John H. Cooksey, Jr., son of the late Odie Marshall Cooksey and the late John H. Cooksey Sr., was born in Claysburg, Pennsylvania. He peacefully transitioned from this life into eternal rest on Saturday October 5, 2024 at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

“Johnny” as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, attended the Mount Moriah Church of God In Christ as a youth and attended the Claysburg Public School System, from where he graduated.

In 1953 he entered the United States Army serving from February 2, 1953 to February 16, 1955. He was honorably discharged from active duty after completing his service to the United States Government obtaining the rank of Corporal.

He Joined Mt. Zion Church of God In Christ under the pastorate of the late Elder Ceaser Bennett.

In 1957, John was united in holy matrimony to Ms. Nellie M. Jenkins and they moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, through this union they were blessed with three children, one girl and two sons.

During his working career he was initially employed by Bethlehem Steel Mill in Steelton, PA, but moved onto retire from the United States Post Office after 38 dedicated years of service.

Johnny was dedicated to his family and to the Lord. Throughout the years he has maintained his faith which continued to grow and got him through difficult times. He always knew that God had his hand on him, and God had a plan for him and his life. He said, “When my time comes, I’m ready”. Even when his health started to decline and his memory started to fade, Johnny’s faith and connection to Christ never wavered. There were times when he would sit in his room and begin to speak in tongues, and praise God. His spiritual roots and upbringing have left a permanent impact on his family and those who knew him. Johnny indeed loved the Lord.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Nellie Cooksey; beloved daughter, Renee Cooksey and his precious grandson, Author Cooksey.

Johnny leaves his two sons to cherish precious memories of him, Roderick H. Cooksey (Brenda L. Easter) and Leon R. Cooksey, Sr., both of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; his seven grandchildren, Eshe, Amaris, Ashtin, Chad, Sasha, Zeffy and Leon. R. Cooksey, Jr.; his four great grandchildren, Rhian, Zoe, Marley and Ronin; his sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

His life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 12, 2024 in the Sanctuary of his church, Mt. Zion Church Of God In Christ, 557 Radnor Street, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 10:30 a.m.