James "Jim" Cockerel, Jr.

James "Jim" Cockerel, Jr., 92, of Clay City, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Axiom Healthcare of Flora in Flora, Illinois.

Jim was born on March 18, 1933, the son of James Sr. and Katherine L. (Wright) Cockerel. He married Catherine Harbin on March 5, 1954 in Clay City, and she survives.

Jim started out working for his dad in the oil business, Tri-State Sales and Service, after which, he joined the United States Army, where he served from 1953-1954. After that, he and his brother-in-law began a farm implement business, Pearce and Cockerel. He did that for eleven years, until he bought his dad's business.

Jim loved anything with a motor in it, and he knew all that there was to know about cars. He also loved car racing of all types, attending any and all that he could. Jim had a need for speed.

He was also a member of the Clay City Christian Church.

Jim is survived by his wife, Catherine of Clay City; children, Kahla (Kim) Anderson of Bristol, RI, Connie (Richard) Thomas of Crossville, IL, and Jeffrey Cockerel of Grand Junction, CO; grandchildren, Courtney, Goodwin, Branda, Linda, Jencie, John, Kaylee, Jackie, Nicole, Amanda, Nathelee, Joanna, and Christopher; two great granddaughters, Rose and Hazel; great grandsons, Carter and Camden, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, James Bradley Cockerel; sister, Marilyn Patridge; brother, Jack Cockerel.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Clay City has been entrusted with arrangements.

A visitation will be held for friends and family from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday, June 29, 2025 at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Clay City.

A funeral will be held for Jim at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the funeral home.

Interment will follow the service at Clay City Cemetery, with Full Military Rites to be performed at the graveside.

Memorials can be made to Clay City Christian Church.