Johnnie Mae Cockrell

Johnnie Mae Cockrell was born on June 24, 1946, in Camden, AL, to the late Candee Grandison and Willie Bragg. On April 22, 2026, she peacefully transitioned from this life at Hartford Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a proud graduate of Snow Hill High School (Wilcox County, AL), Class of 1964. Following her education, Johnnie Mae became a dedicated employee of the State of Connecticut, where she worked diligently for many years. Through her hard work and commitment, she rose to the position of Housekeeping Supervisor before retiring in 2011—leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence. Johnnie Mae was a woman of strength, grace, and unwavering love. She dedicated her life to caring for and providing for her family, always ensuring that those she loved were supported, nurtured, and never without. Her presence was a constant source of comfort, wisdom, and stability. She had a special gift for bringing beauty into the world through her deep love for flowers. With a true green thumb, Johnnie Mae found joy in planting, growing, and tending to her flowers—creating spaces that reflected the same warmth and care she poured into her family. Her love for nature was only matched by the love she gave so freely to those around her. Johnnie leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories for her daughter, Gwen Cockrell of Middletown, CT; her three sisters: Betty Manzie and Etta Manzie, both of Middletown, CT, and Sally Bonner of Pensacola, FL. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Andrea Drake, Tenika Campbell, and Mikayla Privott, along with four cherished great-grandchildren. Johnnie was preceded in death by her beloved son, Edward “Big Ed” Cockrell, and her two sisters, Carrie Chapman and Julia White. Johnnie also found joy in staying connected to the world around her in her own special way. You could often find her sitting in the garage or peeking through the blinds, keeping a loving and watchful eye on everything going on around her. She didn’t miss much. Those who knew Johnnie Mae best will remember her gentle strength, her nurturing spirit, and the quiet but powerful way she showed love through her actions. Whether it was through a warm meal, a listening ear, or the care she poured into her family and her garden, she had a way of making everyone feel seen, valued, and at home. Her love for flowers was a reflection of who she was—patient, attentive, and full of life.

Johnnie Mae Cockrell

June 24, 1946 - April 22, 2026