James Murray Hockett

James “Jim” Murray Hockett, age 69, passed away on Sunday, September 10, 2023 at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at Miller Funeral Home – Southside Chapel (7400 S Minnesota Ave.) Family will be present for visitation from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturday, September 16, 2023, also at Miller Funeral Home – Southside Chapel. Jim’s service will be available via livestream at: https://youtube.com/live/gUwCU56YI_U?feature=share

James was born on February 6, 1954 to Leonard and Mary Hockett in Madison, South Dakota. Though he grew up in Madison, James was eager to explore the world, and shortly after finishing school, started traveling. He was very active in a variety of sports, including basketball and golf. James enlisted in the Army, and even played basketball while serving his country. Jim enjoyed traveling his entire life. He lived all over the United States, especially in warmer climates.

Jim was very passionate about radio broadcasting. He ran KXIT radio in Dalhart, Texas for many years. Jim also started the first sports radio in Sioux Falls. A lover of sports, he was especially fond of the Green Bay Packers. He was outgoing, social and not only a great story teller himself, but a wonderful listener engaged in learning other’s stories. He was fond of going out to eat with good food and good company. Jim wanted anyone around him to have a good time. With his own brand of humor, he was always joking and teasing, keeping people laughing in his company. Jim was incredibly generous in every way that he could be. He was passionate about fundraising for his community youth organizations and was involved in many charitable efforts. He was very supportive of St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Jim was joined in marriage to Cynthia Hill on March 4, 1978 in Brandon, South Dakota. Together they had Corey and Jamie before Cynthia passed in 2012. Jim was later joined in marriage to Rosemary Hockett on September 4, 2021. Time with family was important to him. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. Combining his love of sports with his love of family, he even coached teams for his grandchildren if he wasn’t cheering them on from the stands. Jim wanted to see everyone succeed in life. He took the time to teach others what he found important. He had an ability to connect with people, even staying close to his high school friends decades after graduating.