William "Tony" Sockwell

William Anthony Sockwell, 59, of Paris departed from this life on Monday, August 2, 2021 in Banner, Mississippi after an accident. Born on April 5, 1962 in Winter Park, Florida, he was a son to the late Donald Sockwell and Elenor Sanders Sockwell.

William, known by his friends and family as Tony, was best defined by his career in law enforcement that lasted over three decades. Tony served in various rolls of law enforcement from constable, officer, assistant chief, and most recently chief of the Bruce Police Department. He led the officers of Bruce for nearly four years before retiring due to his health. Aside for his love of serving and protecting he could be found enjoying a variety of hobbies. Tony had a knack for mechanics and found joy in tinkering with motors. When he wasn’t turning a wrench he could be seen sorting through menagerie of items at Goodwill. In addition, he found satisfaction not only in concerts but also traveling. Tony also enjoyed the serenity found through the ripple of casting a line while fishing. He was a member of New El Bethel Baptist Church where he also served as a youth director in his younger years. Above all his hobbies and interest he cherished his grandchildren.

Tony leaves behind a loving family to continue walking down the path of life in his absence; fiancé, Heather McLoud ; one son; Anthony Sockwell of Oxford; two daughters: Kristie (Ross) Homolik of Water Valley; Brittney Sockwell of Oxford; two step sons: Dustin (Kameron) McCreary; Jordan McLoud; one brother; Tim (Bernadette) Sockwell of Paris; seven grandchildren: Slayden Mooneyham, Ava Mooneyham, Elli Mooneyham, Vaida Homolick, Greyson McMurry, and Ryleigh Sockwell.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Sockwell and Elenor Sanders Sockwell.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 7, 2021 from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Parker Memorial Funeral Home of Bruce. The funeral service celebrating Tony’s life will take place on Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Parker Memorial Funeral Home of Bruce with Bro. Bobby Snow officiating.  Slayden Mooneyham, Phillip Jackson, Phillip Talford, Thomas Sosa, Bryan Roberts, and Nick Stucker will carry Tony to rest in New El Bethel Cemetery.

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.