Our cherished mother Mary Cockerham passed away on Tuesday March 28, 2023. A woman known to many as Mary but was donned the name “Honey” by a baby named Scotty  who was the one of many children she “adopted” through the years.

She lived in Lakewood WA for the past 40 years; however, she started her mayhem up in Spokane WA born on July 10, 1955, maiden name Mary Rainey. She was one of six born into the notorious “Rainey Clan” of those six siblings there were three brothers and three sisters. They all shared a unique (sometimes dark) sense of humor especially when together; they exhibited a precious love for one another, and unwavering sibling bond which holds the bar high – these amazing characteristics still live on by  her dedicated family  

Mary was a kindhearted Christian woman, but she was famously opinionated about politics, short tempered about bad manners and world-renowned for her lack of patience for people not doing things correctly or “her way” especially in the kitchen such as “that’s not how you boil eggs” or “who left this fork on the counter” or my favorite “who put recycle in the garbage can!” nobody was safe from her excessive OCD disorder; heaven forbid someone left the door open!

Mary had many hobbies throughout the seasons of her life including a love for camping, softball, sewing, and cooking but her biggest purpose in life was time well spent with her loved ones and always making a positive impact on the people around her. One of her biggest passions was baking- we would be so excited to taste what she was making because it filled up the entire house for hours but come to find out she was making it for her son in law; Lance (her favorite) just because she wanted to make sure he knew he was appreciated for everything he did and continues to do for our family.

Mary was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her three daughters: Erika, Patricia, and Jessica. She embraced every moment with them and taught them how to live life to its fullest. She especially loved her role as “Honey” to her grandbabies, Aaliyah, Josias, Graycie, Payton and her Lily. She had a special relationship with all of them in their own way – she was always there when they needed her; always there to give great advice, staying up all night learning “common core math”, or feeding them her famous tacos, taking them to school when they wake up late, or going to their sports games, watching movies all night, rubbing their backs until they fall asleep , the list is so long but ultimately showing them true and unwavering love that they will remember forever.

It would be wrong to say that Mary lost her battle because she never stopped fighting. No matter how sick she was, she was always determined. When anyone else would have broken, Mary stayed strong. Through her, we know what resilience and perseverance truly look like. There was no quit in Mary. Just because she is no longer here, it doesn’t mean she lost her fight.

Those who knew Mary best would describe her as energetic, funny, caring, nurturing, giving, gracious, mischievous, and a devout Christian. She made a lasting impression on everyone she met and will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Mary is survived by her ever-loving sisters Kathy and Sharon, and her brother Patrick. Her proud Daughters Erika, Patricia, Jessica; her Brother-in-law Alton; her sister-in- laws Lydia, Hortensia, and Colleen. Her amazing Son-in-law Lance and her beautiful grandchildren, Aaliyah, Josias, Payton, Graycie and Lily. Honorary adopted son, Scott Rhodes and honorary adopted daughter’s Erika Autry and Chey Greenway .

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her to enjoy life to the fullest, just as she did. ❤

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