First Cockerham Gathering
In above photo: The Cockerhams are shown at Charlotte Motor Speedway (Submitted photo)
Special to The Chronicle
A long awaited event in the life of the Cockerham Family came to fruition June 25-28 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Charlotte/Concord.
The nine children of the late Lonnie and Nellie Bailey Cockerham say they enjoyed the first “Cockerham Gathering” along with spouses, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and invited guests.
They said they considered it a blessing from God for all nine siblings, ranging in ages 67-83, to assemble and reflect on their family heritage/accomplishments, to give thanks to God for their present status, and to share expectations and encouragement for the younger generation.
The weekend activities started with a banquet on Friday evening. Saturday’s activities included tours of Charlotte Motor Speedway and Sea Life of Concord and dining at local restaurants.
Some family members ventured into downtown Charlotte to explore various venues, while others drove to Winston-Salem to enjoy the city of the Cockerhams’ birth.
On Sunday, the family worshipped at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.
In memory of their parents, who were strong advocates of education, a monetary gift was donated to the Coleman W. Kerry Scholarship Fund.
The nine siblings are: Haven Cockerham Sr., Chapel Hill; Bernard Cockerham Sr., Carson, California; the Rev. Patricia Turner, Salisbury; Emma Jean Pitts, Winston-Salem; Dr. Frances Waller, Charlotte; Arzell Greene, High Point; Wilbert Cockerham, Winston-Salem; Lonnie Cockerham Jr., Advance; the Rev. Doris Winford, Anderson, Ind.
