Bennie Jay Cockrum, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on July 8, 2025, surrounded by family.

Bennie was born in Arkansas to Bob and Louis Cockrum, who preceded him in death. He graduated from Cotter High School in Cotter, Arkansas, and later went on to build a dedicated 25-year career at Raytheon/Textron. Known for his friendly nature and easygoing spirit, Bennie enjoyed bowling and playing pool, and he found joy in life's simple pleasures and time spent with his family.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby Cockrum.

Bennie is survived by his loving wife, Wendy Cockrum, and by his siblings: Belinda Holtzhauser and her husband Bill, Beverly Wilhite and her husband Hulen, and Bernie Cockrum and his wife Gail. He was a devoted father to six children: Jeremy Cockrum, Jason Cockrum, Benjamin Cockrum, Stormy Ashby, Jack Boyle, and Dusti Ruth. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Asa Sisk Cockrum, Cody Allen Coen, Kayleann Taylor Ruth, and Jayden Paige Ruth, as well as many beloved great-grandchildren.