BENTON – Terry K. Cockrum, 83, of Benton and formerly of Sesser, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
He was born on March 22, 1942, to Kenneth W. Cockrum and Emma Louise “Jackie” Van Hoorebeke.
A proud graduate of the Sesser High School Class of 1960, Terry led a career marked by service and entrepreneurship. He worked for over 25 years as an auditor for the State of Illinois and co-owned the Sesser Grain Company alongside his father. From 1987 to 2007, he and his second wife, Penry, owned and operated Poulson Funeral Home in Benton.
In later years, Terry shared a meaningful and joyful partnership with his wife, Alyce “Coleman” Cockrum. For eight years, they were inseparable companions — sharing stories, laughter, and late-night conversations. Whether riding through Sesser in their side-by-side or enjoying quiet evenings, their bond was one of deep affection and mutual respect.
Terry was an avid photographer, with a special eye for the charm and beauty of Southern Illinois. He captured candid moments of animals, architecture, and everyday life, often joking that “the only thing I shoot these days are pictures.” He had a warm, welcoming spirit and took pleasure in sharing a good meal with those he loved.
He is survived by his children:
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Chris (Lee) Cockrum of Baltimore, Maryland
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Craig (Chrissy Boyd) Cockrum of Sesser
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Vickie Cockrum of St. Charles, Missouri
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Steffaney (Tom Welty) Seagle
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John (Traci) Brennan of Orfordville, Wisconsin
He is also survived by his foster brother, Jerry (Sylvia) Herman of Madison, Tennessee.
Terry was affectionately known as “Papa Terry” by his grandchildren:
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Samantha Cockrum of O’Fallon, Missouri
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Lance (Kaydee) Cockrum of Benton
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Haley Cockrum of Germany
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Graham Brennan of Janesville, Wisconsin
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Hannah (Austin Baker) Brennan of Middleburg, Florida
His great-grandchildren, Briggsten and Kennedy Cockrum, both of Benton, brought him great joy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenny and Jackie Cockrum; his first wife of 19 years, Mary “Williams” Cockrum; and his second wife of 30 years, Penry “Poulson” Cockrum.
Terry will be remembered as a gifted storyteller with a sharp wit and a mischievous sense of humor. His tales of youthful “wild times” and unexpected punchlines will long live in the memories of those who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life open house will be held Saturday, August 30, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Brewed on Broadway (Gualdoni Building), 102 West Franklin Avenue, Sesser, Illinois. All are welcome to attend this informal gathering to celebrate Terry’s life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Horse Prairie Cemetery or Friends of Franklin County Animal Control. Contributions will be accepted at the Celebration of Life or can be mailed to: Leffler Funeral Home, 401 E. Main St., Benton, IL 62812.
Leffler Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
To leave condolences or share memories, please visit www.lpfuneralhome.com.
