Frank S. Cockrell, Jr.

Frank S. Cockrell, Jr.

Enjoyed Having Fun -

Frank S. Cockrell, Jr., age 81, of Mechanicsburg, passed away with his loving family by his side on Saturday, April 17, 2021.  Frank was born on Sunday, February 25, 1940, in Shiremanstown to the late Frank S. Cockrell, Sr. and Elizabeth (Bitner) Liggit.  In addition to his parents, Frank is preceded in death by his brother, Robert Lee Cockrell.

Frank’s survivors include his wife of 56 years, Diann Cockrell; his son, Frank S. Cockrell, III and wife, Shannon, of Mechanicsburg; his sister, Margaret Horner of West Chester; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved canine companion, Missy.

Frank graduated from West Shore High School as part of the class of 1959.  In 1960, he joined the U.S. Army, where he was in the first class to take the Missile Master Program for radar repair. He opened Cockrell’s Auto Body in 1969 followed by two used car dealerships, all in Mechanicsburg.  Frank had a love of anything that was engine powered. He was also a licensed private pilot, flying out of the Capital City Airport in New Cumberland.  He was a lifelong member of The Mechanicsburg Club, an avid hunter and fisherman. Frank loved racing, cooking and tending his garden. Frank’s family will remember him as someone who found joy in having fun; and who formed many friendships over the years.

All are welcome to join Frank’s family on Monday, April 26, 2021 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville. Public assembly at 12:50 p.m. will be followed by a committal service with military honors at 1:00 p.m. with Celebrant George A. Spangler officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in celebration of Frank’s life can be made to American Red Cross, PO Box 37839, Boone, IA 50037-0839, https://www.redcross.org/donate/memorial-donations.html/.

Frank’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Frank’s full obituary, view his photograph, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.