20 Aug In Remembrance of Richard “Chip” Cooke, Jr.
September 23, 1972 – July 28, 2024
We honor the memory of Richard “Chip” Cooke, Jr., our Chief Executive Officer and Owner, who passed away peacefully on July 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Chip was an extraordinary leader whose influence profoundly shaped Tax Management Associates, Inc. (TMA) during his 25 years with the company.
Born in Columbia, SC, Chip moved with his family to Charlotte at an early age. He attended Charlotte Country Day School, where he played soccer and lacrosse. He continued his athletic and academic pursuits at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia before transferring to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he completed his undergraduate studies. Chip later earned his Master of Business Administration from Wake Forest University through the executive program, all while working for TMA.
From 2001 to 2004, Chip managed Accenture’s Finance and Performance Management service line. At the time, Accenture was a 12 billion dollar management consulting firm. After his successful tenure with Accenture, Chip returned to TMA, dedicating most of his professional life to leading and eventually owning the business. Throughout his TMA career, Chip held roles of Auditor, Director of Marketing, Chief Financial Officer, and Owner & CEO.
During his time living at Wrightsville Beach in the early 2000s, Chip met and married his beloved wife of 20 years, Kathleen Nyilyk Cooke, before relocating back to Charlotte. An avid outdoorsman, Chip’s love for hunting and fishing was surpassed only by his devotion to his family, faith, friends, and TMA. He and Kathleen share two wonderful sons who share Chip’s passion for the outdoors. As a dedicated member at Myers Park Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, NC, Chip served as an adult Sunday School teacher, confirmation leader, and elder. He participated in numerous mission trips to El Salvador, where he worked hard to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
As we move ahead, TMA will honor Chip’s legacy by upholding the values and high standards he set for us. The Cooke family will continue to own the company, as it has for the past 45 years. Kathleen, who has been actively involved in TMA operations, will assume the role of Owner. Kathleen will work closely with the strong leadership team that Chip has built over the years.
We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and prayers for the Cooke family and TMA as we honor and remember Chip. Thank you to our colleagues, clients, and friends for standing with us as we celebrate Chip’s life and legacy.