James Rockco

Reverend Kenny Rockco, widely known and beloved by all as Kenny Rockco, was born in Bogalusa, Louisiana, on June 14, 1951, to Reverend and Mrs. J. B. Rockco. He was called into the ministry at the remarkable age of 16 and married Linda Sue Barrier on June 4, 1971.

He pursued his studies at Pentecostal Bible Institute and Texas Bible College, preparing for a lifetime of service in God’s work. Known as a true people person, Brother Rockco faithfully served in numerous leadership roles, including Sectional Youth Director for 17 years, District Youth Director for 2 years, Section Home Mission Director for 2 years, and District Home Missions Director for 12 years. Additionally, he served on the Mississippi District Board for 13 years.

His pastoral ministry included assisting Reverend George Roberts in Carthage, Mississippi, and Reverend Brown Barrier in Philadelphia for a total of two years. He pastored Pine Grove in Sebastopol for 15 years and Pine Grove in Foxworth for 27½ years. As a skilled carpenter, he personally built two sanctuaries and one fellowship hall, leaving a lasting legacy in the communities he served.

Brother Rockco was also highly competitive and passionate about baseball in his youth. He grew up alongside James Carney, Jerry Wayne Dillon, Larry Hoyt, Rick Marcelli, Leon Hickman, and Donald Hickman—all of whom became respected preachers.

In the late 1970s, while assisting in a cleanup at the Mississippi District Campgrounds, Brother Rockco suffered a serious eye injury when a rock propelled by a bush hog struck him. He underwent two surgeries to repair a detached retina and, by God’s grace, did not lose his eyesight.

Of all the offices he held, none surpassed his love for the lost and his devotion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. On September 12, 2014, God called Brother Kenny Rockco to his eternal home.

Long live the cherished memories of a great man—Reverend Kenny Rockco!