James Chapron Cocke (Jim), 83, died Sunday, January 26, 2020.

He was born to the late William and Mary Cocke, November 7, 1936, in Demopolis, AL. Jim graduated from University Military School in Mobile, Al in 1955 and attended Auburn University before joining the Marine Corps.  He married Doris Bowron in 1961, and lived in Mobile, AL and Charlotte, NC, before settling in Alabaster, AL in 1972.

Jim was a salesman for several companies in the pulp and paper industry and retired in 1998. He was an active member at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Montevallo, AL where he was instrumental in establishing, and became a charter member of Knights of Columbus Council 9550. Jim was an avid reader and scholar. He often gave talks on numerous historical subjects, but most specifically early Alabama history.  His storytelling abilities were captivating, even for the uninterested.

Jim is survived by three children: James C. Cocke, Jr., Bradford S. Cocke, John W. Cocke.  He is also survived by six grandchildren: James C. Cocke, III, Connor C. Cocke, Leanna M. Cocke, Baylor B. Cocke, E. Morgan Cocke, and J. Cameron Cocke.

A visitation is scheduled at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Montevallo, AL from 10:00am  to 11:00am, with Mass starting at 11:00am.  Burial will be in Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, AL at 12:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Wreaths Across America (www.wreathsacrossamerica.org)