John D. Cockrell

John Douglas Cockrell, 81, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024. He was born September 9, 1942 in Muskogee, Oklahoma to John Wesley and Helen Myrl (Miller) Cockrell. He grew up in McAlester, Oklahoma with his two older brothers and his mother. His grandparents played an active role in his life and helped shape the wonderful husband, dad, and grandpa he would later become. John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army. His service began January 13, 1964 and his honorable discharge came on December 23, 1966. He married the love of his life, Elaine Francis Valentine on November 3, 1967 in New York City. They shared almost 40 years of life, marriage, raising a family, and many wonderful memories together. Elaine passed away unexpectedly from a brain tumor in 2006. Even to the day he passed, he could not talk about her without getting emotional. John was a very hard worker, always providing for his family in any way he could. He worked as a district manager for the Tulsa World and later retired from All Pro Fasteners. John loved to fish, spending time outdoors, and woodworking. He enjoyed attending church and listening to Billy Graham. He gave many years of his life to volunteer services. He enjoyed his work with the homeless at City Lights Foundation in Tulsa. He was an active member of The Park Church of Christ where he participated in prison ministries. He was always willing to help someone in their time of need. Family was everything to John. He was so proud of his son and his daughter. He never missed an opportunity to brag on them and always showed them unconditional love. His grandchildren were the lights of his life. He was the best grandpa anyone could ever ask for. He was very involved in their lives and would do anything for them. John’s passing will leave a void in the lives of all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Wesley and Helen Myrl Cockrell; his brothers, James Cockrell and Ronald Cockrell; and his loving wife, Elaine Cockrell. John is survived by his son, John Cockrell and his wife Jonna of Broken Arrow, OK; daughter, Kerry Carment and husband David of San Diego, CA; grandchildren, Jackson Cockrell, Bryce Cockrell, and Alexandria Cockrell, all of Broken Arrow, OK, and Sean Carment of San Diego, CA; along with other family members. A memorial service celebrating John’s life will be at 10AM, Monday, June 17, 2024 at Park Grove Cemetery in Broken Arrow, OK with Mr. Charlie Kymes officiating. Military honors will be presented.

John D. Cockrell

September 9, 1942 - June 9, 2024