Darlene Cockrell

Darlene Cockrell, age 80 of Woodway, TX, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, surrounded by family at St. Joseph’s Care Center in McGregor, after a brief illness.

She was born August 7, 1945 in Waco, TX, daughter to parents Doyle Raymond and Beatrice Emma Weaver, who preceded her in death May 1, 1958.

She met her future husband Richard, at a very young age, and he first proposed to her at 12 years old. He was grounded by his father and received a sound spanking, but didn’t lose hope. After waiting an appropriate amount of time, proposed again and they were married in 1964. Both Darlene and Richard’s families were very close and often travelled back and forth between California and Texas. Richard and Darlene settled in Waco. They shared 62 years and 7 months together and raised three spirited children and built a beautiful life together in McLennan County.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Doyle and Beatrice Weaver. She was then adopted and raised by her uncle, Gene Thorp and his wife, Dottie Ann, who preceded her in death; her sister, Mary Edwards; her brother, Raymond Weaver; and oldest son, Richard Donald Cockrell, Jr., who we know welcomed his mother into heaven with a massive embrace. Her only remaining maternal family is stepbrother, Ronald Thorp.

She is survived by husband, Richard Donald Cockrell, Sr. of Woodway; son, Roger Duane Cockrell, of Woodway; and Deanna Lee Metzgar and her husband Jason, of China Spring. She had seven grandchildren, Jennifer Holt; Dustin Cockrell and wife Lorin; Keri Hunt and husband Michael; Kayla Hobbs and husband Shane; Ashlin Cockrell; Richard Metzgar of Golinda; Raylee Moore and husband Jonathan of China Spring; 10 great grandchildren with number 11 expected in October 2026; and numerous nieces and nephews she adored; and her special friend Sherrill whom she fondly referred to as “Gertrude”.

Darlene worked numerous jobs, but her heart was drawn to art, most especially painting. She was talented in several forms of painting and created special furniture projects still enjoyed by family today. Darlene loved to dance with Richard in her younger years and passed on her graceful steps to her children. She most enjoyed caring for her family and passing on cooking skills to family.

Later in life, Darlene enjoyed connecting with family and friends through the computer on social media. She was sometimes savvy with her computer skills, and enjoyed computer games, most especially Farmville, where her money was well spent reviving dead animals and purchasing the necessary tools to tend her crops, which were legendary!

She will be dearly missed by all those she loved, even Tilly Girl, her precious puppy.

Visitation with family and friends is scheduled for Monday, May 11th, 6pm - 8pm, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Dr., Waco, TX 76706. Funeral Service is, Tuesday May 12th at 11am – 12pm at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, with the burial procession immediately following to Rosemound Cemetery, 3201 South 12th in Waco, TX.

Pallbearers are Jerry Davis, Jr., Johnny Davis, Jeff Davis, Timothy Edwards, Paul Edwards, Eric Edwards, and honorary pallbearer Jimmy Davis.

Special thanks to Gentle Transitions Hospice. The professionalism and kindness shown to our dear mother will never be forgotten. Thank you Sharon Hammond and Patti Klinkovsky for your gentle care and assistance.