Pulaski - Mr. Michael Dean Cockrell, 80, of Pulaski died March 6, 2026.

Mr. Cockrell was born Nov. 5, 1945, in Vancouver, Wash., and was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord with all of his heart. He retired from Memphis Fire Department after 33 years of dedicated service. He also devoted much of his time serving others through volunteer work with Arlington Developmental Center, Church Without Doors in Memphis and the House of Grace. Those who knew him best will remember him as a storyteller extraordinaire. His faith in Christ guided every part of his life. He loved leading worship and singing. In his free time, he enjoyed searching for treasures at yard sales and flea markets. He also had a love for collecting and talking about guns. One of his favorite, simple joys was spending time with friends at Chick-fil-A. He is preceded in death by parents, Willis and Alice Cockrell; and great-granddaughter Aubree Lynn Claunch.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 13, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Ellendale Baptist Church in Barlett, Tenn. Memorial services will begin at 1 p.m.

Bennett-May & Pierce Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include wife of 52 years Donna Kay Cockrell of Pulaski; son Phillip (Charlene) Cockrell of Arlington; daughter Anissa (Steve) Woods of Pulaski; brother Keith (Debbie) Cockrell of Germantown; grandchildren, Amber (Dennis) Claunch, Ashley (Justin) Way, Allan Cockrell, Megan Smith, Jack Woods, Allie Woods; and great-grandchildren, Hailey Claunch, Jackson Claunch, Savannah Way and Madelyn Way.