James Cockrell

James Derrell (J.D.) Cockrell, USN Ret., age 96, passed away on February 12, 2021.

He was preceded in death by his father James Fenton Cockrell; mother Verna Russell; and daughter-in-law Sue Cockrell.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years Sandra Cockrell; children, Mike and Bob (Jennifer); granddaughter, Rhendi Cotney (Tyler); and two great grand children.

He was born in Fayette, AL, and raised in Chipley, FL. He left high school for the Army during World War II. During this service, he was awarded the Purple Heart due to wounds received during the Anzio campaign in Italy.
After the war, he joined the Navy looking for better opportunities and remained for twenty years of service. His service included submarines and led to involvement in early missile development. The training and experience from his assignments led to employment in the early civilian space industry and a job at the Mississippi Test Facility (now Stennis Space Center) and moving to chosen home of Long Beach. This career allowed him to be a part of the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs.
Even with these heroic and interesting experiences, he was most dedicated to family. He supported his wife, threw and caught many balls in the back yard, coached ball teams, attended countless games and band shows, and chaperoned group trips. He doted on his granddaughter and loved daughters-in-law like his own children. This is what he will most be remembered for.
At his request, there will be no visitation no public services.  Please direct any memorials to the Long Beach First Baptist Church Building Fund.

Private graveside services will be held on Monday, February 22, 2021 at Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave. Biloxi, MS.
Riemann Family Funeral Home, 19130 Commission Rd. Long Beach served the family.
An online obituary may be viewed, and memories and photos shared at www.RiemannFamily.com