Billy Ray Cockrell, 78, of Indianola, passed away Monday, November 25, 2024, at his home.

Billy Ray was born January 21, 1946, in Indianola, to James Monroe Cockrell and Lucille Holmes Cockrell. He was raised in Indianola where he attended school. Billy Ray was a truck driver for Allen Canning Company for 30 years under the CB radio handle "Catfish" and later drove for Beckham Brothers Farm in Inverness for several years prior to his retirement. He was a hard-working man and enjoyed his travels while driving trucks. Billy Ray enjoyed hunting and fishing in his younger years. He loved his family and the time he spent with his grandchildren.  Billy Ray also enjoyed mowing his yard and drinking coffee with his friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Billy "Ray" Cockrell, Jr; three brothers, Winford "Wimp" Cockrell, Bobby Cockrell, and Charles Cockrell; two sisters, Frankie Ellis and Doris Bennett; and two nephews, Bill Bennett and Scottie Mitchell.

Billy Ray is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sara Williamson Cockrell; daughter, Angela Cockrell Schad (Chay) of Coila; three sisters, Barbara Amason (Arnold) of Mize, Charlotte Holloway (Anthony) of Avoca, Iowa, and Jean Donald of Cordova, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Swep, Mason, Matthew, and Madalynn; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 29, 2024, from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm, at Burton Funeral Home in Indianola. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 pm with Rev. Larry Franklin officiating. Burial will follow in Indianola Memorial Gardens. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola has been entrusted with arrangements.