Obituary of Norma Jean Cockerell

Norma Jean Hayley Cockerell, 86, passed away Thursday, October 15, 2020. She is preceded in death by her parents, Rev. James and Rita Holt; her first husband of 54 years, Finas Gipson Hayley; son, David Hayley; brothers, Dr. Robert Holt, Rev. Jim Holt, Rev. Charles Holt, John Holt; and sisters, Dorothy and Patti. Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 13 years, Rex Cockerell; daughters, Susan Griffin and husband, Michael, Linda Sloan and husband, Bill, Donna Brittenum and husband, Greenlee; grandchildren, Heath, Brian, Ashley, Justin, Will, Matt, Brett, and Trey; eleven great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Ginny Holt; stepsons, David Cockerell, Steven Cockerell and wife, Michelle, Alan Cockerell and wife, K.T.; stepdaughter, Linda Cockerell Ward; and a host of other family and dear friends. Norma was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother that cherished spending time with her family. She was strong in her faith and loved the Lord. She was the daughter of a Methodist minister and a talented musician. Growing up, she played the organ and piano in her father’s churches and later in the church where her children grew up. She enjoyed playing the ukulele and piano in the Country Place Band. She was an active member at First United Methodist Church in Pearland and was always available to volunteer in any way she could. Norma never met a stranger and her affectionate personality made her a joy to be around. She was often described as sweet, kind-hearted, always happy with an immense kindness and inner beauty. She adored her grandchildren and was affectionately known as “Maw Maw”. Norma worked for many years as an Executive Assistant and had a very sharp business mind. In her retirement, she worked for the Houston Astros and later loved watching them play and cheering on her favorite team. She loved baking, cooking and sharing her special recipes with family and friends. Norma will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Services for Norma will be held Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581. The visitation will take place from 10:00 until 11:00 am with the funeral service following beginning at 11:00 am with Pastor Reggie Clemons officiating. Interment will follow the services at SouthPark Cemetery in Pearland, Texas.