Phillip Nollin Cockrell, age 74, was born on December 18, 1951, in Colorado. He often said, “I wasn’t born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could!”—and it only took him six days. On Saturday, December 27, 2025, Phillip joyfully entered Heaven’s gate and met his Savior face to face.
Phillip graduated from Terrell High School and North Texas University. Encouraged by his father-in-law and following a proud family tradition, he attended Baylor Law School, where he was editor of the Law Review and graduated with honors.
While in college, Phillip spent a summer in Bangladesh, digging water wells and serving others—an early reflection of the missionary heart that would define his life. Following graduation, he worked as a U.S. missionary, coordinating programs in the state parks of South Carolina.
After earning his law degree, Phillip moved his young family to Texarkana, where he joined the law firm Hubbard, Patton, Peek, Halton & Roberts, LLC. He enjoyed a successful and respected legal career that spanned more than 30 years.
Phillip was a devoted member of First Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon and served as chairman for several terms. He served faithfully on numerous committees, with a special passion for missions. Phillip taught Sunday School for over 40 years, led Royal Ambassadors, and was deeply involved in the scouting program. He was honored with the Good Shepherd Award by Troop 16.
Phillip took the Great Commission seriously. For many years, he funded mission trips for his family to Haiti, Guatemala, and Mexico. After retiring, he led several mission trips to Cuba, sharing the Gospel and helping construct a church building.
Above all, Phillip was a loving and generous husband, dad, and Poppa. He found joy in fishing, gardening, fireworks, campfires, and traveling—whether to Jefferson, Texas, or Jerusalem, Israel.
Phillip was truly a character—part prankster, part “hot mess”—who loved to make people laugh and never missed an opportunity to pull a good-natured trick. Just ask his family, friends, or any local waitress who crossed his path.
He also served his community as a board member for the Four States Fair, Running WJ Ranch, and Water Springs Ranch.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 51 years, Lila Cockrell; daughters Holly Gutierrez, Kristi Morrow (Jake), and McCarly DuBois (Benjamin); son Stephen Phillip Cockrell; nine beloved grandchildren—Crofts Morrow, Sunny Gutierrez, Nolen Morrow, Indiana DuBois, Dovie DuBois, Madison Cockrell, and Hannah Cockrell; sisters Carolyn Porter (John) and Lorita Taber (Les); along with numerous nieces, nephews, and dear family friends, including Pastor Larry Sims.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Cockrell Sunday School Class for their unwavering love and prayers. Phillip deeply loved preparing and teaching God’s Word and often sent thoughtful questions to encourage participation and growth among class members.
The family also wishes to thank Hospice of Texarkana for their compassionate care. To assure Phillip meets you at the gate read John 3:16 and believe.
Memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at First Baptist Church-Sanctuary, with a visitation following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a Mission Organization.