Marla Ann Cockrill

Marla Ann Cockrill, 88, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2024 in Wise County, Decatur, Texas. Born on May 5,1935 in Des Moines Iowa. She was the daughter of Aimee Josephine DeGroote and Gerald R. Smith. She was raised in Pleasantville by Aimee and Ed Raney.

Marla attended and graduated from Pleasantville Iowa Schools and attended a year of college. She married Teddy Jack Cockrill from Sanger Texas on August 25, 1955 and was married almost 65 years. They made their home on the family farm for about six months. She and Jack picked cotton and mowed the Tyson cemetery.

Marla’s professional journey was marked by service and commitment. She worked diligently at the Dallas County clerk’s office, the Department of Public Safety, and Southwestern Bell Telephone, leaving a lasting impact with her efficiency and warm demeanor.

Marla’s involvement in community activities was extensive; she served as the neighborhood chairman for the Girl Scouts; her daughter fondly remembers all the boxes of cookies they would have when growing up, exemplifying her nurturing spirit and dedication to youth development. She was also a proud member for 49 years and served as the Worthy Matron in the Order of the Eastern Star-Pilot Point Chapter 1025 and Sanger Chapter 1027, where she found camaraderie and purpose. Marla and Jack lived in the family farmhouse that was moved to its present generation. She was also a member of the North Texas Trinity Cowboy Church, where her faith and community spirit continued to thrive.

Beyond her professional and community contributions, Marla was a passionate rancher who raised cows and lovingly cared for her cats and dogs. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as bird watching, pottery, tending to her vegetable garden, and
preserving her harvest through canning. Her creativity shone through her love for crafts and scrapbooking, which she shared generously with her family and friends.

Above all, Marla was a devoted homemaker and caregiver, especially to her dear husband, Jack. Her family remembers her as having a heart of gold, embodying love and kindness in every aspect of her life. Her role as a mother was central to her identity, and her unconditional love and support enriched the lives of those around her. Marla was a dedicated individual who touched the lives of many through her various roles
and passions.

Marla was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, Teddy Jack Cockrill, and one son, Kenneth Eugene Cockrill. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Victoria “Vickie” and Terry McElroy; Brothers Ronald Raney, Tony Smith, and Jerry Smith; 7 grandchildren, Jeni, Kristi, Lori, Kelli, Kenny, Aimee, and Mary LeAnne; and 16 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren.

Marla Ann Cockrill will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her gentle spirit, unwavering love, and countless contributions to her community and family. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and a life well-lived.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Coker Funeral Home in Sanger. Funeral Services for Marla will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at the North Texas Trinity Cowboy Church. The interment will be in Tyson Cemetery.

Services are with Coker Funeral Home in Sanger. You are welcome to share a memory or offer condolences to the Cockrill Family in our guestbook.