Ms. Maeola Cockerham
Ms. Maeola Cockerham
Ms. Maeola Cockerham graced this world on November 13, 1931. She departed this life on November 25, 2025 at the blessed age of 94.
She was a faithful and cherished member of Mt. Ararat AME Church, where her gifts shined brightly. She was a Missionary, the President of the Choir, and a joyful singer whose voice lifted spirits and filled the sanctuary with warmth. She remained active in the church until her health began to decline. Even when she could no longer physically attend, fellowship was forever in her heart, and her faith never wavered.
She had a love for down-home cooking, the kind that nourished both body and soul, and she found peace in gardening, coaxing beauty from the soil with gentle hands. Professionally, she dedicated many years to Marianna Health and Rehab as a compassionate nursing aide, offering patience, care, and dignity to every life she touched.
Of all her blessings, her greatest joy was her family. She poured her love generously into each generation, and the legacy she leaves behind is rich with devotion and wisdom. Mother Cockerham leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children: Pastor Dwight Cockerham, Sr. (Daisy), Lewis Phillips (Beatrice), Ervin Swails (Gloria), Tondelayo Clemmons (Morris), Deborah Waddell (Joe), and Texawetha Pittman (Curly). She is also lovingly remembered by 21 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends.
Mother Maeola Cockerham lived a life shaped by faith, strengthened by service, and illuminated by love. Her presence was a gift, her example a foundation, and her memory a light that will never fade.
A public viewing will be Friday, December 5th from 3-6pm at Peoples Funeral Home Chapel. A service celebrating a life well lived will be Saturday, December 6th at 12 noon at Second West Missionary Baptist Association Church with Moderator Dwight Cockerham, Sr., Reverend Ronnie Spears and Reverend Alfred Bellamy officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Ararat AME Church Cemetery with arrangements entristed to the caring staff and licensed professionals at Peoples Funeral Home in Marianna, Florida.