James G. Cockerham

James G. Cockerham of Downingtown James G. Cockerham, 69, of Downingtown, formerly of Malvern, went home to be with his Lord and Saviour, surrounded by his family, on May 31, 2013, after a brief struggle with cancer. Born in West Chester in 1944, Jim was the son of Helen R. (Moore) and William E. Cockerham, Sr., both deceased. He was a graduate of Conestoga High School and in 1963, he entered the United States Army in which he proudly served two tours of duty during the Vietnam War. From the age of 16, Jim was an active member of the East Whiteland Fire Company, where he was co-creator of the yellow and white color scheme for the fire truck and was instrumental in obtaining the first one of those colors, the 1969 Hahn fire truck. He also served as Deputy Constable of East Whiteland Township. He enjoyed playing drums for "The Belvedeers", a local band who played at various locations. Jim founded and managed the A. Duie Pyle Truck Driving Academy and was rightfully proud of the contribution he made not only to Pyle through his many efforts, but to the individual lives he touched through his work. Nearly 250 people passed through the Academy under Jim's capable guidance. He was predeceased by his wife of 41 years, Betty L. Cockerham on April 1st of this year. He was the loving father of Alan F. Cockerham (Ellen) and Rachel A. Bilger (Gerald); dear grandfather of Samantha, Emily, Taylor, Casey and Rebecca; great-grandfather of Matthew, Jacob and Carter; and dear brother of Dorothy Rickers (Richard), Bill Cockerham, Jr. and Randy Cockerham. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing 9 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, immediately followed by his funeral service at 11:30 a.m. at the Donohue Funeral Home, 43 W. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, PA 19335, 610-269-3080. Interment will be at Hephzibah Baptist Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Crossroads Hospice, 523 Plymouth Rd., #225, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462. Online condolences at www.donohuefuneralhome.com.