Dorothy M. Cockerham

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” — Psalm 73:26. Dorothy Marie Cockerham, age 98, a native of New Roads, Louisiana, and a resident of Central, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 5, 1928, Dorothy was the daughter of the late Joseph Phillips and Rema Bonaventure Phillips. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Dorothy dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a home filled with love, warmth, and cherished memories. Her unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and devotion to those she loved will remain a lasting legacy for generations to come. Dorothy is survived by her loving daughter, Brenda Felps and her husband, Irwin L. Felps, Jr.; her grandchildren, Amy Stevens and her husband, Gene, Christopher Felps, Keith Cockerham, and Raymie Cockerham; her great-grandchildren, Brody, Baylor, and Bristol Stevens, Brelee, Cambrie, and Harrison Felps; and her brother, Auburn Phillips. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ray Cockerham; her son, Raymond Cockerham; her parents, Joseph and Rema Phillips; her sisters, Rita Mae, Eve, and Bessie; and her brothers, Roy, Clarence, and Adam. A graveside service will be held at Greenoaks Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815 on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Reverend Amy Castro of Blackwater United Methodist Church. Serving as pallbearers will be Irwin Felps, Christopher Felps, Gene Stevens, Brody Stevens, and Harrison Felps. Honorary pallbearer will be Auburn Phillips. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Claiborne family and the compassionate staff of Hospice Specialists of Louisiana for the exceptional care, kindness, and support shown to Dorothy and her family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Dorothy’s memory. Dorothy’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, love, and devotion to family. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know and love her.