James Winford Cockrell of Indianola passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2023, after a lengthy battle from stroke complications. At time of death, he was at home surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and wife of 57 years.
Known to his friends and family as “Wimp,” he was born Aug. 5, 1941, to James Monroe Cockrell and Willie Lucille Cockrell in Vaiden, Miss.
To all who knew him, his nickname was furthest from the man he was. Wimp marched to the beat of his own drum, was a fountain of knowledge and wisdom on just about any subject, and worked tirelessly his entire life to provide for his family and loved ones. We will all miss his reminiscence, stories, and tales of yesteryear.
Anyone who knew Wimp quickly discovered he never met a stranger. While a man of few words, you always knew where his heart was. Old fashioned in his beliefs of family, faith and hard work, his legacy is one of love and family first.
Wimp was predeceased by his parents, Jake and Lucille Cockrell; sisters, Frankie Ellis and Doris Bennett; and brothers, Charles and Bobby Cockrell.
He is survived by his wife, Levetar Sellers Cockrell; sons Darrell and Harold Cockrell; brother, Billy Ray Cockrell; sisters, Charlotte Holloway, Jean Donald and Barbara Amason; grandchildren, Allevia, Courtney, Jake, Daniel and Hunter Cockrell, and Addie Holcomb; son-in-law, Richard Carlisle; and daughter-in-law, Michelle Cockrell.
True to his humble nature, Wimp requested a graveside service only with no fanfare, which was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at Indianola Memorial Gardens. Wimp’s brother-in-law, Brother Arnold Amason, officiated at the service.
Burton Funeral Home of Indianola was entrusted with arrangements.
