Frances Emerson Cockroft

After an unexpected battle with a liver infection, complicated by many other medical issues, Frances “Fran” Emerson Cockroft of Crystal Springs, MS went home peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday January 9, 2022 while surrounded by loved ones.

Fran Cockroft was born on January 14, 1939 in Columbia, TN to her parents, Floyd and Frances Emerson. Her family moved to Jackson, MS when Fran was young and they joined First Baptist Jackson. She married the love of her life, Willie Cockroft, on November 18, 1960 at First Baptist Jackson. Later they became long time members of Alta Woods Presbyterian Church. At the time of her death, Fran was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Crystal Springs.

Fran graduated from Provine High School and later attended the University of Southern Mississippi. She followed in her father’s footsteps by working at South Central Bell or “The Telephone Company” as they liked to refer to it. She was an Engineering Assistant in the Network Operations Department. Once she retired, she and Willie enjoyed traveling with family, spending time with church groups such as the Sunshine Club, & gardening together.

Fran is survived by her daughter, Amy Blair (Tim) of Byram, MS; son, Todd Cockroft (Amy) of Ocean Springs, MS; daughter, Casey Cuff (Danny) of Centerville, OH; grandchildren: Jeb, Jenna, Anora, Ethan, Charlotte, & Jack. Many nephews and nieces, family and friends will also greatly miss her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Frances Emerson; beloved husband, Willie Cockroft; infant son; sister, Katherine “Tat” Markushewski.

Fran was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a treasured Mema & Memaw, and an encouraging friend. Her hobbies included completing crossword puzzles, baking (or finding new desserts to bake), and gardening. What many may not know is that she had a strong artistic side, whether it was sketching, coloring, cross-stitching, crocheting or quilting. She also loved to refinish furniture and did an amazing job. She loved collecting antiques, but most belonged to the family and had a special meaning. She also was an avid animal rescuer. She had a tender heart for animals who needed rescuing and love. She gave both.

Fran loved to laugh and loved to make others laugh. She had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. She was a feisty firecracker. Don’t let her small size surprise you because she may have been small but she could make a big bang. She held deeply to her beliefs but also had a tender heart. She was a devoted wife as well as caregiver to her beloved husband until his death in Oct. 2019. She loved her family and treasured her grandkids. Friends were blessings, especially after Willie died. She had faith in Jesus and because of that we know she has found peace, joy, love, and rest.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 14, 2022, 1:00-2:00pm at Lakewood Funeral Home, Jackson, MS. Funeral services will be held 2:00pm at Lakewood Funeral Home, Jackson, MS. **Family requests masks to be worn.**