Jerry "JJ" Joe Hocking

Jerry Joe Hocking aka “JJ”, 38 of Mart, TX left this world and fell into the arms of Jesus on 10/17/24. A Celebration of Life will be held 10:00 am, Friday, October 25, at Meadowbrook Baptist Church, 1207 N. Old Robinson Rd with Dr. Cary Killough officiating. Burial will follow at Mart Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 pm – 8 pm, Thursday, October 24, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home in Waco.

JJ was born on 5/13/86. His parents are Melvin Arnold Hocking Jr. & Bonnie Hocking. He attended Riesel High School and graduated in 2004. He had multiple brothers and sisters and cherished each and every relationship he had with them. His family was very important to him.

On 9/25/04 he married the love of his life Marlena Hocking and was a father of 4 boys. He was also a father figure and mentor to many other kids including all his many nieces and nephews. JJ was passionate about his children and their Friday night football games. He loved food, singing, following the weather and Dallas Cowboys Football! There was never a dull moment at family gatherings, JJ was the biggest jokester, he could put a smile on anyone’s face. He was compassionate and caring. His love for Jesus was strong; he led many people to Jesus through his Bible studies and ministering.

JJ is preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph & Mildred Lampe and William & Pauline Lavinder; uncle, Darrell Patrom; and nephew, Nathan Kyle Moore.

He is survived by his wife, Marlena Hocking; his 4 sons, Austin Warren, Cayden Wilson, Andrew Hocking & Noah Hocking; his parents Melvin Arnold Hocking Jr & Bonnie Hocking; his siblings, Amanda Salley, Patricia Wortham, Angie Moore, Kimberly Hocking, Misty McCarver-Moore, Timothy Lavinder, Fa’Lena Hocking, James Lavinder, his nieces & nephews, Lauren, Claire, Audrey, Mikailyn, Jaxon, Jadyn, Keara, Jordan, Alanis, Carley, Andree, Zoey, Ethan, Zane, Alyssa and Hudson; along with many extended family and friends.

“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NLT