Gary Dwayne Cockerham

Gary passed away December 28, 2018 in Grand Saline, TX.

He was born February 25, 1941 in Brawley, CA to Harold Matthew Cockerham and Myrtle Lee Shaw.

Gary grew up in Dallas from the age of 12. He attended South Oak Cliff High School and Kimball High School. Gary married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Jeannette Morin, May 12, 1962. He joined the Army where he served in Vietnam and 3 tours in Germany. After 22 years, Gary retired as a Master Sergeant and Combat Engineer. He attended East Texas State University and received a Bachelor Degree in Agriculture. Gary went to work for the Department of Agriculture as a loan officer and supervisor for rural development for 12 years. He was a master craftsman who enjoyed making furniture, painting, hunting and fishing. Gary also enjoyed growing his own grapes, making wine and beer. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Canton and a lifetime member of the Masonic Lodge #141.

He is survived by his Wife, Shirley Jeannette Cockerham; Daughter, Jeannette Kula; Son, Daniel & Robin Cockerham; Son, Garry & Linda Cockerham; Grandchildren: Brandy & David Fisher, Lauren & Will Bolyn, Jason Cockerham, Collin Cockerham, Danielle Kula, and Matthew Kula; Great-Grandchildren: Aubrey Cockerham, Preston Westerberg, Gatlyn Bolyn, Hudsyn Bolyn, and David Fisher Jr.; and Brother, Bobby & Irelene Copheranham.

Gary is preceded in death by his Parents, Harold & Myrtle Cockerham.

Pallbearers will be Dan Cockerham, Jason Cockerham, Garry Cockerham, Collin Cockerham, Tom Kula, Randy Starks, Will Bolyn, David Fisher and Matthew Kula.

Interment will be at Haven of Memories in Canton, TX.

Family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.