Donald Richard Cocker, Sr. was born October 14, 1942, in Belleville, Illinois to Genell and Maurice Cocker. Don departed this life on August 5, 2024, at the age of 81 years, 2 months, and 2 weeks.
Don loved his Lord Jesus Christ and he is now living in heaven with God.
Don was united in marriage with Nancy Johnson of Fairview Heights, Illinois in August 1963 and celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary, just two days before his death. To this union two sons were born, Donald (Beth) Cocker, II, and Scott (Traci) Cocker.
He happily grew up in O’Fallon, Illinois with his loving and devoted parents, who owned and operated a strawberry farm for a number of years.
Don graduated from O’Fallon Township High School. He started trombone lessons in grade school and finished upon high school graduation. He won many music awards and he was active in all high school band parades and competitions.
He was also honored to have been to “Boys State”. College was next in Belleville, Illinois, and McKendree College in Lebanon, Illinois.
Don was a loving and devoted man to his family and friends, but he was also devoted to the Lord and faithfully attended the O’Fallon Assembly of God Church. Don and Nancy taught Jr Boys Sunday School, Junior Church, Bus Ministry, and organized outings, bonfires, and BBQ’s. He would also make homemade soup for church events, feeding at least 100 folks soup and homemade bread.
Don was a great “PAPA” to his grandchildren, Jessica, Shaina, Kristyna, Christopher, and James; and great-grandpa to 12 babies and toddlers. All were precious and loved!
Don was very active in the O’Fallon Jaycees and served as chapter president for a year and went on to serve a district of about 6 other chapters. Later on, Don was inducted into Jaycee International (J.C.I.) as a senator.
In 2004, the Cocker family moved to the Ozarks to Birch Tree, Missouri. Don served as Birch Tree Chamber of Commerce President, Birch Tree Park Board President, and an Old Iron Club Member. He enjoyed going to auctions, attending Southern Gospel concerts, and camping.
All in all, Don Cocker loved the Lord and attended Pioneer Baptist Church, where he loved and laughed with our church family and our precious pastor, Robert.
Don will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him!
