Mr. Willie Garvis Cockroft

After a long battle with lung related illnesses that began shortly after Hurricane Katrina, Willie Garvis Cockroft of Crystal Springs, MS went home peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday October 21, 2019 while surrounded by loved ones.

Willie Cockroft was born on Jan. 13, 1936 in Lena, MS to his parents, Willie and Lessie Cockroft. After several moves his family settled in the Jackson Metro area. Willie became a Christian at an early age and always had a heart for others. He served faithfully as an officer at Alta Woods Presbyterian Church in Jackson, MS for nearly 30 years. In 2005 he became Elder Emeritus to “honor his earnest labor among God’s people”. His heart was for missions and for others.

He graduated from Byram High School in 1954 and immediately began working as a diesel mechanic in his younger years. He was also a Reservist in the Army National Guard before going full time Active Duty. He loved and served his country well and retired as Sergeant First Class after serving for close to 30 years.

Willie is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Fran; daughter, Amy Blair (Tim) of Byram; son, Todd Cockroft (Amy) of Ocean Springs; daughter, Casey Cuff (Danny) of Centerville, OH; grandchildren: Jeb, Jenna, Anora, Ethan, Charlotte & Jack; sisters: Gleva Hollis of Carthage, MS and Carla Hayman of Canton, MS. Many nephews and nieces, family and friends will also greatly miss him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Lessie Cockroft; brother, John T. Cockroft; and infant son.

Willie was a devoted husband, a loving father and an amazing Pop. He had many hobbies which included working with his hands, whether it was on cars or gardening. He was an avid reader and loved to hear or tell a good story…and usually with a twinkle in his eye. He was known for his kindness, generosity, gentleness and humor. Using his quick wit and humor (& sometimes facial expressions) he always wanted those around him to be laughing or smiling…no matter how he was feeling. Even in sickness, Willie placed others in front of himself. He was a good and faithful servant to his Lord, his country, his family and to people.

Visitation will be held Thursday, Oct 24, 2019, 6:00pm-8:00pm and Friday, Oct 25, 2019, 1:00-2:00pm at Lakewood Funeral Home, Jackson, MS.

Funeral services will be on Friday, Oct. 25, 2019 at 2:00pm at Lakewood Funeral Home, Jackson, MS.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Crystal Springs for their Missions Fund. Mailing address is 316 E. Marion Avenue, Crystal Springs, MS 39059.