George William "Bill" Cockrum, Jr.

George William "Bill" Cockrum Jr., affectionately known as "Papa," of Dandridge, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the age of 81. Bill faced his Alzheimer's diagnosis with remarkable courage and grace. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Navy as a Petty Officer 3rd Class with the Seabees in support of Marine Corps units in Vietnam. Upon completing his military service, Bill built a long and successful career in management with the K-Mart Corporation, moving his young family across the country in pursuit of new opportunities and adventures. Always ready for something new, Bill and his beloved wife Sue bought a house in Burgaw, North Carolina, during a summer vacation-an impulsive decision that led to years of friendship, laughter, and community. After retiring, they returned to their home state of Tennessee, settling into their cherished cabin on Douglas Lake. Papa adored his grandchildren and found pure joy in watching them play in the lake, light fireworks on the shore, and gather around bonfires and cookouts with family. After Sue's passing and his own health challenges, Bill was blessed to be cared for by his "guardian angel," Tei Gagstatter, whose compassion and dedication brought great comfort. When his needs increased, he received kind and loving care from the staff at Charter Senior Living and Jefferson City Health and Rehab. Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Sue Tuttle Cockrum; his parents, Winifred and George Cockrum; and his in-laws, Dorothy and Robert Tuttle. He is survived by his sons John (Ginny) Cockrum of Hampstead, North Carolina, and Jim Cockrum of Strawberry Plains, Tennessee; his cherished grandchildren Porter, Jack, Fletcher, Patton, Willa, Layla and Aiden; and his sister and brother-in-law Becky and Steve Mishket of Dandridge, Tennessee. Bill will be remembered for his loyalty, humor, and deep love for his family-a man who lived fully, served faithfully, and loved generously. The family would like to thank the caregivers at Charter and Jefferson City Health and Rehab; and a very special thanks to Caris Healthcare Hospice Team. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: Isaiah House Jefferson County, TN https://isaiah117house.com/jefferson-county-tn OR Welcome Home Angel: https://welcomehomeangel.com/get-involved-2/ The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Rose Mortuary Broadway Chapel. The family and friends will meet at 10:45 am Monday, November 10, 2025, at Highland Memorial Cemetery for an 11:00 am interment service. Online obituary and memorial page are available at www.rosefuneraltn.com.