Ashby Urban "AJ" Cockrell, Jr

A.J. departed this world on Monday, January 30, 2017. AJ was born February 25, 1983 in Richmond Virginia and lived most of his life in Longwood, Florida and the last several years in Asheville, North Carolina where he worked as an enthusiastic employee of Grand Bohemian Hotel. He is survived by his ever caring mother and father Ashby and Sharon Cockrell of Apopka, Florida, and his loving sister, Sarah Palmer Cockrell of New Orleans, Louisiana, two uncles, E. Mason Cockrell, Jr. of Richmond, VA and Richard E. Wilkins of Colonial Beach, VA, many cousins and friends. AJ had the most infectious smile that would light up a room and made others completely at ease. His laugh penetrated the air with joy. He will be missed by many, many friends, family, and acquaintances. A memorial service will be held at the Grand Bohemian Hotel, Asheville, on Saturday, February 4th at 3 PM. Donations in his memory can be made to Recovery Ventures, PO Box 549, Black Mountain, NC 28711. A separate celebration of AJ's life will be planned for Longwood, Florida later in February. DeGusipe Funeral Home (FL) and Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian (NC) are assisting the family.