Leroy Cothern

Leroy Cothern was born on October 18, 1936, in the community of Enon, Mississippi where he spent his formative years. He attended and graduated from Enon High School. Soon after graduating, he married the love of his life Opal Burnett and they quickly started their family.

Throughout his career he worked in the transportation industry. As a mechanic and diesel mechanic he was quite talented. If it was broken Leroy could fix it. His true calling was that of a leader. His people skills quickly facilitated his stepping into leadership roles. He worked as a shop manager for Western Auto Distribution Center, Hertz Penske, KLLM and eventually retired from Empire Trucking.

More than anything, Leroy was devoted to his bride Opal and their children. He loved spending time with his family and meeting all of their needs. He was there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced.  

When Leroy was not tinkering with something or playing with grandchildren, he enjoyed gardening with Opal. A truly devoted husband and hard worker, he was always eager to please her by making their yard and garden a show place. In his retirement he and Opal returned to their home community of Enon and built her dream home. Where they started Gran and Pop’s Peaches. They loved and cherished the relationships they built within the community. Additionally, Leroy was a deacon and an active member of Enon Baptist Church, volunteering, teaching, and serving wherever there was a need. He made others feel appreciated and accepted.

Leroy is survived by his child Chris Cothern, daughter in-law Traci Cothern, son-in-law Clifford Sumrall, his grandchildren, Shan Michael Cothern and Addie Marie Cothern and his sister Dianne McKinnley.

Leroy is preceded in death by his wife Opal, his parents Cazzie Cothern and Bennie Mae Cothern, his children, Debbie Sumrall, Michael Leroy Cothern and Betty Carol Cothern, his granddaughter, Jessica Renee Sumrall and his sibling Mavis Stokes.

His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Funeral service will be held on November 6th, 2024, for family and friends at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram, Mississippi. Visitation at 9:00, Memorial Service at 10:00, followed by Graveside services at Enon Cemetery, Jayess, Mississippi at 12:30.

 The family would like to extend special gratitude to the caregivers of Visiting Angels and Gentiva Hospice.