March 10, 2026, 87, Kenly – Elton Lee Cockrell, 87, of Kenly, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette Cockrell, his parents, Lester and Pansy Cockrell, his father-in-law, Sanford Johnson, his mother-in-law, Bessie Johnson, his brother, Eugene Cockrell, and his nephew, Rodney Cockrell.
Elton is survived by his son, Dr. Mark Cockrell and wife, Ronnia, and his grandchildren, Hunter Cockrell and wife, Jackie, Hailee Cockrell, Eli Frazier and wife, Catherine, Eynde Frazier, and special breakfast buddy, Barrett Frazier. He also cherished the close bond he shared with his four brothers and sister, his friends, and many nieces and nephews.
After serving his country in the United States Army, Elton married the love of his life, Jeanette Cockrell. They shared 61 wonderful years of marriage together. Elton spent the majority of his work life at Sylvania and the last 25 years at Boykin’s Upholstery Service and was known by many as a true jack of all trades.
He enjoyed working on household projects and was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors, and family. He took great pride in supporting his family and could often be found cheering from the sidelines at countless ball games for his son and grandchildren. Elton was a faithful member of Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church.
A service to celebrate Elton’s life will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of Kenly Funeral Service. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Kenly Cemetery. The family will also receive friends at his home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Zion Free Will Baptist Church, 9300 Johnson Farm Road, Kenly, NC 27542, in memory of Elton Cockrell.
Services have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service. Online condolences may be made at www.kenlyfs.com.
