James Bruce Cocke

James Bruce Cocke, age 85, resident of Somerville, Tennessee and husband of Marjorie Lou Seddens Cocke, departed this life Monday evening, February 10, 2025, at the National HealthCare Center in Somerville.

James Bruce was born December 3, 1939 in Macon, TN, the son of the late Joe Nathaniel Cocke and Susie Virginia Chambers Cocke. He graduated from Fayette County High School in Somerville and was married December 14, 1958 to Marjorie Lou Seddens Cocke. James Bruce was a member of Macon Church of Christ his entire life before joining First Baptist Church Somerville in 2020.

James Bruce was employed at Guthrie & Rosser for several years and also worked as a real estate agent. He later joined the Tennessee Highway Patrol in commercial vehicle enforcement, where he dedicated 35 years of service, retiring as a Lieutenant in 2000.

He was an avid reader who enjoyed playing chess with family and friends, target shooting, and following the stock market. One of his greatest joys was traveling to all 50 states with his loving wife. He also cherished his daily walks with his beloved pet, Angel.

Known for his quick wit and love of laughter, James Bruce was a devoted and loyal father who treasured time with his daughters, especially his grandson.

Mr. Cocke is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Marjorie Lou Seddens Cocke of Somerville, TN, to whom he was deeply devoted. He is also survived by his daughter, Julie Barron (William) of Williston, TN; his sister, Nancy Norton (Bill) of Steele, MO; and his grandson, Blake Barron of Somerville, TN.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Tammy Alisa Cocke, and his brother, Mayo Lafayette Cocke.

Funeral Services for Mr. Cocke were held at 11 A.M. Saturday, February 15, 2025 at the Peebles West Funeral Chapel at Oakland with Bro. Stan Smith, pastor of First Baptist Church of Somerville, officiating. Remarks were given by Vip Lewis. Interment followed in Macon Cemetery in the Macon Community.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers were Blake Barron, Sam DeVore, Mark Dillard, Paul Lewis, Steve Pleasants, and Kenneth Read. Honorary pallbearers were Alan Bruce Bowling, John David Douglas, Billy Ray Peak, Loyd Pickett, and Norman Vance.

The family requests that memorials be directed to Tunnel to Towers Foundation and First Baptist Church Somerville.