cherished daughter, Debra-Rayne, her loving mother, Suzanne Cook, her sister Purnell Cook, and her brother-in-law Oscar Rodriguez. She is also remembered by her sister-in-law Danielle White, and the COUNTLESS family members, friends, and community members whose lives she touched so deeply.

Rona’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her, a reminder of the beauty of resilience and the boundless reach of love.