Willard M. Cockerham

Willard M. Cockerham, of Salem, passed away on December 26, 2009. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert J. Cockerham and Vella Carr Cockerham and his twin brother, Dillard J. Cockerham. He was a Navy veteran of World War II and retired from Eli Lilly. Willard's love of the outdoors was evident in his pastimes of hunting and fishing. He also loved scouting and served as Scoutmaster. Willard was a devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church in Salem. He served as a Deacon for many years and was awarded the status of Deacon Emeritus. Surviving are his beloved wife of 62 years, Mildred Clark Cockerham; his daughters, Chris (Punkin) Hart and Jackie O'Neill; son-in-law, Chris O'Neill; grandchildren, Molly Hart, Patrick O'Neill, and Mary Catherine Yeakel; great-grandson, Miles Laverty; nephew, Stephen J. Cockerham; nieces, Linda Shrader and Michelle Kessinger; and his uncle, Dean Carr, of Galax. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at John M. Oakey & Son, Salem. A memorial service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at Bethel Baptist Church, Salem. The Cockerham family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son, Salem, 540-389-5441.