Essie Lee Cockerel

Evangelist Essie Lee Cockerel was born July 23, 1930, to Dallas and Sarah Goodman in Sledge, Mississippi, she was sixth of seven children, and she attended the local schools in Mississippi.

In 1947, the family relocated to Santa Barbara, CA , where Essie completed her high school education. She became employed as a nurse for the Army Military base where she met the love of her life, Nathan Cockerel. They married in 1952, and soon relocated to Bakersfield, CA to their union they were blessed with two children, (son) Randy & (daughter) Charmetra.

In 1962, the family joined Emmanuel Temple under the leadership of Pastor Davis. Essie was a faithful member, she served on the church board and held numerous positions, such as Sunday School Teacher, Missionary, and Altar Call.

Evangelist Essie Cockerel enjoyed spending time with her church family and spreading the Word of God to everyone she met. She also dedicated much of her time to visiting and praying for the sick and shut-in and providing transportation by her church members in need.

Evangelist Essie Cockerel loved traveling, and spending time with her family. She dedicated her life to serving God, and saving souls, ensuring all her family members knew the pathway to Jesus. Her Godly life was exemplified by her acts of kindness,integrity,honesty,love,generosity and respect. Evangelist Essie Cockerel displayed all the attributes of a “Virtuous Woman”. She will forever be in our hearts ,minds, and souls.

Evangelist Essie is preceded in death by her Husband Nathan Cockerel, Four Sisters Emma Williams, Janie Robinson, Mary Belk and Oralee Seaton, Two Brothers Prince and Willie Goodman, and Great Grandson Malik Miller.

She leaves to cherish her memories, Randy (Jackie) Cockerel, Charmetra.  (Micheal) Smith, (9) Grand Children.Jason,Craig,Deont’a,Rochelle,Rayland,Tishawna,Randy Jr., Jausecca and Jarib, (21) great-grandchildren, and (3) Great Great Grandchildren and a host of nephews, nieces, Cousins and extended family and friends.