Gerald Edward “Jerry” Cocagne, 71 of Taylorville, passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025, in Taylorville.  He was born on July 25, 1954, in Pana, the son of Darrel E. and Annabel L. (Kuhn) Cocagne.  He married Lori Lyn Nicol on November 30, 1991, in Assumption.  Jerry graduated from Taylorville High School in 1972 and attended Eastern Illinois University.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Jerry was a local entrepreneur and was involved in many business ventures, most notably Cocagne Insurance, Amenities on Main, the Pillars Event Center, and Aunt Sophie’s.  He was a community minded individual and gave his time in many ways including previously serving on the Taylorville Park District board.  He was an avid fan of Illini sports and enjoyed golf with his Wednesday travel group and fishing with his many friends.  More than anything he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. 

He is survived by his wife: Lori Cocagne of Taylorville; children: Clint Cocagne (Julia) of Mahomet, Nate Phillips (Soo Jin) of Decatur, and Chase Cocagne (Megan) of Middleton, Wisconsin; grandchildren: Kendall Cocagne, Reese Cocagne, Cameron Cocagne, and Nora Cocagne; siblings: Denny Cocagne (Nancy) of Springfield, Pat White of Minonk, and Denise King (Bill) of Maroa; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother: Edward Joseph Cocagne; and brother: Bill Cocagne.  

Jerry will be cremated, and his family will host a celebration of life from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Pillars Event Center in Taylorville. In lieu of flowers or memorials, the family would like to encourage everyone to donate blood through their local blood bank.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.